The announcement that Wicked star Cynthia Erivo will portray Jesus in Jesus Christ Superstar at the Hollywood Bowl has ignited controversy among Christians, with many calling the decision “blasphemy” and a direct mockery of Christ.

Erivo, a 38-year-old actress and singer who identifies as bisexual and queer, shared the news on her Instagram story, expressing excitement for the role in the upcoming August production. The Hollywood Bowl also promoted her casting in a social media post.

The backlash has been swift, with critics condemning the decision to cast a woman—particularly one who has openly embraced progressive views on faith and sexuality—as Jesus Christ. Commenters on social media have called the move “disrespectful” and “a new low” for Hollywood.

“This is just plain mockery of Christ the King,” one critic wrote, while another pointed out, “Hollywood really is just a fishbowl of like-minded individuals. Good luck with this one.”

Erivo is no stranger to Jesus Christ Superstar, having previously played Mary Magdalene in an all-female production of the show in 2020. However, her casting as Jesus has sparked significantly more backlash, especially given the controversial nature of the musical itself.

Since its Broadway debut in 1971, Jesus Christ Superstar, written by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber, has been heavily criticized by many Christians for its unbiblical portrayal of Jesus. The rock opera presents Christ as a flawed man who wrestles with doubt, implies a romantic connection between Him and Mary Magdalene, and portrays Judas in a more sympathetic light than Scripture does.

While the musical has long been a point of contention, Erivo’s casting adds another layer of controversy, as critics see it as yet another attempt by Hollywood to distort and diminish the Christian faith.

The production is set for a short run at the Hollywood Bowl from August 1 to 3. Given the mounting criticism, it remains to be seen how audiences will respond to this latest reimagining of the Passion story.

Would you watch this production, or do you believe it crosses a line?