(OPINION) In a recent interview on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, the host and self-described Roman Catholic expressed enthusiasm for a female portrayal of Jesus in an upcoming production of Jesus Christ Superstar at the Hollywood Bowl, calling it “long overdue.”
The comment, made during a conversation with actress Cynthia Erivo, who will star as Jesus in the musical from August 1–3, 2025, has ignited a range of reactions, from support to criticism, across social and traditional media.
Stephen Colbert, known for his sharp wit and satirical commentary, has often spoken openly about his Catholic faith. In the interview, he expressed his love for Jesus Christ Superstar, a rock opera by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice that debuted as a concept album in 1970 and later on Broadway in 1971.
The musical, which dramatizes the last days of Jesus Christ, has long been a favorite of Colbert’s, as he noted during his conversation with Erivo. “One of my favorite musicals of all time is Jesus Christ Superstar,” he said.
“I love that — and I’m so excited that in August, you’re going to be playing Jesus… First woman to play Jesus in a major production, long overdue.”
Colbert’s remark came as he highlighted Erivo’s casting, which marks a historic moment for the musical.
Erivo, a British actress known for her role in Wicked and her previous portrayal of Mary Magdalene in an all-female production of Superstar in 2020, brings a unique perspective to the role.
Her casting as some have celebrated Jesus as a bold step toward inclusivity in theater, while others have questioned its alignment with traditional Christian beliefs.
The Hollywood Bowl’s production of Jesus Christ Superstar is a high-profile staging of a musical that has always pushed boundaries. Since its inception, the rock opera has been both praised for its innovative storytelling and criticized by some religious groups for its unconventional depiction of Jesus.
The choice to cast Erivo, a bisexual Black actress, as Jesus adds a new layer to the ongoing conversation about how sacred figures are portrayed in art.
Colbert’s enthusiasm for a female Jesus reflects a broader trend in theater to challenge traditional casting norms.
Gender-swapped roles have become more common in recent years, with productions like Hamilton and Company reimagining historical or fictional characters through diverse lenses.
For Colbert, this casting choice seems to align with his progressive views on faith, which he has articulated in past interviews. He has described his belief in a God who is love, emphasizing Jesus’ teachings over rigid dogma, which may inform his support for Erivo’s role.
The announcement of Erivo’s casting and Colbert’s endorsement has not been without controversy. Some Christian leaders have voiced strong objections.
Pastor John K. Amanchukwu Sr., for instance, called the casting “blasphemy,” arguing that it distorts the historical and theological figure of Jesus. Critics on platforms like X have echoed this sentiment, with posts questioning the sincerity of Colbert’s Catholicism and accusing him of pandering to progressive audiences.
One post stated, “Can someone please tell Hollywood that Female Jesus is not the same as Lady Ghostbusters,” highlighting the view that sacred figures should be treated differently from fictional characters.
On the other hand, supporters argue that Jesus Christ Superstar is a work of art, not a theological treatise, and that casting a woman as Jesus opens up new interpretations of the story.
Erivo herself responded to Colbert’s question about what the role means to her, saying, “It just means a lot to me.
I think the idea that I can play this role… in front of so many people at that place, this time of my life is a very special thing.” Her comments suggest a focus on the personal and artistic significance of the role rather than its theological implications.