John Legend to play Jesus in NBC’s Jesus Christ Superstar live musical

The Hollywood Reporter

Legend will play the title role on the Easter Sunday April 1 live production of the famous musical, officially titled Jesus Christ Superstar Live in Concert! This score demands a singer with an amazing range and an actor with great depth, and there isn’t anyone better to bring this story to a new audience,” says NBC Entertainment chairman Robert Greenblatt, in a statement. “His casting is also groundbreaking as the traditional image of Christ will be seen in a new way.” Legend said he’s “humbled” to accept the role, adding: “We've already formed an incredible team, and, as we finish casting, I'm certain we will put together some of the greatest talents around to do this work justice.” ALSO: Can Legend revive the live TV musical genre after Fox's A Christmas Story Live! stumbled?