Boy George has withdrawn from his role as King Herod in the West End production of "Jesus Christ Superstar" just days before his scheduled performances were to begin. His management confirmed the decision on Thursday, citing controversy that arose following the release of his pro-Israel song, "We Will Dance Again."
The singer, who was set to perform from August 3 to 15, stated that he realized he sometimes expects the world to understand him without explanation. He issued a statement addressing the controversy, saying, "The suggestion that I feel no compassion for Palestinians is both untrue and absurd. I am devastated for the loss of the innocent lives on both sides of this war and I call for peace."
Boy George explained that his song was inspired by his visit to the Nova Exhibition and conversations with families affected by the October 7 attack. He stated, "My song is pro peace and about the emotions I felt after visiting the Nova Exhibition and talking to Michael and Lisa Marlowe who had their son Jake taken from them. Murdered trying help others." He further elaborated, "The Nova Festival is a mirror of my world as a DJ and I have played many such festivals, including in Israel so it resonated with me and I felt compelled to write something."
His manager, Paul Kemsley, confirmed the withdrawal on Instagram, writing, "After careful consideration, I have decided, in my capacity as Boy George's manager, that he will no longer be appearing in Jesus Christ Superstar at the London Palladium." Kemsley added that the decision was made with respect for the production and its team, and apologized to fans who had purchased tickets specifically to see the singer. He noted that Boy George "has never been afraid to stand by his personal convictions." The song title, "We Will Dance Again," has become a phrase used by Israelis expressing hope following the October 7 attack.
The lyrics of "We Will Dance Again" include lines such as, "You say genocide, I say war. / When you're attacked, that's what the army's for." He also sings, "I stand with the Jews / I don't feel brave, I just need to behave like a human."
This is not the first time Boy George has faced criticism regarding Israel. In April, he responded to anti-Israel campaigners who criticized him for participating in Eurovision after Israel was allowed to compete. At the time, he stated, "I have many, many Jewish friends that I've had since I was 15 or 16 years old. Are people asking me as a principled human being to turn my back on my Jewish friends? It's not going to happen."
"Jesus Christ Superstar" is currently running at the London Palladium, with Sam Ryder as Jesus, Tyrone Huntley as Judas, and Desmonda Cathabel as Mary Magdalene. The role of King Herod is being rotated among several actors, including Richard Armitage, Layton Williams, Julian Clary, Simon Russell Beale, and Jesse Tyler Ferguson. The production is scheduled to transfer to London's Theatre Royal Drury Lane in October and will embark on a nationwide tour next year.