Simon Russell Beale Reschedules Jesus Christ Superstar Dates as Richard Armitage Extends Run as Herod

Posted on (Updated on 26 May 2026)
Further casting details have been confirmed for [*Jesus Christ Superstar*](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/musical/jesus-christ-superstar-tickets) ahead of its upcoming London runs at the [London Palladium](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/venue/london-palladium-london) and [Theatre Royal Drury Lane](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/venue/theatre-royal-drury-lane-london), with updates to the scheduling of performers playing King Herod across the two venues. **Simon Russell Beale** will now appear as King Herod at Theatre Royal Drury Lane from 7 to 12 December 2026, rather than during the previously announced London Palladium dates in July. The change means **Richard Armitage** has extended his time in the role at the Palladium. He will now continue performances as Herod from 13 July until 1 August, before returning for an additional performance on 8 August.
Producer **Michael Harrison **confirmed the scheduling update. Further casting details for the Theatre Royal Drury Lane season, including additional performers taking on the role of Herod, are expected to be announced at a later date. The new production of Jesus Christ Superstar begins performances at the London Palladium on 20 June for an 11-week engagement, with an official opening night on 7 July. [**Sam Ryder**](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/news/sam-ryder-to-star-in-jesus-christ-superstar-at-the-london-palladium) stars as Jesus. Following its Palladium season, the [production will transfer to Theatre Royal Drury Lane](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/musical/jesus-christ-superstar-drury-lane-tickets), where it is scheduled to run from 16 October 2026 until 9 January 2027.

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By Hay Brunsdon

I've over 15 years of writing and editorial experience, and starting working in the West End theatre industry in 2012. When not watching or writing about theatre I'm usually swimming, hiking, running, or training for triathlons in the Stroud valleys.