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