Boy George cedes role in ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ production after releasing pro-Israel song

Boy George has withdrawn from his role as King Herod in the London West End revival of Jesus Christ Superstar, days before his scheduled debut. This decision follows the release of his song “We Will Dance Again,” dedicated to victims of the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on the Nova music festival in Israel. His manager, Paul Kelmsley, stated, “George has never been afraid to stand by his personal convictions,” and that stepping aside would allow the production to “remain the focus.” Boy George defended his song, which includes the lyric “If you're ever confused, I stand with the Jews,” and criticized online backlash, particularly from the LGBTQ+ community, asserting that “When I say 'they want to kill every last one of us,' I am also talking about us queers, not just the Jewish community.” He will be replaced by actor Richard Armitage.