Podcast Summary: MickeyJoTheatre Episode on Cynthia Erivo as Jesus in "Jesus Christ Superstar"

Episode Details

• Title: Let's Talk About Cynthia Erivo Playing Jesus | JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR Casting Controversy Explained
• Host: MickeyJoTheatre (Mickey Jo)
• Release Date: February 23, 2025
• Podcast Platform: YouTube Channel - MickeyJoTheatre

1. Introduction and Overview

In this episode, Mickey Jo delves into the heated discussions surrounding the casting of Cynthia Erivo as Jesus in the upcoming concert presentation of "Jesus Christ Superstar" at the Hollywood Bowl. He sets the stage by acknowledging the unprecedented outrage and aims to dissect whether this backlash is justified or a symptom of broader societal tensions.

[00:00] Mickey Jo: "It's time to try defying crucifixion. Ah, men. Oh my God."

2. Cynthia Erivo’s Stellar Career

Mickey provides a comprehensive overview of Cynthia Erivo’s illustrious career, highlighting her Tony Award-winning performance in The Color Purple and her acclaimed role as Elphaba in the Wicked movie. He underscores her significant impact on musical theatre and her rising prominence, including her upcoming role as the host of the 2025 Tony Awards.

[02:30] Mickey Jo: "Cynthia Erivo is set to host the Tony Awards this year, which have been hosted by Ariana DeBose over the last few years... big names in entertainment and musical theatre specifically."

3. Casting Cynthia Erivo as Jesus

The main focus shifts to Cynthia Erivo's casting as Jesus in "Jesus Christ Superstar." Mickey outlines the details of the production, noting its limited run and the involvement of high-profile directors and musical directors like Sergio Trujillo and Stephen Aremus.

[07:15] Mickey Jo: "Cynthia Erivo is set to play Jesus Christ this summer in a production of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice's Jesus Christ Superstar at the Hollywood Bowl."

4. The Controversy Explained

Mickey explores the backlash against Cynthia Erivo’s casting, emphasizing that this is not the first instance of non-traditional casting in the musical. He references previous productions where gender non-conforming and diverse casting choices were made without significant controversy, suggesting that the current outrage is disproportionate.

[13:50] Mickey Jo: "This is not the first time that Jesus Christ Superstar has featured in its leading roles non-traditional casting from the perspective of gender."

5. Historical Context of Non-Traditional Casting

Providing historical insights, Mickey recounts the initial protests against the original production of "Jesus Christ Superstar," which faced Christian outrage in the 1970s. He contrasts past and present reactions, noting a shift from physical protests to online backlash, which he views as less impactful yet more persistent.

[20:25] Mickey Jo: "When the musical first opened, it was picketed and protested daily... now, they're just trolling them on social media."

6. Analyzing the Root Causes of Outrage

Mickey posits that the current backlash is not merely about casting but is intertwined with broader issues of racism and misogyny, coining the term "misogynoir" to describe the intersection of these prejudices. He argues that the controversy reflects ongoing cultural wars against diversity and inclusion.

[29:40] Mickey Jo: "This seems to be found at the center of racism and misogyny, a concept which we call misogynoir."

7. Comparisons to Other Casting Controversies

Drawing parallels to other high-profile casting decisions, Mickey mentions Francesca Amawouda Rivers as Juliet in Romeo and Juliet and Lashana Lynch as Miss Honey in Matilda. He suggests that similar patterns of backlash against non-traditional casting choices reveal a consistent resistance to diversity in theatre.

[35:10] Mickey Jo: "Every time these things get announced... Why is she playing Juliet opposite Tom Holland in this movie?"

8. The Host’s Perspective and Final Thoughts

Concluding the episode, Mickey Jo expresses strong support for Cynthia Erivo's casting, praising her talent and the fresh perspective she brings to the role. He criticizes the unnecessary outrage, urging listeners to educate themselves on musical theatre's history of inclusive casting. Mickey emphasizes the importance of focusing on performance quality over conforming to traditional norms.

[55:55] Mickey Jo: "Cynthia is going to sound fantastic... I think that's the most important thing, because it's Jesus Christ Superstar."

He wraps up with a call for respectful discourse and encourages listeners to share their opinions thoughtfully.

[58:30] Mickey Jo: "I hope that this goes away very quickly and that we can all get over ourselves. Educate ourselves better on musical theatre."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Introduction to Topic

  • [00:00] "It's time to try defying crucifixion. Ah, men. Oh my God."

• Cynthia's Career Highlights

  • [02:30] "Cynthia Erivo is set to host the Tony Awards this year..."

• On Casting Controversy

  • [13:50] "This is not the first time that Jesus Christ Superstar has featured in its leading roles non-traditional casting..."

• Historical Protests vs. Modern Backlash

  • [20:25] "When the musical first opened, it was picketed and protested daily..."

• Root Causes of Outrage

  • [29:40] "This seems to be found at the center of racism and misogyny..."

• Comparing Other Casting Issues

  • [35:10] "Why is she playing Juliet opposite Tom Holland in this movie?"

• Final Support for Cynthia

  • [55:55] "Cynthia is going to sound fantastic... because it's Jesus Christ Superstar."

• Closing Remarks

  • [58:30] "I hope that this goes away very quickly and that we can all get over ourselves..."

Conclusion

Mickey Jo's episode offers a thorough examination of the controversy surrounding Cynthia Erivo’s casting as Jesus in "Jesus Christ Superstar." By providing historical context, analyzing societal undercurrents, and advocating for respect and understanding in casting choices, Mickey encourages a more informed and less reactionary approach to modern theatre productions. The episode serves both as a critique of contemporary backlash and a celebration of diversity and talent in the performing arts.