Sam Ryder’s *Allegedly* 'Sensational' Jesus Performance Has Critics Losing It (Who Knew?)

A Eurovision star just made headlines, and it’s not for wearing sequins. Sam Ryder, the guy who almost won that annual European karaoke contest, has traded glitter for some serious accolades in his role as Jesus in Jesus Christ Superstar. Critics are apparently losing their minds over it. Who knew?

After a press night at the London Palladium, the reviews came pouring in, throwing around buzzwords like 'sensational' and 'soul-stirring.' Groundbreaking stuff, really. Sam's strutting around as the holy man while other actors play Judas and Mary Magdalene. Oh, and Jesse Tyler Ferguson swings by as King Herod. Because why not throw in a celebrity for good measure? Rumor has it, Richard Armitage and Matt Bomer might also drop in for a cameo. Talk about star-studded.

Critics have fawned over Sam's rendition of Gethsemane, where he’s supposed to bring the dramatic feels. Apparently, he’s giving one-man rock opera vibes that make audiences leap to their feet. But in classic Jesus style, he kinda flubs it when it comes to the ensemble numbers. Just your everyday divine crisis. The Times tossed the show three stars, noting it lacks the sparkle of other hits. Dominic Maxwell even chimed in with, 'It’s not the miracle that Evita was.' Ouch. On the flip side, The Telegraph didn’t hold back, gifting it five stars and labeling Sam as meek and mild—basically a rock star with a side of tofu.

In a plot twist no one saw coming, the show is moving to Theatre Royal Drury Lane for a 12-week run, because, of course, people in London can’t get enough of this. Sam’s even gearing up for a nationwide tour next year. So, if you’re in the mood to watch a semi-famous guy tackle biblical themes in a rock opera, you’re in luck. Cheers to that.

—Kit