Josh Gad has sadly announced that he will not be performing in Jesus Christ Superstar alongside Cynthia Erivo this weekend in Los Angeles. The actor, known for his role in Frozen, confirmed that he has contracted COVID-19 and will miss the opening weekend of the musical at the Hollywood Bowl on Friday, August 1, 2025.
Josh Gad’s Heartbreaking Announcement
On Wednesday, July 30, 2025, Josh Gad shared a statement on Instagram, saying, “It is with enormous heartbreak that I inform you all that unfortunately, I have contracted a virus known as COVID.”
He explained that, out of caution for his fellow cast members and the audience, he would not be performing unless he tests negative in the next 48 hours.
He expressed his disappointment but assured fans that the show would still be amazing, writing, “This is going to be one of the greatest things you will ever see.” Gad had been excited about his role as King Herod in the musical and had been sharing behind-the-scenes content of rehearsals before his health setback.
Jesus Christ Superstar Cast
Cynthia Erivo, 38, will continue as Jesus, with Adam Lambert, 43, playing Judas in the production. A replacement for Gad has not yet been announced, but fans are eager to see how the show unfolds without him.
Gad had previously posted about his excitement for the production, sharing photos and captions of his fellow cast members.
Gad’s Ongoing Work with Erivo
While Gad won’t be appearing in Jesus Christ Superstar, he and Erivo share a connection through their upcoming project. Gad and Erivo are both starring in the 2024 film Oh, the Places You’ll Go! directed by Jon M. Chu.
In a recent post, Gad shared his excitement for the film’s release and his collaboration with Ariana Grande and other members of the team. The film is set to be released in March 2028.
It’s disappointing for fans to hear that Josh Gad won’t be part of Jesus Christ Superstar this weekend, but we can look forward to seeing him in his upcoming projects with Erivo and Grande. The show will continue without him, and fans are still excited for what’s to come!
