The West End production fronted by the Spidey actor is expected to move to the Great White Way after wrapping up its run in U.K. amid controversy over its diverse cast.
- Apr 7, 2024
AceShowbiz - Despite not yet opening in the West End, Tom Holland's upcoming production of "Romeo and Juliet" is reportedly set to transfer to Broadway later this year.
The Marvel actor, 27, stars as Romeo in the London production, scheduled to run for 12 weeks at Duke of York's Theatre next month. Tickets for the West End run sold out within two hours, leading to comparisons with Taylor Swift's highly sought-after Eras tour.
According to a source speaking to The Mirror, "Romeo & Juliet" will move to Broadway following its London run, with details to be announced soon. Despite being another adaptation of Shakespeare's classic text, director Jamie Lloyd's interpretation has gained attention primarily due to its leading man.
"Fans can't wait to watch the Marvel hero test out his acting chops up close and personal," the source said, adding that the high ticket prices (around £200) indicate significant potential earnings.
The production faced some controversy after its announcement, with the diverse cast attracting "a barrage of deplorable racial abuse" online. The Jamie Lloyd Company responded by condemning the backlash and pledging to protect all members of the company from harassment.
The cast includes Francesca Amewudah-Rivers as Juliet, Freema Agyeman, Michael Balogun, Tomiwa Edun, Mia Jerome, Daniel Quinn-Toye, Ray Sesay, Nima Taleghani, Joshua-Alexander Williams, and Callum Heinrich and Kody Mortimer.
Lloyd praised Holland's casting, saying, "Tom Holland is one of the greatest, most exciting young actors in the world. It is an honor to welcome him back to the West End."
Holland's stage debut came as Billy Elliot in "Billy Elliot the Musical" in 2008, and "Romeo and Juliet" will mark his first West End role as an adult. Previous actors who have portrayed Romeo on stage include "Harry Potter" star Alfred Enoch, Sir Ian McKellen, Sean Bean, and Richard Madden.
