The photos see the 'All of Me' hitmaker, who is tapped to play the titular role, posing with his arms wide open while crossing his legs and looking straight at the camera.
- Feb 22, 2018
AceShowbiz - It's only weeks before NBC airs the much-anticipated "Jesus Christ Superstar Live!". Now, the network reveals a slew of first-look photos of John Legend as the titular character.
The Grammy, Oscar and Tony-winning singer is seen donning a white T-shirt and color-coordinated pants on the filming set. Coming from PEOPLE, the photos also see the "All of Me" hitmaker posing with his arms wide open. He crosses his legs while looking straight at the camera.
Another photo features the father-of-two sitting in the dimlit set. This time, John completes his look with a white vest.
When asked how John embodied the character of Jesus, costume designer Paul Tazewell told the site, "I believe there is an honesty of character and a generous openness that John inhabits quite naturally and that allows him to be seen as a messianic figure."
Paul also revealed that the singer "offered his opinions" about the design of his costumes. "We have always seemed to be on the same page together with how we envisioned his version of Jesus," he added.
"From the first design meeting with [director] David Leveaux it was pretty clear that he wanted our production of 'Jesus Christ Superstar Live' in Concert to be a modern version," Paul continued. "The costume design does have an urban dystopian quality while feeling hot and arid. I think the contemporary costumes stand well in contrast with the ancient architectural ruins which inform much of the scenic design."
NBC announced John's casting in December last year. The "Beauty and the Beast" singer revealed that he was "trhilled to join the cast of this production of 'Jesus Christ Superstar Live' in Concert." The husband of model Chrissy Teigen added, "It's such a powerful, meaningful musical and I'm humbled to be part of this performance. We've already formed an incredible team, and, as we finish casting, I'm certain we will put together some of the greatest talents around to do this work justice."
The original musical, which Webber wrote alongside Rice, opened on Broadway in 1971. Meanwhile, NBC's "Jesus Christ Superstar Live!" is scheduled to air on Easter Sunday, April 1 on the network.
