Why John Stamos Stepped In Last Minute for Josh Gad in Jesus Christ Superstar at the Hollywood Bowl

John Stamos made a surprise return to the stage this weekend — and it’s all thanks to an unexpected twist of fate. The Full House star stepped in at the last minute to replace Josh Gad in a special Jesus Christ Superstar production at Los Angeles’ Hollywood Bowl after Gad was sidelined by COVID.

The show, which stars Cynthia Erivo in the lead role, is running for just one weekend from August 1 to August 3. Gad was originally cast as King Herod, but just days before opening night, he tested positive for COVID-19 and had to bow out. That’s when Stamos got the call.

“Well… this weekend just got Biblical,” Stamos joked in a July 31 Instagram post. “I’m stepping in as King Herod in Jesus Christ Superstar at the @HollywoodBowl, starring the brilliant @cynthiaerivo.”

He added a humorous note about Gad’s sudden exit: “King @JoshGad unexpectedly got hit with COVID (feel better soon, brother!), and while I didn’t push him down the stairs, I am grateful for the chance to step into the gold lamé.”

A Whirlwind 24 Hours

Stamos, 61, took on the challenge with barely a moment to rest. Just before being asked to fill in, he had wrapped up touring with The Beach Boys in Spain as a guest performer. He landed in Los Angeles with less than 24 hours before curtain time — and immediately jumped into rehearsals.

“This is an honor. A dream,” he wrote. “And also a little insane because… I just stepped off a plane from @thebeachboys tour in Spain and have less than 24 hours to pull this off.”

Despite the chaos, Stamos appeared to be soaking up every second of the experience. He posted a behind-the-scenes photo with fellow castmates posing dramatically around him, fanning him with oversized feathers as he lounged like royalty.

Cynthia Erivo, who leads the production and stars as Jesus, expressed her excitement at having Stamos onboard. “I’m really excited to see you!” she commented. “Thank you for stepping in on such short notice.”

Josh Gad Reacts

Josh Gad, known for his voice role as Olaf in Frozen, shared his disappointment in a heartfelt Instagram post on July 30, confirming he would not be able to perform in the highly anticipated run.

“It is with enormous heartbreak that I inform you all that unfortunately, I have contracted a virus known as COVID,” Gad wrote. “It truly breaks my heart but I can assure you all that the show is going to be one of the greatest things you will ever see.”

Gad also praised Stamos for taking his place. In the comments under Stamos’ post, he wrote, “Thank you for wearing the crown in my absence, my friend. You’re gonna kill it.”

A Legendary Role at a Legendary Venue

Jesus Christ Superstar is one of the most iconic rock operas ever written, and the role of King Herod is known for its flamboyant, scene-stealing performance. With his stage presence, musical talent, and comic timing, Stamos is no stranger to the spotlight — and seems to be fitting right in with the bold, high-energy production.

While audiences may have been surprised by the last-minute casting change, there’s no doubt Stamos brought his own brand of star power to the role. And even with the whirlwind nature of the switch, he’s proving once again why he’s been a fan favorite for decades.

As for Gad, he may have missed his chance to dazzle the crowd this time, but the show — and the glittering crown of Herod — found a worthy backup in Stamos.

Hot this week

Healthy High Protein Breakfast Options to Start Your Day Strong

Tired of feeling hungry just hours after breakfast? Wondering...

Logan Lerman Talks New Rom-Com ‘Oh, Hi!’ and Why Modern Dating Is So Complicated

Logan Lerman and director Sophie Brooks are bringing messy,...

Paula Deen Closes Her Two Famous Restaurants in Savannah After 40 Years

It’s the end of a delicious era in Savannah....

Christina Applegate Says Daughter Misses the Mom She Was Before Getting Sick

Christina Applegate is opening up about the emotional toll...

Topics

Aaron Rodgers Leaves the Jets: What’s Next for the Four-Time MVP?

Aaron Rodgers' tenure with the New York Jets is...

Rep. Jasmine Crockett Shuts Down False $9 Million Net Worth Allegations

In the wild world of social media, misinformation spreads...

Will Packer’s Net Worth: From College Dreams to Hollywood Success

Will Packer has firmly established himself as one of...

Joe Tacopina Net Worth 2025: The Tenacious Lawyer Who Never Backs Down

If you've ever watched a high-profile courtroom drama unfold,...

Who is Sidney Crosby Girlfriend, Kathy Leutner?

Sidney Crosby is known for his dominance on the...

Is Hardik Pandya Dating Jasmine Walia? Here’s What We Know!

Indian cricket star Hardik Pandya is no stranger to...

Fast-Tracking Leadership: A Path to Business Success

In today’s fast-moving world, professionals must continuously develop new...

Conan O’Brien’s Net Worth: How Rich Is Oscars 2025 Host Conan?

If there’s one person who has made late-night TV...

Related Articles

Popular Categories