Sam Ryder stars in Celebrity Race Across the World

As Sam Ryder makes his Celebrity Race Across the World debut on BBC One tonight, the Eurovision favourite is taking on an entirely different challenge in London — starring as Jesus in the critically acclaimed West End musical Jesus Christ Superstar. Here’s how to see him on stage.

Sam Ryder is back on television screens tonight, but away from his latest BBC adventure, the singer is making waves in London’s West End.

The Eurovision star, who captured the nation’s hearts with his hit song Space Man, has taken on the iconic role of Jesus in Jesus Christ Superstar, marking a major milestone in his career with his West End debut.

The award-winning production has enjoyed a record-breaking summer season at The London Palladium after originating at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre. It has since extended its run to Theatre Royal Drury Lane, giving audiences another opportunity to see Ryder perform one of musical theatre’s most demanding roles.

With fans tuning in to watch him travel across the world on Celebrity Race Across the World, many will be curious about what the singer is doing now — and his latest stage role could be the perfect reason to plan a trip to the theatre.

How to see Sam Ryder in Jesus Christ Superstar

Ryder stars as Jesus in the legendary rock musical by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber, which follows the final days of Jesus Christ’s life through the eyes of Judas.

The production features a celebrated score packed with iconic songs, including I Don’t Know How to Love Him, Gethsemane and Superstar.

Known for his extraordinary vocal range and energetic performances, Ryder brings his rock credentials to a role that demands both vocal power and emotional intensity.

His casting represents a new chapter for the singer, who has built an international following through his music, live performances and unmistakable personality.

The production is directed by Tim Sheader, with choreography by Olivier Award-winner Drew McOnie and designs by Tony and Olivier Award-winner Tom Scutt.

Jesus Christ Superstar tickets

• Starring: Sam Ryder as Jesus
• Venue: Theatre Royal Drury Lane, London
• Ticket prices: From £27.50, subject to availability
• Booking: Check dates and book tickets here
• Full cast details: Official Jesus Christ Superstar website

The production is scheduled to run until 9 January 2027, offering fans the chance to see Ryder on stage in the months ahead.

What has Sam Ryder been doing after Eurovision?

Ryder became a household name after representing the UK at the Eurovision Song Contest in 2022. His song Space Man finished in second place, delivering the country’s best result in the competition since 1998.

But his success did not begin overnight. During the pandemic, his cover performances on TikTok attracted a huge online audience, helping him build a global following before his Eurovision breakthrough.

Since then, Ryder has achieved a UK number one album with There’s Nothing but Space, Man!, earned major award nominations and performed to audiences around the world.

His second album, Heartland, marked a more personal chapter, reflecting his ongoing development as a songwriter and performer.

Now, his move into musical theatre demonstrates his willingness to explore new creative territory, bringing his distinctive voice to a production with a very different set of demands from a concert stage.

Sam Ryder joins Celebrity Race Across the World

Tonight, viewers can also see Ryder take on a very different kind of adventure as he competes in the new series of Celebrity Race Across the World.

He is travelling with his friend and tour manager, Kaz Coles, with whom he has shared a friendship dating back to 2013 — long before his rise to international fame.

The pair must navigate an epic journey without the luxuries of celebrity life, working with a limited budget and finding their own way between checkpoints.

The series offers viewers the chance to see another side of Ryder, away from the stage and recording studio, as he takes on the challenges of travelling across unfamiliar destinations.

With his music career continuing to evolve and his West End debut introducing him to theatre audiences, the BBC series arrives at an exciting point in his professional life.

When is Celebrity Race Across the World on TV?

Celebrity Race Across the World starts tonight at 8pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.

For viewers inspired to see Ryder in person after watching the show, Jesus Christ Superstar is currently playing at Theatre Royal Drury Lane in London, with tickets available from £27.50.

From Eurovision success to the West End stage, Ryder continues to prove that there is more to his career than one hit song. And for fans wanting to experience his extraordinary vocals live, his role as Jesus offers a chance to see him take on one of musical theatre’s most celebrated parts.

Book tickets for Jesus Christ Superstar: See available performances at Theatre Royal Drury Lane.

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