Boy George has pulled out of the upcoming London production of "Jesus Christ Superstar," just days after releasing a pro-Israel song that sparked widespread criticism online.
The singer's manager, Paul Kemsley, announced the decision on social media, stating it was made "with the utmost respect" for the show's producers, creative team, and cast.
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Kemsley also apologized to fans who had bought tickets expecting to see the Culture Club frontman perform.
He wrote, "George has never been afraid to stand by his personal convictions, and I have always respected him for that.
Equally, I believe it is my responsibility to make decisions that are in the best interests of my artist while also showing respect to others."
Kemsley added that he felt "it was right to step aside, allowing the production to remain the focus, while ensuring everyone involved can move forward with mutual respect and goodwill."
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Boy George was scheduled to play King Herod from August 3-15 at the London Palladium, alongside Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Richard Armitage, Simon Russell Beale, Layton Williams, and Julian Clary.
It is not yet known who will replace him.
Earlier this week, the singer faced backlash over his allegedly A. I.
-generated pro-Israel song, "עוד נרקוד," which translates to "We Will Dance Again."
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Some lyrics that drew criticism include: "You say genocide, I say war / When you're attacked, that's what the army's for / Does it get ugly?
/ You bet it does / When I know you wanna kill every last one of us."
Boy George has not commented on his exit from the show, but he did push back on the criticism of the song on X, saying, "When will you realise you're doing NOTHING!
It's a f***ing joke. I am even falling out with Jewish friends.
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The madness knows no bounds."
