John Legend to play Jesus of Nazareth in live musical

John Legend has joined "Jesus Christ Superstar Live in Concert" and the singer will be seen essaying the title role of Jesus of Nazareth in the musical.
The NBC show will bow on April 1.
In a statement issued to Variety, the chairman of NBC Entertainment, Robert Greenblatt said, "We're all overjoyed to have world-class musical artiste and producer John Legend starring as Jesus.
"This score demands a singer with an amazing range and an actor with great depth, and there isn't anyone better to bring this story to a new audience. His casting is also groundbreaking as the traditional image of Christ will be seen in a new way."

Legend said he is "thrilled" to join the cast of the production.
"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," he added.
The show, which covers the final days of Jesus' life, will see singer-songwriter Alice Cooper play King Herod.