Josh Gad pulls out of appearing in Jesus Christ Superstar after contracting COVID-19

Josh Gad has pulled out of appearing in Jesus Christ Superstar after contracting COVID-19.

The 44-year-old actor has been left "heartbroken" at having to miss the chance to play King Herod in the musical extravaganza, which will run at the Hollywood Bowl from 1-3 August but promised fans the production - which stars Cynthia Erivo as Jesus and Adam Lambert as Judas - will be one of the "greatest things" they will ever get to see.

He shared a statement on Instagram which read: “It is with enormous heartbreak that I inform you all that unfortunately, I have contracted a virus known as COVID (remember that one little b****** from season one of ‘earth really sucks right now?’?

"Anyway, out of an abundance of caution and respect for my cast, I will not be performing in Jesus Christ Superstar this weekend (unless I test negative).

“It truly breaks my heart, but I can assure you all that this is going to be one of the greatest things you will ever see.

“I hope at some point you get to see me wear the crown and show you what we’ve been up to, because it was quite something, but for now, sadly, I will not be able to grace the Hollywood Bowl.(sic)"

The Hollywood Bowl reshared Josh's statement and wished the Frozen actor a "speedy recovery", and confirmed they “will announce a new performer for the role of King Herod in Jesus Christ Superstar soon.”