‘Weeds’ Hunter Parrish Becomes Heavenly Deity in ‘Godspell’

I bet you didn’t know Jesus smoked weed. Well not the guy who walked on water or who specialized in rising from the dead. Rather Broadway’s latest addition to ‘Godspell’ certainly has had a checkered past with the ganja. Let it never be said that Hunter Parrish doesn’t have range. Its been announced by producer Ken Davenport that the star of ‘Weeds’ has been chosen to play Jesus in the revival of ‘Godspell’ returning to Broadway, playing the Circle in the Square November 7. Previews start October 13.

In a statement, Parrish said, “I am elated to be joining the Godspell family, and honored to be a part of bringing this thrilling classic back to Broadway. I knew after meeting with the creative team that I was going to be a part of something really exciting. I can’t wait to get started.”

Parrish made his Broadway debut in ‘Spring Awakening’ as Melchoir in 2008. He stayed with the production until it closed in January 2009. ‘Glee’s’ Jonathan Groff originally held the role when the production opened. Parrish is currently in his seventh season filming the Showtime dark comedy ‘Weeds.’ He plays Silas Botwin, the enterprising son of Mary-Louise Parker’s character Nancy. Parrish has also acted in films like ‘It’s Complicated,’ ‘Down in the Valley’ and ‘Freedom Writers.’

‘Godspell’ is a revival of the 1971 Broadway play featuring music by Stephen Schwartz. The current staging of ‘Godspell’ blossomed from the 2006 Daniel Goldstein directed Paper Mill Playhouse production. Further casting announcements have yet to be made.

Update: Thanks to Ken Davenport for helping us with our editing oversight.