Ted Neeley

CHICAGO – This Easter weekend it’s worth noting that one of the greatest renditions of “the greatest story ever told” celebrates its 50th Anniversary in 2023. “Jesus Christ Superstar,” the film adaptation of the 1970 rock opera by then 21-year-old Anthony Lloyd Webber and 24-year-old Tim Rice, was directed by Norman Jewison and starred Ted Neeley.

CHICAGO – In 1973, director Norman Jewison fashioned a radical film version of the rock opera/Broadway show “Jesus Christ Superstar,” and the cinematic innovations plus stellar cast equaled a timeless movie musical classic. Josh Mostel portrayed King Herod and Barry Dennen was Pontius Pilate in the iconic film.

CHICAGO – To begin with, Yvonne Elliman’s vocal stylings have appeared on albums that have sold 50 million units. The singer was discovered by Andrew Lloyd Webber for his seminal “Jesus Christ Superstar” rock opera (approximately 10 million albums sold), portraying Mary Magdelene, and also had a monster hit – “If I Can’t Have You” – on the legendary “Saturday Night Fever” soundtrack (40 million sold).

CHICAGO – What can be said for a man who has portrayed Jesus close to 5,000 times, and starred in the definitive Broadway and film versions of the most famous rock opera about Christ? Ted Neeley is as virtuous as his famous title role in “Jesus Christ Superstar.” During this Easter weekend, HollywoodChicago.com reprints this comprehensive overview of Ted Neeley, Superstar.

CHICAGO – What can be said for a man who has portrayed Jesus close to 5,000 times, and starred in the definitive Broadway and film versions of the most famous rock opera about Christ? Ted Neeley is as virtuous as his famous title role in “Jesus Christ Superstar.”