Jesus Christ Superstar: The Untold Stories Behind The Iconic Rock Opera

Hey there, friends! Let me tell you something fascinating. The rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar is back in a big way, this time as a live concert on NBC, airing on Sunday, April 1. It’s been exactly 45 years since the movie became a cultural phenomenon, and what better time to dig into some secrets about the original masterpiece? This is more than just a musical; it's a journey that has inspired countless fans over the decades.

This legendary production was first conceived in 1970 by two young visionaries, Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, who were barely out of their twenties at the time. "Our inspiration came from a Bob Dylan lyric, 'Did Judas Iscariot have God on his side?'" Lloyd Webber shares with us. That single line sparked an incredible story that focuses on the last six days of Jesus' life, blending rock music with biblical themes in a way that had never been done before.

The 1973 film, starring the unforgettable Ted Neeley as Jesus and Carl Anderson as Judas, has become a timeless classic with a devoted fanbase. Ted, now 74, still takes on the role of Jesus in traveling productions, and he says, "It completely transformed my life. Performing this role has been the most extraordinary experience I've ever had, and I'll keep doing it until my voice gives out." Let's dive into some of the incredible moments that brought this movie to life.

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Ted as Jesus in Jesus Christ Superstar.

Shooting in the Desert: The Challenges and Magic

The filming took place in the scorching desert just outside Jerusalem, Israel, where temperatures soared well above 100 degrees. Barry Dennen, who played Pontius Pilate until his passing last year at the age of 79, described the experience as "mysterious, hot, foreign, and absolutely wonderful." Wearing a heavy velvet cloak in that heat, Barry joked that water became the most valuable resource on set. Ted remembers how the cast drank around five quarts of water each day just to stay hydrated.

One of the most memorable moments came during the crucifixion scene. As they were preparing it, the desert skies suddenly turned black and ominous. "As the cross rose into the air, the sky grew darker, creating a chilling atmosphere," Ted recalls. And then, it began to rain—pouring nonstop for three days and nights. This unexpected weather forced the production to halt for the first and only time during the entire shoot.