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Andrew Lloyd Webber Backs Jonathan Bailey for Rum Tum Tugger, Says He 'Looks Phantom‑Like'

The composer publicly praised the Wicked actor as a strong fit for signature roles without making any casting announcement.

Overview

  • Webber said Bailey would be great as the Rum Tum Tugger in Cats if the performance felt suitably anarchic.
  • He added that Bailey "looks pretty Phantom like" and floated him as a potential Phantom of the Opera.
  • The remarks came in response to Bailey naming Rum Tum Tugger as his dream role in a Heart radio exchange.
  • Webber praised Bailey’s work in the Wicked film as "really brilliant" and said he would love to work with him.
  • No project or casting has been confirmed, though Webber recently noted a Phantom film remake is being discussed and prefers casting an actor in their 40s; Bailey is 37.