Matt Cardle has for now put his music career on hold, announcing he'll be starring in the hit production of Memphis on the West End for three months alongside Beverley Knight.

The production takes place from July 6 at London's Shatesbury Theatre, and will see Matt replace outgoing male lead Killian Donnelly, who's now going on to star in a new production of Kinky Boots later this year.

Matt Cardle / Credit: FAMOUS
Matt Cardle / Credit: FAMOUS

He's to play DJ Dewey Phillips, one of the first white disc jockeys to play black music back in the 1950s.

Chatting about the news, Cardle said: "I'm thrilled to be making my acting and West End debut in Memphis. From the first time I saw the show, I felt I had a real connection with the character of Huey. It's no secret that I worked for many years before my breakthrough as a musician.

"I started my first band when I was 12 years old and spent at least 15 years recording albums and sending demos to record companies before finally having my voice heard. It was the united love from family and friends, similar to that at the heart of the Memphis story, that saw me through.

"I am truly honoured to be sharing the stage with the incredible Beverley Knight. I've admired her work for such a long time, and can't wait to get started in the show".

Beverley Knight added: "I can't wait to continue my Memphis journey into the autumn with Matt - who will be a fantastic addition to our Memphis family. We all know he has a fantastical voice; I think many will be wonderfully surprised by his ability on stage.

"We are all going to miss Killian when he leaves, but his last few weeks will be party time at the show! Bring it all on! Hockadoo!"

Booking for the show continues until the planned end of its run on October 31, with plans also for a tour of the UK and Ireland from autumn of next year.


by for www.femalefirst.co.uk
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