Cock: First look at Jonathan Bailey and Joel Harper-Jackson onstage as Taron Egerton exits
Joel Harper-Jackson has taken over the role of 'M' after Taron Egerton had to pull out of the show for "personal reasons".
Words: Alastair James; pictures: Matt Crockett
Jonathan Bailey and Joel Harper-Jackson look fiercely in love in new images from the show, Cock, currently playing on the West End.
The Bridgerton star (John) stars opposite Harper-Jackson (M) who took over the role following the departure of Rocketman‘s Taron Egerton from the production last week due to “personal reasons”.
Taron, who was making his West End debut, had previously fainted during the first preview before later stepping back temporarily after testing positive for Covid-19.
Jonathan Bailey as John and Joel Harper-Jackson as M in Cock (Photo: Matt Crockett)
Joel Harper-Jackson as M in Cock (Photo: Matt Crockett)
When it was announced Egerton would be leaving the production the play’s director, Marianne Elliott, said of Joel: “Joel is an absolute hero. He is a brilliant and gifted actor and stepped into the role at extremely short notice. Audiences have been standing and cheering and so am l.”
Jonathan Bailey added: “Joel is an immense talent and we couldn’t be luckier to have him on board. I am proud to continue sharing the stage with him.”
Cock sees Bailey and Harper-Jackson star as a couple whose relationship comes under strain when one of them begins a relationship with a woman (Jade Anouka). Phil Daniels rounds out the cast.
Written by Mike Bartlett, it was first staged in 2009 with Fleabag‘s Andrew Scott and This Is Going To Hurt‘s Ben Whishaw in the lead roles.
An official synopsis of the play reads: “In a world full of endless possibilities why must we still limit ourselves with labels?
Cock runs at the Ambassadors Theatre in London until 4 June. Tickets are available here.