Craig McLachlan Withdraws from 'Cluedo' Play Amid Industry Backlash

What's Happening?

Craig McLachlan has decided to step down from his role in the upcoming Australian stage production of 'Cluedo' following a social media campaign targeting his past misconduct allegations. McLachlan was set to play Colonel Mustard in the play, which is based on the popular board game and the 1985 film. The backlash stems from previous charges against McLachlan, which included seven counts of indecent assault and six counts of common law assault involving four women during the 2014 production of 'The Rocky Horror Show'. Although he was acquitted of all charges in December 2020, the announcement of his casting in 'Cluedo' reignited controversy within the theatre community. McLachlan expressed that the social media campaign had a negative impact on the production and those involved, leading to his decision to withdraw.

Why It's Important?

The withdrawal of Craig McLachlan from the 'Cluedo' play highlights ongoing tensions in the entertainment industry regarding the reintegration of individuals with past allegations of misconduct. This incident underscores the power of social media in influencing casting decisions and public opinion. The situation reflects broader societal debates about accountability, redemption, and the impact of past actions on current opportunities. For the theatre community, this event may prompt further discussions on how to handle similar cases in the future, balancing artistic freedom with ethical considerations. The decision also affects the production team and cast, who must navigate the fallout and continue with the play's scheduled performances.

What's Next?

The production of 'Cluedo' is set to proceed as planned, with performances scheduled at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre in January 2026. The producers, including John Frost, have acknowledged the backlash and expressed regret for any distress caused by the initial casting decision. The play will continue with other cast members, such as Genevieve Lemon and Grant Piro, while the team seeks a replacement for McLachlan's role. This incident may lead to increased scrutiny of casting decisions in the future, as well as potential policy changes within theatre companies to address similar controversies.