Sting is joining the cast of “The Last Ship” for five weeks.
The rock icon, famous for an illustrious solo career and fronting The Police, appeared on “The Today Show” on Monday to tell Matt Lauer he’d be taking over the role of Jackie White, which is currently occupied by Jimmy Nail, an actor Sting considers his best friend.
“Big shoes to fit, but he’s passed me the baton for five weeks,” Sting said. “I didn’t think I’d do this, but having been to every performance, every rehearsal, I feel I’ve earned my place in the cast. I’ve done it.”
The Broadway musical, currently being performed at the Neil Simon Theatre, is loosely based on Sting‘s own experience growing up in an English port town.
Sting‘s decision is likely a response to the lackluster reception the $15 million musical has received in New York City. Since opening Sept. 29, the New York Times reported “The Last Ship” has lost around $75,000 each week.