Welsh actor Luke Evans has made his Broadway debut as Dr. Frank-N-Furter in a new revival of Richard O'Brien's The Rocky Horror Show.
The production marks a significant career milestone for Evans, who is a Tony nominee for best lead actor in a musical [1]. His casting in the provocative role brings a high-profile presence to the New York City stage, drawing attention to the revival's aesthetic and performance choices.
During preview performances in May 2026, Evans said the specific requirements of the character's wardrobe were important [2]. He discussed his affinity for the fishnet costumes and high heels that define the role of Dr. Frank-N-Furter. As part of the costume, Evans wears five-inch heels [2].
The actor's embrace of the revealing outfit has sparked significant interest online, with images of the costume going viral. Evans said the costume choices are central to the identity of the iconic character.
This production brings the cult classic back to the U.S. stage with a focus on the bold visual elements that originally defined the show. Evans is using the promotion of the revival to highlight the intersection of fashion and theater, emphasizing how the physical constraints and style of the costume influence the performance of the character.
“Luke Evans has made his Broadway debut as Dr. Frank-N-Furter”
The casting of a Tony-nominated actor like Evans in a revival of The Rocky Horror Show signals a push to blend mainstream star power with the show's subversive, gender-bending roots. By emphasizing the costume's physicality—specifically the high heels—the production leans into the spectacle and camp that have historically made the property a cultural touchstone.
