Carl Anderson, the actor and singer best known for his stage and film portrayal of Judas in the rock opera "Jesus Christ Superstar," has died of leukemia at age 58, his manager said on Wednesday.

The part of Judas in "Jesus Christ Superstar" was originated on Broadway in 1971 by Ben Vereen, but Anderson stepped into the role when Vereen fell ill, and the two performers later took turns playing the role.

I thought Anderson was just phenomenal in the movie. Many people objected to the way in which Judas was portrayed in the show (more as a victim). However, whether you agree with that decision or not (not trying to get in a major religious debate here), he nailed the part. You really began to feel his angst and torment by the end.

Posted by Lawren at February 26, 2004 12:07 PM

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