The leading name for the hotly anticipated John Farnham musical has been announced.
The Australian singer’s legacy will be honoured in the stage show to coincide with the 40th anniversary of John’s iconic 1986 album, Whispering Jack.
Now, it has been revealed that Michael Paynter will portray the You’re the Voice hitmaker in the musical, which will arrive on stage at the Roslyn Packer Theatre from November 15, 2026.
However, New Idea can reveal that Cody Simpson had been in the running for the role, but was overlooked in favour of singer Michael.
“[Cody] recently starred in a production of Guys and Dolls and was sensational,” a source previously told New Idea. “He was definitely in consideration to play John in this upcoming musical.”
Though Cody was an early favourite, the source added that, “they may opt to cast an unknown and make them a star” instead.
As the leading man’s identity has finally been revealed, scroll down for all the details about the show.
Who is starring in the John Farnham musical?
David Campbell was reportedly also in the mix to play John Farnham, but the role ultimately went to Michael Paynter.
Michael has released at least five official singles: Closer, A Victim Song, Love the Fall, How Sweet It Is and Weary Stars.
He has toured with big names, including Icehouse and Jimmy Barnes.
Michael made his on-stage debut in Jesus Christ Superstar, taking on the role of Gethsemane.
Director Mitchell Butel said seeing Michael’s performance in the popular musical is what convinced him that he would play the perfect John.
“John Farnham is more than just an incredible voice. He is the ultimate showman and musical storyteller, with a rare ability to open his heart and connect with every person in his audience,” he said.
“When I watched Michael in Jesus Christ Superstar, his voice and performance took my breath away.
“During our audition process, it’s been a joy watching Michael unlock a warmth and charm and wit that is spookily Farnham-like as well.”
What’s the John Farnham musical about?
Whispering Jack: The John Farnham Musical will detail how the hitmaker came to produce his smash hit album of the same name.
Working out of a suburban garage in Melbourne, John recorded the album that solidified his place in Australian music, and the story will be told on the stage.
“We did a U-turn with the storyline and it’s now biographical, focusing on the years 1980 to 1986,” John Farnham’s manager Gaynor Wheatley previously told the Herald Sun.
“The songs have been worked in beautifully with the story. It’s really good. I am hoping it will be ready for 2026 to celebrate 40 years of Whispering Jack.”
Director Mitchell Butel will be producing the play alongside the Michael Cassel Group, which is behind Hamilton and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.
When are tickets on sale for the John Farnham musical?
Tickets are officially on sale for Whispering Jack: The John Farnham Musical.
Click here for more information.
