Craig McLachlan has withdrawn from the cast of Cluedo due to social media backlash against him. Crossroads Live announced last week that he would play the role of Colonel Mustard in a national tour.
In a statement released today, Craig McLachlan said:
“Almost one week ago, a casting announcement was made regarding the Australian stage play Cluedo. In the hours and days that followed, I was targeted in a social media campaign from within the theatre community, which I was devastated to see has then impacted those involved in the production. I therefore feel that it is best for the production and those involved for me to withdraw.”
Crossroads Live Australia added:
“Recently Crossroads Live Australia announced some of the ensemble cast that will be appearing in our upcoming stage adaptation of the much-loved classic board game Cluedo, including Craig McLachlan who was cast in the role of Colonel Mustard.
Craig McLachlan is no longer part of the ensemble cast of Cluedo. We thank those who have purchased tickets to Cluedo for their understanding and look forward to a successful production.”
Producer John Frost said:
“Craig McLachlan’s theatrical stage return wasn’t well received by some of the industry and public. The resulting impact on others involved has prompted his withdrawal from the production. I have listened to the feedback and as producer, whilst it was my initial casting decision, I understand the opposing sentiment and I am sorry for any distress this decision has caused.”
Cluedo will premiere at QPAC in Brisbane in January 2026, before heading to Melbourne’s Comedy Theatre, Her Majesty’s Theatre in Adelaide and Theatre Royal Sydney.
Cluedo – also known as Clue in the US – has played on stage in the US and the UK to great success and sell out shows.
Based on the fan-favourite 1985 Paramount Pictures movie, Clue and inspired by the classic Hasbro board game that is the 5th highest selling board game of all time, Cluedo is the ultimate whodunnit that will leave you dying of laughter and keep you guessing until the final twist.
The cast includes Genevieve Lemon (The Piano, Sister Act) and Grant Piro (Agatha Christie’s And Then There Were None).
Further casting announcements will be made in the coming months.
John Frost for Crossroads Live presents Cluedo
Directed by Luke Joslin
Set & Costume Design by James Browne
From January 2026
QPAC Playhouse Theatre, Brisbane
From February 2026
Comedy Theatre, Melbourne
From March 2026
Her Majesty’s Theatre, Adelaide
From April 2026
Theatre Royal Sydney
Based on the screenplay Clue by Jonathan Lynn
Written by Sandy Rustin
Additional material by Hunter Foster and Eric Price
Based on the Paramount Pictures Motion Picture
Based on the Hasbro board game CLUE
By special arrangement with Clue On Stage LLC
More information and tickets at cluedoplay.com.au
// Video features the San Francisco cast
TINSEL and TAP SHOES 