Craig McLachlan has stepped down from his role in the Australian production of Cluedo, following a backlash over his casting. This comes after he was accused of inappropriate behavior towards female co-stars, allegations he has always denied. The decision follows intense social media criticism and an outcry from within the theatre community.
What Happened
Last Wednesday, producers for Cluedo, Crossroads Live, announced that McLachlan had been cast as Colonel Mustard in a stage adaptation of the 1985 film Clue, based on the popular board game. However, shortly after the announcement, McLachlan faced a wave of backlash on social media, with many within the theatre community expressing dismay over the casting. This backlash extended to other members of the cast, prompting McLachlan to withdraw from the production.
In a statement, McLachlan explained that the social media campaign had caused significant distress to both him and the people involved in the production. He said, “I cannot and will not let my involvement in a show result in good people being targeted.” The actor also revealed that his mother had passed away on Monday, which delayed his response to the backlash.
McLachlan’s History and Allegations
McLachlan, who has been accused of sexual misconduct by several of his co-stars, withdrew from the 2018 production of The Rocky Horror Show after similar allegations surfaced. Three women accused him of touching, kissing, and groping them without their consent during a 2014 production of the same show. In addition, he faced allegations from his time on Neighbours, City Homicide, and Doctor Blake Mysteries.
In 2020, McLachlan was cleared of all charges, with a Melbourne magistrate acknowledging the bravery of his accusers but ultimately ruling that the evidence did not meet the legal threshold for assault. Despite the legal outcome, McLachlan has faced continued public scrutiny over the allegations.
Public and Industry Reactions
The casting announcement was met with an outpouring of criticism on social media. Queenie van de Zandt, a prominent performer, expressed her shock and disappointment, saying that McLachlan’s casting sent the wrong message about the dismissal of women’s voices. The backlash prompted Crossroads Live’s CEO, John Frost, to issue an apology, stating that the casting decision “wasn’t well received by some of the industry and public,” and acknowledging the distress caused to others involved in the production.
Frost said in a statement, “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.”
What Happens Next
With McLachlan’s withdrawal from Cluedo, the production will need to find a replacement for the role of Colonel Mustard ahead of its January premiere in Brisbane. McLachlan’s departure marks another chapter in his ongoing struggle with public perception following the sexual misconduct allegations, despite being cleared of legal charges.
The controversy surrounding his casting and subsequent withdrawal highlights the continued tension within the entertainment industry between those accused of misconduct and the public and professional response to such allegations.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
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