Excitement brews at the Sondheim Theatre as producer Cameron Mackintosh has announced significant changes to the principal cast of Les Misérables in London’s West End.
The iconic musical, which will celebrate its 40th anniversary in the West End in October 2025, will welcome several new performers beginning Monday, February 2, 2026.
Harry Hepple will take on the role of Thénardier, replacing current cast member Adam Gillen. Hepple brings considerable West End experience, having performed in productions such as Hello, Dolly! at the London Palladium, Hamilton, and Assassins at Chichester Festival Theatre.
Acclaimed actor Harry Hepple steps into the scheming shoes of Thénardier with impressive West End credentials behind him.
Joining Hepple as his on-stage wife is Lizzie Bea, who will portray Madame Thénardier. Bea, known for her performances in Sister Act and Hairspray, will replace Claire Machin in the role. The pair will form the new innkeeper duo in the production.
Another notable addition is Jess Folley, who will step into the role of Éponine. Folley recently originated the role of Ali Rose in the world premiere of Burlesque The Musical, performing in both Manchester and London runs. She will take over from current Éponine performer Amena El-kindy.
The new cast members will join several continuing performers, including Ian McIntosh as Jean Valjean, Sam Oladeinde as Javert, Thiago Phillip Felizardo as Marius, Joe Griffiths-Brown as Enjolras, and Izzi Levine as Cosette. The production’s renowned score features iconic anthems that have become significant in global freedom movements throughout the years.
In related news announced a week earlier, Lucie Jones will make a temporary return as Fantine from January 19 to April 11, 2026. This limited engagement will overlap with the start of the new principal cast members.
The full ensemble company includes Hollie Aires, Aidan Banyard, Ella May Carter, Nicholas Carter, Matthew Dale, Irfan Damani, Lily De-La-Haye, Lila Falce-Bass, Sophie-May Feek, Jessica Johns-Parsons, Seán Keany, Chris Kiely, Sam Kipling, Mia Lamb, Sarah Lark, and Ollie Llewelyn-Williams.
The casting changes come as Les Misérables continues its successful run as one of London’s longest-running and most beloved productions. Tickets for the show are available from £29 upward, making this acclaimed theatrical experience accessible to a wide audience. Fans will be pleased to know the production is currently booking until 3 October 2026.
