‘Could feel my voice deserting me’: Matt Lucas bows out of Melbourne Les Misérables mid-show

Les Misérables star Matt Lucas was forced to switch out with his co-star at Thursday’s showing in Melbourne after suffering a health issue mid performance.

Matt Lucas was replaced by co-star Connor Jones on Thursday night’s showing of Les Misérables in Melbourne. Picture: James Gourley

Matt Lucas was forced to bow out of Thursday’s showing of Les Misérables after suffering a health issue mid performance.

Lucas — who is playing Thenardier in the international arena tour — was replaced by his co-star Connor Jones after he felt his “voice deserting” him.

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— Matt Lucas HQ (@RealMattLucas) May 16, 2025

Matt Lucas and Marina Prior on stage for Les Misérables. Picture: Daniel Boud

The actor and comedian, 51, shared an update to X on Friday night — explaining why “Thenardier looked very different in Act 2”.

“In over 30 years I’ve never had to bow out during a performance but tonight, as I was singing Master Of The House, I could feel my voice deserting me,” he posted.

“I’m now in bed resting up, and hope to be back on stage soon.”

It marks the first time in 30 years Lucas has left the stage mid-show.

The Australian leg of the arena spectacular began in Sydney last month and will continue in Melbourne until May 25 before it heads to Brisbane.