John Lithgow leads the cast of Giant, a new Broadway play that delves into a deeply contentious moment in the life of Roald Dahl, the celebrated but controversial author. The production, which opened previews at New York City’s Music Box Theatre on March 11, explores Dahl’s antisemitic remarks made during the release of The Witches in the 1980s, presenting themes that Lithgow believes are especially relevant in today’s social and political climate.
The drama centers on a single day in the early 1980s when Dahl publicly voiced strong anti-Israeli sentiments related to the conflict between Israel and Lebanon. The play, written by Mark Rosenblatt, confronts Dahl’s antisemitism directly and examines how these comments complicated his legacy as a beloved writer. It highlights the difficult balance between acknowledging artistic achievement and holding public figures accountable for their personal prejudices.
Exploring Roald Dahl’s Complex Personality on Stage
John Lithgow discussed his role as Roald Dahl during an appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert on March 9. Lithgow described Dahl as a man of
“great charm, great wit and intelligence, but with a streak of witting and unwitting cruelty,”
emphasizing the darker side of the author’s character beyond his acclaimed literature.
“Lots of people know Roald Dahl’s writing,”
Lithgow said, referencing Dahl’s popular works such as Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, The Witches, Matilda, James and the Giant Peach, and The BFG.
“You know he has his dark side as a writer; well, he had his dark side as a human being,”
Lithgow added.
“[He was] a man of great charm, great wit and intelligence, but with a streak of witting and unwitting cruelty.”
The story unfolds as a tense battle of wills following Dahl’s public scandal, giving him a chance to confront the ramifications of his remarks. As the play’s summary puts it, it depicts
“a world-famous children’s author under threat”
in an intense moment of personal and social reckoning.
A Timely Narrative Amid Current Global Conflicts
Since Dahl’s family issued a public apology for his antisemitic comments in 2020, the significance of Giant has only grown. Lithgow noted that the show’s themes feel particularly urgent now, as the escalating tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran reflect ongoing struggles with prejudice and conflict.
“It’s a piece of history,”
Lithgow said, calling the play an “examination of that day.”
“And as you can imagine, in this day and age, it’s extraordinarily timely.”
Giant follows sold-out performances on the London West End and at the Royal Court Theatre, where Lithgow earned an Olivier Award for his portrayal. The Broadway production is directed by the acclaimed two-time Tony winner Nicholas Hytner and officially opened on March 23, 2025, with a limited engagement through June 28.
Supporting Cast and Creative Team Behind the Production
Alongside John Lithgow, the cast features Aya Cash, Elliot Levey, Rachael Stirling, Stella Everett, and David Manis. The ensemble also includes understudies Geoffrey Cantor, Annie Hӓgg, Eleanor Handley, and Paul O’Brien. This talented team brings to life a complex story that challenges audiences to grapple with difficult questions about prejudice, accountability, and legacy.
Lithgow Reflects on the Role and the Play’s Impact
John Lithgow has described playing Roald Dahl in Giant as one of the most demanding and rewarding experiences of his career. In a statement from September 2024, he highlighted the complexity of the character and the story’s resonance with modern events.
“I play the central character of Roald Dahl, a man of dizzying complexity, on a day of crisis in his life,”
Lithgow explained.
“The story takes place forty years ago, but it resonates powerfully with events of our present day. No play I’ve ever been in has had such an impact on audiences.”
“Being a part of Giant from its inception has been the most challenging and exciting stage experience of my career,”
he said.
“I am so proud and honored to play this part.”
John Lithgow’s Continued Influence in Theater and Beyond
John Lithgow’s extensive career spans film, television, and stage, with 25 Broadway appearances to date. Prior to Giant, his most recent Broadway role was in the 2019 production of Hillary and Clinton. He is a two-time Tony Award winner, recognized for his performances in the 2002 musical Sweet Smell of Success and the 1973 play The Changing Room.
Looking ahead, Lithgow is set to portray Albus Dumbledore in HBO’s upcoming series adaptation of J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter books, adding another iconic literary figure to his varied roles.
Tickets for Giant on Broadway are currently available for audiences eager to witness this intense exploration of history, prejudice, and the complexities of a revered literary figure.
