Matt Lucas withdraws from West End Les Misérables following back injury with Ian Hughes joining the show

Matt Lucas has withdrawn from the West End production of Les Misérables following a back injury.

The hit comedian has been playing the role of Mr Thenardier since 23 December 2019, stepping in for Gerard Carey who was originally cast and had to withdraw to rest his vocal chords.

Lucas, who was scheduled to perform in the show until 1 February, took to Twitter to say that he has had to depart after back troubles – which need four to six weeks of recovery.

Ian Hughes, currently playing Thénardier on tour, will take on the role from 10 January 2020, with Cameron Blakely playing the part in Zurich while Hughes is in London. Hughes' other credits include Guys and Dolls and The Lion King.

Producer Cameron Mackintosh said: "To lose one master of the house is unfortunate and two perhaps careless! I am delighted to be bringing Ian Hughes to the wonderful London Company to partner Josefina Gabrielle in order that Les Misérables can officially open at the Sondheim Theatre next week as planned. I am sure it will be third time lucky! I am so grateful to Matt Lucas who abandoned his holiday plans to help us out and am looking forward to welcoming back Gerard to the company at the end of February."

Well I really enjoyed stepping into Les Miserables in London for a couple of weeks. I was supposed to be in the show until 1st Feb but I've hurt my back & it needs 4-6 weeks to heal so unfortunately I won't be returning. Thanks to the lovely cast & crew and good luck for the run!