Ewan McGregor, one of Scotland’s most celebrated actors, is making his long-awaited return to London’s West End next year, marking his first UK theatre role in 17 years. Best known for his roles in Trainspotting, Moulin Rouge, and Star Wars, McGregor will star in My Master Builder, a modern reimagining of Henrik Ibsen’s classic 1892 play The Master Builder. The production will run at Wyndham’s Theatre from April 17 to July 12, 2025.
Reflecting on his return to live theatre, McGregor described it as “good for the soul” and expressed his excitement about stepping back onto the stage. “This is the longest I haven’t been on stage, and in honesty, I’ve missed it,” he told the BBC.
A Play Born of Serendipity
McGregor’s journey to this role was a serendipitous one. “I had just finished reading The Master Builder for pleasure—an extraordinary read,” he shared. Shortly after, director Michael Grandage reached out, mentioning a script inspired by Ibsen’s work that had been written by US playwright Lila Raicek. McGregor called the moment a “pure coincidence” and immediately asked to see the script.
The play explores themes of ambition, power, and sexual politics through a contemporary lens. “Raicek has taken the story in a fascinating direction,” McGregor said. “It examines these issues in a very grown-up way and feels particularly relevant for this moment we find ourselves in.”
A Reunion with Michael Grandage
My Master Builder reunites McGregor with director Michael Grandage, with whom he previously collaborated on critically acclaimed productions of Othello and Guys and Dolls at the Donmar Warehouse. Describing Grandage as a trusted collaborator, McGregor praised his ability to create a safe and creative rehearsal environment. “He has great creative intention and ideas, but there’s also a sense of discovering the play together,” he said.
The last time McGregor graced the stage was on Broadway in The Real Thing alongside Maggie Gyllenhaal, more than a decade ago. Reflecting on his theatre career, he said: “Theatre teaches you so much about acting. The audience teaches you—what works, what doesn’t. It’s very good for the soul.”
A Career of Iconic Roles
McGregor’s career spans a remarkable array of performances across film, television, and theatre. From his breakout role in Trainspotting to his iconic portrayal of Obi-Wan Kenobi in the Star Wars franchise, he has earned accolades and the admiration of audiences worldwide. His television work includes the Emmy-winning role of Roy Halston Frowick in Halston.
Earlier this year, McGregor received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, placed fittingly next to Carrie Fisher’s, the original Princess Leia. “I was particularly moved by that,” McGregor said.
A Must-See Event
Ewan McGregor’s return to the London stage is a rare and thrilling opportunity for fans of live theatre. With its modern take on a timeless classic and a powerhouse creative team, My Master Builder promises to be one of the most talked-about productions of 2025. Tickets for the limited run at Wyndham’s Theatre are expected to be in high demand, making this a can’t-miss event for theatre lovers and McGregor fans alike.
Prepare to witness McGregor’s electrifying stage presence as he brings his talent back to the West End. April can’t come soon enough!
Author: Jonathan Thomas
Jonathan is a consummate Anglophile who launched Anglotopia.net in 2007 to channel his passion for Britain. Londontopia is its sister publication dedicated to everything London.