In a powerhouse casting announcement that has theater enthusiasts buzzing, Emmy Award-winning actor Bryan Cranston will join recent BAFTA nominee Marianne Jean-Baptiste in a fresh West End production of Arthur Miller’s seminal drama “All My Sons.” Rising star Paapa Essiedu, acclaimed for his role in “I May Destroy You,” rounds out the principal cast in what promises to be one of London’s most compelling theatrical events of the upcoming season.
The production, which will run at the Wyndham’s Theatre from November 14, 2025 to February 7, 2026, marks a significant return to the London stage for Cranston, who previously captivated West End audiences in 2017 with his performance in “Network” at the National Theatre.
A Timeless Exploration of Guilt and Responsibility
“All My Sons,” which first premiered in 1947 and established Miller as a towering figure in American theater, centers on Joe Keller (to be played by Cranston), a manufacturer who finds himself embroiled in scandal after shipping defective aircraft engines during World War II. Though he escapes legal punishment, the weight of his actions—and their fatal consequences—haunts his family relationships, particularly with his wife Kate (Jean-Baptiste).
Speaking about the enduring relevance of Miller’s text, Jean-Baptiste emphasized its exploration of universal themes. “All things that deal with the family and relationships remain relevant throughout time, they sort of transcend in that way,” she explained from her home in Los Angeles. “Dealing with loss, denial, guilt are things the human beings do throughout time.”
Acclaimed Director at the Helm
The production will be directed by the internationally celebrated Ivo Van Hove, completing his trifecta of Miller adaptations following acclaimed productions of “A View From A Bridge” and “The Crucible.” Van Hove has described the play as “a devastating exploration of guilt, responsibility, and the far-reaching consequences of our choices, especially in times of war.”
This production follows the 2019 Old Vic revival that featured Sally Field and Bill Pullman, but promises a fresh interpretation of Miller’s devastating family drama.
Stars Express Enthusiasm for Collaboration
The assembled talent has expressed mutual admiration and excitement for the project. Cranston stated: “Arthur Miller, Ivo Van Hove, Marianne Jean-Baptiste, Paapa Essiedu… If there is something that I know beyond a shadow of doubt, is to surround yourself with the most talented people. This group of creative artists has got me so excited to be a part of the All My Sons company.”
For Jean-Baptiste, who has garnered recent acclaim for her performance in Mike Leigh’s “Hard Truths,” the production represents an opportunity to breathe new life into a classic text. “I hope it’s just something that’s fresh, leaves the audience thinking or feeling,” she said. “That would be my only hope for the production, that it tells a new story, of an old story.”
The British actress also mentioned looking forward to reconnecting with London during her extended stay, though she joked about needing to prepare for the British winter with “coats, scarves and hats” after becoming accustomed to the Los Angeles climate.
Star-Studded Revival
This production brings together an exceptionally accomplished cast. Cranston remains best known for his transformative turn as Walter White in the television phenomenon “Breaking Bad,” along with roles in “Your Honour” and the comedy classic “Malcolm in the Middle.”
Jean-Baptiste first gained international recognition for her Oscar-nominated performance in Mike Leigh’s “Secrets & Lies” (1996) and later starred in the long-running procedural “Without A Trace.” Her recent BAFTA nomination for “Hard Truths” marks a celebrated return to collaboration with Leigh.
Essiedu has emerged as one of Britain’s most exciting young actors following his breakthrough in Michaela Coel’s acclaimed series “I May Destroy You” and his work with the Royal Shakespeare Company.
Tickets for this limited engagement are expected to be in high demand. You can buy them here.
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