Who Has Played Javert in London?

By Anna Duncan

If you’re a fan of Les Misérables, you’ll know that Javert is one of the most complex characters in the musical. The relentless inspector who chases Jean Valjean throughout the show has been portrayed by many talented actors in London’s West End. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the notable performers who have played Javert.

Roger Allam

Roger Allam is a British actor who played Javert in the original production of Les Misérables at the Barbican Theatre in 1985. His portrayal of Javert was praised for its intensity and depth, making him one of the most memorable actors to play this character.

Philip Quast

Philip Quast is an Australian actor who has made his mark in London’s West End as well as on Broadway. He played Javert in the 10th-anniversary concert of Les Misérables at the Royal Albert Hall and later reprised his role in the 1996 revival at the Queen’s Theatre. Quast’s powerful voice and commanding stage presence made him a standout performer.

Earl Carpenter

Earl Carpenter is a British actor who played Javert on multiple occasions, including in London’s West End and on Broadway. He first played the role in 1998 at the Palace Theatre and later reprised it several times, including in productions at The Queen’s Theatre and The O2 Arena.

David Thaxton

David Thaxton is a British actor known for his work on stage and screen. He played Javert in the 2010 production of Les Misérables at The Queen’s Theatre, earning critical acclaim for his performance. Thaxton brought a sense of vulnerability to Javert while still maintaining his intimidating presence.

Will Swenson

Will Swenson is an American actor who played Javert in the 2014 Broadway revival of Les Misérables. While not a London production, Swenson’s performance was notable for its intensity and emotional depth, making him a standout performer in the role.

Conclusion

Javert is a character that requires a skilled actor to portray his complexity and depth. Over the years, many talented performers have taken on this challenge in London’s West End and beyond.

From Roger Allam to Will Swenson, each actor has brought their own unique interpretation to this iconic role. Whether you’re watching Les Misérables for the first time or the hundredth, the portrayal of Javert will always be a highlight of the show.