25 February 2023 , 16:38
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Cheryl is frighteningly good in her spooky West End stage debut, says her co-star and former EastEnder Jake Wood.
Jake described the singer as “fearless” playing the lead role of Jenny in ghost story play 2:22.
The ex-Girls Aloud star and X Factor judge, 39, surprised fans when she announced she would be treading the boards.
She has since won over initially sceptical critics and earned glowing reviews.
Jake described Cheryl as fearless (Dave Benett)Jake, 50, said Cheryl refused to let the pressure get to her. He was drafted in to reprise the role of Ben after People Just Do Nothing star Hugo Chegwin fell ill.
EastEnders' Jake Wood's snap of son has fans pointing out the pair's likeness
Jake said: “I’m sure Cheryl felt the pressure but, after years in the industry, I think she’s pretty fearless.
Cheryl has received glowing reviews (Copyright © Helen Murray 2023)“It’s quite remarkable to see someone who has never acted before come on stage at the West End, she is in the spotlight, with all that pressure.
“It’s quite amazing how resilient she is, really. And she is giving amazing performances, people are blown away by how good she is.”
Lily Allen, Laura Whitmore and Giovanna Fletcher have all starred as Jenny (UnBoxPHD / SplashNews.com)Asked about the initial doubts over Cheryl, Jake, who also played Ben opposite Lily Allen in 2021, said: “There is always resistance from certain areas – the feeling that some people should stay in their boxes.
“But I think it’s really exciting when people branch out.
Cheryl and Jake Wood will star together until April 23 (UnBoxPHD / SplashNews.com)“It was the same with Lily. There are transferable skills – if you are playing arena tours to thousands of people, a few hundred in a theatre is water off a duck’s back, really.
“I don’t think Cheryl would have taken this on unless thought she was able to do it, she’s incredible as Jenny.
Jake also played the role alongside Lily Allen (BBC/Nicky Johnston)“Once you see her on stage, you can see that she belongs there.”
Cheryl and Jake with Scott Karim and Louise Ford are in the supernatural thriller at the Lyric until April 23.