Actor, comedian, and writer Matt Lucas made his debut as Fagin in Oliver! today (22 September), taking over the role from Simon Lipkin, who has played Fagin since the show opened in the West End.  

Get a first look at Matt Lucas as Fagin in Oliver! as he takes over the role for a limited six-week run from Simon Lipkin, who has played the role since it opened in London in 2025.

Lipkin, who will return to the production following Lucas’s run, was nominated for an Olivier Award for his reinvention the role. He is taking a break from the production as he welcomes his first child.

Lucas joins the show at London’s Gielgud Theatre until 1 November 2026, at which time Lipkin will return.

Lionel Bart’s beloved musical OIiver! is set in Victorian London and centres on a young orphan called Oliver journeying from the workhouse to the bustling city streets. He encounters unforgettable characters at every turn, including Fagin, who leads Oliver and a group of children, teaching them to steal and pickpocket in exchange for shelter and a share of the loot.

Read more on westendtheatre.com…

First look at Matt Lucas as Fagin in Oliver!