‘Idol’ alum Daughtry: Live musical ‘Passion’ offers much-needed ‘love and hope’

The Passion Sunday, 8 p.m., Fox Once a novelty, the live musical has become a TV mainstay. First there was “The Sound of Music,” then “Peter Pan,” “The Wiz” and “Grease.” Now everybody wants in on the act — even Tyler Perry. He is producing “The Passion,” the story of the last hours of Jesus Christ’s (Jencarlos Canela) life on earth. Set in modern-day New Orleans, the show will feature re-enactments of the Last Supper, the betrayal by Judas (“American Idol” alum Chris Daughtry) and the crucifixion, a production number that includes a procession of extras carrying a 20-foot, illuminated cross from Champions Square to the live stage at Woldenberg Park on the banks of the Mississippi River. Seal co-stars as Pontius Pilate and Trisha Yearwood is Mary. Daughtry spoke to The Post about the ambitious production. What was your reaction to being asked to participate in this live project?
At first, I was like, “No thanks,” because I’m not a big fan of musicals. Then I started to get more information about the project, that it would be modern-day, and it looked intriguing. I gravitated toward playing Judas because he’s the bad guy, and that’s always fun. Do you have a solo number?
Yes. It’s “Bring Me to Life” by Evanescence. I also have a duet with Jesus called “Demons” by Imagine Dragons. The songs were picked by [executive music producer] Adam Anders. Who among the cast impressed you?
Jencarlos Canela. He’s from a TV show called “Telenovela” with Eva Longoria. He plays her ex-husband. He’s going to be a fantastic Jesus. Have you seen other musicals about Christ, like “Godspell” or “Jesus Christ Superstar”?
Never. Obviously I saw enough clips [of those shows] throughout my life to get a sense of that vibe, and my thought was I feel like [our show] is going to be incredible. It’s about love and hope, and I feel like that’s something we could use a lot of.” HERE’S WHAT ELSE TO WATCH THIS WEEK: Heartbeat Tues. 9 p.m., Wed. 8 p.m., NBC
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