Craig McLachlan withdraws from Cluedo production after backlash over casting

"In the hours and days that followed, I was targeted in a social media campaign from within the theatre community, which I was devastated to see has then impacted those involved in the production, McLachlan said in a statement issued via Crossroads on Tuesday morning. I therefore feel that it is best for the production and those involved for me to withdraw."

"In a video posted on Instagram the actor said his mother had died on Monday, delaying his statement. He said the social media backlash had extended to his family and friends as well as two other actors in the Cluedo cast. I cannot and will not let my involvement in a show result in good people being targeted, McLachlan said."

Craig McLachlan withdrew from the Australian stage adaptation of Clue after a social media backlash linked to past sexual-misconduct allegations. The casting as Colonel Mustard was announced by Crossroads Live for a Brisbane opening and national tour. McLachlan cited a campaign within the theatre community that affected other cast members, family and friends, and said his mother’s death delayed his response. He previously withdrew from a 2018 production after historical allegations from a 2014 show and faced later accusations from other sets. McLachlan was cleared of multiple assault and indecent assault charges in 2020.

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