Steve Coogan to star in 'Dr. Strangelove' in the West End

Sean Foley and Armando Iannucci co-wrote the first stage adaptation of Stanley Kubrick's film, making its world premiere in 2024 under Foley's direction.

BAFTA and Academy Award nominee Steve Coogan will star in the upcoming premiere of Dr. Strangelove in the West End. The first stage adaptation of Stanley Kubrick's iconic film will premiere at the Noël Coward Theatre from 8 October to 21 December 2024.

Coogan will play the roles originated by Peter Sellers in the film, which follows a rogue U.S. military general who incites a nuclear crisis.

“The idea of putting Dr. Strangelove on stage is daunting," Coogan said. "A huge responsibility. It’s also an exciting challenge, an opportunity to bring this timeless classic to a new audience."

Coogan is known for creating the onscreen character Alan Partridge, which has appeared in a variety of films and TV shows. His numerous other credits include Tropic Thunder, the Night at the Museum films, and Philomena, which he also co-wrote and produced, earning two Academy Award nominations.

He is also known for his collaborations with BAFTA and Emmy Award winner Armando Iannucci, including their co-creation of Alan Partridge. As previously announced, Iannucci co-wrote the Dr. Strangelove stage adaptation with Olivier winner Sean Foley, who also directs.

"Knowing that I will be part of a creative team led by Sean Foley and Armando Iannucci means I will be working with the best people," Coogan said. "Sean is a master of stage comedy, and Armando and I started working with each other over 30 years ago."

Additional Dr. Strangelove cast and creative team members have yet to be announced.

Photo credit: Steve Coogan, Armando Iannucci, and Sean Foley. (Photo by Manuel Harlan)