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Alien Actor Matt Smith Takes on West End
11 Nov
Summary
- Matt Smith will portray an alien in a stage adaptation of Matt Haig's novel.
- The play, 'The Humans,' will premiere in London's West End in late 2027.
- Jack Thorne adapted the novel, with Jeremy Herrin directing the production.

Matt Smith will embody an alien within the body of a Cambridge academic in "The Humans," a new stage adaptation of Matt Haig's celebrated novel. The play is penned by writer Jack Thorne and will be directed by Jeremy Herrin, known for his work on "Wolf Hall."
The production is scheduled for its world premiere in London's West End next year. Previews are slated to commence on October 30, 2027, with the official opening night on November 16, 2027. The limited run is set to conclude on January 28, 2028, at the Theatre Royal Haymarket.
Smith's character is an extraterrestrial sent to Earth to halt humanity's progress. He takes over the identity of Andrew Martin, a mathematics professor. While living as Martin, he experiences the full spectrum of human behavior, leading to a profound personal transformation. Both Haig and Thorne expressed enthusiasm for Smith's casting, believing him to be the perfect protagonist for this deeply personal story.
"The Humans" is produced by Melting Pot and Second Half Productions. This adaptation marks a significant theatrical event, bringing Haig's poignant novel to life on stage with a highly anticipated cast and creative team.