On Tony Robinson's Maid Marian Musical: King John portrayed by Rufus Hound

The Sheriff of Nottingham isn't the only one with flair anymore…

British comedy and theatre lovers, rejoice: the irreverent world of Maid Marian and Her Merry Men is making its triumphant return—this time as a full-blown stage musical. And leading the charge in the kingdom of comedic chaos? None other than Rufus Hound, stepping into the golden crown and questionable morals of King John.

The upcoming musical adaptation, penned by the legendary Tony Robinson, breathes new life into his cult 1980s/90s BBC series. The show flipped the traditional Robin Hood tale on its head, reimagining Marian as the true hero and Robin as, well… a bit of a posh twit. Now, decades later, Robinson returns to his iconic creation, bringing with him an all-new cast, music, and satirical edge for a modern audience.

And who better to play the hilariously villainous King John than Rufus Hound? Known for his anarchic energy, sharp comic timing, and a beard that wouldn’t look out of place in Sherwood Forest, Hound brings a deliciously absurd charm to the role. Having already proven his mettle in West End hits like Dirty Rotten Scoundrels and Wind in the Willows, his casting signals that this isn't just a nostalgic cash-in—it's a proper theatrical event.

“King John is one of those characters who’s equal parts ridiculous and dangerous,” Hound said in a recent interview. “He’s got the power of a monarch but the brain of a toddler. It’s a dream role.”

The musical promises to keep the original show’s anarchic tone and Monty Python-style humour, all while updating the politics and punchlines for a 21st-century crowd. Expect high-energy numbers, tongue-in-cheek historical revisionism, and a few sly jabs at contemporary power structures (because if Maid Marian taught us anything, it’s that the line between medieval monarchy and modern government is thinner than you’d think).

Tony Robinson, who originally starred as the spineless Sheriff of Nottingham, has taken on writing duties for the stage version, with a creative team that includes award-winning director Rachel Kavanaugh and composer Grant Olding, whose previous work includes One Man, Two Guvnors and The Goodies musical.

“This isn’t just about reviving something old,” Robinson said. “It’s about reminding people that stories can be turned upside-down—and that sometimes, the people history overlooks are the ones who really deserve the spotlight.”

No word yet on casting for Maid Marian herself, but producers promise a fierce, funny female lead worthy of the series' legacy. With Hound already raising eyebrows (and laughs) as King John, the bar is high.

The musical is set to debut in early 2026, with a UK tour and potential West End run to follow. Tickets are expected to sell fast—after all, it’s not every day you get to see medieval mayhem meet musical theatre, especially with such a riotous cast at the helm.

So polish your tights, brush up on your rebel songs, and prepare for a journey to Sherwood like you’ve never seen before. Rufus Hound is King John, Tony Robinson is back in charge, and the legend of Maid Marian is about to get the encore it deserves.

Long live the Queen of the forest—and boo to the King.