In a dramatic turn for Australian theatre, Craig McLachlan, once a fixture of both the small and big screen, has officially stepped aside from the highly anticipated national tour of Cluedo,

with the role of Colonel Mustard now being taken over by acclaimed actor Rhys Muldoon. The announcement comes after McLachlan, slated for a theatrical comeback,

withdrew from the production following an intense social media ‘bullying campaign’ that threatened to overshadow the show’s launch.

The news has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, reopening conversations about the lasting impact of public scrutiny on actors’ careers, mental health, and the delicate dynamics of stage productions. Cluedo, based on the beloved 1985 cult classic Clue, was expected to mark a triumphant return for McLachlan, whose career had faced significant challenges in recent years.

Rhys Muldoon Steps Into the Spotlight

Rhys Muldoon, a seasoned and versatile Australian actor, will now assume the role of Colonel Mustard. Muldoon’s extensive career includes standout roles in television series such as Chances, Big Sky, The Secret Life of Us, and House Husbands, making him a respected figure capable of bringing depth and charisma to the iconic character.

Joining him in the ensemble are Genevieve Lemon as the cunning Mrs Peacock, Rachael Beck as the resourceful Mrs White, Octavia Barron Martin as the enigmatic Cook, and Laurence Boxhall as the suave Mr Green. Completing the star-studded cast are Lib Campbell as Yvette, David James as the brilliant yet mysterious Professor Plum, and former Home and Away star Olivia Deeble stepping into the role of the daring Miss Scarlet.

With this dynamic cast, the production promises to blend suspense, drama, and theatrical flair, delivering the high-stakes intrigue fans have come to expect from Cluedo adaptations.

McLachlan’s Withdrawal: A Social Media Storm

McLachlan’s decision to leave the production was confirmed in a heartfelt video statement on his Instagram account, where he described the relentless social media attacks that had forced him to prioritize the wellbeing of his colleagues. “The bullying even extends to my partner, Vanessa, and our friends and family,” he said, emphasizing that he could not allow his participation to negatively impact the rest of the cast.

He continued, “Only days before the announcement, I made it very clear that I didn’t want my inclusion in the cast to impact negatively on any of the other actors. Those two actors mentioned alongside me have been and continue to be harassed and bullied by their peers… I cannot and will not let my involvement in a show result in good people being targeted by trolls and bullies. I have therefore made the decision to withdraw from the production.”

The statement underscored the severe emotional toll that social media scrutiny can exact on performers and those close to them, highlighting the broader conversation about online harassment in the entertainment industry.

The Shadow of Past Allegations

The production would have marked McLachlan’s first major stage return since a controversial period in his career that saw him effectively blacklisted following allegations of sexual assault and harassment during productions of The Rocky Horror Picture Show.

In 2018, McLachlan resigned from his role as Frank-N-Furter after three female co-stars accused him of harassment dating back four years. He subsequently faced 13 charges of assault and indecent assault, and after a high-profile four-week trial in December 2020, he was acquitted on all counts. Despite the legal resolution, the episode left lasting scars on McLachlan’s career and personal life, contributing to years of public scrutiny and professional isolation.

Speaking candidly about that period, McLachlan revealed that he had battled crippling anxiety, which made the prospect of returning to the stage fraught with tension. “It’s been a long road,” he said. “The anxiety, the anger, the scrutiny—it all took its toll. But I’ve worked through much of it with the best psychiatrist in Australia and through playing music on stage with Andy Penkow in pub rock gigs around the country.”

Reclaiming Confidence Through Music

The actor credited his recent musical endeavors as pivotal in regaining confidence and coping with lingering trauma. Performing alongside country singer Andy Penkow, McLachlan found a therapeutic outlet that allowed him to channel frustration into art. These intimate pub gigs not only rekindled his love for performing but also helped him navigate the complex emotions tied to his public persona and past controversies.

“It’s been about reclaiming my voice,” McLachlan explained. “The stage, the music—it’s where I’ve found clarity and a sense of control again. It’s been a journey, but a rewarding one.”

Industry and Public Reactions

The news of McLachlan’s withdrawal has elicited mixed responses from both fans and industry insiders. While some expressed disappointment that the star would not return to the stage, many praised his decision to prioritize the safety and wellbeing of fellow cast members. The incident has reignited discussions about the pressures actors face in the age of social media, particularly regarding public judgment, harassment, and the fragility of reputation.

Meanwhile, Rhys Muldoon’s casting has been widely celebrated. Fans have expressed excitement about seeing the versatile actor step into a role laden with both comedic timing and dramatic flair. Theatre commentators have noted that Muldoon’s experience and presence make him a perfect fit for the high-energy, intricate dynamics of a Cluedo production, ensuring the show maintains its theatrical credibility and appeal.

A Star’s Return Remains Complex

Although McLachlan’s exit may disappoint some fans, it also serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between personal choice, mental health, and public expectation in the entertainment world. The actor’s journey—from television and musical stardom to a public legal battle and eventual withdrawal from stage projects—highlights the enduring challenges performers face when attempting to reclaim their careers after controversy.

While McLachlan continues to focus on low-profile projects and personal healing, his story remains a cautionary tale about the intersection of celebrity, social media, and accountability.

Looking Ahead: Cluedo’s 2026 Tour

With the cast now finalized, Cluedo’s national tour promises a thrilling theatrical experience. The play’s ensemble, featuring a blend of seasoned actors and fresh faces, is poised to bring the beloved murder-mystery board game to life with wit, suspense, and drama. Fans can expect intricate plot twists, dynamic character interactions, and the classic tension of trying to deduce “whodunit” before the final curtain falls.

The role of Colonel Mustard, now under Rhys Muldoon’s capable stewardship, will be central to the narrative, balancing charm, cunning, and suspenseful intrigue. Alongside an all-star ensemble, the production is set to captivate audiences across the country, delivering both nostalgia for longtime fans and a fresh theatrical spectacle for newcomers.

Conclusion

Craig McLachlan’s withdrawal from Cluedo serves as a stark reminder of the pressures and vulnerabilities inherent in the entertainment industry, particularly in an era dominated by social media. While his exit may have been inevitable given the circumstances, the swift casting of Rhys Muldoon ensures that the production retains its star power and theatrical allure.

As the curtain rises on the 2026 tour, audiences will witness a talented cast bring Cluedo’s suspense and drama to life, all while the story behind the scenes underscores the very real challenges performers face in balancing public expectation with personal wellbeing.

Though McLachlan remains absent, the legacy of his career, the lessons learned from adversity, and the resilience of the Australian theatre community continue to shape the narrative, promising an unforgettable season of drama both on and off the stage.