Stepping into London’s Kit Kat Club, it’s immediately clear Matt Willis isn’t just playing a role – he’s undergone a complete transformation. The former Busted star, known for electric guitars and pop-punk energy, now commands the stage as the mesmerizing Emcee inCabaret, a part previously embodied by legends like Alan Cumming and Eddie Redmayne.
The weight of that legacy was, understandably, daunting. “It was intimidating. It was scary,” Willis admits, revealing his legs were “jelly” during the demanding eight performances a week. Yet, beneath the nerves lay a deep-rooted passion for theatre, a dream he pursued at the Sylvia Young Theatre School before finding fame with Busted.
He describes the difference between band performance and stage acting as fundamentally distinct – “like swimming and rowing.” While many see both as performing, Willis emphasizes the unique discipline and dedication required for a theatrical role. He doesn’t take the opportunity lightly, constantly auditioning and striving to prove himself.
Willis was captivated by Eddie Redmayne’s acclaimed portrayal of the Emcee, and determined to create something entirely new. “I wanted no one to recognise me,” he explains, driven by a desire for a complete metamorphosis. This commitment extended to a rigorous routine, immersing himself in the character’s world during performances and shedding it completely afterward.
The physical transformation is striking, with elaborate costumes and a full face of makeup – a process he jokingly admits is “making my skin fall off.” But beyond the aesthetics, Willis believes this interpretation of the Emcee is particularly resonant in today’s world, a defiant statement against toxic masculinity.
He speaks with pride about his son witnessing the performance, recognizing the importance of exposing younger generations to a world that embraces diversity and challenges conventional norms. The Kit Kat Club, in Willis’s view, is a space where all facets of culture and humanity are celebrated.
Despite his dedication to the role, Willis deeply values his family life with wife Emma Willis and their three children. He cherishes the simple evenings spent together, watching television, drinking tea, and simply connecting. These moments, he says, are what he misses most when immersed in the demanding world of theatre.
That appreciation for quiet connection stems from the early days of his relationship with Emma, recalling how her parents prioritized simply being together. It’s a tradition he’s carried forward, creating a strong foundation of presence and communication within his own family.
The couple’s partnership extends beyond their personal lives, frequently collaborating on projects like Netflix’sLove Is Blind: UK. Willis describes Emma as his constant confidante and the person he turns to in both triumph and adversity. “We’re crazy about each other,” he says, emphasizing their commitment to prioritizing their relationship amidst busy schedules.
Their connection is a daily practice, filled with constant communication and a shared desire to navigate life together. For Matt Willis, the stage and the spotlight are fulfilling, but ultimately, it’s the unwavering support and love of his family that truly defines his world.
Matt Willis’s run as Emcee at the Kit Kat Club continues, captivating audiences with a performance that is both transformative and deeply meaningful.
