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 initially daunting. “It was intimidating. It was scary,” Willis admits, revealing his legs were “jelly” during the demanding eight performances a week. Despite decades as a musician, his roots lie in theatre, nurtured at the Sylvia Young Theatre School. He’s grateful to seamlessly blend both passions.
He describes the difference between performing with Busted and on stage as fundamentally distinct – “like swimming and rowing.” Both require energy and presence, but demand entirely different skillsets. Willis understands the need to constantly prove himself, a reality for any actor navigating a competitive industry.
Inspired by Eddie Redmayne’s captivating performance, Willis approached the role with a singular goal: complete and utter metamorphosis. “I wanted no one to recognise me,” he explains, driven by a desire to shed his pop star image and fully inhabit the Emcee’s complex persona. This dedication extends to a meticulous pre-show routine, allowing him to fully immerse himself in the character.
The physical transformation is striking, with elaborate costumes and a full face of makeup – a commitment that, he jokes, is “making my skin fall off.” But beyond the aesthetics, Willis recognizes the profound relevance ofCabaretin today’s world, seeing it as a powerful statement against toxic masculinity.
He emphasizes the importance of his son witnessing this performance, hoping to instill a message of acceptance and celebrate the beauty of diversity. The Kit Kat Club, in Willis’s view, embodies a space where differences are embraced and humanity is celebrated in all its forms.
Despite his dedication to the stage, Willis deeply cherishes his family life with wife Emma Willis and their three children. He finds immense joy in their simple routines – evenings spent watching television, drinking tea, and simply being together. These moments are what he misses most during his theatre commitments.
That appreciation for quiet connection stems from the early days of his relationship with Emma. He recalls a comforting normalcy in her family’s habit of simply *being* together, a contrast to his own upbringing and a foundation for their enduring bond.
Their partnership extends beyond the home, frequently collaborating on projects like Netflix’sLove Is Blind: UK. Willis speaks with unwavering affection for his wife, describing her as his constant confidante and the person he turns to in both triumph and adversity. “We’re crazy about each other,” he says, prioritizing their connection amidst busy schedules.
They actively nurture their relationship, ensuring they remain present for one another. Willis admits to constant communication, a testament to their deep connection and shared life. He wouldn’t have it any other way, finding solace and strength in their unwavering partnership.
Matt Willis’s portrayal of the Emcee at the Kit Kat Club continues to captivate audiences, running until May 23, 2026. It’s a performance born of dedication, transformation, and a profound understanding of the story’s enduring power.
