Matt Willis Embraces Transformative Cabaret Role in London's West End
Matt Willis has stepped into one of London theatre's most iconic roles with both trepidation and triumph. The musician and actor, best known for his two decades with chart-topping band Busted, now commands the stage as the mesmerizing Emcee in John Kander's legendary production Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club.
From Pop-Punk to Gender-Fluid Transformation
Willis admits the role initially intimidated him, describing how his legs turn to 'jelly' during his eight weekly performances. Yet this challenge represents a full-circle moment for the 42-year-old, who trained at the prestigious Sylvia Young Theatre School before his music career skyrocketed.
'I trained to be in theatre, that's what I always wanted to do,' Willis reveals. 'But I love being in a band, so I'm very lucky to be able to do both.' He compares the difference between music and theatre performances to 'swimming and rowing'—both occur on stage but represent entirely different disciplines.
A Complete Character Metamorphosis
Determined to shed his pop-punk persona, Willis undergoes a dramatic physical transformation each night with multiple costume changes and elaborate makeup. 'I wanted no one to recognise me,' he emphasizes. 'I wanted it to be a complete transformation and that's what I hold onto.'
This dedication extends to maintaining character throughout each performance, with Willis developing an entire pre-show routine to enter the Emcee's world—and consciously leaving it behind when he returns home.
Family Witnesses the Performance's Significance
Perhaps most meaningfully, Willis's son attended the production, an experience the actor describes as 'really important.' In 2026, Willis believes Cabaret's message resonates powerfully: 'I think this show puts a middle finger up to toxic masculinity.'
'There's a whole world of people embracing differences and all different parts of culture and humanity,' he observes. 'That's what the Kit Kat Club does.'
Balancing Theatre Demands with Family Life
While committed to his theatrical run, Willis deeply misses evenings with his wife of 18 years, television presenter Emma Willis, and their three children. 'I'm constantly blown away that my kids want to hang out with me,' he shares. 'We sit down every night, watch telly, drink tea, and chat. That's a big part of our lives.'
This family-oriented routine traces back to his early relationship with Emma, whose family's tradition of simply 'sitting on the sofa and talking' initially felt unfamiliar but ultimately became cherished.
A Creative Partnership That Endures
The couple, who met in 2004 when Emma interviewed Busted, now frequently collaborate professionally while maintaining their strong personal connection. 'She's the person I wanna do life with all the time,' Willis affirms. 'We're crazy about each other.'
Despite demanding schedules, they prioritize their relationship: 'We are very adamant on being present as a couple. I talk to her 10 times a day.'
Matt Willis continues his acclaimed performance as Emcee at London's Kit Kat Club through 23 May 2026, proving that artistic reinvention and family values can beautifully coexist.
