Peter Andre 'baffled' by racism and homophobia towards diverse 'Grease' cast

Peter Andre will play the role of Vince Fontaine in the new West End production of Grease. (Redferns/Getty)
Peter Andre will play the role of Vince Fontaine in the new West End production of Grease. (Redferns/Getty)

Peter Andre has hit out at "ignorant" trolls who have made racist and homophobic comments about the diverse cast of the new revival of musical Grease.

The Mysterious Girl singer is making his West End debut as Vince Fontaine in the production at the Dominion Theatre, which began previews this week and opens officially on 17 May.

The production will feature same-sex couples during the famous dance off scene and stars Black actor Jocasta Almgill in the role of Rizzo.

Read more: Peter Andre had plastic surgery due to racist bullying

Andre shared a statement from the show's producers, in which they wrote that they were "extremely proud of the diversity of our cast" and had been troubled to read racist comments directed at the performers.

They added: "The individuals making such comments are not welcome at the Dominion Theatre and the producers stand with our cast against racism and all forms of prejudice."

In his caption, Andre wrote that he was "baffled" that there was still so much hatred around and that he had "some ignorant person" sending racist and homophobic comments his way about the production.

He added: "I wanted to say so much back, but you can't always change a narrow-minded person's ways.

Read more: Peter Andre explains why he hides younger children's faces

"This kind of thing is not welcome in my or my family's life. I stand 100 by my fellow cast and crew against all forms of prejudice.

"And let me just say, our cast are outstanding. Wait till you see them."

Grease is set to return to the West End stage. (Paramount)
Grease is set to return to the West End stage. (Paramount)

Almgill was among those to comment on Andre's post, writing "love you Pete" alongside a row of heart emojis.

The new production of Grease is directed by Nikolai Foster, with choreography provided by former Strictly Come Dancing judge Arlene Phillips.

Read more: Olivia Newton-John defends Grease against modern day criticism

Dan Partridge and Olivia Moore will take on the lead roles as Danny and Sandy in the show.

Grease has frequently returned to British cinemas and theatres over the years, with the beloved 1978 film adaptation — starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John — keeping its story in the public consciousness.

Watch: Peter Andre has his eye on James Bond role