Biography

In 1971, he replaced an ill Ben Vereen as "Judas Iscariot" in the landmark musical "Jesus Christ Superstar." He became synonymous with said role, starring in the movie based on this play, and giving over twelve-hundred performances of the part on stage.

At the time of his death, he was in the planning stages of a worldwide tour for "JCS," in which he would star. This tour would reunite several members of the original cast, including Ted Neeley as Jesus; it was slated to open at the Vatican, in the fall of 2004.

Though they played 'enemies' in Jesus Christ Superstar, Ted Neeley and Carl Anderson were great friends. This is apparent in the commentary 2005 DVD release where Neeley often says "I miss you Carl" and also in the fact Neeley sang 'Gethsemene' at Carl's memorial service.

Received threats from people who disapproved of Jesus Christ Superstar (1973).

In 1986, he recorded a duet with Gloria Loring, of Days of Our Lives (1965) fame, called "Friends and Lovers". He recorded several albums in the 1980s and 1990s. He was so intent on establishing himself as a pop/jazz recording artist, that he refused to reprise his "Judas" role during the 1970s and 1980s; he would not even mention it on his resume.