Afnan Iftikhar will be one of the hopefuls seen on tomorrow night’s episode of Superstar it has been reported.

Viewers may find it strange that a Muslim singer would be shortlisted for the role of Jesus, in a stage production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ but insiders claim that Webber, and his assistant judges Mel C and Jason Donovan raved about the talented Geordie singer, when he auditioned for them earlier this year.

The performer from North Shields will be seen making his bid for stardom on tomorrow’s first ever episode of the new ITV talent show and while the hopeful is not a practicing Muslim himself, he was raised in the Muslim faith and community in Pakistan before moving to Britain with his parents when he was nine.

A show source told The Sun: “It might seem odd to some people – perhaps even controversial – to be considering someone like Aznan for the role of Jesus but it is open to anyone.

“Afnan’s main passion is music. He’s one to watch.”

Superstar starts on ITV this weekend, with tomorrow night’s episode focusing on initial auditions and Brixton Academy Callbacks, which will feature the final 100 contestants. On Sunday night, viewers will get an insight into Superstar Island and watch as the final 40 compete in pop up performance school with vocal, dance and acting challenges.