NEW YORK – When “The Book of Mormon” debuted on Broadway in 2011, John Eric Parker was part of the original cast, and he still is today, in 2026. This is quite an achievement in the world of theater, where actors often move on to new projects after just a year.
Parker stands out as the only original cast member remaining. “I’m still here. I feel still very much viable. I still feel like I’m having a good time and I’m doing good work,” he shares. He believes that if he ever loses joy in performing, it would be time to leave.
With a background in shows like “All Shook Up” and “Rent,” Parker is a supportive figure for new cast members but prefers not to impose his knowledge. “I feel like they have to be afforded the opportunity to find it for themselves,” he explains.
Producer Anne Garefino appreciates Parker’s presence, describing him as “a rock, but without being pushy about it.” She values his talent and commitment to the show, saying, “I’m honored that he has stayed this long because he’s talented, he’s got a gorgeous voice.”
Overcoming Challenges
Parker’s journey with “The Book of Mormon” began during a difficult time in his life. He faced personal struggles, including the loss of his sister and his mother’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis. “This thick skin was pretty thin for me at that moment,” he recalls.
At that time, Parker had to choose between two opportunities: a new musical titled “Memphis” and “The Book of Mormon.” He participated in workshops for both. Ultimately, he joined “Memphis,” which won a Tony Award for Best New Musical in 2010. Not long after, he became part of “The Book of Mormon,” which also won a Tony for Best New Musical in 2011.
“It was like lightning striking twice in a row,” he says, amazed by his good fortune.
Written by Trey Parker and Matt Stone (creators of “South Park”) and Robert Lopez (co-creator of “Avenue Q”), “The Book of Mormon” tells the story of two missionaries in Uganda. The show quickly became a cultural phenomenon, resembling a rock concert more than a traditional musical. Parker remembers the excitement of opening night when he spotted celebrities like Steve Martin and Whoopi Goldberg in the audience.
Staying Power and Adaptability
As the years passed, cast members came and went, but Parker remained a constant presence. He took breaks for personal reasons, like the passing of his mother and marriage. Despite this, he returned to the Eugene O’Neill Theatre, his “Midtown office.”
Parker appreciates the stability of his long-term role, allowing him to give back to the community. He serves on the boards of Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS and Broadway Inspirational Voices. “The notion of being tethered to something allows me to bungee jump even more,” he says, highlighting how this stability lets him explore new creative opportunities.
Moreover, Parker has noticed how the show’s themes have evolved in response to societal changes. Originally focused on faith, it has transformed into a celebration of theater itself, reflecting audience reactions influenced by movements like #MeToo and Black Lives Matter. “Art continues to surprise me,” he says. “It is still a living, breathing organism.”
Interestingly, Parker avoided calling himself the “last man standing” until a family reunion changed his perspective. His uncle, the last survivor of seven siblings, embraced the title with pride, prompting Parker to accept it as well.
