Giant Broadway Review: John Lithgow Devours Roald Dahl for Breakfast

Published: Tuesday, March 24, 2026 at 3:00 am

John Lithgow's "Giant" Takes on Roald Dahl's Controversial Legacy

A new play, "Giant," starring John Lithgow, has opened, offering a theatrical exploration of the life and controversial views of author Roald Dahl. The play, written by Mark Rosenblatt, focuses on Dahl's life in 1983, a year after Israel's attack on Lebanon and just before the publication of his book "The Witches."

The narrative centers on Dahl's refusal to apologize for his criticism of Israel in a review of a photo book about the 1982 Lebanon War. The play's plot is driven by the arrival of a sales director from Dahl's publisher, tasked with convincing him to retract his statements. The play highlights Dahl's antisemitic views, which complicated the publication of his works, particularly in the United States.

Lithgow's performance is praised for capturing Dahl's acerbic wit and complex personality, even as the play confronts his bigotry. The supporting cast, including Aya Cash, Elliot Levey, and Rachael Stirling, portray the individuals in Dahl's orbit, including his publisher, fiance, and others. The play explores the dynamics of those who enabled Dahl, and the impact of his views on his relationships.

While the play does not offer definitive answers to the complexities of Dahl's character, it does expose his prejudices. The play's timing is notable, given recent events in the region.

BNN's Perspective: "Giant" presents a challenging subject matter, forcing audiences to grapple with the contradiction of artistic genius and deeply held prejudices. While the play may not offer easy answers, it serves as a valuable reminder of the importance of critical engagement with the work of even the most celebrated figures.

Keywords: John Lithgow, Roald Dahl, Giant, antisemitism, play, theater, Israel, Lebanon, Mark Rosenblatt, controversy, bigotry, literature, performance.

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