Olivia Williams has taken over from Michelle Gomez in the upcoming Old Vic production of One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, running from April to May 2026. The change comes as part of the theatre’s final season under artistic director Matthew Warchus.

Michelle Gomez has withdrawn from the role of Nurse Ratched in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest at the Old Vic, with the theatre citing personal reasons for her departure. Olivia Williams has been announced as her replacement, and the production is proceeding as scheduled from 1 April to 23 May 2026, with press night on 15 April.

The adaptation by Dale Wasserman, based on Ken Kesey’s novel, is set within a psychiatric facility and follows Chief Bromden, a patient whose world shifts after the arrival of McMurphy, a rebellious gambler. Aaron Pierre stars as Randle P McMurphy, with Giles Terera playing Dale Harding. Clint Dyer is directing the production.

Other cast members include Samson Ajewole, Kazeem Tosin Amore, Arthur Boan as Chief Bromden, and Daisy Lewis as Candy Starr, among others. The creative team features set and costume designer Ben Stones, lighting designer Chris Davey, sound designer Benjamin Grant, and movement director Lucie Pankhurst.

The production forms part of Warchus’s final season at the Old Vic, notable for being performed in-the-round. Warchus commented on welcoming Clint Dyer and expressed anticipation for this take on the iconic story.

The theatre confirmed all performances are going ahead as planned with Olivia Williams now leading as Nurse Ratched. The full cast and creative team details were also shared alongside the announcement.

With tickets on sale now, this staging is part of a season marking a significant transition at the Old Vic, combining classic stories with innovative staging under Warchus’s tenure.