A popular Michael Jackson impersonator has been charged with his role in the U.S. Capitol riot on January 6th.
Broadway actor James Delisco Beeks was charged on Tuesday with breaching the Capitol as part of the far-right militia group Oath Keepers. While he didn’t arrive at the “Stop The Steal” rally earlier that day with the group, investigators found that he paid dues to the organization last December and ended up joining the group once at the Capitol.
Beeks was seen on video carrying a homemade bulletproof shield while wearing a black helmet and Michael Jackson jacket from his iconic 1987 Bad Tour. He most recently starred as Judas in the touring production of “Jesus Christ Superstar.” The show confirmed that the performer was suspended “indefinitely.”
Despite his successful career, which included Broadway appearances in “Kinky Boots,” “Aida,” and “Ragtime,” the 49-year-old still found time to storm the Capitol, which left one person dead.
“Beeks was part of a mob of people, including some who attacked law enforcement,” the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia said in a statement.
Beeks has been charged with felony obstruction of Congress, and unlawfully entering a restricted building or grounds, a misdemeanor. He was released after Tuesday’s court appearance.
