Kurt Yaghjian

Kurt "Frenchy" Yaghjian is a talented American actor and singer, widely recognized for his role as Annas in the iconic 1973 film adaptation of Jesus Christ Superstar. Born to Haig Yaghjian, a former assistant conductor with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Kurt's musical journey began early. He was part of a school choir that notably performed in the premiere of Gian Carlo Menotti's opera, The Death of the Bishop of Brindisi, in May 1963. With Armenian heritage, Yaghjian's expressive performances caught Menotti's attention, leading to his casting as Amahl in Amahl and the Night Visitors—a landmark production that was the first to be videotaped in 1963, airing annually until 1966.

Yaghjian graduated from the North Carolina School of the Arts in 1971, further honing his craft. Beyond theater, he has featured in numerous advertising campaigns for major brands such as Coca-Cola, Ford, Domino's Pizza, Toyota, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Budweiser, and Sprite. He also took part in the original Broadway run of Jesus Christ Superstar, performing from October 12, 1971, to June 30, 1973, where he played roles including a leper and a reporter, while serving as the understudy for the renowned Ben Vereen in the role of Judas Iscariot. Kurt Yaghjian's diverse talents and contributions to the arts continue to resonate in the industry.