Before discussing their limited-run engagement of The Last Ship at the Metropolitan Opera, Sting and Shaggy brought plenty of laughs to our conversation, showcasing the chemistry that has made their friendship and creative partnership so special. Written and composed by Sting, The Last Ship is a deeply personal musical inspired by his childhood in a shipbuilding town in northern England. The production blends powerful storytelling, emotional moments, and unforgettable music, with Shaggy adding his own signature charm and humor to the cast.
During our chat, Sting reflected on how the show honors his community, family, and the people who shaped his life, while Shaggy shared how stepping into the world of live theater pushed him outside his comfort zone and even helped prepare him for upcoming acting roles. The two artists spoke candidly about learning from each other with Sting admiring Shaggy’s spontaneity, and Shaggy crediting Sting for helping him grow as a singer, performer, and musician.
Their mutual respect was evident throughout the interview, making it clear why audiences continue to connect with their collaborations. As for why you should see The Last Ship? Sting called it “quite unique,” while Shaggy offered a simpler reason: “Because I’m in it!” With performances running June 9–14 at the Metropolitan Opera, this is one show fans won’t want to miss.