Andy Karl, the American actor and star of Groundhog Day the Musical, has only been in Melbourne a few days – just 10, at time of interview – but the pressure is already on to choose an AFL team and start barracking for it.

So Melbourne, Limelight says.

“So I hear, and I’ve had a lot of people suggesting teams,” laughs Karl. “The producers have put me up in an apartment in the city, so I guess I have a choice, but right now, I’m kinda scared to commit in case I get it wrong!”

Luckily, AFL season 2024 doesn’t kick off until March, and, in the meantime, Karl has plenty on his plate playing Groundhog Day’s Phil Connors, a local TV weatherman trapped in a small-town time loop. The show, he says, is the most demanding musical he’s ever been involved with – and that’s why he keeps coming back to it. The show’s Melbourne iteration, which commences 24 February at the Princess Theatre, will be Karl’s fourth time around.

Andy Karl as Phil Connors in Groundhog Day at London’s Old Vic. Photo © Manuel Harlan

He starred in the show’s...