Upstart Crow

20163 seriesEntertainment / Comedy
Available on
BBC Two

As part of the BBC Shakespeare Festival 2016, this comedy series celebrates the life of William Shakespeare, 400 years after the acclaimed writer's death. The leading role is played by David Mitchell, while Harry Enfield and Paula Wilcox star as the playwright's parents. Beginning in the year of 1592, Shakespeare's life is about to take an interesting turn. Influenced by his family, friends, and profession, the bard begins to write the stories that will become legendary. Shakespeare finds inspiration from unlikely sources for the character of Romeo, his sonnets get him into trouble with wife Anne Hathaway, and three witches predict his success.

Lockdown Christmas 1603: Episode Image
Episode 0Lockdown Christmas 1603

The plague has hit London, and Will and Kate are in wave fifteen of home confinement.

Star Crossed Lovers: Episode Image
Episode 1Star Crossed Lovers

Will struggles to find inspiration for Romeo and has to deal with an angry actor.

The Play's the Thing: Episode Image
Episode 2The Play's the Thing

Will's controversial new play is about to be presented to the queen when it goes missing.

The Apparel Proclaims the Man: Episode Image
Episode 3The Apparel Proclaims the Man

Will hopes to move up in the world when he is invited to Lord Southampton's party.

Love Is Not Love: Episode Image
Episode 4Love Is Not Love

Will completes his final sonnet and senses literary immortality just around the corner.

What Bloody Man Is That?: Episode Image
Episode 5What Bloody Man Is That?

What Bloody Man is That? The plague leads Will and his friends to escape to the family home in Stratford.

The Quality of Mercy: Episode Image
Episode 6The Quality of Mercy

When Will's savings go missing, he is forced to make an unusual bargain with his rival.

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