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.

Lord, What Fools These Mortals Be!: Episode Image
Episode 1Lord, What Fools These Mortals Be!

Lord, What Fools These Mortals Be! Will has a problem with A Midsummer Night's Dream, a love potion and a donkey head.

Wild Laughter in the Throat of Death: Episode Image
Episode 2Wild Laughter in the Throat of Death

Greene has hit on an ingenious new way to destroy Will's reputation.

If You Prick Us, Do We Not Bleed?: Episode Image
Episode 3If You Prick Us, Do We Not Bleed?

If You Prick Us, Do We Not Bleed? A brilliant new actor has some surprising views about the authorship of Will's plays.

Sigh No More: Episode Image
Episode 4Sigh No More

When Kate stands in for Sue at a masked ball, it causes problems.

The Most Unkindest Cut of All: Episode Image
Episode 5The Most Unkindest Cut of All

Will's new play about Julius Caesar is disrupted by a lot of backstage backstabbing!

Go On and I Will Follow: Episode Image
Episode 6Go On and I Will Follow

As Will wrestles with temptation, a bigger threat to his family lurks in the wings.

A Crow Christmas Carol: Episode Image
Episode 7A Crow Christmas Carol

Things get Dickensian when a stranger inspires Will to get Greene to mend his evil ways.

How to watch Upstart Crow