Exploring 'Upstart Crow': A Hilarious Take on Shakespeare's Life and Legacy
Upstart Crow – What happens when you mix the wit of William Shakespeare, the chaos of his era, and the comedic genius of Ben Elton? You get Upstart Crow, a brilliant sitcom that reimagines the life of the world’s most famous playwright in the most hilariously irreverent way possible.
First aired in 2016, Upstart Crow takes its title from a snide insult hurled at Shakespeare by fellow playwright Robert Greene. The show, however, turns this insult into a badge of honor, portraying Shakespeare not as an untouchable literary deity but as a relatable (and often exasperated) human being. Let’s dive into the magic of this show and discover why it’s a must-watch for anyone who loves comedy, history, or simply a good laugh.
Set in Elizabethan England, Upstart Crow follows the life of Will Shakespeare (played to perfection by David Mitchell) as he juggles his career, family, and the utterly ridiculous antics of those around him. From writer’s block to impossible deadlines, Will’s struggles feel surprisingly modern, proving that the more things change, the more they stay the same.
The show lovingly pokes fun at Shakespeare’s most famous works, often weaving their themes into Will’s daily misadventures. For instance, a family feud might hilariously echo Romeo and Juliet, while an episode about mistaken identity gives a sly nod to Twelfth Night. Yet, even as it parodies his plays, the series is a heartfelt tribute to the Bard’s enduring genius.
One of the show’s greatest strengths lies in its cast of eccentric characters. Kate (Gemma Whelan), Will’s aspiring feminist actress friend, provides a sharp and hilarious critique of the gender politics of the era. Meanwhile, Liza Tarbuck and Harry Enfield play Will’s parents, offering endless comic relief with their exaggerated provincial attitudes.
Then there’s Robert Greene (Mark Heap), Shakespeare’s pompous and perpetually bitter rival. His schemes to discredit Will are delightfully over-the-top, proving that even in the 16th century, professional jealousy was alive and well.
While Upstart Crow doesn’t shy away from anachronisms (Will’s wife Anne Hathaway frequently complains about his commuting “to that London”), the show cleverly incorporates real historical context. It sheds light on the challenges of being a playwright in Elizabethan England, including censorship, competition, and the ever-present plague.
But don’t expect a history lesson—this is a comedy first and foremost. Any factual liberties taken are in service of the humor, making the show as educational as it is entertaining.
In a world where Shakespeare adaptations often lean toward the highbrow, Upstart Crow dares to be silly. It reminds us that Shakespeare was not just a literary genius but also a man navigating a chaotic world, much like us. The humor is sharp, the performances are stellar, and the writing is packed with clever wordplay that would make the Bard himself proud.
Upstart Crow is more than just a sitcom—it’s a love letter to Shakespeare and his works, wrapped in humor that appeals to both scholars and casual viewers alike. Whether you’re a Shakespeare aficionado or someone who barely survived Romeo and Juliet in high school, this show will leave you laughing and, dare we say, feeling a little smarter.
So, grab your quill (or remote) and dive into Upstart Crow. You’ll laugh, you’ll learn, and you might just find yourself quoting Shakespeare more often—whether to impress your friends or to sound clever at dinner parties. Either way, the Bard would surely approve.
