Will

"Will" is an electrifying entertainment series that immerses viewers in the tumultuous early days of young William Shakespeare, masterfully portrayed by Laurie Davidson. Set against the backdrop of a gritty 16th-century London, the show dives deep into the raw underbelly of the punk-rock theater scene. This is a place where Shakespeare's extraordinary talent emerges amid chaos, as he encounters rowdy audiences that relish in disrupting performances, fervent religious zealots vehemently opposing the freedom of expression, and eccentric side-shows that add a layer of unrestrained excitement to the streets.

The character of Alice Burbage, played with finesse by Olivia DeJonge, serves as a significant influence in Shakespeare's life, as she straddles the line between the thrill of the theater and the societal expectations placed upon women at the time. The dynamic between William and Alice offers both tension and inspiration, pushing Shakespeare to break boundaries within his craft. This unconventional take on his life intertwines historical fact with a vibrant reimagining, establishing a narrative that is not only captivating but also relevant to contemporary audiences, highlighting the perpetual struggle between art, love, and societal constraints.

Accompanied by a pulsating modern soundtrack, "Will" redefines the narrative of one of history's greatest playwrights, showcasing his notorious lifestyle filled with reckless abandon, passionate encounters, and brilliant creativity. The series stimulates the senses, inviting viewers to experience the visceral thrills of Shakespeare's life as he discovers his voice—a voice that would reshape the entirety of English literature. Through its audacious storytelling and innovative approach, "Will" unveils a young man grappling with his destiny, revealing the complex layers of genius that lie beneath the surface of the legendary figure we think we know.

Full Cast of Will

Laurie Davidson's portrayal of the young William Shakespeare in the TNT television series "Will" is a captivating blend of charisma and raw talent. As the titular character, Davidson brings a fresh and vibrant energy to the screen, encapsulating the spirit of a burgeoning genius amidst the gritty, bustling backdrop of Elizabethan London. His performance is marked by an intriguing mix of confidence and vulnerability; he deftly navigates Shakespeare's ambitious climb from a humble outsider to a celebrated playwright, capturing the audience's imagination with his nuanced depiction of the iconic poet's emotional depth and creative struggles. Davidson's Shakespeare is not just a historical figure but a living, breathing artist, whose personal turmoil, romantic entanglements, and professional rivalries resonate with modern viewers. His portrayal is a testament to the actor's ability to humanize legends, making "Will" a compelling watch for both fans of the Bard and newcomers to his work.

Olivia DeJonge delivered a captivating performance as Alice Burbage in the TNT television series "Will," a drama centered around the early life of William Shakespeare. As Alice, the daughter of a renowned theater owner and Shakespeare's love interest, DeJonge brought a nuanced portrayal of a young woman caught between the expectations of Elizabethan society and her own burgeoning desires and ambitions. Her performance was marked by a strong-willed spirit and an undercurrent of vulnerability, effectively showcasing Alice's intelligence and fierce independence. DeJonge's chemistry with Laurie Davidson, who played Shakespeare, was palpable, and together they navigated the complexities of their characters' forbidden romance with authenticity and passion. Her portrayal of Alice was not only a highlight of the series but also a testament to DeJonge's ability to breathe life into historical characters with modern relevance, making her a standout among the ensemble cast.

Ewen Bremner delivers a chilling and compelling performance as Richard Topcliffe in the TNT television series "Will," which offers a fresh and contemporary take on the life of William Shakespeare. Bremner's portrayal of Topcliffe, a notorious Elizabethan torturer and spy, is both menacing and nuanced, bringing to life the dark and complex nature of this historical figure. His interpretation of the character exudes an air of calculated cruelty, underscored by a sense of twisted pride in his role as the interrogator for the English Crown. Bremner's Topcliffe is a charismatic villain, captivating audiences with his icy demeanor and sharp intellect, while also instilling a deep sense of dread whenever he appears on screen. The actor's ability to convey the character's sadistic pleasure in extracting information through psychological manipulation and physical torment is a testament to his dramatic range and his commitment to authentic storytelling. Bremner's performance is a standout element in the series, providing a compelling antagonist that contrasts sharply with the creativity and vibrancy of Shakespeare's early career, thus enriching the narrative tension and historical intrigue of "Will."

Colm Meaney delivered a captivating performance as James Burbage in the TNT television series "Will," a drama that reimagines the early life of William Shakespeare. As Burbage, the real-life Elizabethan actor and theatre builder who played a pivotal role in the development of English drama, Meaney brought a robust presence and a seasoned gravitas to the screen. His portrayal of Burbage was that of a charismatic and shrewd impresario, whose vision and determination were instrumental in establishing the playhouses that would showcase the works of Shakespeare and others. Meaney's Burbage was both a mentor and a father figure to the young Shakespeare, offering a mix of tough love and astute guidance. His performance was marked by an authenticity that stemmed from his ability to convey the passion and business acumen of a man who was both an artist and an entrepreneur, navigating the tumultuous world of 16th-century theatre with wit and tenacity. Meaney's nuanced depiction added depth to the show, showing the audience the behind-the-scenes struggles and triumphs of the theatre world that shaped the Bard's legacy.

Jamie Campbell Bower's portrayal of Christopher Marlowe in the TNT television series "Will" is a vibrant and complex rendition of the storied playwright. Bower infuses Marlowe with a charismatic intensity, capturing the essence of a man who was both a genius of the Elizabethan stage and a notorious figure in London's underbelly. His performance is a delicate balance of arrogance and vulnerability, showcasing Marlowe's bravado as a successful writer while hinting at the insecurities and demons that plagued his personal life. Bower's Marlowe is a captivating presence on screen, delivering lines with a poetic fervor that does justice to the character's real-life reputation as a master of language. His interactions with the titular Will Shakespeare, played by Laurie Davidson, are particularly electric, as the two navigate a relationship fraught with rivalry, admiration, and an undeniable bond over their shared love for the art of drama. Bower's nuanced depiction of Marlowe not only pays homage to the historical figure but also adds depth to the fictionalized account of his influence on Shakespeare's early career, making his performance a highlight of the series.

Jasmin Savoy Brown (born March 21, 1994) is an American actress. She has appeared in the HBO mystery drama series...

Crew of Will