Shakespeare: Rise of a Genius
Why does Shakespeare endure and what inspired the work that we still read and perform today? In this innovative drama-documentary, the life of the greatest writer who has ever lived is explored. Acting legends explain why his plays still resonate, as the most important moments of his life are investigated. How much of his life and the world around him are included in his writing?
- 2023-2023
- 1 season
- Documentary, Drama
Why does Shakespeare endure and what inspired the work that we still read and perform today? In this innovative drama-documentary, the life of the greatest writer who has ever lived is explored. Acting legends explain why his plays still resonate, as the most important moments of his life are investigated. How much of his life and the world around him are included in his writing?
Season 1 Episode Guide
3 Episodes 2023
Episode 1
Episode #1.1
Sun, Sep 28, 2025 56 mins
1587. Shakespeare leaves Stratford to pursue his dreams of becoming a playwright in the dangerous, growing metropolis of London. Public theatre is red-hot modernity, and Shakespeare begins his journey at the very bottom.
Episode 2
Episode #1.2
57 mins
A 30-year-old Shakespeare is at the top of his game: But as his star rises, a series of tragedies strike. Shakespeare's life, purpose and family are thrown into chaos, and he begins to question if his new life is worth the sacrifice.
Episode 3
Episode #1.3
58 mins
Shakespeare's life and legacy is threatened when the Gunpowder Plot unearths a secret he has worked all his life to bury: his family are Catholics.