James Norton has revealed he’s preparing to embark on what he describes as a “pretty terrifying” new chapter in his career.
The Happy Valley star, 40, has been confirmed to play Hamlet in a major new West End production next autumn, taking on one of the most coveted and daunting roles in theatre.
Announcing the news, James admitted he feels both honoured and intimidated by the challenge ahead. “It’s a privilege for anyone to take on the role of Hamlet,” he said. “It’s also pretty terrifying!”
The production will be directed by acclaimed German theatre director Thomas Ostermeier, whose previous London productions include The Seagull, starring Cate Blanchett, and An Enemy of the People with Doctor Who actor Matt Smith.
James said the opportunity to work alongside Thomas made accepting the role an easy decision. “But with Thomas Ostermeier at the helm, I know I could not be in better hands,” he explained.
“Both this role and this director have intrigued me and challenged me over the years, and so I cannot wait to start this journey with Thomas and see where it takes us.”
© Alamy Stock PhotoAlthough James has become one of Britain’s most recognisable television stars thanks to roles in Happy Valley, Grantchester, McMafia and HBO’s House of the Dragon, he has continued to return to the stage throughout his career.
Most recently, he starred in Ivo Van Hove’s critically acclaimed 2023 adaptation of Hanya Yanagihara’s bestselling novel A Little Life.
Now, he’ll swap Westeros for Elsinore as Shakespeare’s conflicted Prince of Denmark. Thomas couldn’t hide his excitement about casting James in the iconic role.
“It will be my first time directing Shakespeare in English, and I am excited to explore the original text in order to bring this new production to life,” he said.
© Alamy Stock Photo“My first Hamlet has been touring the world for 18 years so I am honoured to have the opportunity to bring it here to London with James, who in my mind is a perfect Prince of Denmark.”
© BBC / CBS StudiosThe production marks Thomas’s first English-language staging of Shakespeare and follows the international success of his acclaimed German version of the tragedy.
Further details, including the theatre and opening date, are expected to be announced in the coming months.
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