SNL UK Parodies Shakespeare's 'Hamnet' with Modern Twist in Debut Episode
The UK version of Saturday Night Live premiered with a sketch satirizing the film 'Hamnet,' portraying William Shakespeare as a contemporary hipster returning to Stratford-upon-Avon. In the skit, Shakespeare exhibits modern behaviors like wearing an earring, carrying a 'Team Anne Boleyn' tote, and referencing ketamine use. Tina Fey plays his wife Agnes Hathaway, while the parody includes references to pop culture figures like Charli XCX. Another sketch featured a darkly comedic take on a Paddington Bear immersive experience. The episode marks the launch of SNL's British adaptation, blending historical parody with current cultural commentary.
Key facts
- SNL UK debuted with a parody of the film 'Hamnet'
- William Shakespeare is depicted as a Gen-Z influenced character
- Tina Fey portrays Agnes Hathaway in the sketch
- The sketch includes modern references like ketamine and electric scooters
- Another sketch parodied Paddington Bear experiences
Entities
Artists
Institutions
- Saturday Night Live
- Studiocanal
Locations
- London
- Stratford-upon-Avon
- United Kingdom