It could be good news for Blackadder fans as co-writer Ben Elton hinted the much-loved British sitcom could be returning. However, it may be making its comeback in a slightly different format.
Instead of BBC viewers watching the story unfold on screen, the creators may turn the sitcom into a play. This wouldn’t be the first time a beloved British classic has been adapted for the stage.
Over the years, it’s also happened with Fawlty Towers and Only Fools and Horses. Ben told The Sun that if screenwriter Richard Curtis was keen, he’d be interested.
Although the 64-year-old stated it wouldn’t be an adaptation of episodes but an original play. He said: “When I wrote Upstart Crow I did three series and three Christmas specials for TV, which was a load of writing, but I’m proud of the fact I then did an original play.
“If we were to do that with Adder it would be the same.” During the show, which ran from 1983 to 1989, it featured a plethora of comedians from Rowan Atkinson, Stephen Fry, Hugh Laurie and Tony Robinson.
However, when asked if the original members could return for a stage adaptation, Ben insisted it was their decision if they wanted to be in it.
He continued: “But with Blackadder, there are four figures who have a say in it: Me, Richard, Rowan and John Lloyd, who was the producer.”
Since Blackadder ended in 1989, it’s gone on to have three specials and a special skit in 2020. Due to its huge popularity, Ben has expressed concerns about damaging it’s legacy with a stage play.
He added: “There were a couple of efforts to do a bit of Adder, with mixed results.
“I’m very clear in my mind we do not want to f* up something as loved as Blackadder by going back to it.”
The first few instalments of the show were set in the 15th century, during the fictional reign of King Richard IV. Although over the years it jumped forward in time with the final series was set in the First World War.
More recently, actor Sir Tony Robinson reprised his role of Baldrick in 2023 for a comic relief special.
Similarly, in 2020 Stephen Fry reprised his role as Lord Melchett for a joint Children in Need and Comic Relief special.
The Big Night In was to celebrate the unsung heroes during the pandemic, which saw Prince William even make an appearance alongside Stephen in the sketch.
