Plantagenet (radio plays) facts for kids

"Plantagenet" is a series of exciting BBC Radio 4 radio plays. These plays tell the story of the Plantagenet family, who were kings and queens of England for over 300 years. The series is based on old historical writings called Holinshed's Chronicles. It was created by British writer Mike Walker. The first part aired in 2010, the second in 2011, and the third in 2012. Each part had three episodes.

What is a Radio Play?

A radio play is like a movie or TV show, but you only hear it. There are no pictures, just sounds and voices. Actors use their voices to bring characters to life. Sound effects help you imagine the scenes. Radio plays are a fun way to tell stories using only your ears and imagination!

Who Were the Plantagenets?

The Plantagenets were a very important royal family in England. They ruled from 1154 to 1485. This was a long time ago, during the Middle Ages. Many famous kings came from this family, like Henry II, Richard the Lionheart, and Henry V. Their time was full of battles, power struggles, and big changes for England.

The Stories in the Series

The "Plantagenet" radio series explores the lives of several key Plantagenet rulers. It shows their challenges, their triumphs, and their family dramas.

Series 1: Early Plantagenet Kings

The first part of the series focuses on the early Plantagenet kings.

Henry II: A Powerful King

This episode tells the story of King Henry II. He was a very powerful ruler. He tried to control the church and had many conflicts, even with his own family.

• King Henry II was played by David Warner.
• His wife, Queen Eleanor, was played by Jane Lapotaire.
• Their son, Prince Richard, was played by Joseph Cohen-Cole.

Richard I: The Lionheart

This part is about King Richard I, also known as "Richard the Lionheart." He was famous for his bravery and for fighting in the Crusades.

• Richard was played by Ed Stoppard.
• Saladin, a famous leader from the Middle East, was played by Raad Rawi.
• Richard's younger brother, Prince John, was played by Neil Stuke.

John: By the Grace of God

This episode covers the reign of King John. He is often remembered for signing the Magna Carta, a very important document that limited the king's power.

• King John was played by Neil Stuke.
• Prince Arthur, John's nephew, was played by Ryan Watson.
• Langton, an important church leader, was played by Ewan Hooper.

Series 2: Later Plantagenet Rulers

The second part of the series continues with more Plantagenet kings.

Edward I: Old Soldiers

This episode is about King Edward I. He was a strong king known for his military campaigns, especially in Scotland and Wales.

• King Edward I was played by Philip Jackson.
• His son, Ned, who later became king, was played by Sam Troughton.
• William Wallace, a Scottish hero, was played by James Lailey.

Edward II: The Greatest Traitor

This part tells the story of King Edward II. His reign was full of trouble and conflict with his nobles and even his own wife.

• King Edward II was played by Sam Troughton.
• His wife, Queen Isabella, was played by Hattie Morahan.
• Roger Mortimer, a powerful noble, was played by Trystan Gravelle.

Richard II: Dreams End in Death

This episode focuses on King Richard II, the grandson of Edward III. His reign ended in a dramatic way.

• King Richard II was played by Patrick Kennedy.
• Henry Bolingbroke, who later became king, was played by Blake Ritson.
• John of Gaunt, a powerful duke and Richard's uncle, was played by Sean Baker.

Series 3: The End of the Dynasty

The final part of the series covers the last Plantagenet kings and the end of their rule.

Henry V: True Believers

This episode is about King Henry V. He is famous for his military victories against France, especially the Battle of Agincourt.

• King Henry V was played by Luke Treadaway.
• His wife, Katherine of France, was played by Lydia Leonard.
• King Henry IV, Henry V's father, was played by Paul Moriarty.

Henry VI: A Simple Man

This part tells the story of King Henry VI. He was a gentle king, but his reign was marked by a long civil war called the Wars of the Roses.

• King Henry VI was played by Al Weaver.
• His strong-willed wife, Queen Margaret, was played by Aimee-Ffion Edwards.
• Richard, Duke of York, a key figure in the Wars of the Roses, was played by Shaun Dooley.

Richard III: The Three Brothers

The final episode is about King Richard III. He was the last Plantagenet king. His story is often debated by historians.

• King Richard III was played by Carl Prekopp.
• His brother, King Edward IV, was played by Simon Bubb.
• Another brother, Clarence, was played by Christopher Webster.