Grandage Replaces Branagh as Director of Donmar's HAMLET Starring Jude Law

What's On Stage is reporting that actor and director Kenneth Branagh, who is currently starring in Ivanov at Donmar, has pulled out of directing Hamlet and will be replaced by Donmar Artistic Director Michael Grandage.

Branagh was slated to direct actor Jude Law in Hamlet as the final production at Wyndham's Theatre. Branagh had to drop out from the show because of time conflicts with the upcoming shooting of his film Thor. This will be the fourth production Grandage will direct this season.

Michael Grandage stated, “I am thrilled and flattered to have the opportunity to direct Jude Law – one of the leading actors of his generation as he takes on one of the most important roles of his career. Kenneth Branagh will continue as artistic associate of the season and we have arrived at this arrangement very amicably whilst I still have time to proceed with a brand new production of this great play next year. From the outset, Ken has been a huge support and inspiration for the Donmar West End season – a project that we could not have realised without his input.”

Jude Law said: “I feel privileged to be part of the Donmar West End season and to be directed by the company’s artistic director Michael Grandage on Hamlet. It was Ken who brought me to this project, and with his support and guidance, as one of the greatest Hamlets of all time, and with Michael directing, I can’t imagine a better scenario for me, as an actor, to undertake the role.”

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