Shameless star to play King Lear in Manchester theatre return

Shameless star to play King Lear in Manchester theatre return

Actor David Threlfall, popular for his role as Frank Gallagher in Channel 4’s Shameless, will be taking on the iconic role of King Lear in Manchester next year to mark the 50th anniversary of the Royal Exchange theatre. Threlfall, 71, has a history with the venue, having appeared in various shows in the 1980s and 90s, including playing Macbeth.

Despite his previous involvement with the Royal Exchange, Threlfall has not performed there since 1999. He has also had a successful career on television, starring in a range of shows including Shameless, What Remains, Code of a Killer, and Nightsleeper. His return to the stage in Manchester will see him portraying King Lear in September and October of 2026.

The Royal Exchange’s anniversary season will kick off with a performance of Jim Cartwright’s play Road, featuring Johnny Vegas, Lucy Beaumont, and Shobna Gulati. The season will also include various other productions including Even These Things by Rory Mullarkey, Shooters by Tolu Okanlawon, Fun Home, Private Lives, and A Little Night Music. Artistic director Selina Cartmell expressed excitement for the upcoming season, highlighting the theatre’s commitment to talent development in the North.

Following a challenging period due to the impact of the pandemic and a censorship controversy, the Royal Exchange is looking to regain its former prestige. The theatre holds the distinction of receiving the highest Arts Council England funding after the National Theatre and the Royal Shakespeare Company. With a lineup of diverse and compelling productions, the Royal Exchange aims to solidify its reputation as a world-class theatre in the heart of Manchester

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