Retro T-shirts news: Simm set for Hamlet stage role

14/12/2009

John Simm has signed up to play Hamlet in a new production of the play at the Sheffield Crucible.

The 39-year-old will follow in the footsteps of other high-profile British actors David Tennant and Jude Law, who have both recently starred as Shakespeare's Danish prince.

Simm has featured in several cult films and TV series during his career, inspiring retro T-shirts with appearances in Human Traffic and 24 Hour Party People, in which he plays Bernard Sumner of New Order and Joy Division.

His TV credits include Cracker, The Lakes, Life on Mars and Doctor Who.

Daniel Evans, artistic director at the Sheffield Crucible, told the BBC that it will be "very exciting" to see Simm as Hamlet.

He added: "It is potentially a very scary role, but it has become one of those roles that every major actor leaps through. It can be a test of your mettle."

The play is set to open at the redeveloped theatre in September 2010.