‘Lost’ Blackadder Christmas script to be auctioned for Theirworld
A “lost” Blackadder Christmas Special script written by Richard Curtis is to be auctioned to raise money for global children’s charity Theirworld.
The un-filmed script, Blackadder in Bethlehem, was drafted in 1988 by Curtis but abandoned before production. Set on Christmas Eve at the fictional Blackadder Inn in Bethlehem, it depicts Edmund Blackadder as an innkeeper approached by Joseph and Mary as they seek a bed for the night.
Curtis has spoken about the rediscovered script and why he chose to donate it, saying: “Theirworld is the most amazing charity. What an extraordinary idea. You’ll be bidding some money and a child will get an education — two, three children — if you bid enough.”
Theirworld is the most amazing charity. What an extraordinary idea. You’ll be bidding some money and a child will get an education — two, three children — if you bid enough.
Screenwriter, producer and director, Richard Curtis
The auction lot also includes an original studio script from the Blackadder Goes Forth episode Corporal Punishment, complete with Curtis’s handwritten filming notes. The episode features long-time Theirworld supporter Stephen Fry.
The auction has prompted good-natured exchanges between the pair on social media. Curtis joked that Fry was “wonderfully over-acting as usual”, while Fry responded in a video message: “His hair back in the 80s was something of a performance well over the top in itself. But I’ll forgive him because after all it’s for a splendid cause.”
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Theirworld Chair Sarah Brown said: “The generous donation will give two gifts at once – a brighter future for young children in projects in Kenya and India, and an unforgettable Christmas present for a Blackadder fan.”
Proceeds will support Theirworld’s work ensuring every child gets the best start in life, a safe place to learn and skills for the future.
The auction opened on 25 November and runs until 10pm on 1 December. Bidding starts at £550, with increments of £20 at Jumblebee.co.uk/blackadderchristmas
ENDS
About Theirworld
Theirworld is a global children’s charity committed to ending the global education crisis and unleashing the potential of the next generation. Its mission is to ensure that every child has the best start in life, a safe place to learn and the skills they need for the future. www.Theirworld.org
Media contact:
Darika Ahrens
Darika@theirworld.org
+447960528480