Damian Lewis Returns to the Stage as Henry V in Major New London Theatre Production

Homeland and Billions star Damian Lewis is preparing for a major return to the London stage, taking on one of Shakespeare's most celebrated roles in a new production of Henry V at the Old Vic.

The award-winning actor will play the English king in a production directed by Rupert Goold, marking the beginning of Goold's first season as artistic director of the historic London theatre.

Running from 26 January to 27 March 2027, the production promises a fresh interpretation of Shakespeare's famous historical drama, exploring leadership, ambition, war and the decisions that turn a ruler into a legend.

It also marks Lewis's first major theatre role in almost a decade, giving audiences an opportunity to see the actor return to his stage roots after years of acclaimed television performances.

Why Is Damian Lewis Playing Henry V Such a Big Moment?

Lewis is best known internationally for playing Nicholas Brody in Homeland, Bobby Axelrod in Billions and Major Richard Winters in Band of Brothers, earning widespread recognition for his performances across television and film.

However, his career also has strong theatrical foundations, including appearances in Shakespeare productions such as Hamlet, Romeo and Juliet, Cymbeline and Much Ado About Nothing.

His return to Shakespeare comes with an additional piece of theatrical history, as the new production arrives 90 years after Laurence Olivier played Henry V on the same stage in 1937.

Olivier's interpretation became closely associated with British theatre history, with the famous actor's portrayal later inspiring the statuette presented at the annual Olivier Awards.

For Lewis, stepping into the same role offers an opportunity to bring his own interpretation to a character whose decisions have fascinated audiences for generations.

What Can Audiences Expect From the New Production?

Shakespeare's Henry V follows the young English king as he leads his army into France, confronting overwhelming odds before the famous Battle of Agincourt.

The Old Vic's production will examine what makes a leader worthy of admiration, exploring the relationship between political authority, personal ambition and the consequences of war.

Goold, who previously led London's Almeida Theatre, is known for distinctive interpretations of classic drama and contemporary productions that bring familiar stories to new audiences.

His creative team includes set designer Miriam Buether, costume designer Evie Gurney, lighting designer Jack Knowles and composer Adam Cork, with further casting still to be announced.

The production opens an ambitious season at the Old Vic, which will also feature Milly Alcock in Julie, Stephen Sondheim's musical Assassins and Arinzé Kene in the one-man production Kohlhaas.

How to Get Tickets for Damian Lewis in Henry V

Henry V runs at the Old Vic in Waterloo, London, from 26 January to 27 March 2027, with tickets ranging from £14.50 for selected previews to £91.50 for peak performances.

Public booking opens at 12 noon on Monday 16 November 2026, while theatre members have access to priority booking. Tickets, performance information and the new under-30s scheme can be found on the official Old Vic Henry V booking page.

Images: The Old Vic. Photography: Nadav Kander.