Cast of Shakespeare in Love

Joseph Fiennes plays Will Shakespeare, a struggling playwright who finds inspiration in Viola De Lesseps.

Gwyneth Paltrow portrays Viola De Lesseps, a noblewoman who disguises herself as a man to pursue her passion for acting and ends up as Shakespeare's muse.

Geoffrey Rush takes on the role of Philip Henslowe, the owner of the Rose Theatre who is constantly in debt.

Tom Wilkinson plays Hugh Fennyman, a moneylender who becomes a producer for Shakespeare's plays.

Judi Dench portrays Queen Elizabeth, a powerful and influential figure who appreciates Shakespeare's work.

Imelda Staunton appears as Nurse, Viola's loyal and supportive confidante.

Colin Firth takes on the role of Lord Wessex, Viola's betrothed who becomes jealous of her involvement with Shakespeare.

Ben Affleck plays Ned Alleyn, a famous actor and rival of Shakespeare.

Simon Callow portrays Tilney, the Master of the Revels who oversees the censorship of plays in London.

Steven Beard appears as Makepeace, a member of Shakespeare's theatre company.

Jim Carter plays Ralph Bashford, a member of the theatre company involved in the production of Shakespeare's plays.

Rupert Everett portrays Christopher Marlowe, a fellow playwright who serves as a mentor to Shakespeare.