A prominent Shakespeare impersonator in Stratford-upon-Avon has stepped down from his role following allegations of making racially insensitive remarks. Paul Workman, 74, known locally as ‘Mr Shakespeare’, had been a well-known figure in the town for eight years but resigned ahead of an annual Shakespeare birthday parade after the Stratford-upon-Avon Town Council received a complaint related to his comments.

The accusations revolve around remarks allegedly made in a pub earlier this year, which reportedly referenced ‘Muslims and Jews’. The council summoned Workman for a meeting to discuss the allegations; however, he chose to resign before it could occur, citing concerns that he was a victim of what he termed ‘cancel culture’.

In his own words, Workman expressed confusion over the situation, stating he did not recall the specific comments he made but acknowledged that some individuals might have found his statements ‘triggering’. He shared his perspective: “One thing I do know is that I am not racist. I feel I’m being smeared by people who are jealous of my position and my success.”

Workman recounted his conversation in the pub, describing it as casual and part of a discussion with a friend about setting up a pottery class. After having reportedly consumed a few pints, he found himself discussing current affairs and historical parallels, suggesting that he compared contemporary conflicts to past events in World War Two.

In response to the complaint, Workman claimed he felt pressured to resign due to the potential fallout from unverified accusations. He said, “I now regret not telling my side of the story because I feel like I’ve been victimised on the basis of pub gossip and rumour.”

The resignation has not diminished Workman’s popularity among some community members, as he has reportedly received numerous requests to return to his role since stepping down. “I’ve been inundated by people saying how badly treated I’ve been and how I shouldn’t have been forced to quit,” he noted.

Stratford-upon-Avon Town Council confirmed the transition to a new impersonator, who will be accompanied by an actress playing Shakespeare’s daughter, Susanna. Town clerk Caroline Nash commented on the situation: “Following a complaint regarding alleged comments made in a public setting, Mr Workman was invited to a meeting to discuss this matter. He did not take up this offer, and we then received a response resigning from his voluntary role.”

Since his departure, Workman has reflected on his time as Mr Shakespeare, expressing his regret over leaving a role he cherished: “I will really miss being Stratford’s Mr Shakespeare. It’s a big role with responsibility.”

Source: Noah Wire Services