Blackadder the Third -

“Blackadder the Third” is the third season of the iconic British historical sitcom “Blackadder.” Airing in 1987, this installment shifts the setting to the Regency era, specifically the late 18th century. Lord Edmund Blackadder, now the Prince Regent’s butler, navigates the complexities of court life and contends with the whims of his self-absorbed employer. The series combines historical satire, witty dialogue, and sharp humor to provide a satirical take on the social and political dynamics of the time.

Main Central Characters:

Edmund Blackadder (Rowan Atkinson): Returning as a different incarnation of the Blackadder character, Rowan Atkinson portrays Edmund Blackadder, now the butler to the Prince Regent. He is sharp-tongued, cynical, and often finds himself entangled in the absurdities of the Regency period.
Baldrick (Tony Robinson): Baldrick, once again the loyal and dim-witted companion to Blackadder, takes on the role of the Prince Regent’s dogsbody. His simplistic yet peculiar ideas contribute to the comedic elements of the series.
Prince George (Hugh Laurie): Hugh Laurie plays the role of the Prince Regent, a self-indulgent and clueless aristocrat. His character adds a layer of absurdity to the series as he fumbles through his royal duties.

Themes:

“Blackadder the Third” explores themes of social class, political satire, and the absurdities of the Regency era. The series satirizes the privileged lifestyles of the aristocracy, highlighting the vast disparities between the upper and lower classes.

Critical Consensus (Rating: 5/5):

Critics praised “Blackadder the Third” for its clever writing, historical satire, and the brilliant performances of the cast. The Regency-era setting provided a fresh backdrop for the series, and Rowan Atkinson’s portrayal of Blackadder continued to be a standout element.

TV Parental Guidelines Rating:

The show typically carries a TV-PG or TV-14 rating due to its mature themes, humor, and historical satire, which may not be suitable for younger audiences.

Original Network and Run:

“Blackadder the Third” originally aired on BBC One from September 17 to November 22, 1987.