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The BBC Television Shakespeare project was the most ambitious engagement with Shakespeare ever undertaken by either a television or film production company.

So large was the project that the BBC couldn't finance it alone and required an American partner who would guarantee access to the United States market, deemed essential for the series to recoup its costs.

Financing took over two years to secure, with Time – Life acting as the series ' largest underwriter.

Later, Exxon, Metropolitan Life and Morgan Guaranty Trust also provided financing.

However, because they had invested so much in the project, the backers were able to suggest terms.