Shakespearian actors reading pop song lyrics is brilliant (Video)

This is like the ice bucket challenge but for thespian types…

The great and the good of the acting world are taking part in a new viral challenge to read pop song lyrics as if they were lines of Shakespeare – all in the name of charity.

The #15secondshakespeare challenge involves recording 15 seconds worth of song lines in the most dramatic, hammy way possible.

Just like the ice bucket challenge, it then requires two further nominations to take on the challenge.

So far the likes of Doctor Who favourite Karen Gillan, Minnie Driver, Sherlock star Amanda Abbington and Sarah Parish have taken part. 

Check a few of the best, and see how long it takes you to work out the song in question…

My #15SecondShakespeare thanks @r_jacz and I nominate @imrosemciver and @jenmorrisonlivehttps://t.co/NjwzCf1FBN

— Karen Gillan (@karengillan) September 23, 2015

.#15secondshakespeare – Here's my contribution. @amyhubcast I nominate @jimmisimpson & @evanrachelwood @WestworldHBO pic.twitter.com/OiVlY7ORV3

— Ben Barnes (@benbarnes) September 23, 2015

Alright, @MaryEMcGlynn. Now I challenge @Marisha_Ray, @executivegoth, & @JakeStormoen! #15SecondShakespeare pic.twitter.com/cpG6KSbCcy

— Matthew Mercer (@matthewmercer) September 23, 2015

@davidfynn #kanye made me go full Staurt. #15secondshakespeare I also nominate @SirPatStew pic.twitter.com/j23c4vfDIs

— Minnie Driver TICKLESS WONDER (@driverminnie) September 19, 2015

https://twitter.com/Melia_Kreiling/status/645797156725518336

https://twitter.com/DrSarahParish/status/646804441031680000

https://twitter.com/FisayoAkinade/status/645616049291968513

https://twitter.com/CHIMPSINSOCKS/status/645639126449004544