Child Actor Leaves Role Written For Him: Shakespeare's Forgotten Son

There is very little that is known about William Shakespeare’s only son, Hamnet.

Born in 1585, he lived in Stratford Upon Avon with his mother and his twin sister, Judith. William Shakespeare left them to pursue his career in London.

The play "Hamnet" explores Hamnet's story and his complicated relationship with his father — a man he never really knew. It is having its U.S. premiere in Boston.

"Hamnet" was written with Irish actor Ollie West in mind as the lead actor.

West has been a part of the production since he was 11-years-old. Now at 14, he is getting too old to portray the character and will pass off the part to another child actor from Ireland, 11-year-old Aran Murphy.

West is set to do his final performance in the role of Hamnet on Sunday.

Hamnet will be playing at the Paramount Center in Boston through Oct. 7. 

Ollie West, 14-year-old actor from Ireland.