
In the sixteenth century, Queen Elizabeth I (Dame Judith Anderson) is the ruler of England. Robert Devereux, 3rd Earl of Essex (Charlton Heston) is her lover, best friend, and worst enemy.

Judith Anderson
Queen Elizabeth

Charlton Heston
Lord Essex

Alan Webb
Sir Francis Bacon

Harry Townes
Sir Robert Cecil
Michael Allinson
Sir Walter Raleigh
Anne Rogers
Penelope

Frederick Worlock
Lord Burghley

Herb Voland
Captain Armin (as Herbert Voland)

Dana Elcar
Captain Marvel

Harvey Jason
Herald
Donald Marlatt
Irish Courier
Gilchrist Stuart
Physician (as Gil Stuart)
Alan Caillou
Burbage
Peter Church
Hemmings