Will Somers - The King's Fool

Will Somers is the best-known court jester of the fun-loving Henry VIII. The fool's road to the court began at his birth in Shropshire where he was noticed by Richard Fermor who presented him to Henry VIII in 1525. The King immediately liked Will Somers and offered him the post of court jester. The reason for why we know most about Will Somers is that his liberalities was recorded by different courtiers and has survived till today.

Engraving of the royal jester

The King was very fond of his fool and Somers showed his loyalty by remaining in the King's service till the very end of Henry's life. In later years when the King's ulcer on his leg was causing him immense pain, Will Somers was the only one who could make the King smile.