The Oscar-nominated actor, who recently tied the knot, attended the historical service at Leicester Cathedral, where the last Yorkist king was finally formally buried, 530 years after his death in battle.
Benedict looked sombre upon delivering the moving poem.
“My bones, scripted in light, upon cold soil, a human braille” and included the line “Grant me the carving of my name.” He read.
While the Queen was unable to attend, she did send Sophie Countess of Wessex to attend on her behalf, and she send a message which was read aloud at the service. The Countess joined religious leaders, politicians, archaeologists and members of the public who had entered a ballot to attend the momentous occasion.
It was discovered that the British actor was related to the fallen king with DNA tests proving they’re third cousins 16 times removed.
This makes Benedict the perfect choice to play his ancestor in the upcoming BBC drama The Hollow Crown: Richard III.
