The format of the Blackadder series was changed substantially after the BBC was displeased with the first series ("The Black Adder" (1983)). It was made as a standard studio sitcom with an audience, the characters' roles were redefined and the budget substantially trimmed. The opening title sequence of the snake crossing a marble table is a parody of the title sequence of "I, Claudius" (1976) (mini). Patsy Byrne, who played Nursie in "Blackadder II" (1986) appeared a ...[Read Story ]