Stage comedian, described by Garrick as the rgeatest comic genius he had known. He was born in London to poor parents, and made his stage debut as 'Master Shuter' in Colley Cibber's 'The Schoolboy'. His career flourished; he was the first to play Hardcastle in 'She Stoops To Conquer', and performed to acclaim in 'The Rivals', 'The Liar' and 'Love In A Village'. Although afflicted with a drink problem, he was an ardent follower of the Nonconformist minister Whitefield, and would often attend chapel several times in the course of a day. At other times he would hold court in taverns, mesmerising the other clientele with his comic skills as a raconteur. His last performance was as Falstaff in a benefit for him, although by this stage the alcohol was affecting his faculties. He died a year later.
Stage comedian, described by Garrick as the rgeatest comic genius he had known. He was born in London to poor parents, and made his stage debut as 'Master Shuter' in Colley Cibber's 'The Schoolboy'. His career flourished; he was the first to play Hardcastle in 'She Stoops To Conquer', and performed to acclaim in 'The Rivals', 'The Liar' and 'Love In A Village'. Although afflicted with a drink problem, he was an ardent follower of the Nonconformist minister Whitefield, and would often attend chapel several times in the course of a day. At other times he would hold court in taverns, mesmerising the other clientele with his comic skills as a raconteur. His last performance was as Falstaff in a benefit for him, although by this stage the alcohol was affecting his faculties. He died a year later.
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