Colley Cibber

Date of Birth: November 6, 1671

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Date of Death: December 12, 1757

Biography

Colley Cibber was an English playwright, actor-manager, and poet laureate, born on November 6, 1671. He was a significant figure in the English theatre during the early 18th century. Cibber was the son of Caius Gabriel Cibber, a renowned sculptor. His career in theatre began as an actor, and he eventually became the manager of the Drury Lane Theatre. Cibber’s most notable works include his comedies “Love’s Last Shift” and “The Careless Husband.” In addition to his achievements in playwriting, Cibber also took on the role of poet laureate in 1730, a position he held until his death. His tenure as poet laureate was controversial, often criticized for his lack of poetic talent. Despite this, Cibber’s contributions to the theatre were substantial, and his autobiography “An Apology for the Life of Colley Cibber” remains a valuable resource for understanding the theatrical world of his time.

5 Interesting Facts about Colley Cibber

1. Colley Cibber was one of the first English actors to play the role of Sir John Falstaff, a character in Shakespeare’s plays.

2. His play “Love’s Last Shift” is often credited with reviving the fortunes of the Drury Lane Theatre.

3. Cibber’s autobiography is considered one of the most entertaining and informative accounts of 18th-century theatre.

4. He was heavily satirized by his contemporaries, including Alexander Pope, who made him the chief dunce in “The Dunciad.”

5. Cibber was known for his flamboyant acting style and often played foppish, comedic roles.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Colley Cibber

1. “Prithee don’t puzzle me; for though I’m not sure what I may be, I’m resolved to be merry.”

2. “In short, there’s no fool like an old fool.”

3. “Oh, what a dear charming thing is a cat!”

4. “If this were played upon a stage now, I could condemn it as an improbable fiction.”

5. “Vanity will always find some means to assert itself.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Colley Cibber’s net worth was estimated to be equivalent to several hundred thousand pounds in today’s currency, largely accumulated through his theatre management and successful plays.

Children

Colley Cibber had twelve children with his wife Katherine Shore. Some of his children became notable in their own right, including his son Theophilus Cibber, who was also an actor and playwright.