Hesketh Pearson

Date of Birth: February 20, 1887

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Date of Death: April 9, 1964

Biography

Hesketh Pearson was a renowned English actor, biographer, and director, known for his extensive work in the early to mid-20th century. He was born in Hawford, Worcestershire, England, and began his acting career in the 1910s. Pearson gained fame through his theatrical performances and later transitioned into writing, where he became celebrated for his biographical works on prominent literary and historical figures. His deep understanding of character and history allowed him to craft insightful and engaging biographies, which have been praised for their readability and depth.

5 Interesting Facts about Hesketh Pearson

1. Hesketh Pearson served in the British Army during World War I, which interrupted his acting career.

2. He is best known for his biographies of literary figures such as Oscar Wilde, George Bernard Shaw, and Charles Dickens.

3. Pearson was a close friend of George Bernard Shaw, and his biography of Shaw is considered one of the most authoritative accounts of the playwright’s life.

4. Apart from acting and writing, Pearson was also a skilled director and worked on several stage productions.

5. Hesketh Pearson’s autobiography, “Hesketh Pearson by Himself,” provides a detailed account of his life and career, offering valuable insights into the theatrical and literary worlds of his time.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Hesketh Pearson

1. “The art of biography is different from geography. Geography is about maps, but biography is about chaps.”

2. “The truth is that all great men have had their disciples, and it is always Judas who writes the biography.”

3. “A man who gives his children habits of industry provides for them better than by giving them a fortune.”

4. “Humor is the instinct for taking pain playfully.”

5. “The great thing in this world is not so much where we stand, as in what direction we are moving.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Hesketh Pearson’s highest net worth is not clearly documented, but his successful career as an actor, director, and author of best-selling biographies likely provided him with a comfortable living.