Noel Coward

Date of Birth: December 16, 1899

Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius

Date of Death: March 26, 1973

Biography

Sir Noël Peirce Coward was a renowned English playwright, composer, director, actor, and singer, known for his wit, flamboyance, and the enduring appeal of his plays. Born on December 16, 1899, in Teddington, Middlesex, Coward became a major figure in British theatre during the 20th century. His works are characterized by their sharp dialogue, sophisticated humor, and penetrating social observations. Coward’s career began early; he was performing on stage by the age of 11. His first major success came with the play “The Vortex” in 1924, which dealt with themes of drug addiction and sexual vanity. He continued to write and perform in numerous successful plays such as “Hay Fever” (1925), “Private Lives” (1930), and “Blithe Spirit” (1941). In addition to his theatre work, Coward had a significant presence in the film industry and was a prolific songwriter, penning hits like “Mad About the Boy” and “Mad Dogs and Englishmen.” He was knighted in 1970 for his contributions to the arts and continued to work until his death in 1973.

5 Interesting Facts about Noel Coward

1. Coward wrote his first play when he was just 10 years old.

2. He was known for his close friendship with actress Gertrude Lawrence, often writing roles specifically for her.

3. During World War II, Coward worked for the British Secret Service, using his celebrity status as a cover.

4. He won an Academy Honorary Award in 1943 for his film “In Which We Serve.”

5. Coward was openly gay, though he was discreet about his personal life due to the societal norms of his time.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Noel Coward

1. “Wit ought to be a glorious treat like caviar; never spread it about like marmalade.”

2. “I like long walks, especially when they are taken by people who annoy me.”

3. “It’s discouraging to think how many people are shocked by honesty and how few by deceit.”

4. “I have always paid income tax. I object only when it reaches a stage when I am forced to employ a gentleman in the city to see that my rates are not excessive.”

5. “The higher the building the lower the morals.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Noël Coward’s net worth was estimated to be around $10 million, a significant sum at the time, reflecting his success in multiple entertainment fields.