Colley Cibber

Born in London in 1671, Colley Cibber built a long career as an actor, playwright, theater manager, and later Poet Laureate. He was closely associated with the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, where he rose from performer to one of the leading manager-shareholders, helping guide one of England’s most important stages.

Cibber found early success with plays including Love's Last Shift and became famous onstage for comic roles, especially foppish characters. He was admired by many theatergoers for his wit and stagecraft, even as some literary rivals mocked him; his long-running feud with Alexander Pope helped keep his name in public view.

Today he is often remembered not only for his comedies but for An Apology for the Life of Mr. Colley Cibber, a memoir published in 1740. Its lively, personal account of actors, audiences, and backstage life has made it an important source for readers interested in the world of eighteenth-century performance.