Ernest Coquelin Jr. French dramatic actor Date of Birth: 16.05.1848 Country: France

1. The Early Life and Career of Coquelin Cadet
2. A Multifaceted Performer
3. The Master of Monologues
4. Sunset Years

The Early Life and Career of Coquelin Cadet

Born into a family of bakers, Coquelin Cadet, whose real name was Ernest Alexandre Honoré Coquelin, followed in the footsteps of his renowned older brother, Coquelin aîné. Like his sibling, he graduated from the Conservatoire de Paris in 1867.

Cadet made his professional debut at the Théâtre de l'Odéon in Paris, showcasing his talent for broad and exaggerated comedy. In 1868, he joined the illustrious Comédie-Française, where he would remain for much of his career.

A Multifaceted Performer

Throughout his tenure at the Comédie-Française, Cadet excelled in a diverse range of roles, particularly in the plays of Molière. His portrayal of characters such as Figaro in Beaumarchais's "The Barber of Seville" and Harpagon in Molière's "The Miser" brought him widespread acclaim.

The Master of Monologues

Cadet's true genius was revealed in his performance of monologues. Inspired by the recitals of the poet Charles Cros, he developed a new genre of humorous monologues that electrified audiences. He wrote several books on this subject, including "Le Livre des convalescents" (1880) and "L'Art de dire le monologue" (1884), which he co-authored with his brother.

Sunset Years

In 1908, Cadet retired to a nursing home in the Parisian suburb of Suresnes, where he passed away shortly after the death of his elder brother. He is remembered today with a small exhibition in the museum of the Comédie-Française, featuring portraits, photographs, and sketches from his renowned performances.