George Grossmith Jr British actor, theatre producer, manager, playwright and songwriter Date of Birth: 11.05.1874 Country: Great Britain

1. Early Life and Family
2. Education and Early Career
3. Breakthrough in Musicals
4. The Shop Girl and Other Collaborations
5. Playwriting and Production
6. Theatre Management
7. Directing and Later Career

Early Life and Family

George Grossmith Jr. was born in Haverstock Hill, London, on the 5th of December, 1874. He was the eldest son of George Grossmith Sr., a writer and a leading star in the Gilbert and Sullivan operas, and Emmeline Grossmith. Notably, his grandfather was also named George Grossmith, an actor who had performed in melodramas.

Education and Early Career

Grossmith Jr. received his education in London and Paris. While his parents had initially planned a military career for him, fate had other plans. In 1895, he married Gertrude Elizabeth "Cissie" Rudge, an actress who performed in burlesques and musical comedies under the stage name Adelaide Astor.

Breakthrough in Musicals

Grossmith made his musical debut at the age of 18 in a minor comic role in his father's Gilbert and Sullivan production, "Haste to the Wedding." His breakthrough came in 1893 with his performance in "Morocco Bound." His portrayal of the initially insignificant character, Percy Pimpleton, was enhanced by Grossmith's improvisations and puns. He followed this success with roles in "Go-Bang" and George Edwardes' "A Gaiety Girl."

The Shop Girl and Other Collaborations

Grossmith worked at the Trafalgar Square Theatre with Jessie Bond and Letty Lind before being approached by Edwardes to star in his musical, "The Shop Girl." The production became a hit, largely due to Grossmith's performance and his composition of the song "Beautiful, Bountiful Bertie" for his character. He left musicals for three years to perform in regular comedies but returned in 1898 with his role in "Little Miss Nobody."

Playwriting and Production

Grossmith collaborated with Paul Rubens to write the burlesque "Great Caesar," in which he played Mark Antony. Despite its lack of success, he continued to write and produce plays. "Havana" (1908) was one of his most successful productions.

Theatre Management

In 1919, Grossmith partnered with Edward Laurillard to open the Winter Garden Theatre. They also became managers of the Apollo Theatre in 1920. However, their partnership soon dissolved, with Grossmith retaining ownership of the Winter Garden Theatre. He retired from producing in 1926 but continued to perform.

Directing and Later Career

Grossmith also worked as a director, serving at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, from 1931 to 1932. He left this position to focus on his film career. Grossmith passed away on the 25th of June, 1935, at the age of 61.