John Liston facts for kids
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John Liston (born around 1776 – died 22 March 1846) was a famous English comedian. He was born in London.
He first performed on stage in Weymouth. His role was Lord Duberley in a play called The Heir at Law. At first, he wasn't very good at serious, sad roles. He even performed alongside the famous actress Sarah Siddons. But then, he accidentally found out he was amazing at comedy! He was especially good at playing old men and country boys. He made audiences laugh with his funny and broad humor.
An important person named Charles Kemble helped him. This led to Liston performing at the Haymarket Theatre on 10 June 1805. He played Sheepface in the play Village Lawyer. He continued to work at this theatre for many years, almost without stopping, until 1830.
His most famous role was Paul Pry. He first played this character on 13 September 1825. Thanks to Liston's amazing talent, Paul Pry became a very real and popular character. Liston kept acting on stage until 1837. In his last years, his health declined. He passed away on 22 March 1846. He had married Miss Tyrer, who was also a singer and actress, in 1807. She died in 1854.
A Friend's Humorous Story
In January 1825, the London Magazine published a story about John Liston. It was written by his close friend Charles Lamb. Lamb said this story was "pure invention" and meant to be a funny essay. Liston himself responded to this story in the next edition of the London Magazine. He jokingly suggested that the same writer should write a short life story of the poet Lord Byron.
Where to See Liston Today
You can find several pictures of Liston in his famous characters. Some are at the Garrick Club in London. There are also pictures of him as Paul Pry at the South Kensington Museum. You can also find some in the archives of the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.
