William Mills (actor) facts for kids
William Mills (born 1701, died 1750) was a famous British stage actor. He performed in plays during the 1700s. William was born in London. His parents, John Mills and Margaret Mills, were also actors. He started acting when he was a child in 1712, learning from his father.
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Early Life and Family
William Mills was born in London in 1701. He was baptised on June 29, 1701, at a church called St Martin-in-the-Fields. Both of his parents, John and Margaret Mills, were well-known actors.
William followed in their footsteps. He began his acting career at a young age. In 1712, when he was just 11 years old, he made his first appearance on stage. His father helped guide him as he started out.
Acting Career Highlights
William Mills spent most of his acting career at the Drury Lane Theatre. This was a very important theatre in London. He was a loyal member of their acting company for many years, just like his father had been.
In 1733, there was a big event called the Actor Rebellion of 1733. This was when some actors, including William, left Drury Lane. They went to perform at the Haymarket Theatre for a short time. However, William soon returned to his home theatre at Drury Lane.
Personal Life
William Mills was married twice. His first wife was an actress named Theodosia Mills. They were married until she passed away in 1733.
After Theodosia's death, William married another actress named Elizabeth Holliday. William and his first wife, Theodosia, had a daughter. She was also named Theodosia and grew up to become an actress too.
Later Years and Legacy
William Mills continued acting until shortly before his death. His very last performance was in the play The Merchant of Venice by William Shakespeare. He played the role of Gratiano in February 1750.
William passed away two months later, on April 18, 1750. He was buried at St Martin-in-the-Fields, the same church where he was baptised. A special show, called a benefit, was planned to honor him, but he died just before it could happen.
Selected Roles
William Mills performed in many plays throughout his career. Here are a few examples of the characters he played:
- Diego in Love in a Veil (1718)
- Mandrocles in The Spartan Dame (1719)
- Artamas in The Siege of Damascus (1720)
- Trueman in The London Merchant (1731)
- Clerimont in The Miser (1733)
- Gratiano in The Merchant of Venice (1750)
