Robert Coates (actor)

Robert Coates (* 1772 in Antigua, † February 21, 1848 in London) was a British actor who brought it by his lack of talent to be famous. He was in his lifetime as the worst actor in the world.

Life

Coates was born the son of a plantation owner and businessman. He grew up in England and enthusiastic early for the theater, but was acting untalented. For years he tried to get a role. Had particularly impressed him. Role as Romeo in Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet He often wore a jeweled Romeo costume.

Finally, in Bath, he managed to find an engagement. His first appearance took place on 9 February 1810. His play was said to be so disastrous that he gained almost overnight fame. The people came in large numbers in the theater, to see if the actor was actually as bad as has been claimed. Then on the basis of this, at least economic success he received appointments in London. His appearances there were successful in this sense. In London's Regency Theatre, he became a star and played for a long time before a packed house. He worked even Shakespeare's plays. When viewers laughed loudly, he threatened with beatings. Off the cuff he spoke nonsensical text, also he cut scenes to turn directly to the audience. If he had to die on stage, he did this so complicated that viewers Da capo called to see him die again.

The economic success of his performances also brought Coates financial gain. At his lavish coach he was fit as a crest a cock. Among them was his motto as long as I live, I crow ( Whilst I live I crow ).

He died in 1848 at the age of 75 years when he to fetch a forgotten opera glasses in London crossed a street and was struck by this one Hansom Cab cab.

In an obituary tribute to him The Gentleman 's Magazine as a major film star, his own view (great star as an actor, in his own opinion).