Sarah Siddons The First Celebrity Actress by Jo Willett

I have often seen the stunning Gainsborough portrait of Sarah in London’s National Gallery so this was a must-read. Detailed and thoroughly researched, this book provides a comprehensive account of the great actress’s life and it also gives us a good picture of her personality. She was truly an amazin woman! The daughter of itinerant players, who yet focused on respectability and success, Sarah had to really struggle to rise to the top. She married young, became the primary breadwinner in the marriage, and had many children. Presenting herself as virtuous and respectable, she ensured that actresses were not just seen as mistresses or prostitutes. She also became the first celebrity actress.

She suffered from ill-health, money troubles and various scandals but she managed to act until she was quite old, unusual even today for women. She was also greatly loved by her public. 5,000 people attended her funeral!

I received this free ebook from NetGalley in return for an honest review.