Quizzes
Read Next
James Henry Hackett as Rip Van Winkle
James Henry Hackett in the role of Rip Van Winkle, oil on canvas by Henry Inman, c. 1832; in the National Portrait Gallery, Washington, D.C.
James Henry Hackett
American actor
Quick Facts
- Born:
- March 15, 1800, New York City, New York, U.S.
- Died:
- December 28, 1871, Jamaica, New York (aged 71)
James Henry Hackett (born March 15, 1800, New York City, New York, U.S.—died December 28, 1871, Jamaica, New York) was an American actor important chiefly for his encouragement of drama in the United States. Hackett left Columbia University because of ill health and tried various businesses. In 1825, after Hackett had lost his money in speculation, his wife, a former actress, returned to the stage; and the following year Hackett, who had achieved a social reputation for impersonations, began playing character parts. In 1828 his Falstaff, in Henry IV, Part I, was successful, remaining one of his most popular roles. ...(100 of 181 words)