Richard Brinsley Sheridan Brown Plaque

About This Blue Plaque

Richard Brinsley Sheridan was a renowned Irish satirist, playwright, poet, and politician who lived from 1751 to 1816. He is best known for his plays such as “The Rivals”, “The School for Scandal” and “The Duenna”. Sheridan’s works were characterized by their wit, humor and sharp observations about society. His plays were immensely popular in London during his lifetime and are still widely performed and adapted today.

In addition to his literary career, Sheridan was also involved in politics. He served as a Member of Parliament for 32 years in the British House of Commons, representing Stafford (1780-1806), Westminster (1806-1807) and Ilchester (1807-1812). As a Whig, Sheridan was a brilliant orator and defended the American colonists during the American Revolutionary War. His most famous speech was in the impeachment trial of Warren Hastings.

Sheridan lived at 14 Savile Row in Westminster for several years. Savile Row is a well-known street in Mayfair, central London, known for its traditional bespoke tailoring for men. The street has had many notable residents over the years including the Beatles and Jimi Hendrix who have also been commemorated with blue plaques.

Sheridan was married to Elizabeth Ann Linley, a famous singer of her day. Their romance was reportedly the inspiration for his first play, “The Rivals”. Despite his fame and success, Sheridan faced financial difficulties in his later years. He died in poverty in 1816 and was buried at Poets’ Corner in Westminster Abbey. Sheridan’s life, works and oratory skills left an important legacy in London’s literary and political history.