John Chippendall Montesquieu Bellew
1823–1874 (age 51)
Biography
John Chippendall Montesquieu Bellew (1823–1874) built a reputation as one of the most magnetic public readers and actors of his day, moving from the Anglican pulpit to the professional stage with a voice that could command theatre and lecture-hall alike. His dramatic recitations of poetry and prose drew large audiences, and his essays and criticism demonstrated a sharp intelligence.
He penned novels and plays, toured the provinces and the United States, and used his celebrity to promote charitable causes, including relief for actors' widows and for popular education; colleagues remembered his warm humour and generous counsel despite occasional scandal. He is buried at Kensal Green Cemetery.