Macklin
CHARLES, an English actor and dramatist; born in Ireland, May 1, 1697 or 1699. In 1733 was engaged for small parts at Drury Lane, London. He steadily rose in the public favor, till in 1741 he appeared in his great character, Shylock. From this time he was accounted one of the best actors, appearing with nearly equal success in tragedy or comedy, in passion or buffoonery, for nearly half a century.
His last performance was at Covent Garden in May, 1789, when he broke down; but he survived, with an annuity of $1,000 for eight years longer. In 1735 he killed a brother actor in a quarrel over a wig, and was tried for murder.
He wrote a tragedy and several farces and comedies; of these "Love à-la-Mode" (1759) and "The Man of the World" (1781) have been printed. He died in London, England, July 11, 1797.