About Thomas Griffith
Thomas Griffith was an actor.
Thomas Griffith (1680 23 January 1744) was an Irish stage actor and theatre manager.
Griffith was born in Dublin and was of Welsh descent. While working as an apprentice in the city he was recruited by Joseph Ashbury of the Smock Alley Theatre. While there he became friends with his fellow actor Robert Wilks, who was likely responsible for encouraging him to perform in London. While he did make occasional appearances in London, most of his stage career was spent in Dublin. From 1721 to 1729 he was Master of the Revels in Ireland.
He become manager of the Smock Alley, before later departing to establish the rival Aungier Street Theatre in 1734. In 1743 the rivals merged to form a united company performing a both playhouses. This was strongly opposed by star actor Thomas Sheridan who departed for Drury Lane. Not long afterwards Griffith died on 23 January 1744.
His daughter was the actress and playwright Elizabeth Griffith. His son Richard became an actor in David Garrick's Drury Lane Company.
Don’t just read it —
keep it.
Full-length biographies made to live with: read them, listen on the way to work, watch them tonight.
- E-book
- Audio
- Video
Instant download · yours to keep · every purchase keeps this site free
Important facts
Frequently asked questions
Who was Thomas Griffith?
Irish stage actor and theatre manager (1680-1744)
What was Thomas Griffith's occupation?
Thomas Griffith was an actor.
Sources & further reading
· DBpedia: Thomas Griffith (actor)
Cite this page
APA: Biography.guide. (2026). Thomas Griffith. https://biography.guide/thomas-griffith-actor/
MLA: "Thomas Griffith." Biography.guide, https://biography.guide/thomas-griffith-actor/.
Chicago: "Thomas Griffith." Biography.guide. https://biography.guide/thomas-griffith-actor/.
Data last updated: 2026-09-20 · Spot an error? Report a correction.
Page generated 2026-09-27 05:33 UTC