Drew, John, Jr.

Drew, John, Jr. (1853-1927), an American actor, became noted for his outstanding light-comedy roles. He was leading man opposite the Irish-born actress Ada Rehan in theatrical manager Augustin Daly’s company and later joined manager Charles Frohman’s company, where he starred many times with the American actress Maude Adams. Drew played over 100 leading roles during more than 50 years on the stage. These included roles in Rosemary, A Marriage of Convenience, Richard Carvel, and The Masked Ball.

Drew was born in Philadelphia on Nov. 13, 1853, the son of the Irish actor John Drew, Sr., and the British actress Louisa Lane Drew. He made his debut in his mother’s theater in Philadelphia in 1873. He was the uncle of Ethel, John, and Lionel Barrymore, all of whom later won fame on the stage (see Barrymore ). John Drew, Jr., died on July 9, 1927.