Alexander Woollcott, American actor, playwright, and critic (b. 1887)

Alexander Humphreys Woollcott (January 19, 1887 – January 23, 1943) was a truly formidable figure in early 20th-century American literary and media circles. Far more than just a drama critic, he carved out a unique niche as a sharp-witted commentator for the prestigious *The New Yorker* magazine, a central member of the legendary Algonquin Round Table, an occasional yet memorable actor and playwright, and perhaps most notably, a trailblazing and prominent radio personality who captivated millions with his distinctive voice and opinions.

Born in Phalanx, New Jersey, Woollcott's sharp intellect and biting wit were evident early on. After graduating from Hamilton College, he began his career as a newspaper reporter, eventually becoming a leading drama critic for *The New York Times* from 1914 to 1922. His move to *The New Yorker* in 1925, shortly after its founding, solidified his reputation. Through his column "Shouts and Murmurs," he offered incisive critiques, personal anecdotes, and a unique perspective on the arts and society, helping to define the magazine's early voice and intellectual rigor.

Woollcott was perhaps most famously associated with the Algonquin Round Table, an informal but highly influential group of New York City writers, critics, actors, and wits who met daily for lunch at the Algonquin Hotel during the 1920s. Known for their verbal jousting, clever banter, and prodigious puns, members like Dorothy Parker, Robert Benchley, George S. Kaufman, and Harpo Marx found Woollcott to be a dominant and often tyrannical presence, a role he relished. He was considered the "eminence grise" or "master of ceremonies" of the group, his often grand pronouncements and theatrical personality shaping many of their lively discussions.

Beyond the printed page, Woollcott transitioned seamlessly into the nascent medium of radio. From 1929 to 1942, his popular weekly show "The Town Crier" made him a national celebrity, reaching an audience of millions with his distinctive, somewhat high-pitched voice and dramatic delivery. He would often review books, plays, and current events, sharing personal anecdotes and opinions that cemented his image as an opinionated, eccentric, and beloved public intellectual. His occasional forays into acting included roles in films such as *The Dark Angel* (1935) and *Gift of Gab* (1934), often playing characters not far removed from his public persona. He also co-wrote the play *The Channel Road* (1929).

Woollcott's outsized personality made him an irresistible muse for other writers. He served as the primary inspiration for Sheridan Whiteside, the famously caustic, imperious, and witty main character in the highly successful 1939 play *The Man Who Came to Dinner*, co-written by his Algonquin Round Table friends George S. Kaufman and Moss Hart. The play, a sharp-edged comedy, depicts an egocentric literary critic who, after slipping on ice and injuring himself, convalesces in an Ohio family's home, turning their lives upside down with his demanding nature and outrageous pronouncements. Woollcott himself even played Whiteside in a touring production of the play, blurring the lines between art and life and further cementing the public's perception of his unique character. The play was later adapted into a classic film in 1942, starring Monty Woolley as Whiteside.

His influence extended to other memorable literary creations. He was also the basis for the equally caustic and sophisticated character Waldo Lydecker in Vera Caspary's acclaimed 1943 mystery novel *Laura*. Lydecker, a renowned and manipulative newspaper columnist, shares Woollcott's intellect, biting sarcasm, and larger-than-life presence. The novel was famously adapted into a critically acclaimed film noir in 1944, starring Clifton Webb as Lydecker, a performance that further solidified the character's iconic status.

One particular inspiration point, however, remained a point of playful contention. Woollcott was famously convinced that he was the unacknowledged inspiration for Nero Wolfe, the brilliant, eccentric, and corpulent detective created by his friend, author Rex Stout. Wolfe, known for his reclusiveness, intellectual prowess, and aversion to physical exertion, certainly possessed an eccentric genius akin to Woollcott's intellectualism. Despite Woollcott's persistent belief and repeated assertions, Rex Stout consistently and firmly denied this connection, maintaining that Wolfe was a distinct creation.

Frequently Asked Questions about Alexander Woollcott

Who was Alexander Woollcott?

Alexander Humphreys Woollcott was a prominent American drama critic, essayist for *The New Yorker*, a central figure of the Algonquin Round Table, and a widely recognized radio personality during the early to mid-20th century, known for his sharp wit and distinctive persona.

What was the Algonquin Round Table?

The Algonquin Round Table was an informal group of witty and influential writers, journalists, and actors who met regularly for lunch at the Algonquin Hotel in New York City in the 1920s. Woollcott was a leading member, celebrated for his dominant and often caustic presence within the group.

How did Alexander Woollcott influence popular culture?

Woollcott's unique personality directly inspired several iconic fictional characters. He was the primary model for Sheridan Whiteside in the popular play *The Man Who Came to Dinner* by George S. Kaufman and Moss Hart, and also for Waldo Lydecker in Vera Caspary's novel *Laura*. His radio program, "The Town Crier," also made him a household name across America.

Was Alexander Woollcott an actor?

Yes, Alexander Woollcott was an occasional actor. He famously portrayed the character Sheridan Whiteside, who was based on him, in a touring production of *The Man Who Came to Dinner*. He also appeared in a few films.

Did Rex Stout base Nero Wolfe on Alexander Woollcott?

While Alexander Woollcott firmly believed that his friend Rex Stout based the character of Nero Wolfe on him, Stout consistently and explicitly denied this claim, maintaining that Wolfe was an original creation.