David Garrick was born on February 19, 1717, in England. He was the third of five children born to Peter Garrick, a captain in the British army, and Arabella Clough, who came from a family of wealthy Hugenot descent. Garrick's early years were spent in the countryside, where he developed a love for literature and the performing arts.
After receiving education at local schools, Garrick initially pursued a career in law but quickly discovered his true passion lay in the world of theater. In 1737, he moved to London with his brother Peter to try their hand at running a wine business. However, the business failed due to Garrick's growing involvement in amateur theater productions.
Garrick's talent for acting was soon recognized, and he began performing in various theatrical productions across London. In 1741, he made his debut at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, in the role of Richard III, which received critical acclaim.
In 1747, Garrick took over the management of the Drury Lane theater, a position he held for nearly 30 years. Under his leadership, the theater became one of the most prestigious and successful in London, showcasing a wide range of plays and productions.
In 1749, Garrick married Eva Marie Veigel, a German dancer and actress. The couple had no children of their own but shared a close and loving relationship. Garrick's wife often performed alongside him on stage, further solidifying their partnership both on and off the stage.
David Garrick's influence on the English theater scene was profound. He was credited with revolutionizing acting techniques and stage production, bringing a new level of realism and authenticity to performances. His plays, including "The Clandestine Marriage" and "The School for Scandal," remain staples of the English theatrical canon.