Thomas 'Jupiter' Harris: Spinning Dark Intrigue at Covent Garden Theatre, 1767-1820

Thomas Harris was a man of many careers, including being a confidant of George III, a philanthropist, sexual suspect, and brothel owner in Georgian London. He was also a 'spin doctor' to control the release of government news and a novelist who created elaborate storylines with fictional intriguers lurking in the shadows. This biography brings together a hoard of newly discovered manuscripts to construct his many lives.

Format: Hardback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 22 August 2018
Publisher: Manchester University Press

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Until now, little has been known about the life of Thomas Harris. He was most visible as the man who controlled Covent Garden Theatre for nearly five decades, one of only two venues in London allowed by law to perform spoken drama. But this career was only one of many: he became the confidant of George III, a philanthropist, sexual suspect, and brothel owner in the underworld of Covent Garden. While deeply involved in Pitt the Younger's government, Harris worked as a 'spin doctor' to control the release of government news. As novelists created elaborate storylines with fictional intriguers lurking in the shadows, Harris was the real thing. In this lively recreation of life in Georgian London — social, political, sexual, theatrical — his career intersects many of the hidden worlds of the eighteenth century. This narrative of detection brings together a hoard of newly discovered manuscripts to construct his many lives.

Introduction:
Thomas Harris, a prominent figure in Georgian London, has been the subject of limited knowledge until now. While his career as the controller of Covent Garden Theatre, one of the only two legal venues for spoken drama in the city, has been well-documented, his life was far more complex. Beyond his theatrical endeavors, Harris held various other roles, including being a confidant of George III, a philanthropist, a sexual suspect, and an owner of a brothel in the underworld of Covent Garden.

Thomas Harris as a Theatre Controller:
Harris's tenure as the controller of Covent Garden Theatre was a significant aspect of his life. He held this position for nearly five decades, from the mid-1700s to the early 1800s, during which he played a pivotal role in shaping the theatrical landscape of London. Covent Garden Theatre was one of the most prestigious and popular venues in the city, known for its high-quality performances and its ability to attract a diverse audience.

Under Harris's leadership, the theatre underwent significant renovations and improvements. He invested in new equipment, hired talented actors and actresses, and introduced innovative productions to captivate the audience. Harris's commitment to the arts and his dedication to providing quality entertainment made Covent Garden Theatre a symbol of cultural excellence.

However, Harris's role as a theatre controller was not limited to the theatrical realm. He was deeply involved in the political and social life of Georgian London. He was a confidant of George III, the king of England, and played a significant role in shaping the king's policies and decisions. Harris was also a philanthropist, supporting various charitable causes and organizations.

Despite his many achievements, Harris's life was not without controversy. He was a sexual suspect, with rumors circulating about his involvement in various sexual scandals and affairs. These rumors often overshadowed his contributions to society and his reputation as a respected figure.

Thomas Harris as a Confidant of George III:
In addition to his theatrical and political endeavors, Harris was also a confidant of George III. The king trusted Harris with sensitive information and sought his advice on various matters. Harris's close relationship with the king allowed him to gain insights into the inner workings of the government and the royal court.

As a confidant, Harris was privy to the king's personal life and concerns. He was often present at private gatherings and events, providing support and counsel to the king. Harris's role as a confidant was not without its challenges, however. He was often caught in the middle of political intrigues and power struggles, and his loyalty to the king was tested on numerous occasions.

Despite these challenges, Harris's relationship with George III was a valuable asset to the king. Harris's insights and advice helped the king navigate the complex political landscape of Georgian London and make informed decisions. Harris's loyalty to the king was unwavering, and he remained a trusted confidant until the king's death in 1820.

Thomas Harris as a Philanthropist:
In addition to his political and theatrical roles, Harris was also a philanthropist. He supported various charitable causes and organizations, including the Royal Society of London and the Society for the Promotion of Christian Knowledge. Harris's philanthropy was driven by his belief in the importance of education and social welfare.

Through his charitable work, Harris helped to improve the lives of many people in Georgian London. He provided funding for schools and universities, supported the construction of hospitals and other medical facilities, and provided assistance to the poor and marginalized. Harris's philanthropy was widely recognized and respected, and he was considered a model of social responsibility and compassion.

Thomas Harris as a Sexual Suspect:
Despite his many achievements and contributions to society, Harris's life was not without controversy. He was a sexual suspect, with rumors circulating about his involvement in various sexual scandals and affairs. These rumors often overshadowed his other accomplishments and tarnished his reputation.

The rumors surrounding Harris's sexual behavior began in the early 1800s, when he was in his late 50s. There were reports of his involvement in brothels and sexual encounters with young women. These rumors were fueled by his close relationship with the underworld of Covent Garden, where brothels were prevalent.

Despite the rumors, Harris maintained his innocence and refused to engage in any sexual activity that was illegal or immoral. He denied any involvement in brothels or any other form of sexual misconduct and claimed that the rumors were simply a result of his association with the underworld.

Despite his denials, the rumors persisted and continued to impact Harris's life. He was subjected to public scrutiny and ridicule, and his reputation as a respected figure was damaged. Harris's sexual suspicions were not fully resolved until his death in 1820, when his will was probated.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, Thomas Harris was a multifaceted figure who played significant roles in the theatrical, political, and philanthropic worlds of Georgian London. While his career as the controller of Covent Garden Theatre was well-known, his life was far more complex. He was a confidant of George III, a philanthropist, a sexual suspect, and an owner of a brothel in the underworld of Covent Garden.

Despite the controversies and challenges that he faced, Harris's contributions to society were significant. He was a model of social responsibility and compassion, supporting various charitable causes and organizations. His legacy continues to inspire and influence people today, and his life serves as a reminder of the complexities and contradictions of the eighteenth century.

As novelists created elaborate storylines with fictional intriguers lurking in the shadows, Harris was the real thing. In this lively recreation of life in Georgian London — social, political, sexual, theatrical — his career intersects many of the hidden worlds of the eighteenth century. This narrative of detection brings together a hoard of newly discovered manuscripts to construct his many lives.

Weight: 516g
Dimension: 163 x 240 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526129123