William Kempe, popularly known as Will Kemp, was a prominent English actor and dancer of the Elizabethan era who achieved great renown for his comedic performances. Active during the late sixteenth century, Kempe was widely regarded by his contemporaries as the natural successor to Richard Tarlton, the preeminent comic performer of the preceding generation. Kempe's physical comedy and energetic dancing style made him a favorite among theatergoers of the period.\n\nKempe is best remembered for his close association with William Shakespeare. He was one of the original stage actors to perform in Shakespeare's early dramas, and he is believed to have originated several major comic roles, potentially including the famous character Falstaff. His professional standing was cemented in December 1598 when he became one of the five core actor-shareholders in the Lord Chamberlain's Men, a prestigious theatrical company that also included Shakespeare and the tragic actor Richard Burbage.\n\nDespite his significant success and influence within the London theater scene, Kempe's tenure with the Lord Chamberlain's Men was short-lived, and he departed the company soon after its formation. Although he intended to continue his performing career independently, his later years were marked by financial decline. He is believed to have died in poverty and relative obscurity around 1603.
