London’s private members’ clubs have a rich history, with The Garrick Club standing out as one of the oldest, founded in 1831. This prestigious club boasts a membership that has included literary giants like H.G. Wells, Charles Dickens, A.A. Milne, T.S. Eliot, and P.G. Wodehouse. However, despite the passage of time and significant societal changes, The Garrick Club still maintains its antiquated policy of admitting only male members, making it a relic of the past in the modern era.
Efforts to modernize the club and allow the admission of women have been met with staunch opposition from its members. In 2015, a vote was held among members to decide whether to admit women, with 50.5% in favor, but the motion failed to pass as a two-thirds majority was required.
This unwillingness to adapt has garnered criticism, with The Guardian newspaper leading a campaign for reform. The recent leak of the club’s highly confidential membership list, revealing some prominent actors among its members, has added fuel to the fire. While being a member of The Garrick Club does not necessarily indicate support for its exclusionary policies, public figures in the United Kingdom are resigning their memberships in protest.
Notable actors who are members of The Garrick Club include Brian Cox, known for his role in Succession, Matthew Macfadyen, also from Succession, Benedict Cumberbatch, famous for portraying Doctor Strange in the MCU, Hugh Bonneville of Downton Abbey and the Paddington movies, Hugh Laurie from House M.D., Stephen Fry, renowned TV presenter and actor, David Suchet, known for his portrayal of Poirot, and Damian Lewis, star of Homeland and Billions.
The inclusion of these actors on the membership list has sparked controversy, with theater director Jude Kelly questioning the compatibility of leading a major arts organization while being a member of a club that excludes women. The revelation of these memberships has disappointed many who admire these actors, highlighting the ongoing debate surrounding The Garrick Club’s outdated policies.
