Background
Mary Ann Yates was born in 1728. She was the daughter of William Graham, a ship's steward.
Mary Ann Yates was born in 1728. She was the daughter of William Graham, a ship's steward.
In 1753 she appeared at Drury Lane as Marcia in Samuel Crisp's (d. 1783) Virginia, Garrick being the Virginius. She was gradually entrusted with all the leading parts. Mrs Yates, whose husband, Richard Yates (с. 1706 - 1796), was a well-known comedian, succeeded Mrs Cibber as the leading tragedian of the English stage, and was in turn succeeded-and eclipsed-by Mrs Siddons.
She married Richard Yates, a well-known comedian of the time.