You'll never work . . .

Posted by Henry on June 05, 2003

In Reply to: You'll never work . . . posted by ESC on June 05, 2003

: : : Where does the phrase "You'll never work in this town again" come from?

: : It's a cliché about actors and actresses in Hollywood, meaning "You'll never get another part in a film." Did it come from real life, movies, or print fiction? Don't know.

: I am guessing real life. Someone used a variation in a book title: "You'll Never Eat Lunch in This Town Again" by Julia Phillips

In 1882, the committee for Preston Guild awaited the arrival of Prince Leopold, Duke of Albany. An enigmatic letter arrived from Windsor Castle saying, "Were it not for a slight indisposition, I would have enjoyed attending the Preston Guild."
"Does that mean he's not coming?" asked one.
"Aye," replied another.
"Reet. He'll never work in Preston again!"
The cotton lords certainly had the power to prevent unpopular workers from working in a town.