George Talbot,
6th Earl of Shrewsbury and Waterford,
Baron Furnivall,
Earl Marshal,
Knight of the Garter

as portrayed by Michael Sanders

I was born in 1528 and am the only son of Francis, my father. Upon my dear father's passing in 1560, I inherited the Earldom of Shrewsbury, the Barony of Furnivall and the position of Justice in Eyre. For those that are not familiar with the term, a Justice in Eyre would be what you now call a "circuit judge".

I was honored when I was installed as a Knight of the Garter in 1561 and that was followed a year later by my marriage to Bess of Hardwick. She and I got on well until Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth tasked me to be the "host" of Mary, Queen of Scots. Soon, it was discovered of the plot against our good Queen and it was my honor to be named Lord High Steward for the trial of Thomas Howard, Duke of Norfolk. I would add I found the entire affair distasteful. Do not misunderstand me - the Duke was rightfully found guilty, but the need to actually have a trial of a peer for treason is one that I hope never to see again.

As for Queen Mary, she is not a prisoner and therefore must be looked after in a fashion according to her station. However, as she is a pariah at the current time, my wife is less than pleased with this situation and I think almost takes pleasure in reminding me of it - repeatedly.

I have been blessed by God to have eight children in my life from my first wife, Mary Dacre of blessed memory. Francis, my oldest son, and my daughters, Grace and Catherine have gone to God as well. My remaining sons and daughters are Gilbert, Grace, Edward, Anne, Henry and Mary.

Lastly, I am quite pleased to report that her Majesty saw fit for me to be elevated to Earl Marshal. This office does put the responsibility of all matters of Heraldry to be in my care, as well as issues with preparations for coronations and opening of Parliament.

Feedback