Merlin Holland Oscar Wildes only grandson offers his insight into his grandfathers life, and most uniquely after-life.
Fans of Oscar Wilde will never have a greater opportunity to learn, first hand, about what has been described as one of the most important books about him for fifty years. After Oscar exposes the decades of sensationalism and conjecture surrounding the Wilde family. It explores this from both the perspective of the aftermath of his death but also with a 21st century view from a world where many cannot now possibly conceive the shock his trail caused documenting a century of homophobia within the British establishment. For decades Oscar was anything but the gay icon or celebrated playwright and writer that he is today. We are honoured to be joined by Merlin Holland, Wildes only grandson who has travelled to us from France to a part of Devon where Wilde once lived (now Torquays Osborne Hotel). This will be a very special occasion.
Wildes afterlife remains almost as rich and entertaining as his life. The Guardian.
You can submit questions to Merlin Holland in advance of this event, to [email protected], and he will be signing copies of After Oscar in the Stage Left area of the Palace Theatre.
More information at www.torbayliteraryfestival.co.uk
14:30-16:30 Thursday 13 August 2026 (Main Stage) 28.00