Scandalous Facts About Nell Gwyn, England’s Royal Mistress
Nell Gwyn was an X-Rated Cinderella. Born in abject poverty, she became a professional actress, the beloved mistress of King Charles II, and died as an icon of the Restoration. However, all Nell's legendary insults and remarkable beauty couldn't save her from drama, scandal, and sorrow. Take a bow to these fierce facts about Nell Gwyn, England’s Royal Mistress.
Nell Gwyn Facts
1. A One-King Woman
Charles II took many mistresses, and some of them returned their king’s infidelity. For example, he once caught one of Nell’s rivals, Lady Castlemaine, in a “not good” position with the Duke of Marlborough (understatement of the century).
In contrast, Gwyn met Charles when she was just 17 and was faithful to him not just until his death, but afterward too.
2. An “Honest” Mistake
According to lore, Gwyn used her signature wit to defend herself from an anti-Catholic mob in 1681. While she was passing through Oxford, a crowd besieged Gwyn, mistaking her for a Catholic rival in the king’s bed. As they screamed at "the Catholic whore," Gwyn popped her head out of the carriage window and assured the mob, “Good people, you are mistaken; I am the Protestant whore!” The crowd cheered and allowed Nell to carry on her way.
3. It’s Not Size That Matters
Nell was a true beauty. She had chestnut hair, light hazel eyes, and a dazzling smile. In contrast to the buxom bodies favored by Restoration beauty standards, however, Gwyn was petite, albeit “shapely." She became especially known for her curvaceous legs and daintily tiny feet. But that wasn't all that drew men to Nell...
