
Sir Henry Irving
A celebrated actor whose home was crashed into by the first drunk driver.
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Sep 10, 2021 • 12min
The 19th Century Drunk Driver
In this episode, George Smith, the first person arrested for drunk driving in 1897, shares his infamous story. He hilariously recounts crashing into the home of celebrated actor Sir Henry Irving, who faced the fallout of this historical moment. The discussion reveals how shame has shaped drink-driving convictions over the years and explores the bizarre excuses people have used to justify their actions. Plus, the guests tackle the evolution of laws and the role of the ‘Drunkometer’ in assessing sobriety.