Inadmissible Evidence

Inadmissible Evidence is a Tony-nominated play written by Britain's John Osborne in 1965.

The protagonist of the play is William Maitland, a middle-aged English solicitor (lawyer) who has come to hate his entire life. Much of the play consists of lenthy monologues in which Maitland tells the audience about his life, a life he now regards as an utter failure. He readily acknowledges that he is bored with his wife and children, and just as bored by the petty, meaningless love affairs he's been carrying on with other women. His career revolves around sordid divorce cases, and he's come to despise both his clients and his colleagues.

In Act One, like a prosecutor presenting a case, Maitland brtually shows the audience the utter despair and mediocrity of his life. In Act Two, Maitland's crimes receive their due punishment, as he is deserted by everyone he ever cared about.

The role of Maitland was first played by Nicol Williamson, who played the role in the original West End production of "Inadmissible Evidence" and in its Broadway debut.