James Hewlett (1778 -1836) was an actor.

^[1]Hewlett is believed to have been a tailor and waiter who also performed on-man shows.

He went on to perform in the African Company at William Alexander Brown's tea garden and then his African Grove Theatre in lower Manhattan.

Hewlett was a servant boy for actor George Frederick Cooke and learned to imitate his actions and attitude. ^[2]A December 22, 1825 article in The Star said, “Hewlett…must have had a natural talent for theatrical performances and an excellent voice, or he could never have surmounted his early difficulties". ^[2]

Hewlett was known for his acting and singing.

^[0]His roles included Richard III and Othello.