P.T. Barnum

Grew Up... humbly. His father, a tailor, worked hard to support their family. And through his work, Barnum fell in love with Charity, who was the daughter of one of his father’s wealthy clients. Although they came from different worlds, they decided to get married.

Living… in New York City with Charity and their two daughters. Barnum was feeling guilty that he hadn’t been able to provide more for their family. As he tells Charity, “this is not the life I promised you. Not even close. I promised you a life of magic and wonder.” But that's starting to change.

Profession... former clerk at a shipping company. After the company he worked for went bankrupt, he took out a loan to start a new venture: Barnum’s American Museum. It’s a place where people can see things they’ve never seen before, including a bearded lady.

Interests... anything unusual or macabre. He has brought together people who were being shunned by society and gave them the spotlight. It’s good for business, but it’s also helpful for the cast in the show. They say they finally feel part of a family.

Relationship Status... in love with his wife Charity. But Barnum has been so busy with the show that it’s starting to take a toll on their relationship.

Challenge... entrepreneurship. As Barnum says, doing something new isn’t easy, but it’s worth it: “No one ever made a difference by being like everyone else.” With everything on his plate and not enough money to grow the business, Barnum decides to take on a partner—Phillip Carlyle—to make the show “The Greatest Show on Earth.”

Personality... ambitious, creative, and smooth. Although Barnum hires stars for his show, he’s actually the biggest showman of all. He is truly a master entertainer. But sometimes he can let that go to his head.