He was first in the sloop 'Raven'. When she was wrecked in 1798, Cooke survived two days clinging to the wreckage until he struggled ashore. He nearly died of rheumatic fever but, while the episode affected his later health, he recovered enough to return to sea in the 'Prince of Wales'. He permanently came ashore in April 1802 at the Peace of Amiens. After initially joining a travelling circus, he moved to the London stage and became a well-known figure. A practical man, he was an arranger of pantomimes and spectacles and a performer, initially of villains (including the monster in the first stage adaptation of 'Frankenstein') but later of sailors. His first hit in this line was Long Tom Coffin in 'The Pilot' adapted by Edward Fitzball from J. Fenimore Cooper's novel in 1825. In these roles his imposing figure, skilful dancing of the hornpipe, and knowledge of seamen and their habits made him unmatched.

This image was probably painted from a photograph by Mayall dated c.1853, or an engraving based on it. Cooke was awarded the Naval General Service medal in 1849, with the St Vincent clasp, for his service in the 'Raven'.