John Ford was born in 1586 in Devonshire. Little is known about his childhood but he did attend Exeter College at Oxford briefly before going to Middle Tempe in 1602.

John Ford realized phenomenal success as a playwright during the reign of Charles I. He was best known for his work Tis Pity She's a Whore that would first debut in 1633. The play was one that spoke of familiar taboos such as family incest. However, it was a hit and remains today as a classical piece of drama from the era.

Ford published various works of notable recognition throughout his career. He had two poems that he published in 1606 that only added to his literary credits. Fame's Memorial and Honor Triumphant were praised within scholarly circles.

John Ford's work for the stage began with various plays and other works including the chronicle of The Witch of Edmonton and The Lover's Melancholy. One of his more notable plays, The Lady's Trial was published in 1639 which is the year many believe that he also decided to get married.

After his marriage, he retired to Ilsington where he is believed to have returned to his family's manor home. He had several children with his wife and most historians believe that John Ford died "around the middle" of the century.