John Underhill (courtier)

John Underhill (c. 1545 – 1592) was an English courtier and Member of Parliament.

Underhill was the son of Thomas Underhill, a clerk of Newport Pagnell, Buckinghamshire, and his wife, Margaret Worth. He entered the service of Robert Dudley, 1st Earl of Leicester, becoming a Gentleman Pensioner around 1572. He was also described as Leicester's "man" and likely performed a variety of duties for the Earl.

Underhill was elected Member of Parliament for Tamworth in 1584 and again in 1586. His patron, the Earl of Leicester, had considerable influence in Tamworth, Staffordshire.

In 1587, Underhill was involved in a scandal. He was accused of impregnating Agnes Wodell, a maid of honor to Queen Elizabeth I. The affair resulted in Underhill being imprisoned in the Fleet Prison and Agnes Wodell being banished from court. Details of the affair are recorded in letters and court documents of the time.

Underhill eventually married, though his wife's name is unknown. He died in 1592, leaving a will which suggests he had recovered some favour, bequeathing goods and lands.

His career exemplifies the opportunities and risks associated with service in the Elizabethan court, highlighting the importance of patronage and the potential for scandal to derail advancement.