Johnny Washington in The Matchmaker as Cornelius Hackl

Cornelius Hackl is a character in the play "The Matchmaker" by Thornton Wilder. He is a young and naïve chief clerk at the Mr. Vandergelder's retail store in Yonkers, New York. Cornelius becomes dissatisfied with his mundane life and longs for adventure and excitement. When he hears about the widow Mrs. Irene Molloy, who is also yearning for adventure, he decides to seize the opportunity for a change.

Throughout the play, Cornelius embarks on a humorous and misadventure-filled journey to New York City with his friend and co-worker, Barnaby Tucker. Their aim is to escape their daily routines and experience the thrills of the big city. Along the way, Cornelius meets Mrs. Molloy and her assistant, Minnie Fay. He is initially mistaken for a wealthy man, which further complicates his escapade.

Cornelius's character evolves as he confronts his fears, gains confidence, and even falls in love with Irene Molloy. "The Matchmaker" is a comedy that explores themes of love, self-discovery, and the pursuit of happiness, and Cornelius Hackl's transformation throughout the play is a key element of the story.