Red Skelton

Biography

Red Skelton, born to a former circus performer and a cleaning lady, was immersed in the world of entertainment from a young age, having been introduced to show business at just seven by Ed Wynn during a vaudeville performance in Vincennes. By the age of ten, he had already left home to join a traveling medicine show across the Midwest and entered the vaudeville scene at fifteen. At seventeen, he married Edna Marie Stilwell, who became not only his wife but also his vaudeville partner, manager, and chief writer.

Skelton made his Broadway debut in 1937, followed by appearances on radio and film the following year. His career took a significant turn in 1951 when he signed a lucrative seven-year contract with Hollywood, coinciding with the launch of his iconic television program, The Red Skelton Hour, on NBC. The show enjoyed remarkable success, remaining a top-rated program until 1971 and showcasing beloved characters such as Clem Kaddiddlehopper and George Appleby.

Although he identified primarily as a clown, Skelton's artistic talents extended to painting, particularly of clown themes, which became a profitable venture post-television. His personal life faced challenges, including two divorces and the tragic loss of his son Richard to leukemia at the age of nine. A dedicated supporter of children's charities, Skelton continued to perform live until health issues arose. He passed away from pneumonia at 84 on September 17, 1997, in Rancho Mirage, California, and was laid to rest at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Glendale, California.