One comedy legend that is at risk of fading into history is Red Skelton, who performed in vaudeville, on stage, radio, television and the movies from 1923-1993; retiring a few years before his passing.
Red's performances are noteworthy for two reasons. The first being the wide range of characters he created, including Clem Kadiddlehopper, Freddie the Freeloader, Junior/The Mean Little Kid and a host of others.
The other aspect was the fact that he always worked clean, leaving the more risqué humor for others in the belief that comedy should be uplifting, family friendly, and genuine. "Never rely on offense or vulgarity. Humor should have a heart that prioritizes kindness, respect, and genuine joy for all."
A master of adlibbing/improving long before Robin Williams or Whose Line Is It Anyway?, a Skelton show or performance never stayed 100% completely on script, depending upon what might happen either during performing or recording.
While self taught, Red was also an accomplished painter, mostly of clowns and considered himself one instead of a comedian.
But now it's time for some classic Red Skelton jokes.
Any kid will run an errand for you, if you ask at bedtime.
Jimmy the pigeon shows up without any feathers. “I was flying low in Beverly Hills and got caught in one heck of a badminton game.”
Congress: Bingo with billions. But I don't pick on politicians. They ain't done nothing.
John Wayne once told me, 'Courage is being scared to death but saddling up anyway.' I told him, 'John, I get scared just looking at a saddle!'
I've unfortunately put on a lot of weight. Then again, I only weighed six and a half pounds when I was born.
Television is the device that brings characters into your living room that you would never allow in your living room.
My doctor said I look like a million dollars: green and wrinkled.
Sadly, we lost Red in 1997, but the world sure could use his style of comedy today.
If by chance some day you're not feeling well and you should remember some silly thing I've said or done and it brings back a smile to your face or a chuckle to your heart, then my purpose as your clown has been fulfilled.
