The Red Skelton Show

Red Skelton started in radio during the 40s and was one of the brightest new stars to come along.  Red was a visual comedian, so unlike many of his counterparts, he made an easy transition to TV. He arrived on TV in 1951 and remained at the top for 20 years. The Red Skelton Show was a classic comedy show.

Most of his characters were developed on radio and worked so well and he continued to develop them on television. Some of his well known characters were; The Mean Widdle Kid, Clem Kadiddlehopper, Sheriff Deadeye, Cauliflower McPugg, San Fernando Red, the con man; the henpecked husband George Appleby,Willie Lump-Lump, the drunk, Ludwick von Humperdoo, the scientist and Bolivar Shagnasty. Freddie the Freeloader was a hobo that did not speak and was added for television. His character was pantomimed and Red Skelton was the best artist of pantomime that TV has ever known.

He opened each show with a monologue and did sketches with his guest stars that were hilarious. The humor was always broad and clean and many times heartwarming. He loved to perform and loved his audience as much as they loved him. He closed each show with these remarks:

"If not feeling well, and you should
remember some silly little thing someday you're  I've said or done,
and if it brings a smile to your face or a chuckle
to your heart, then my purpose has been fulfilled."

The time has come to say goodnight,
My how time does fly.
We've had a laugh, perhaps a tear,
And now we hear good-bye.
I really hate to say goodnight,
For times like these are few.
I wish you love and happiness,
In everything you do.
The time has come to say goodnight,
I hope I've made a friend...
And so we'll say, "May God bless you, Until we meet again."