Clem Kadiddlehopper, Sheriff Deadeye, Gertrude and Heathcliff, Freddie the Freeloader. These were characters created by Red Skelton, one of the finest comedians who ever lived. The Red Skelton Comedy Hour, which aired every Tuesday night at 8 pm, brought me home from whatever I was involved in. My family, all seven of us until 1969, when my brother Jann was born, all gathered around the television set to see which characters would appear on the show each week. I always looked forward to his Christmas program, starring himself as Freddie the Freeloader.

In addition to his comedic genius, Mr. Skelton was also a talented and prolific painter, creating more than one thousand paintings of clowns. The picture above his head at the top of this page was one of his.

He was also a writer and composer. By the time he passed away in 1997, he had composed over eight thousand songs and symphonies. The man was truly talented.

In honor of him, I present a video of him in concert. As you watch the clip, pay attention to his expressions. He seems to be having more fun than the audience members, who are breaking up with laughter!