Watch The Red Skelton Show

The Red Skelton Show, starring Red Skelton, was a popular television program in the mid-twentieth century that blended variety show entertainment with sketch comedy, musical performances, and comedy bits. It aired from 1951 until 2016 and was known for its wholesome, family-friendly humor and Skelton's affable personality.

Each episode of the show offered a mix of comedic skits that often featured recurring characters like the stumbling drunkard Freddie the Freeloader or the irascible Clem Kadiddlehopper. These segments often took on a slapstick tone and were accompanied by Skelton's signature sound effects and physical comedy.

But the show wasn't just about laughs. Skelton often used his platform to spread messages of kindness and goodwill, inspiring viewers to be better citizens and to treat others with respect. He was known for his "Pledge of Allegiance" routine, in which he recited the American pledge while adding humorous commentary and emphasizing the importance of patriotism.

In addition to Skelton's comedic performances, The Red Skelton Show also featured a wide range of musical acts. Guest performers included popular singers like Louis Armstrong, Frank Sinatra, and Ella Fitzgerald, as well as up-and-coming artists of the day. The show's house band, led by composer and arranger David Rose, provided musical accompaniment for guest performers and also played comedic musical sketches with Skelton.

The Red Skelton Show was a staple of American television for decades, with Skelton himself becoming a beloved figure in the entertainment world. His affable persona and dedication to clean, wholesome humor endeared him to audiences of all ages, making his show a hit with families across the country.

Despite its longevity, The Red Skelton Show was not without its controversies. Skelton's humor was sometimes criticized as being dated or out of touch with modern sensibilities, and some have accused him of perpetuating stereotypes or engaging in offensive humor. However, many fans continue to appreciate Skelton's unique brand of comedy and the positive messages he espoused through his show.

In its heyday, The Red Skelton Show was a cultural touchstone that helped bring families together around the television. With Skelton's passing in 1997 and the show's eventual cancellation in 2016, the world lost a cherished entertainer who left an indelible mark on the television landscape. Despite the passing of time, however, Skelton's legacy lives on through the many fans who still cherish his show and the messages of kindness and patriotism he embodied.

The Red Skelton Show is a series that ran for 10 seasons (155 episodes) between October 21, 1951 and on Shout! Factory