Ep 1. Clem The Rookie

The Red Skelton Show season 4 episode 1, "Clem The Rookie," is a classic comedy episode featuring Red Skelton's beloved character, Clem Kadiddlehopper. Clem is a naive, simple-minded yokel who often finds himself in absurd situations. In this episode, Clem decides to try his hand at being a baseball player and joins the team as a rookie.

The episode begins with Red Skelton performing a monologue as his famous character, Freddie the Freeloader, before introducing the main sketch featuring Clem. The scene opens with Clem arriving at the baseball field dressed in his signature overalls and hat, looking excited and nervous at the same time. The team coach, played by actor Frank Nelson, gives Clem a uniform and introduces him to the other players.

Clem's first attempt to catch a ball results in a hilarious mishap as he chases after the ball, running in the opposite direction from where it actually went. This sets the tone for the entire episode as Clem's bumbling attempts at playing baseball lead to numerous gags and comedic moments.

The episode also features appearances by other popular characters from the show, such as the mean-spirited clown, Cauliflower McPugg, who is also on the team. Cauliflower makes fun of Clem's lack of expertise and calls him a "greenhorn" at every possible opportunity.

Throughout the episode, Clem's innocence and pure-heartedness shine through, despite his lack of athletic ability. He manages to make friends with some of his teammates and even helps the team win a game by accidentally hitting the ball in the right direction.

While the main focus of the episode is on Clem's baseball adventures, there are also a few other sketches interspersed throughout the show. One features Red Skelton as his character, the loud-mouthed neighborhood gossip, Gertrude and Heathcliff, who are always getting into everyone's business. Another sketch features Red Skelton playing a bumbling waiter trying to serve a very patient customer.

Overall, "Clem The Rookie" is a classic episode of The Red Skelton Show that showcases the beloved character of Clem Kadiddlehopper at his best. The physical comedy, playful banter, and heartwarming moments make it a joy to watch for fans of the show and newcomers alike.