Though circus performer Joe Skelton died before his son reached one year of age, he would've been immensely proud of the boy. After getting his first break at as a teenager and joining his father's old circus employer, Red went on to become a radio and television presenter, a stand up comedian and a household name. He was also an accomplished painter and his images of clowns and hobos reflect his circus roots.

 

Red Skelton paintings and lithographs are collectors items today.