Emmett Leo Kelly (December 9, 1898 – March 28, 1979) was an American circus performer who created the clown character "Weary Willie", based on the hobos of the Great Depression in the …

Dec 5, 2025 · Emmett Kelly (born December 9, 1898, Sedan, Kansas, U.S.—died March 28, 1979, Sarasota, Florida) was one of the great American circus clowns, best known for his role …

Emmett Kelly remains the most famous clown in the world. By mirroring the pain and struggles of his audience, he endeared himself to the American public and transformed circus performing.

Emmett Leo Kelly (December 9, 1898 – March 28, 1979) was an American circus performer, who created the clown figure “Weary Willie,” based on the hobos of the Great Depression in the …

Nov 16, 2011 · Emmett Kelly Sr., the most well-known of the tramp clowns of the circus. His character, Weary Willy, was the perpetual underdog, who never gave up – and, because of it, …

Aug 8, 2023 · Learn about the life and legacy of Emmett Kelly.

He was an actor and writer, known for General Electric Theater (1953), Wind Across the Everglades (1958) and The Greatest Show on Earth (1952). He was married to Elvira …

Following the Ringling Brothers experience, Kelly's professional life included movies, nightclub circuit, circus performances, and television. He had become the most famous clown in the world.

Born on December 9, 1898, in Sedan, Kansas, Emmett Kelly emerged as one of the most iconic clowns in American history. Known for his unique persona and silent comedy, Kelly developed …

Emmett Leo Kelly, an American clown known as "Sad Willie" or "Weary Willie," gained great popularity in the character of a tramp clown. Circus critics referred to him as the "Clown with a …