The Red Skelton Show was a television staple for two decades, from 1951 to
1971. The variety show was second to Gunsmoke (1955–1975) and third to
The Ed Sullivan Show (1948–1971) in the ratings during that time. The host
of the show, Richard Bernard "Red" Skelton, who had previously been a radio
star, had appeared in several motion pictures as well. The series began and
ended on NBC. During its run, the show received three Emmy Awards, for
Skelton as best comedian and the program as best comedy show during its
initial season, and an award for comedy writing in 1961. In 1959 Skelton also
received a Golden Globe for Best TV Show.

 
Richard Bernard "Red" Skelton
(July 18, 1913 – September 17, 1997)