The Red Skelton Show

If you are after a comedy that actually makes you laugh out loud, The Red Skelton Show is available in the US on Amazon Prime Video right now. Every one of its 20 seasons holds up. 19 people have weighed in on TMDB, and the verdict leans heavily positive. Red Skelton's performance alone is worth the time investment. Put it on tonight on Amazon Prime Video and see for yourself.

Whatever else is competing for your attention this week, The Red Skelton Show is worth clearing space for. Sharp writing and a well-matched ensemble are what separate The Red Skelton Show from the crowd. The Red Skelton Show is an American variety show that was a television staple for two decades, from 1951 to 1971. It was second to Gunsmoke and third to The Ed Sullivan Show in the ratings during that time. Skelton, who had previously been a radio star, had appeared in several motion pictures as well. Red Skelton leads a cast that never overplays a joke. Across 20 seasons (1951–1971), it never lost the thread that made it worth starting. The Red Skelton Show earns its laughs from character rather than situation, which is why it does not wear thin the way pure farce tends to. It delivers reliably on what it promises, which is more than most of its competition manages.

Comedy fans looking for a reliably funny watch will find it in The Red Skelton Show. If you have already watched The Carol Burnett Show, The Red Skelton Show is a natural next step. The 20-season run rewards the patience it asks of you. Red Skelton anchors an ensemble with real chemistry. Genuinely funny, consistently, across the whole run.

The Red Skelton Show wrapped up in 1971 — and 20 seasons are available to watch from start to finish. Find exactly where it's streaming below, and TV Butler Pro makes it effortless to track your progress as you go. Just search the name, and Butler finds it instantly, tells you which service has it, and remembers exactly where you left off.