What is Weary Willie Day?

The art of clowning and the effects it has on our lives are highlighted on Weary Willie Day on December 9th. This holiday was named after Emmett Kelly, who was born on this day in 1898, who was born on this day in 1898.

Weary Willie was a peculiar figure in clowning. Weary Willy was created at a time when the white-faced, goofy clown was the norm, but selling the idea of a sad, down-on-his-luck clown did not fit the style most circuses were looking for. Kelly reverted to the white face and the brightly colored costume for the time being.

Times and attitudes changed when the country was still reeling from the Great Depression's depths. The nation's face was represented by Downtrodden and world-weary.. People could identify with Weary Willie like never before.. Weary Willie, his frowning, whisker-shadowed face, as well as his smocking, torn, and worn costume, went on to become an American icon.

Emmett Kelly Jr., Weary Willie's son, carried on his appearance into the modern age until his death in 2003 at the age of 83. 83.