CLOWNSIZING: The All-Time Biggest Las Vegas Clowns

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While Las Vegas is renowned for its dazzling lights and world-class entertainment, it hasn’t historically been celebrated as a clown town. Most people associate the city more with Elvis impersonators and high-stakes poker than with clowns. Yet, over the years, the city has boasted a handful of memorable clown figures, both real and fictional. Here, we take a playful look at some of the most famous clowns who have graced the Strip.

Circus Circus’ Jocko the Clown sign wasn’t added until the casino was eight years old. (Image: Circus Circus postcard)

The Clown Chronicles

Clowns have brought joy and laughter to many in Las Vegas from the quirky Circus Circus to the performance stages of Cirque du Soleil. Here are some notable figures:

1. Lucky the Clown, Circus Circus Sign

Lucky the Clown is one of the most recognisable symbols in Las Vegas. This cheerful figure has welcomed guests to Circus Circus since 1976. Designed by the Young Electric Sign Company (YESCO), this towering 123-foot-tall clown embodies the carnival spirit of the casino, often serving as a backdrop for countless iconic Hollywood scenes. With its colorful display from mid-century American circus art, Lucky’s charm remains fresh even after undergoing several refurbishments.

2. Jocko the Clown, Boardwalk Casino Sign

Jocko the Clown greeted guests at the Boardwalk Casino from 1988-2006. (Image: UNLV Special Collections)

Jocko the Clown is fondly remembered as the mascot of the now-demolished Boardwalk Casino, which operated between 1988 and 2006. This unique establishment featured a faux roller coaster and a theme park atmosphere, offering guests a delightful escape from the usual casino glamour. Although Jocko was not preserved when the casino was dismantled, his likeness still enjoys life through collectible silver strike tokens from special slot machines of the ’90s.

3. Blinko the Clown, Circus Circus Performer

Blinko (Ernie Burch), a notable Circus Circus performer in the late ’70s. (Image: UNLV Special Collections)

Ernie Burch, better known as Blinko, was a much-loved figure during his time as a performer at Circus Circus. His career began under the Big Top, and he soon captivated audiences in Las Vegas with his cheerful demeanor and comic charisma. Blinko became synonymous with family-friendly entertainment, often seen crafting balloon animals and spreading joy among guests. Sadly, he passed away in 1993, leaving cherished memories for many.

4. Wayne Hronek & Brian Dewhurst, the Old Clown in “Mystère”

Brian Dewhurst as the Old Clown. (Image: clownlink.com)

Cirque du Soleil’s “Mystère” showcased two significant clown figures in Wayne Hronek and Brian Dewhurst. Hronek was pivotal in developing the clown role which seamlessly blended humor and emotion, enriching the show’s narrative. After Hronek’s departure, Dewhurst took over the role and continued to evolve the character’s depth and significance, becoming the oldest performer in Cirque history when he bowed out at age 89 in 2022.

5. Mr. Whimsey, Iconic Painting at Silver Slipper

Mr. Whimsy hung high in the entryway of the Silver Slipper for three decades. (Image: Greg Autry)

Mr. Whimsy, also known as the Hobo Clown, was a striking painting by Julian Ritter, known for capturing the essence of Las Vegas’ theatricality. For over 30 years, this stunning piece welcomed guests at the Silver Slipper, adding a layer of artistic narrative to the casino’s glamorous atmosphere.

Notably, Howard Hughes acquired the casino in 1968, showcasing the profound connection between art and entertainment in Las Vegas.

Summary

Las Vegas has provided a stage for numerous memorable clowns over the years, from bright neon signs like Lucky to iconic performers like Blinko and the clowns of Cirque du Soleil. Each character contributes uniquely to the rich tapestry of Las Vegas culture, creating an unforgettable experience for visitors.