Weary Willie

Weary Willie was a famous clown character created and performed by Emmett Kelly. Kelly, a renowned American circus clown, developed Weary Willie in 1923, modeling the character on Depression-era tramps. Weary Willie was depicted as a mournful hobo, characterized by tattered clothing, a growth of beard, and a bulbous nose. Kelly's portrayal of this down-and-out character was highly acclaimed, with one of his most famous routines involving him attempting to sweep up a spotlight. The term "Weary Willie" itself can also refer to someone who avoids work or is a tramp.123