Red Skelton, the beloved comedian known for his slapstick humor and chalk drawings, navigated several significant relationships throughout his life. His romantic journey included multiple marriages, each reflecting different chapters of his personal growth.
Behind the painted face and comedic antics, Skelton experienced genuine devotion, heartbreak, and commitment, making his marital history an important part of understanding the man beyond the stage.
| Name | Years Married | Marriage Status | Children Together |
|---|---|---|---|
| Edna Marie St. Clair | 1939–1942 | Divorced | 1 |
| Elliotah | 1945–1973 | Divorced | 2 |
| Moms Mabley | 1973–1975 | Divorced | 0 |
| LaLa Parker | 1975–2013 | Died with him | 0 |
Early Marriage to Edna Marie St. Clair
Red Skelton’s first marriage to Edna Marie St. Clair in 1939 occurred early in his career when he was establishing himself in vaudeville. This union brought one daughter, but the demanding travel schedule and his rapid rise to fame created strain.
The couple divorced in 1942, marking an end that reflected the challenges of balancing personal life with the pressures of national celebrity during wartime.
Long-Term Partnership with Elliotah
Building a Family
In 1945, Skelton married his longtime secretary, Elliotah, beginning the most enduring chapter of his romantic life. They remained together for nearly three decades, welcoming two sons and presenting a united public front.
Challenges and Separation
Despite their longevity, the marriage faced difficulties in the 1960s, including personal struggles and changing family dynamics. They formally divorced in 1973, closing a significant era in his personal history.
Relationship with Moms Mabley
Following his divorce, Skelton entered a relationship with legendary comedian Moms Mabley, an unusual pairing given their age difference and different comedic styles.
They married briefly in 1973 before separating, demonstrating how even established stars continued to search for companionship and understanding in later years.
Stable Union with LaLa Parker
Final Commitment
In 1975, Skelton married LaLa Parker, who remained by his side until his death in 1997. This marriage provided the stability and loyalty he had sought in previous relationships.
Shared Later Life
LaLa Parker survived him and passed away in 2013, having shared nearly four decades together. Their enduring bond contrasted with his earlier, more turbulent relationships.
Key Takeaways
- Red Skelton married four times, spanning seven decades of personal change.
- His longest marriage was to Elliotah, lasting nearly three decades.
- He had children only with his first two wives, Edna Marie St. Clair and Elliotah.
- His final marriage to LaLa Parker lasted from 1975 until his death in 1997.
- Public interest in his relationships reflected his status as a cultural icon beyond comedy.
FAQ
Reader questions
How many times was Red Skelton married, and to whom?
Red Skelton was married four times: to Edna Marie St. Clair, Elliotah, Moms Mabley, and LaLa Parker.
Which marriage lasted the longest?
His marriage to Elliotah lasted nearly 28 years, making it his longest relationship, though he and LaLa Parker had the longest continuous partnership in his later life.
Did he have children with more than one wife?
Yes, he had one daughter with Edna Marie St. Clair and two sons with Elliotah, but no children with his later wives.
What impact did his marriages have on his career and public image?
His marital struggles were often subjects of public speculation, and his final, stable marriage with LaLa Parker enhanced his reputation as a devoted and reliable partner offstage.