Step right up and prepare to peek behind the painted smiles, as today’s guest, professional clown Guilford Adams, reveals there's more to the profession than a big red nose. As the co-director of the feature-length documentary American Clown, Guilford joins us to discuss the film, which explores the plight of clowns in a country that increasingly views them with apprehension and disdain.
Guilford traces his roots to his childhood church, where he discovered his love for magic and comedy. He recounts his evolution from a junior high clown to a professional performer, including his time with the Ronald McDonald program and how the clowning landscape has shifted over the years.
Guilford discusses the challenges that clowns face today, particularly the stigma created by horror films and negative media portrayals. He reflects on how these representations affect his career and the wider clowning community, as highlighted in American Clown. Despite these hurdles, he emphasizes the resilience and creativity inherent in the clowning tradition. The conversation explores the diversity within clowning, highlighting different classifications of clowns from classic to modern specialties. Guilford underscores the importance of community among clowns, pointing out the supportive networks that exist despite the competitive nature of the industry.
Guilford also shares how fatherhood has influenced his craft. As a dad to twin boys, he reveals how parenting has shaped his understanding of performance and deepened his empathy as an artist. This episode offers an insightful look into the art of clowning, illustrating how it goes beyond mere entertainment to foster connection and understanding in a complex world—themes that resonate throughout American Clown.
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About Guilford Adams and ‘American Clown’
Guilford Adams is a seasoned professional clown and actor with over two decades of experience in the entertainment industry. Known affectionately as Gilly the Clown, he has delighted audiences across the Los Angeles area, performing at more than 3,000 parties and events. His notable appearances extend beyond kids’ parties; he has worked on popular TV shows including Glee, Big Time Rush, and Modern Family, showcasing his versatility and talent. In addition to television, Guilford’s career includes roles in nearly 70 commercials and a significant number of films.
Recently, Guilford co-directed and produced the feature-length documentary American Clown, which delves into the evolving perception of clowns in contemporary society. The film highlights the challenges faced by clowns, particularly in light of rising public apprehension, referring to incidents of “clown panic” and the decline of traditional clown roles. Having previously served as an assistant to Ronald McDonald, Guilford provides a unique perspective on these changes and reflects on their impact on himself and his fellow clowns.
American Clown follows Guilford's journey as he engages with both struggling modern performers and legendary figures from the past. Through interviews and personal narratives, the documentary seeks to explore the rich history and artistry of clowning, emphasizing the importance of understanding laughter and joy in an increasingly complex world. Guilford Adams continues to advocate for the clowning community, aiming to preserve its legacy while adapting to new societal dynamics.
All images published with permission of the artist(s); featured graphic: David Schwartz.