Briefly attended the American Academy of Dramatic Arts.
Served in the U.S. Navy. When stationed in California, started
bull-riding, and kept riding for several years.
Earned his Bachelor of Fun Arts Degree from Ringling Bros. Barnum &
Bailey Clown College.
In clown college, his pratfall ability was likened to one of his
heroes, Dick Van Dyke. He later wore the same clown costume Van Dyke
had worn on the circus's 20th Anniversary TV special.