Collection: Ernie Kovacs

Ernie Kovacs is known as one of the greatest innovators in comedy, pushing the boundaries of television sketch comedy. Kovacs got his start in 1941 on a local radio station in New Jersey where he worked successfully for nine years. After transitioning to TV he hosted shows such as “Pick Your Ideal” and “Three To Get Ready,” which became the first regularly scheduled early morning show in a major television market. His biggest success came from “The Ernie Kovacs Show” which aired from 1951 to 1962. The show was very experimental and avant-garde which gained him a loyal following and changed the world of sketch comedy. His deadpan delivery, wacky characters and quick wit are what made him the innovator he was, inspiring other television programs such as “Rowan and Martin’s Laugh-In” and “Saturday Night Live.” Kovacs has also been named as an inspiration to many leading names in the comedy world, including Johnny Carson, Chevy Chase and Andy Kaufman. His unique approach to comedy and trailblazing skills in technology have made him a beloved figure in entertainment.

2025 will see the premier of a rare, lost episode of the television game show Take A Good Look on the Clown Jewels YouTube Channel to celebrate Kovac's birthday on January 23, as well as an audio release of radio content not previously heard since original broadcast the following day.  Titled Mayhem in the A.M.: The Lost Radio Comedy of Ernie Kovacs, this collection of radio sketches helps illustrate the influential style of comedy that ultimately led to a television program and continued to shape comedy for generations.

Take A Good Look began in 1959 and was an off-the-wall game show hosted by Ernie Kovacs. Guests from all fields were identified by a celebrity panel via a series of pre-recorded clips featuring Kovacs and regular cast members Peggy Connelly, Jolene Brand & Bobby Lauer. Celebrity panelists included  Edie Adams, Cesar Romero, Hans Conried, Carl Reiner, Zsa Zsa Gabor, Jane Wyatt, Mort Sahl, Jack Carson, Tony Randall, Janet Leigh, Jim Backus and Jacqueline Susann.  Beyond the premier of the lost episode, Clown Jewels will be posting classic episodes of Take A Good Look throughout the year.