Chapter
The Story of Schlitzy, a Star of the Beloved Film "Freaks"
31:36 - 35:31 (03:54)
Schlitzy, a star performer in freak shows during the early 20th century and in the beloved film "Freaks," was billed as a woman for most of his career due to his slightly abnormally shaped head, which was exaggerated by the haircut he was given. He was paid $1 a day at first to grunt and pretend to play the violin poorly.
Clips
The story of the Elephant Man, Joseph Merrick, has been distorted over time.
31:36 - 33:49 (02:12)
Summary
The story of the Elephant Man, Joseph Merrick, has been distorted over time. Recent research has revealed the truth behind his condition and how it was exploited in the society of his time.
ChapterThe Story of Schlitzy, a Star of the Beloved Film "Freaks"
EpisodeSelects: How Freak Shows Worked
PodcastStuff You Should Know
Schlitzy was a microcephalic man who performed in sideshows, frequently billed as a woman due to his incontinence, but was loved by everyone who met him for his kind-hearted and optimistic nature.
33:49 - 35:31 (01:41)
Summary
Schlitzy was a microcephalic man who performed in sideshows, frequently billed as a woman due to his incontinence, but was loved by everyone who met him for his kind-hearted and optimistic nature. He even had a speaking role in the movie Freaks, but no one knows what he said.