Michael Polakovs facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Michael Polakovs
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Polakovs dressed as Coco the Clown
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| Born | February 23, 1923 |
| Died | December 6, 2009 (aged 86) Ashland, Kentucky, U.S.
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| Occupation | Clown |
| Years active | 1951–1990 |
| Spouse(s) | Lillian Polakovs (divorced) Hazel Polakovs
(m. 1959) |
| Children | 6 |
| Parent(s) | Nicolai Poliakoff (father) |
Michael Polakovs (born Riga, Latvia on 23 February 1923; died USA on 6 December 2009) was a very famous clown. In America, he was known as Coco the Clown. His father was also a famous clown in Britain with the same name. Michael took on the role of Coco the Clown in America. He was also well-known for being the first Ronald McDonald, the clown who helped advertise the McDonald’s fast food restaurants.
Contents
Michael Polakovs: A Life in the Circus
Michael Polakovs was born in Riga, Latvia. His parents, Nikolai and Valentina, were both circus performers. His father, Nikolai, was already famous as Coco the Clown. The family moved to Britain when Michael was young.
Growing Up in the Circus
Michael was the oldest of six children. He grew up around the circus and started working as a clown himself when he was 17. His clown name was "Coconut." During World War II, Michael and his father had to do other jobs, like digging roads. But Michael still found time to perform as a clown in different circuses.
After the war, the Polakovs family returned to working for Bertram Mills circus. Michael was especially good at stilt-walking. Once, he even helped save a lion tamer who was in danger during a show!
Becoming Coco the Clown in America
In 1951, Michael worked with his brother and sister for Billy Smart’s circus. Then, in 1958, Michael decided to move to the United States. There, he became known as Coco the Clown. He performed with the famous Ringling Brothers Barnum & Bailey Circus, which was called “The Greatest Show on Earth.” He also worked for other circuses later on.
The Original Ronald McDonald
Michael Polakovs played a big part in creating the character of Ronald McDonald. He helped design Ronald’s clown clothes and make-up. He also appeared in the first eight television commercials for McDonald's. This helped make Ronald McDonald a very popular character.
Later in his life, Michael settled in Kentucky with his second wife, Hazel. He passed away in 2009 at the age of 86.
