John Simpson, a former crime reporter, left journalism to become a clown. He shared insights into his career transition with Morning Edition. Having spent 15 years reporting on crime in Britain, Simpson moved to clowning, which requires a different relationship with disaster.

Simpson practices theater clowning, distinct from the circus variety. His performances avoid the typical clown attire and focus on onstage mishaps. One act features him as a spiritual guru who humorously loses his temper when his expectations aren’t met.

Before turning to clowning, Simpson worked for The Times of London and The Observer, covering organized crime, policing, murder investigations, and protests. He described his journalism career dynamically, mentioning experiences like going undercover as a football hooligan.

Simpson told NPR’s Steve Inskeep that while a comedian makes jokes, a clown embodies the joke itself. His story resonated at a Morning Edition meeting due to surprising connections—with relatives and even NPR correspondent Daniel Estrin having ties to clown school.

Simpson believes clowning attracts interest because people seek meaning and humanity in a world that seems to be losing them.

Tim Reid, a doctoral student, explores clowning’s tradition and rise in the U.S. The term “clown school” often refers to workshops or classes, with formal programs contracting. Reid noted clowning’s contemporary presence in cities like New York, Toronto, and Los Angeles.

The term “clown school” generally pertains to workshops. Reid explained how clowning has evolved into acting programs and independent classes.

Clowning’s popularity involves a sense of danger, ambiguity, and moral ambivalence, according to Reid. Simpson’s embrace of clowning came from a career struggle, witnessing the effects of depleted newsrooms and sensational headlines.

Simpson questioned his career’s intellectual contribution to society’s negative diet. His personal life—including struggles with alcoholism—also influenced his decision. Signing up for a clown course marked the start of hundreds of training hours.

Clowning challenges performers to face the audience openly. Simpson recounted overcoming fears by acknowledging them during training. He emphasized authenticity, stating the audience can see through any facade.

In contrast to the algorithm-driven media environment, Simpson appreciates clowning’s personal interaction—real people in real rooms. Reid noted another parallel: Clowning adjusts to audience reactions much like TikTok adapts content based on viewer engagement.

Simpson aims to earn a living through clown workshops and writes a newsletter. The job market for clowns presents challenges, departing from traditional journalism’s premise-based approach.