J.P. Patches: Seattle's Favorite Clown

The J.P. Patches show, starring Chris Wedes, aired on KIRO 7 for 23 years, from 1958 to 1981.

It's considered the longest-running, locally-produced childrens show in U.S. history.

Wedes was diagnosed with a form of blood cancer in 2007 and has recently retired.

 Julius Pierpont Patches' show was live, mostly unrehearsed and improvised, delighting loyal Patches Pals.

 At one time, the Emmy-winning show had a viewership of 100,000 who couldn't wait to watch J.P. and company appear at the City Dump.

Up until his retirement, J.P. was in demand for both personal and public appearances as Seattle's favorite clown.