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The Court Jester Whose Wit Saved His Life

How a court jester slapped the king's butt, then brilliantly convinced him not to kill him Triboulet served as court jester under King Francis I, who ruled France from 1515 to 1547 . Triboulet's quick humor rescued him from Francis I's deadly wrath, not once, but twice. Court jesters hold a unique place in history. Playing the fool for kings and queens meant they were always in close proximity to royalty, but so very far from their rank and station. Comedians often like to push boundaries, but that can be a dangerous business when your job is to entertain the peope who have executioners at their beck and call. Especially when you forget your place—or purposely ignore it, as the case may be—and playfully smack the reigning monarch square on the behind. That little whoopsie was the claim to fame of Triboulet, a court jester who served King Francis I in 16th-century France. But it was how he got away with slapping the king on the butt and living to tell about it that earne...
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Frank Lentini

Frank Lentini, The Three-Pegged Performer

Frank Lentini


Frank Lentini was born with a parasitic twin, which meant that he had three legs, two genitals, and four feet. His unique appearance sealed his extraordinary destiny.


A Sad Childhood

Lentini’s parents were distraught by his birth. They held out hope that a doctor might be able to amputate their baby’s third leg—but it proved to be an impossible task. The procedure was too life-threatening. As such, Lentini became a disgrace to his family and an object of ridicule in his Italian hometown. People called him “the marvel” or “little monster.” Little did he know, by the time he was 10 years old, he’d be famous.

In 1898, nine-year-old Lentini traveled from Italy to America with his father. Here, Lentini was able to attract audiences rather than drive them away. He was a sensation wherever he went, and only a year later, he became one of the biggest acts in the Ringling Bros. circus.


Destined For Fame And Fortune

Lentini had many titles as a performer, from “The Three-Legged Sicilian” to “The Greatest Medical Wonder of All Time.” On tour, he became known for his self-deprecating sense of humor. Though his deformity became the punchline for all of his jokes, he was also extremely proud of his appearance. In the end, it helped him reach fame and fortune beyond his wildest dreams. But that wasn’t all.

Lentini’s numerous extremities never failed him in the romance department. Thanks to his intellect and overall charisma, he enjoyed two relationships during his lifetime, and had four children. Though he had a rough start, Lentini later confessed, “I’ve never complained. I think life is beautiful and I enjoy living it.” 

Frank Lentini


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