John “Red” Lawrence Stuart is a legendary American sideshow performer renowned for his extraordinary feats in sword swallowing and other daring acts. With a career spanning over five decades, he captivates audiences worldwide with his unique blend of skill and showmanship.

Red Stuart holds multiple Guinness World Records in sword swallowing, including the remarkable feat of swallowing a 1924 Ford Model T axle. His performances often feature additional acts such as fire manipulation, human pincushion demonstrations, and dancing on hot coals, showcasing his versatility and commitment to the art of sideshow entertainment.

As the world’s oldest performing sword swallower, Red Stuart has not only pushed the boundaries of physical endurance but has also dedicated himself to preserving and promoting the sideshow tradition. He has mentored aspiring performers, including teaching a ten-year-old who became the world’s youngest sword swallower under his guidance.

Beyond the stage, Stuart has shared his experiences through his autobiography, “With It, For It and Proud Of It,” offering readers an intimate look into the life of a sideshow artist. His contributions have been recognized in various media, including appearances in documentaries and television specials that celebrate the rich history of sideshow performances.

Red recently managed his hardest feat yet: surviving a stroke and plenty of testing and hospitalization! He’s working hard to stay healthy, but needs an electric tricycle to continue appearing at Excho’s American Dime Museum. He’s hoping to raise $1200 for a mobility tricycle, with all remaining funds going towards his ongoing medical expenses. There’s still an onslaught of testing and we want to help Red stay as mobile and healthy as possible. Please consider donating and sharing this with your network so we can keep this national treasure moving!