Circus Ring of Fame Wheel Plaque

Cucciolo

Inducted into the Ring of Fame: 1997

Circus Profession: Comedy Equestrian

Born: 1935

Died: 1984

Cucciolo Rizzi Circus Ring Of Fame Foundation inductee

He was one of the few little persons to gain stardom as a performer. Born Pasqualino Rizzi, he came to the U.S. from Italy in 1948 with the Zoppe Bareback Equestrian Riders to join Ringling Bros. and Barnum Bailey Circus. Among his notable accomplishments were a featured appearance in the film “The Greatest Show on Earth,” a comedy trampoline act and the presentation of a herd of elephants on the Larry Carden Circus. He was beloved by his audiences and greatly respected by his fellow artists.