Cheryl Hartzler, a professional clown entertainer has expressed her feelings towards the recent clown incidents in Ahwatukee during a quick phone interview with me on October 20, 2016. Clowns have been a recurring fear factor for people all over the country. Since 2014, social media has had a humongous impact on the scare factor of clowns, and continues to have a negative effect on the clown entertainment business today. Prior to 2014, clowns were viewed as happy, funny, and entertaining, but now many people view them as terrifying and threatening.

“I’ve been a clown for thirty five years, and have had no problem and bring joy to many, and all of a sudden it’s just a drive from point a to point b, and I don’t want anyone to be frightened or scared of me, and it’s just a totally different feeling now.” Hartzler said.

Lately, individuals dressed up as clowns have been threatening and causing terror to many people right here in Phoenix. Hartzler has even made appearances as a pirate instead of a clown in order to not bring fear to others. The future of the entertainment business for a clown has become questionable.

“When I walk down the street as a clown, people look away, but when I dressed up as a pirate, no one cared. I want to keep bringing joy to others, not bring fear into their eyes.” Hartzler said.