Captain Kangaroo

Captain Kangaroo

Captain Kangaroo in his iconic red jacket

Captain Kangaroo was a beloved American children's television series that aired from 1955 to 1984. The show was created and hosted by Bob Keeshan, who played the titular character, Captain Kangaroo. It was one of the longest-running children's television programs in the United States and left a lasting impact on generations of viewers.

Background

Captain Kangaroo was first broadcast on October 3, 1955, and quickly became a staple of children's programming. The show was produced by the American Broadcasting Company (ABC) and later moved to the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) in 1970. It featured a mix of educational segments, comedy sketches, and puppetry, all aimed at entertaining and educating young children.

Format and Content

The show was structured around a central storyline involving Captain Kangaroo, a friendly and gentle character who wore a distinctive red jacket. He was often accompanied by his sidekick, Mr. Green Jeans, played by Hugh "Lumpy" Brannum. The program also featured a cast of puppet characters, including Bunny Rabbit, Mr. Moose, and Dancing Bear, who interacted with Captain Kangaroo and the viewers.

Captain Kangaroo incorporated various segments that covered a wide range of topics. These segments included storytelling, music performances, science experiments, and visits from guest artists and experts. The show aimed to entertain children while also providing educational content, teaching them about manners, social skills, and basic academic subjects.

Legacy

Captain Kangaroo was highly influential and received numerous awards throughout its run. It was praised for its educational value and its ability to engage young viewers. The show's format and content set a standard for children's television programming, inspiring many future shows to follow in its footsteps.

The impact of Captain Kangaroo can still be seen today, as many adults who grew up watching the show fondly remember the lessons and entertainment it provided. The show's characters and catchphrases have become iconic, and Captain Kangaroo himself remains a beloved figure in American television history.

See Also

• Children's television series
• Educational television
• Public Broadcasting Service

External Links

• Official Captain Kangaroo Website
• PBS Parents - Captain Kangaroo