Remembering Iconic 80s and 90s Children’s TV Puppets

The world of children’s television in the 80s and 90s was vibrant and unforgettable, largely thanks to a group of beloved puppets who captured the hearts of young audiences. These characters often outshone their human counterparts, becoming cultural icons in their own right. With a mix of comedy, music, and charm, they left a lasting impact, contributing to the landscape of children’s entertainment.

Gordon the Gopher: The Lovable Rodent

Few could identify a gopher before Gordon the Gopher made his debut in 1985 on CBBC. Partnered with presenter Phillip Schofield, Gordon quickly became a household name. His popularity soared when he transitioned from the Broom Cupboard to the Saturday morning show Going Live!. One of the most memorable moments involved Gordon being playfully attacked by a puppy, which showcased his endearing nature. Although his own series lasted only 13 episodes, Gordon’s legacy continued well into the 21st century, with Schofield reflecting fondly on their time together, stating, “I miss him.”

Edd the Duck: The Feathery Performer

Following Gordon’s success, Edd the Duck took over the Broom Cupboard alongside presenters Andy Crane and Andi Peters. Edd, known for his distinctive green mohawk, became a fan favorite. He released a single, ‘Awesome Dood!’ in 1990 and served as the official UK Olympic team mascot at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. Peters reminisced about their partnership, saying, “Edd is a very nice duck – there are no shock revelations.”

Zig and Zag: The Alien Duo

Originating from the planet Zog, Zig and Zag first appeared on the Irish show Dempsey’s Den in 1987. They quickly crossed over to the UK, joining Channel 4’s breakfast show, where they became known for their chaotic antics. Their music, including the top-five hit ‘Them Girls Them Girls,’ solidified their status as stars. After a period of reduced visibility, they made a comeback in 2010 on the show Big Brother’s Little Brother and returned to Irish television in 2020.

Roland Rat: The Rat Who Saved Breakfast TV

No discussion of 80s puppets would be complete without Roland Rat. Created by David Claridge, Roland debuted on TV-am in April 1983. He played a pivotal role in revitalizing the struggling breakfast broadcaster, increasing its audience from 100,000 to 1.8 million viewers. With a catchphrase of “Ehhhhhhhhhh, Rat fans!” and a memorable pink car, the Ratmobile, Roland became a staple of British television. His transition to the BBC in 1985 was marked by his confident declaration: “I saved TV-am and now I’m here to save the BBC.”

Orville the Duck: A Nostalgic Favorite

Another iconic character was Orville the Duck, known for his squeaky voice and signature green attire. He became famous alongside ventriloquist Keith Harris on the BBC in the early 1980s. Orville’s song, ‘I Wish I Could Fly,’ reached number four in the UK charts in 1983. While the duo faded from the spotlight in the 90s, they made memorable appearances in the 2000s, including a cameo on Little Britain.

Zippy, George, and Bungle: The Rainbow Trio

The show Rainbow, which ran from 1972 until 1992, featured the beloved puppets Zippy, George, and Bungle. Known for their quirky personalities, these characters provided a unique blend of entertainment akin to Sesame Street. Presenter Geoffrey Hayes, who joined the show in 1974, often found himself mediating disputes among the puppets. Hayes attributed the show’s success to its “magic, innocence, and imagination.”

These puppets not only entertained but also shaped the childhoods of many who grew up during this golden era of television. Whether it was through laughter, music, or memorable catchphrases, their influence continues to resonate today. As nostalgia for the 80s and 90s persists, one wonders which of these characters holds the title of the best children’s TV puppet of all time.