Sid Krofft, alongside his brother Marty, was responsible for creating some of the most eccentric children’s television shows ever, such as “H.R. Pufnstuf,” “The Bugaloos,” and “Land of the Lost.” He passed away on Friday in Los Angeles at the age of 96.
The programs often possessed a surreal quality, leading many older viewers to interpret drug references within them, claims that the Kroffts insisted were not meant to be there. Titles like “Pufnstuf” did little to support that defense.
I grew up with all of their shows. In doing research about the Kroffts, I found that there were only 17 episodes of “H.R. Pufnstuf” which blows my mind because it seemed to around for so long.
It originally aired in the fall of 1969, and the broadcasts were successful enough that NBC kept it on the schedule as reruns until September 4, 1971.
Reruns returned on ABC weekend mornings for another two years, then kept being repackaged throughout the 70s with other Krofft shows.
All of their shows had wild, enchanting visual landscapes featuring whimsical beings, intricate outfits and puppets, vibrant backdrops, and physical comedy.
I especially remember digging “The Bugaloos,” about a rock band made up of bugs played by young actors. Rest well, Sid Krofft.
Discover more from The Randy Report
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.