Watch Josie and the Pussycats

Josie and the Pussycats is an animated television show produced by Hanna-Barbera and released by Warner Bros. from 1970 to 1972. It is based on an Archie Comics series of the same name, created by Dan DeCarlo. The show follows the adventures of three teenage girls – the titular Josie, Valerie, and Melody – who form a rock band with their friends Alan and Alexander. Together, they travel the world, competing in music competitions and solving mysteries along the way.

The show starred several notable voice actors, including Janet Waldo as Josie, Sherry Alberoni as Melody, Casey Kasem as Alexander, Jackie Joseph as Valerie, Jerry Dexter as Alan, and Don Messick as Sebastian, the group's cat mascot. The characters were all distinct and memorable, with Josie as the fearless leader, Valerie as the level-headed guitarist, and Melody as the bubbly drummer. Alan and Alexander provided comic relief, while Sebastian frequently saved the day with his feline instincts.

The music was a major part of the show's appeal, with Josie and the Pussycats performing catchy pop songs in every episode. The songs were written by Hoyt Curtin and performed by Cathy Dougher, Patrice Holloway, and Sally Stevens, with backing vocals by The Ron Hicklin Singers. The show's theme song, "Josie and the Pussycats", became a hit in its own right and was covered by several artists over the years.

Despite its light-hearted premise, the show tackled a number of topical issues, such as environmentalism, women's rights, and corporate greed. In one episode, the Pussycats discover a factory polluting a river and work to expose the owners. In another, they compete against a group of male musicians who don't believe women can rock. These episodes added depth to the characters and showed that even a cartoon about a rock band could have something important to say.

The show was also known for its rotating cast of guest stars, ranging from real-life musicians like Davy Jones of The Monkees to fictional characters like Batman and Robin. These appearances added to the show's fun, campy vibe and gave viewers something to look forward to each week.

Josie and the Pussycats was well-received during its original run and still has a dedicated fanbase today. Its legacy can be seen in modern shows like Jem and the Holograms and the recent Josie and the Pussycats comic book series. The show's enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and the enduring charm of its characters.

Overall, Josie and the Pussycats was a fun, upbeat show that entertained viewers with its catchy music, engaging characters, and wacky adventures. It remains a beloved part of Hanna-Barbera's legacy and a classic example of 70s animation.

Josie and the Pussycats is a series that ran for 2 seasons (32 episodes) between September 12, 1970 and on Warner Bros.