Watch Mr Benn

Mr Benn is a children's animated television series that first aired in the early 1970s and remained popular throughout the 1980s and 1990s. The show ran for just over a decade, and each episode is around ten minutes long. It centers around the titular character, Mr Benn, who is a man with a very special talent - he can visit a mystical costume shop and step through a secret door that leads him to different realms and alternate realities.

The show was created by David McKee, who is responsible for creating other beloved children's entertainment properties such as Elmer the Elephant. The animation itself was created by the prestigious animation studios Mackinnon & Saunders, whose other clients include Aardman Animations and Tim Burton. The series was voiced by Ray Brooks, a British actor, director, and writer who is perhaps best-known for his role in the classic British film, The Servant.

Each episode begins with Mr Benn putting on his morning business suit and walking out of his front door. He wanders through the town's busy streets until he comes across a small, unremarkable costume shop run by a mysterious old man. Mr Benn steps inside to browse and is greeted by the old shopkeeper who, without fail, says the familiar line: "As if by magic, the shopkeeper appeared!"

The shopkeeper then guides Mr Benn to a changing room where he can try on any number of costumes. Once he finds one he likes, he steps through a secret door that leads him to a fantastical location, where he spends the rest of the episode exploring, learning, and righting wrongs.

In one episode, Mr Benn dons a spiky shell and is transported underwater. He meets a friendly octopus who recruits him to retrieve lost treasure from an old, sunken pirate ship. In another episode, he dons a squire's costume and is transported to a medieval castle. There, he helps the king find the courage to stand up to a bullying dragon. Each episode provides a unique and captivating adventure that keeps young viewers engaged and entertained.

One of the hallmarks of the show is its unique animation style. The characters are drawn in a distinctive, flat style, with bold outlines and vibrant colors. This style gives the show a classic, retro feel that has maintained its appeal across generations.

The show's charming narration and whimsical storylines did not go unnoticed, and it quickly became a favorite of children and adults alike. It was widely syndicated and continues to be popular today, with DVD releases, revivals, and merchandise in high demand.

In addition to its entertainment value, Mr Benn has been credited with teaching children valuable life lessons. Each episode is designed to teach empathy, kindness, and courage, as well as to encourage curiosity and exploration. The adventures Mr Benn embarks on teach children to look beyond themselves and to be brave in the face of adversity.

In short, Mr Benn is a beloved children's television show that has captivated young audiences for decades. Its unique premise, charming storytelling, and endearing animation have made it a classic among British children's media. Ray Brooks' excellent voice acting brings Mr Benn's adventures to life, while David McKee's creative vision continues to inspire imaginations the world over.

Mr Benn is a series that ran for 1 seasons (14 episodes) between February 24, 1971 and on Signature Entertainment