Watch The New Howdy Dowdy Show

The New Howdy Doody Show is a beloved children's television program that first aired in 1976 on the United States PBS network. The show follows the adventures of Howdy Doody, a marionette puppet, and his friends in the town of Doodyville. The show, which is a reboot of the original Howdy Doody Show that aired in the 1940s and 1950s, stars Bob Smith as “Buffalo Bob,” the show's host, and Lew Anderson as the voice of Howdy Doody. Together, the duo is joined by a cast of colorful characters, including Clarabell the Clown, a silent character who communicates through honking horns and other sound effects, and Princess Summerfall Winterspring, a Native American princess who often sings songs and dances.

Each episode of The New Howdy Doody Show follows a similar format: Buffalo Bob introduces a story or theme for the episode, often based around an educational topic such as history or science. Howdy Doody and his friends act out the story or teach a lesson through songs, games, and other activities.

The show is known for its catchy theme song, "It's Howdy Doody Time!" which is sung at the beginning and end of each episode. The show also includes classic segments such as "Ask Mr. Phobe," where Buffalo Bob answers viewer mail, and "The Peanut Gallery," where a group of children in the studio audience is called on to participate in the show.

One of the show's main draws is the use of puppetry and marionettes. Howdy Doody and his friends are all marionette puppets, operated by puppeteers who are hidden behind the set. The skillful manipulation of the puppets and the use of intricate sets and props help bring the characters to life and engage young viewers.

Despite its age, The New Howdy Doody Show remains a family favorite and a classic children's TV program. The show's focus on education and entertainment, combined with its memorable characters and catchy songs, make it a timeless classic that has stood the test of time.

Over the years, The New Howdy Doody Show has inspired a number of spin-offs and adaptations, including a syndicated revival of the original program in the 1970s, a live-action film in 1998, and an animated series in 2006. However, the original 1976 version remains a beloved classic that continues to entertain generations of children and families.

The New Howdy Dowdy Show is a series that ran for 5 seasons (45 episodes) between January 1, 1976 and on FilmRise