Quechee, Vermont
QUECHEE, Vt. (AP) - Bob Keeshan, who gently entertained and educated generations of children as television's walrus-mustachioed Captain Kangaroo, died Friday at 76.
Keeshan died of a long illness, his family said in a statement.
Keeshan's "Captain Kangaroo" debuted on CBS television in 1955 and ran for 30 years before moving to public television for six more. The program was wildly popular among children and won six Emmy Awards, three Gabriels and three Peabody Awards.
The format was simple: Each day, Captain Kangaroo, with his sugar-bowl haircut and uniform coat, would wander through his Treasure House, chatting with his good friend Mr. Green Jeans, played by Hugh "Lumpy" Brannum.
He would visit with puppet animals, like Bunny Rabbit, who was scolded for eating too many carrots, and Mr. Moose, who loved to tell knock-knock jokes.
But the show revolved about the grandfatherly Captain Kangaroo, whose name was inspired by the kangaroo pouch-like pockets of the coat Keeshan wore.
"I was impressed with the potential positive relationship between grandparents and grandchildren, so I chose an elderly character," Keeshan said.
Copyright © 2004 The Associated Press
Captain Kangaroo was “must see” TV for me as a child in the 1960s. I have the fondest memories of being mesmerised in front of the TV, watching him and Mr. Green Jeans do their thing each day. My review probably sounds the same as everyone else’s, I’m sure others share the same fond memories. Rest in peace Mr. Keeshan, you will always be Captain Kangaroo to me.
Philip Stromer
February 11, 2022 | Herndon, VA | Friend
Never forgotten / Andrea and Hayley Smith and their dad Trevor
Trevor Smith
July 28, 2021 | Hudson, QC | Friend
EVERYBODY IN AMERICA LOVES AND REMEMBERS "CAPTAIN KANGAROO". THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES....RIH
Valenda Newell
December 30, 2016 | Indianapolis, IN
Amazing actor. I cherished every show of "Captain Kangaroo" as a young child. Never forgotten, Rest in Peace sir.
Allison Dupont
March 08, 2016 | New Orleans, LA
My heartfelt codolences go to the entire Keeshan family. I was one of the privileged who was entertained by not only Clarabell but by many years of his educational program Captain Kangaroo.
He will be missed by millions of his fans, but know that deep down he is fondly looking down remembering us.
God bless you and keep you, my friend.
Scott Perry
December 26, 2015
I will always remember him. I watched him every day. I would play sick to stay home from school to watch him. If his show were to come back on I would watch it again.
Patricia Evans
October 03, 2015 | Eufaula, AL
Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
Saepe Expertus, Semper Fidelis, Fratres Aeterni.
Often Tested, Always Faithful, Brothers Forever.
Thank you for your service to this nation.
Harry Simpson
January 23, 2015 | Alpharetta, GA
I loved you then and love you still. Thank you for some lovely childhood moments.
July 04, 2014
As I child I absolutely loved " captain kangaroo", I watched it everyday! Bob Keeshan portrayed him excellently. Mr . Green jeans, bunny rabbit and mr. Moose were great to, very good entertainment!
Diane Perrin
March 14, 2014 | Wilkes Barre, Pa