New Zoo Revue Interview: Behind the Scenes of a Classic Children’s TV Show
What made New Zoo Revue one of the most memorable children’s television shows of the 1970s? In this episode of The Dingus and Dingus Podcast, Floyd and Matt welcome Doug Momary from New Zoo Revue for a nostalgic, insightful, and deeply personal conversation about classic children’s television, memorable characters, music, family, and the lasting impact of positive messages.Doug shares the behind-the-scenes story of creating New Zoo Revue, the beloved children’s show featuring Freddie the Frog, Charlie the Owl, Henrietta Hippo, Emmy Joe, and Doug. He explains how the series tackled important topics including kindness, bullying, drugs, greed, envy, tolerance, self-esteem, friendship, family relationships, and emotional growth—subjects that were rarely addressed so directly on children’s television. In this interview, we explore how New Zoo Revue was produced during the 1970s, including the show’s live musical performances, three-camera filming process, full-body animal costumes, character development, songwriting, and demanding production schedule. Doug also discusses the creation of more than 600 songs, the influence of musical theater and popular music, and the importance of never talking down to children. You’ll also hear stories about some of the show’s famous guest stars, including Henry Mancini, Chuck Woolery, Joanne Worley, Jesse White, and Mr. Magoo. Doug explains how the show was filmed at historic Hollywood studios, including Desilu Studios, MGM, and the Burbank Studios, now associated with Warner Bros.One of the most moving parts of this conversation is Doug’s story about reconnecting with former “New Zoo kids” at Comic Cons. Fans have shared how the show helped them through difficult childhoods and inspired them to become teachers, doctors, lawyers, community leaders, and kind, compassionate adults. Doug reflects on the responsibility of creating children’s media and the lifelong influence that positive messages can have.The conversation also looks at what a modern version of New Zoo Revue might address, including internet safety, smartphones, online bullying, digital responsibility, artificial intelligence, and the challenges facing children and parents today. Doug discusses his newer projects, including Safari Town and Knights of IT: Guardians of the Digital Realm, as well as his advice for aspiring musicians, writers, animators, and creators.Whether you grew up watching New Zoo Revue, love classic children’s television, enjoy television history, or are interested in the creative process behind iconic characters and educational entertainment, this episode is full of nostalgia, humor, history, and heartfelt lessons.
In This Episode
- The history of New Zoo Revue
- Doug Momary’s experience creating the show
- Freddie the Frog, Charlie the Owl, and Henrietta Hippo
- How New Zoo Revue handled difficult topics for children
- The show’s focus on kindness, tolerance, and self-esteem
- The creation of more than 600 songs
- Behind-the-scenes television production in the 1970s
- Full-body animal costumes and live performances
- Guest stars including Henry Mancini and Chuck Woolery
- The lasting impact of New Zoo Revue on former viewers
- Comic Con fan stories and childhood memories
- Children’s television then versus now
- Internet safety and digital responsibility
- Artificial intelligence and positive creative uses
- Doug Momary’s current projects and creative advice