Watch The New Howdy Doody Show

The New Howdy Doody Show was a television program that aired between 1976 and 1978, starring Bob Smith and Lew Anderson. This show was a reboot of the original Howdy Doody Show, which aired from 1947-1960. Taking place in the fictional town of Doodyville, The New Howdy Doody Show was a live-action children's program that followed the antics of several puppet characters as well as human actors. The titular character, Howdy Doody, was a freckle-faced marionette with red hair and a wide smile. He was operated by Bob Smith, who also hosted the show as himself.

Throughout the show, Howdy and his puppet friends entertained children with jokes, songs, and sketches. These characters included Clarabell the Clown, who communicated solely through honks from his horn, and Princess Summerfall Winterspring, who was portrayed by a human actress named Judy Landon.

Guest stars were also a regular feature on The New Howdy Doody Show. Many notable celebrities, including Carol Burnett and Don Knotts, appeared on the program during its short run. In addition, there were regular segments where children could send in their own artwork or jokes to be featured on the show.

One unique aspect of The New Howdy Doody Show was its interactive nature. During the broadcast, children could call in and speak to the puppet characters on live television. Additionally, some episodes featured a "peanut gallery" of children who were seated in the studio audience and given the opportunity to interact with the characters.

Despite its popularity with young viewers, The New Howdy Doody Show only aired for two seasons. The program faced stiff competition from other children's shows at the time, such as Sesame Street and The Electric Company. In addition, some critics felt that the reboot failed to capture the charm and magic of the original Howdy Doody Show.

However, The New Howdy Doody Show remains a beloved part of pop culture history. The character of Howdy Doody has become an iconic symbol of American children's entertainment, and the program's legacy has been celebrated through various tributes and revivals over the years.

In conclusion, The New Howdy Doody Show was a live-action children's program that aired from 1976 to 1978. Starring Bob Smith and Lew Anderson, the show featured a cast of puppet characters who entertained young viewers with jokes, songs, and sketches. Guest stars and audience interaction were also regular features of the program. Though it only aired for two seasons, The New Howdy Doody Show remains a cherished part of American television history.