Original Air Date: circa mid-70’s and early 80’s
Synopsis: Celebrities say “Good morning, Captain!” to Captain Kangaroo (Bob Keeshan) in the opening of his children’s program.
Kitty Cameos: From 1974 through the 1980’s, a wide variety of celebrities appeared in these opening segments. Gwen Verdon and her silver tabby cat Fatrick offered one of these quick greetings. The actress / dancer, who was a noted lover of cats, appeared on a 1976 episode with her cat companion and read the story “A Flower for Ambrose.” One TV Guide description stated that Fatrick was born at The Captain’s Place. We would love to find this complete episode some day!
In the opening segment from the December 10, 1980 episode someone asks “Captain of what?” which Captain Kangaroo repeats in disbelief with a white Persian kitten on his shoulder.
Cartoon Cats: Animated segments were also included in these openings and one showed three cartoon cats saying good morning. These were very likely animated by Bruce Cayard.
Final Mewsings: Even cats loved Captain Kangaroo!
Many thanks to Erin T. Aardvark for letting us know about these kitties!
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