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Bob Keeshan (born June 27, 1927, in Lynbrook, New York) was an American television producer and entertainer, best known for portraying "Captain Kangaroo" on the children's program of the same name.
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When Keeshan was a senior in high school, he landed a job as a page at NBC in New York City. After graduating, he served in the Marines. In 1946, he returned to New York and to his job at NBC, while also attending Fordham University
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His desk at NBC was next to Buffalo Bob Smith’s office, and Keeshan soon began helping Buffalo Bob with a Saturday morning children’s radio show. The next year, when Buffalo Bob starred in an afternoon show, he featured a puppet—"Howdy Doody"—and Keeshan was invited to join the cast. On January 3, 1948, he debuted as "Clarabell the Clown" on what later became 'The Howdy Doody Show,' and by 1950, the show had moved to television and was highly popular.
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Keeshan’s next role was as "Corny the Clown" on ABC’s 'Time for Fun,' followed by a performance on the network’s 'Tinker’s Workshop.'
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Keeshan's 'Captain Kangaroo' premiered on CBS in 1955 and ran for 30 years before moving to public television for six more. It was wildly popular among children and won six Emmy Awards, three Gabriels, and three Peabody Awards
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"Captain Kangaroo"—named because Keeshan wore a big coat with large pockets like a kangaroo's pouches. The mustached Captain, with friends like Mr. Green Jeans, Bunny Rabbit, Dancing Bear, and Mr. Moose, combined fun and learning for his audiences, making him a beloved figure for generations of children.
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After moving to Vermont in 1990, Keeshan wrote several books, including his 1995 memoir 'Good Morning, Captain,' and he actively supported various civic causes, especially those related to children.
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He criticized modern TV programs for their violence and emphasized the vital role of parenting, stating, "Parents are the ultimate role models for children. Every word, movement, and action has an effect, shaping their future more than any other influence."
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Bob Keeshan passed away on Friday, January 23, 2004, at the age of 76. His family stated that he died after a long illness.
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"Bob Keeshan was a true pioneer in children's television whose legacy goes unmatched," said Leslie Moonves, Chairman and CEO of CBS. "Throughout 'Captain Kangaroo's' historic 29-year run on CBS, Bob entertained millions of children across the country. He was a great entertainer, showman and innovator and he will always hold a special place in the history of CBS and the hearts of television viewers. Our condolences go out to his family and friends," said Moonves
Discover the life of Bob Keeshan, the actor who played "Captain Kangaroo". This gallery looks at his career, the influence of his famous children's show, and the sad events of his death.
Celebrate the life of a man who brought happiness to many children.