Sad news emerged as Marty Krofft, the celebrated entrepreneur who forged a decades-long entertainment dynasty alongside his older brother, Sid, has passed away. The duo leapt to prominence with their popular children’s TV programs, including the iconic “The Banana Splits Adventure Hour,” “H.R. Pufnstuf,” and “Land of the Lost.” Their groundbreaking work was fueled by Marty’s innovative vision and keen business acumen.
At 86 years old, Marty Krofft succumbed to kidney failure in Los Angeles, a somber announcement made by his family. Sid, who was eight years Marty’s senior, once expressed admiration for his brother, dubbing him the best in the industry and the ultimate executor of his aspirations. This testament to their powerful partnership highlights the tremendous influence Marty had on American television history, as well as the profound impact he made on entertainment culture at large.
In the late 1960s, the Kroffts drew attention when they were recruited to design the costumes for the live-action portion of NBC’s “The Banana Splits Adventure Hour.” This pivotal undertaking brought to life four lovable animal characters, Fleegle, Bingo, Drooper, and Snorky, members of a beloved rock band that stole the hearts of young and old fans alike.
Following the immense success of this venture, NBC approached the brothers to create an original Saturday morning children’s program, leading to the genesis of “H.R. Pufnstuf.” The story revolved around Jimmy, a shipwrecked boy played by Jack Wild, who discovers a magical island. The show’s title character, Pufnstuf, was derived from Luther, a friendly dragon featured in one of the Kroffts’ previous exhibits.
The Kroffts’ ingenuity took flight with psychedelic sets and costumes for “H.R. Pufnstuf,” captivating a burgeoning college audience and even piquing the interest of The Beatles. However, their one-of-a-kind aesthetic raised speculation about drug use. Marty was compelled to dispel these rumors, adamantly dismissing claims that their work was influenced by narcotics.
Continuing their unprecedented rise, the Kroffts unleashed a string of other hit series, such as “The Bugaloos,” “Lidsville,” and “Land of the Lost,” which enjoyed a fervent fan following in syndication. The brothers’ edgy and colorful visual style was a stark departure from industry norms, with Marty noting that their shows “screwed with every kid’s mind.”
Their artistic prowess was so influential that corporate giant McDonald’s replicated it in an advertising campaign, triggering a lawsuit. In 1977, the Kroffts secured a substantial settlement. In 2009, the duo was recognized with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, an accolade that underscored their lasting imprint in entertainment history.
The enduring legacy of the Kroffts, though, extended far beyond television screens. They ventured into numerous ventures, including a theme park and a live-action variety show featuring extravagant productions. Marty’s incredible journey began with humble origins in Montreal, ultimately leading to life-changing experiences and career-defining moments that enthralled and captivated audiences worldwide.
Marty’s spirited journey came to a close in Los Angeles, surrounded by those who treasured him most. His extraordinary contributions to children’s entertainment will continue to inspire future generations. As fans mourn the loss of a visionary and trailblazer, Marty Krofft’s indelible mark on the world of entertainment remains timeless and irreplaceable.
