“New Zoo Revue” Creator Reveals the 1 Childhood Treasure That Led to Iconic Show’s Start (Exclusive)

Early Childhood Treasure Inspires Creation of ‘New Zoo Revue’ by Doug Momary

Doug Momary shares the journey leading to the creation of ‘New Zoo Revue’ that captivated young audiences and left a lasting impact on children’s television. Momary, along with his wife Emily Peden, also known as Doug and Emmy Jo, embarked on their children’s television venture that would resonate with viewers even five decades later. The iconic half-hour program, ‘New Zoo Revue,’ first aired in 1972 and continued to entertain audiences through syndication for nearly two decades.

The story of ‘New Zoo Revue’ traces back to a toy store in Whittier, Calif., where Momary’s mother worked. The owner of the store had a beanbag frog named Freddie and envisioned a children’s show centred around the frog. Momary, a playwriting major at the time, took on the challenge of creating the concept for the show, sketching out sets, characters, and even writing the theme song. His dedication and creativity caught the attention of executives at Mattel, even before a pilot had been filmed.

Despite initial challenges and uncertainties during the pilot presentation, ‘New Zoo Revue’ eventually came to life with Momary and Peden portraying key characters. Drawing from their theatre backgrounds, the couple had to adapt to the nuances of television production. Collaborating with renowned creators like Sid and Marty Krofft, who brought the show’s characters to life, added to the magical experience of creating the beloved show.

An essential aspect of ‘New Zoo Revue’ was its focus on emotional intelligence and moral lessons for children, a departure from traditional educational programming at the time. Momary’s intention was to explore relationships and values, steering away from typical ABC and 123 lessons. The show’s ability to connect deeply with young viewers and their families became evident through personal appearances and fan interactions over the years.

Reflecting on the impact of ‘New Zoo Revue,’ Momary and Peden express gratitude for the show’s enduring legacy, evident in the continued affection from fans online. Their dedication to creating meaningful content for children extended beyond the show, with Momary pursuing new projects and Peden engaging with fans through interactive platforms. The couple cherishes the positive influence ‘New Zoo Revue’ had on generations of viewers, inspiring them to contribute positively to their communities and professions.

As Momary continues to develop new shows, including animated and live-action formats, Peden remains actively engaged with fans through newsletters and online interactions. The couple’s commitment to fostering kindness and respect through children’s programming remains unwavering, reinforcing the timeless relevance of their work. Through their creative endeavours and enduring connection with fans, Doug Momary and Emily Peden exemplify the lasting impact of quality children’s entertainment.

In conclusion, the legacy of ‘New Zoo Revue’ stands as a testament to the creative vision and dedication of Doug Momary and Emily Peden, who continue to inspire and connect with audiences through their timeless contributions to children’s television.