WordGirl is one of several new kids shows coming to NPT this Fall. The New York Times says “The loquacious central character from the Planet Lexicon and her monkey sidekick, Captain Huggy Face (who sometimes takes the bus when WordGirl forgets he can’t fly), have an irreverence and sophistication that stand out among the generally more earnest PBS offerings.”
The Times adds:
“WordGirl” draws its writers not from the ranks of children’s television but from places like the satirical newspaper The Onion and Fox’s twisted adult cartoon series “Family Guy.” The voice of the narrator, Chris Parnell, will be better known to adults from “Saturday Night Live.”
Many of the actors who voice the characters come from the improv comedy world, and riffing was encouraged during taping sessions; occasional crackups audible on the soundtrack are infectious.”
Here’s a couple of clips. The first is an interview with Jim Lehrer. The second is scene involving one of WordGirl’s enemies, The Butcher. Yes, that’s his name. And yes, meat is his weapon of choice. Wait until you meet Chuck, the Evil Sandwich Making Guy. The show is wonderful, and parent’s will enjoy watching right along with their kids.
Interview with Jim Lehrer:
“Yes, sir, that’s my butcher!”