Skippy the Bush Kangaroo (1968)
The classic Australian family adventure series that charmed the world with the bond between a boy and his extraordinary kangaroo.
Skippy the Bush Kangaroo - Series Information
- Original Title: Skippy the Bush Kangaroo
- First Air Year: 1968
- Last Air Year: 1970
- Created by: John McCallum
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Family
- Number of Seasons: 3
- Number of Episodes: 91
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- First Air Date: February 5, 1968 (United Kingdom - PG)
- Networks: Nine Network
- Alternative Titles: The Adventures Of Skippy (AU)
Skippy the Bush Kangaroo - Plot
Skippy the Bush Kangaroo is an Australian television series telling the adventures of a young boy and his intelligent pet kangaroo, and the various visitors to the fictional Waratah National Park in Duffys Forest, near Sydney, New South Wales.
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Skippy the Bush Kangaroo - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- John McCallum
Main Cast
- Ed Devereaux
- Garry Pankhurst
- Ken James
- Tony Bonner
- Liza Goddard
- John Warwick
- Walter Sullivan
- Tom Farley
- Gerry Duggan
- Willie Fennell
Writers
- Ross Napier
- Ted Roberts
- Lee Robinson
- Joy Cavill
- Moya Wood
Skippy the Bush Kangaroo - FAQs
Is Skippy the Bush Kangaroo based on a true story?
Skippy the Bush Kangaroo is a fictional story, though it was inspired by the real Australian bush landscape and wildlife. The series was filmed on location near Sydney, giving it an authentic feel, but the characters and storylines were entirely invented for the show.
Was Skippy the Bush Kangaroo a real kangaroo?
Several trained kangaroos were used to portray Skippy throughout the series, not just one animal. The production team worked with multiple eastern grey kangaroos trained to perform specific actions on cue, creating the illusion of a single, remarkably intelligent animal across all 91 episodes.
Where can I stream Skippy the Bush Kangaroo?
Streaming availability for Skippy the Bush Kangaroo varies by region. Your best bet is to check JustWatch, which aggregates current viewing options across all major platforms and lets you filter by your country for the most up-to-date streaming, rental, and purchase information.
Where was Skippy the Bush Kangaroo filmed?
The series was filmed primarily at Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park and the surrounding bushland in Duffys Forest, near Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. The stunning natural scenery became as iconic as the show itself, giving international audiences a vivid window into the Australian wilderness.
Who are the main actors in Skippy the Bush Kangaroo?
Ed Devereaux leads the cast as ranger Matt Hammond, with Garry Pankhurst as his son Sonny and Ken James as older brother Mark. Tony Bonner plays ranger Jerry King, and Liza Goddard appears as Clancy. The ensemble brought warmth and adventure to every episode of the beloved series.
How did Skippy the Bush Kangaroo perform internationally?
Skippy the Bush Kangaroo became a global phenomenon, broadcast in over 128 countries and watched by an estimated 300 million viewers worldwide. It was particularly popular in the United Kingdom and Europe, and is widely credited with boosting international interest in Australia and its unique wildlife.
Why is Skippy the Bush Kangaroo considered a classic?
The series holds a special place in television history as one of Australia's first major international exports. Its wholesome family storytelling, breathtaking bush settings, and the charming bond between Sonny and Skippy resonated across generations. It helped define Australian identity on the world stage during the late 1960s.
Are there any spin-offs or related series to Skippy?
Yes, the franchise was revisited with The Adventures of Skippy in 1992, a modern reimagining that introduced the beloved kangaroo to a new generation. There was also Skippy: Adventures in Bushtown in 1998, an animated series that continued the legacy of the original in a fresh, child-friendly format.
More About Skippy the Bush Kangaroo
Explore further details about this classic Australian series from these authoritative sources.