Zoobilee Zoo (1986)
The Emmy Award-winning children's series where costumed animal characters called Zoobles teach young viewers timeless life lessons through imaginative, heartfelt storytelling.
Zoobilee Zoo - Series Information
- Original Title: Zoobilee Zoo
- First Air Year: 1986
- Last Air Year: 1986
- Created by: Hallmark Creations
- Type: TV Series
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode (30 minutes)
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 65
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: English
- Production Companies: DiC Entertainment, BRB Entertainment, sfm Entertainment
Zoobilee Zoo - Plot
Zoobilee Zoo is an Emmy Award-winning children's television series featuring costumed performers dressed as animal characters. It originally aired from 1986–1987, then in syndication until 2001 on several television channels including commercial network television stations, public television stations, The Learning Channel, and the Hallmark Channel. Only 65 episodes of the original incarnation of the show were made. While it was in syndication for 15 years, it was no longer airing on television as of July 2011. The original 65 episodes are currently owned by Hallmark Properties and were produced by WQED Pittsburgh.
Generally the plot of each episode consists of the main characters, called Zoobles, encountering difficulties usually common to young children and then learning a moral lesson about dealing with such problems, such as being apprehensive of going to a doctor or learning to appreciate others. Each character has a certain gimmick in his behavior or interests that gives him a unique view on each problem faced. Mayor Ben, who usually appears at the beginnings and ends of each episode, calls the fans and viewers of the show Zoobaroos.
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Zoobilee Zoo - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- Hallmark Creations
Main Cast
- Ben Vereen
- Gary Schwartz
- Karen Hartman
- Stevie Vallance
- Suzy Barbieri
Writers
- Jim Marshall
Zoobilee Zoo - FAQs
Who played Mayor Ben in Zoobilee Zoo?
Mayor Ben was played by Broadway and television legend Ben Vereen, who served as the warm, welcoming host of the series. His charismatic presence anchored each episode, greeting fans and viewers — affectionately called Zoobaroos — at the beginning and end of every installment.
What is Zoobilee Zoo about?
Zoobilee Zoo follows a group of costumed animal characters called Zoobles who live in a colorful, imaginative world. Each episode centers on everyday challenges familiar to young children — like visiting the doctor or appreciating others — and wraps up with a gentle, meaningful moral lesson.
Did Zoobilee Zoo win any awards?
Zoobilee Zoo earned Emmy Award recognition during its original run, a testament to its quality as children's programming. The show's blend of imaginative costumed characters, relatable storylines, and positive moral messaging resonated strongly with both young audiences and the television industry throughout the late 1980s.
Where can you watch Zoobilee Zoo today?
Zoobilee Zoo is not widely available on major streaming platforms at this time. The original 65 episodes are owned by Hallmark Properties. For the most current viewing options in your region, checking JustWatch is the best way to find any available streaming, rental, or purchase options.
How long did Zoobilee Zoo air on television?
Though only 65 episodes were produced in 1986, Zoobilee Zoo had a remarkably long broadcast life. It ran in syndication for 15 years across commercial networks, public television stations, The Learning Channel, and the Hallmark Channel, before finally leaving the airwaves in July 2011.
Who produced Zoobilee Zoo?
Zoobilee Zoo was produced by DiC Entertainment, BRB Entertainment, and sfm Entertainment, with the original 65 episodes produced in association with WQED Pittsburgh. The series was created under Hallmark Creations, and the original episode library is currently owned by Hallmark Properties.
What are the main characters in Zoobilee Zoo?
The central characters — known as Zoobles — include Mayor Ben, Bravo Fox, Talkatoo Cockatoo, Whazzat Kangaroo, and Sandy. Each character has a distinct personality and set of interests that shapes their unique perspective on the problems and adventures encountered throughout the series.
What shows are similar to Zoobilee Zoo?
Fans of Zoobilee Zoo often enjoy other animal-themed children's series such as Zoboomafoo, Wild Kratts, and The Wild Thornberrys, all of which blend entertainment with educational content about animals and nature. Brandy & Mr. Whiskers and Madagascar: A Little Wild offer similarly lighthearted animated fun for younger audiences.
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