The Weirdest Kids' Shows of Our Childhood

As children, we were often exposed to shows that were alarming, psychological, and sometimes, we just couldn't understand them at all. From Teletubbies to H.R. Pufnstuf, here are some of the weirdest and most enigmatic shows that we, as children, have experienced.

Teletubbies – Acid Trip of Animation

Looking back, the British children's show Teletubbies was a complete acid trip. Initially, I was rather unaware of the surrealist humor and the suspiciously dark undertones. The show's brightly colored characters, the playful yet eerie tunes, and the overall surrealism that pervaded every aspect of the show were a far cry from the more traditional and straightforward kids' programming.

Fanboy and Chum Chum – A Frustrating Experience

The Fanboy and Chum Chum series was certainly not the most well-received show. It featured two 'heroes' in self-designed costumes, their underwear on the outside. These heroes were not the most commendable characters and the show included themes that left me confused and even nightmarish. The character's voices, the theme song, and the overall concept were a massive flop.

The Power Rangers Clones – Miniature Clashes and Mystery Invaders

The Power Rangers have had numerous clones over the years, but a few of these were particularly bizarre. Specifically, Tattooed Teenage Alien Fighters from Beverly Hills, produced by DIC Entertainment, held a special place in my memories. This show was a clone of the Power Rangers in every sense but when the heroes transformed, they did so not by becoming fighter jets, but by growing in size and the scenes featuring these transformations were miniature in scale. The fact that these heroes were like luchadores masked the whimsical nature of the show, making it a strange and memorable viewing experience.

The Enigma of Happy Tree Friends

Happy Tree Friends, presented as a cartoon to me initially, was a show that encapsulated the bizarre and surreal. I watched it religiously for years before suddenly realizing that the characters were, in fact, disturbingly anthropomorphic and a little too lifelike, especially the deaths, which ended in the most unexplained manners. This realisation was quite shocking and I suddenly couldn't comprehend the show's allure.

H.R. Pufnstuf: The Unforgettable Magic

H.R. Pufnstuf, produced by Sid and Marty Krofft, was hands down the weirdest show of my childhood. Lampy was more than a talking brain; he was a mysterious, jello-like creature that provided comfort and guidance. Unfortunately, the show was also introduced to me at the incredibly young age of three, during the HemisFair 68 in San Antonio. It’s a memory that will forever be etched in my mind. Even now, as a young adult, I can recall the strange and almost otherworldly sensation of watching this show.

Conclusion

These bizarre shows from our childhood have left a lasting impact on our memories. From the surreal and psychedelic Teletubbies to the bizarre H.R. Pufnstuf, and the unsettling Happy Tree Friends, these shows are a testament to the unpredictable and often strange nature of children's television. As we grow older, these memories still resonate with us, providing a unique glimpse into the mind of a child.