H.R. Pufnstuf is a popular children's television show that aired in the late 1960s and early 1970s. One of the main characters in the show is Witchiepoo, the primary antagonist and resident witch of Living Island, where the show is set. Witchiepoo is known for her distinctive appearance, which includes green skin, a long nose, and wild, frizzy hair. Despite her wicked nature, Witchiepoo is depicted as a comedic and somewhat bumbling character.
Until she dipped the kidnapped Freddy Flute into the vat of boiling oil and threatened to deep-fry him. It’s funny how the most innocuous thing can spark such a wild reaction, isn’t it? Freddy got dipped and he just exploded in tears. And from the cold light of adulthood, it’s so minor, just Billie Hayes dipping the inanimate Freddy prop into some water with some dry ice pellets or something in it, but credit Joan Gerber’s voice work for Freddy panicking and begging for help, I guess, because this kid just lost it completely, crying sadly for the poor flute.
This is a really funny episode for kids who like physical comedy, and between the sequence with the beauty salon chair going haywire and the lunatic Three Oranges act, he was roaring with laughter, and finally the witch was no longer an object of fear. Ascended Extra Stupid Bat was the least-used of all of Witchiepoo s henchmen, only appearing in the odd episode, but in The Movie he s a fairly major character throughout.
Despite her wicked nature, Witchiepoo is depicted as a comedic and somewhat bumbling character. She constantly seeks to obtain Jimmy and his magical talking flute, Freddie, in order to increase her powers and take over the world. However, her plans are often foiled by the heroic dragon, H.
HR Puff n Stuff
This classic series premiered on Australian television on September 6th, 1969. Created by Sid & Marty Croft, it continued throughout the 80’s & mesmerised an entire generation with its extraordinary “living cartoons.”
Puff, Jimmy & Freddy
This show captured the imagination of a generation with surreal stories, hypnotic colours, and a maddening mix of real life and master puppetry. This story of a boy, his magic flute, a witch, and the giant Puff n Stuff, the friendly Mayor of Living Island. Stories usually revolved around Witchiepoo (Billy Hayes) and her henchman hatching various plots against the young Jimmy (Jack Wild) in an effort to steal his Magical Flute Freddy (voice of Joan Gerber) as Puff n stuff and friends help foil her attempts.
It began with Jimmy, a young English boy (Jack Wild of Oliver fame), playing near the edge of a river with his magical talking gold flute, Freddie (or “Fweddie”, as Jimmy called him). Whilst at the edge of a river Jimmy climbs aboard a boat that becko ns to him.
The evil Witchiepoo
As it drifts out to sea an evil witch named “Witchiepoo” (seekin g Freddie to add to her collecti on of magical possessions), casts a spell and makes the boat turn into an evil boat which attacks Jimmy (who then jumps overboard to save himself).
Swimming to the shore of Living Island, Jimmy is rescued by its mayor, HR Puff n stuff and his Rescue Ranger crew (Kling and Klang) before Witchiepoo can get her hands on the boy or the magic flute. They befriend Jimmy, sheltering and protecting him from the kooky old witch. Everything on Living Island is alive. Books have faces, houses sneeze and trees can talk, not to mention the regular citizens who all look like an animal of some sort. Dr B linky is an Owl, Ludicrous a Lion and Judy Frog. And then there is the evil Witchiepoo (played by the great Billie Hayes).
She continually tries to satisfy her obsession for the talking flute with the aid of her goofy henchmen Orson, Seymore, Dumb and Stupid and her motorized broomstick, called the Vroom Broom. Each episode involves Jimmy attempting to escape from the island with the help of Puff n stuff and his friends, with flute intact of course.
This was another of my all time favourite shows. I used to rush home from school to watch even though Witchiepoo & her squealing voice absolutely terrified me! I knew the theme tune word for word & used to go round the house singing it. Whilst creating this website & finding the theme tune again, I hadn’t forgotten a word!
Watch the original Puff n Stuff theme tune
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Jimmy (Jack Wild), a young boy with a British accent and a speech impediment, is abducted by the sinister and disturbingly Oedipal witch Wilhelmina W. Witchiepoo (Billie Hayes) in a gambit to snatch his magical talking golden flute. Her plan involves tricking both boy and flute into riding inside a boat that at first looks lovely and inviting, then turns sinister and violent. Yes, really.
R. Pufnstuf, and his friends. Although Witchiepoo is not successful in her endeavors, she remains a persistent and recurring villain throughout the series. In addition to her role as an antagonist, Witchiepoo also provides much of the humor and entertainment in the show. Her exaggerated facial expressions, over-the-top gestures, and comedic dialogue make her a beloved character among fans. She often finds herself in ridiculous situations, such as getting trapped in a giant cake or falling into a pit. Despite these mishaps, she always manages to bounce back and continue with her evil schemes. Witchiepoo's character is also notable for her catchy and memorable theme song. Titled "The Witch Is Out," the song captures her mischievous and villainous nature, while also adding a touch of humor. The song has become an iconic part of the show and is often recognized by fans of all ages. Overall, Witchiepoo is a central and beloved character in the world of H.R. Pufnstuf. With her distinct appearance, comedic antics, and catchy theme song, she adds a unique and entertaining element to the show. Despite her wicked intentions, she remains a cherished and memorable part of the series..
Reviews for "H R Puffnstuff Witch: Unveiling the Inspirations for the Character Design"
1. John - 1 star
I found "H R Puffnstuff Witch" to be incredibly boring and just plain weird. The plot made no sense whatsoever and the characters were just annoying. I couldn't connect with any of them and overall it felt like a waste of time. The visuals were also outdated and not appealing. I do not recommend this show to anyone looking for quality entertainment.
2. Sarah - 2 stars
I had high hopes for "H R Puffnstuff Witch" due to its cult following, but I was left disappointed. The story felt disjointed and the humor didn't land for me. The puppets were creepy and the acting was over-the-top. It seemed like a production aimed solely at children, but even they may find it hard to enjoy. I understand the nostalgia factor, but as a first-time viewer, I found it hard to appreciate.
3. Mike - 1 star
"H R Puffnstuff Witch" is a show that I could not get into at all. The script was poorly written, with cheesy lines and contrived situations. The acting was subpar, and the special effects were laughable. I was expecting a fun and whimsical experience, but instead, I felt like I wasted my time watching this show. I would not recommend it to anyone, unless you enjoy cringe-worthy television.