Welcome back to My 70’s TV Childhood! It’s great to have you with us again! Our podcast takes you on a nostalgic journey through the world of 1970s British television, reminiscing about the shows that captured our imaginations as children and exploring the cultural impact they had on our daily lives. It was a time when television was a new frontier for many, and the box in the corner of the living room became a beloved part of our everyday experience.
Today, we’re returning to the colourful and surreal world of Rainbow, one of the most iconic children’s television shows of the 1970s. First airing in October 1972 on ITV and produced by Thames Television, Rainbow broke away from the norm of children’s TV with its unique blend of education, music, and a quirky cast of characters. It was an experience a kaleidoscope of fun and learning that delighted young audiences for two decades.
Unlike many children’s shows of the time, Rainbow had a distinctive format. It featured a memorable array of characters, starting with the original presenter, David Cook, who later passed the baton to Geoffrey Hayes—the man many still remember as the face of Rainbow. Geoffrey brought a calm authority to the show, attempting to keep the eccentric gang in line.
The show’s charm was heavily rooted in its cast of unusual characters. There was Bungle, a giant brown bear known for his moral rectitude and occasional bouts of whining—especially when provoked by his more mischievous co-star, Zippy. Zippy, with his zippered mouth and loud personality, could be brash and cheeky, often getting into trouble with his constant boasting and mischief. Then there was George, the shy, pink hippo with long eyelashes who usually played the role of the voice of reason, balancing the antics of his more excitable housemates.
Rainbow was also notable for its music. From the psychedelic opening theme to the numerous songs performed by various musical groups over the years, music was an integral part of the show. Whether it was the early folk-inspired tunes or the later performances by the cheerful trio, Rod, Jane, and Freddy, the songs added another layer of charm to this wonderfully odd show.
But the magic of Rainbow wasn’t just about its characters or songs; it was about the way it made us feel. Watching Rainbow was a shared experience, whether you were learning about shapes, colours, or how to get along with others—sometimes with the added lesson of seeing Zippy’s mouth being zipped shut when he went too far!
As we look back, it’s fascinating to see how a show like Rainbow could capture the imagination of so many children while still being remembered fondly today. I’d love to hear your memories! What moments from Rainbow stand out for you? Were you a fan of the original episodes with David Cook, or did you love the mayhem with Geoffrey, Zippy, and the rest of the gang? Did the songs stick with you, and do you find yourself humming the theme tune from time to time?
Feel free to share your thoughts and memories! Visit our blog at www.my70stvchildhood.com, or connect with us on Twitter/X, Facebook, YouTube, or LinkedIn. You can also email me directly at oliver@my70stvchildhood.com.
That’s all for now! Join us next week for our 70s TV trivia quiz, and be sure to tune in for our regular podcast in two weeks’ time. Don’t forget to like, rate, and review us wherever you get your podcasts. Until then, take care and keep those nostalgic memories alive!
Take care,
Oliver
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