Welcome back to My 70’s TV Childhood! Today, we’re revisiting a beloved piece of 1970s British television: Crackerjack!
Thank you to everyone who has shared their memories with us. Your stories bring nostalgia to life, and I appreciate each one, even if I’m delayed in responding due to the busy pace of life. Join the conversation by commenting on our blog at www.my70stvchildhood.com or connecting with us on Facebook, Twitter/X, YouTube, and LinkedIn. You can also reach me directly via email at oliver@my70stvchildhood.com—I’d love to hear from you!
Speaking of the week’s hustle and bustle, work has a way of taking over, doesn’t it? But come Friday night, I always make it a point to unwind and reflect, a stark contrast to my teenage years of pub-hopping. These days, a quiet evening with my wife, a gin and tonic, and a bowl of crisps suffices—a change I’ve come to appreciate more than I would have imagined in my youth.
Reflecting on Fridays in the 1970s brings back a different kind of nostalgia. As a child, it marked the start of the weekend—a time free from school, filled with play, family visits, and, of course, television.
At primary school, Fridays were special with assemblies that combined drama and music. However, the highlight of the week was undoubtedly lunchtime, eagerly awaited for its serving of fish and chips!
But beyond the school day, Fridays truly came alive with children’s television—and one show, in particular, defined the anticipation and excitement of the weekend: Crackerjack!
Crackerjack crackerjack! heralded the weekend with its rapid-fire mix of comedy, music, and quizzes—all performed live in front of a boisterous audience of school children and scouts, fueled by fizzy drinks and uncontainable energy.
The show, a BBC staple since 1955, saw hosts like Eammon Andrews and Leslie Crowther before Michael Aspel took the reins. Ed “Stewpot” Stewart later brought his own charm to the show, making it a must-watch for generations.
Central to Crackerjack! crackerjack’s appeal were its resident stars—Jan Hunt, Don Maclean (not the singer), and the irrepressible Peter Glaze. Glaze’s comedic timing and knack for physical humour endeared him to audiences, echoing the spirit of music hall comedy.
The show’s antics often verged on the mischievous, with Maclean’s drumming on Glaze’s belly becoming a playground anthem and Bernie Clifton’s comedic ostrich routine adding to the laughter.
Music played a significant role too, with top musical guests often joining the fun, and the cast themselves delivering quirky renditions of popular songs—a testament to the show’s ability to blend variety, humour, and music seamlessly.
Of course, who can forget Double or Drop, the nerve-wracking quiz where children from the audience risked elimination with each wrong answer—ultimately vying for the coveted Crackerjack pencil?
Crackerjack was more than just a TV show; it was a Friday ritual that spanned decades, uniting families and friends across generations. As the 1980s approached, the show evolved, welcoming Stu Francis and introducing new characters like The Krankies, but its heart remained in its original charm.
What are your memories of Crackerjack? Were you part of the lively audience? Share your stories, reach out on social media, or email me directly at oliver@my70stvchildhood.com.
That wraps up our journey down memory lane for now. Join us next week for another round of 70’s TV quiz and in a fortnight for more nostalgia on our podcast.
Until then, take care,
Oliver
Email: [Oliver@My70sTVChildhood.com]
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