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Bob Keeshan (Clarabell)

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description Bob Keeshan (Clarabell) Overview

Bob Keeshan was an American television actor who originated the role of Clarabell the Clown on NBC's "The Howdy Doody Show" in 1947. As Clarabell, he communicated exclusively through honking horns and squeezing a bottle of seltzer water, becoming a memorable figure in early children's broadcasting. In 1955, Keeshan left the network to develop and star in "Captain Kangaroo," a vastly different, more gentle daily children's program that ran for nearly three decades. He is remembered for significantly shaping the landscape of American educational entertainment.

help Bob Keeshan (Clarabell) FAQ

Was Bob Keeshan the first Clarabell the Clown?

Yes. Keeshan originated Clarabell on NBC's The Howdy Doody Show in 1947 before other performers took over the part.

Did Clarabell the Clown ever speak?

Clarabell normally communicated through two horn honks, one for yes and two for no, and used a seltzer bottle for comic mischief. In the program's final 1960 broadcast, the character famously said, "Goodbye, kids."

Why did Bob Keeshan leave The Howdy Doody Show?

Keeshan left after disputes involving working conditions and compensation during the early 1950s. Robert Nick and later Lew Anderson subsequently played Clarabell.

Did Bob Keeshan create Captain Kangaroo after playing Clarabell?

Yes. Keeshan created and starred in Captain Kangaroo, which premiered on CBS in 1955 and made him one of American children's television's best-known hosts.

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