The Early Bird Show - Excerpts

Russell Rooster and Suzy Cato bid viewers “doodle-doo” in this TV3 children’s show which combines local skits, interviews and competitions with overseas cartoons. In this August 1991 compilation, “Bugman” Ruud Kleinpaste talks about cockroaches (with serious specimens) and Billy T James is remembered with an excerpt from an appearance on the show. In-house artist Mark shows viewers how to draw 'monstas' and there are time-honoured jokes from Kiri Kea and various ducklings. Mercifully, Suzy protects Russell from the fact she is giving away fried chicken vouchers.

With wall to wall competitions, swaps and music video requests, the phone runs hot all morning. And, although it’s all too loud, there are too many dreadful jokes, and it’s all a bit silly to this jaundiced eye, I must admit that it did quack me up at times.

– Shelley Howells, NZ Listener, 20 August 1990

Key Cast & Crew

Rex Simpson

Producer

Cameron Chittock

Design

David Hartnell

Guest

Ruud Kleinpaste

Presenter

Suzy Cato

Presenter