We are saddened to share the news that Marty Krofft, the co-producer of beloved children’s television shows like “H.R. Pufnstuf” and “Land of the Lost,” passed away at the age of 86. Marty left this world on a Saturday afternoon in California, surrounded by his loved ones and friends. His representative, B. Harlan Boll, confirmed that the cause of his death was kidney failure.
Marty and his brother, Sid Krofft, were the masterminds behind some of the most iconic children’s TV shows that entertained generations of kids in the 1970s. Their journey in the world of television began when NBC approached them to create a Saturday morning children’s series. This marked the birth of “H.R. Pufnstuf,” a show that quickly became a fan favorite character from their live performances.
The success of “H.R. Pufnstuf” led to a feature film collaboration with Universal Pictures, cementing Marty Krofft’s reputation as a creative powerhouse. The brothers’ production company, Sid & Marty Krofft Pictures, became a household name in the 1970s, captivating audiences with their family and kids shows for over five decades. Marty Krofft was even hailed as the “King of Saturday Mornings.”
Together, Marty and Sid brought to life unforgettable TV shows such as “The Bugaloos,” “Lidsville,” “Sigmund and the Sea Monsters,” “Pryor’s Place,” and many more. Their imagination knew no boundaries, as they wanted their TV characters to exist beyond the confines of the screen.
In 1976, the Krofft brothers unveiled an amusement park in Atlanta known as “The World of Sid and Marty Krofft.” Stepping into this extraordinary world, visitors encountered actors dressed in costumes, a carousel, and a surreal ride where they sat in a human-sized pinball. It was an adventure unlike any other, where reality merged with fantasy. Although the park eventually closed, the Kroffts’ legacy lives on. The place was renamed CNN Center and now serves as a starting point for tours of CNN’s Atlanta operations, inviting visitors to embark on a different kind of journey.
Later on, during the late 1980s, Marty and Sid created the satirical series “D.C. Follies,” featuring life-sized puppets of prominent figures like Richard Nixon and Arnold Schwarzenegger. The show became a hit, garnering praise from politicians and the public alike as it tackled real-world issues in a lighthearted manner.
Throughout their career, the Kroffts produced other highly acclaimed prime time shows, including “Donny & Marie,” “The Brady Bunch Hour,” and “Barbara Mandrell and the Mandrell Sisters.” Their outstanding contributions to the world of television earned them numerous accolades, such as the Lifetime Career Award at the Saturn Awards in 2003 and the Lifetime Achievement Emmy Award from the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences in 2018. In 2020, they were honored with a star on the renowned Hollywood Walk of Fame, celebrating their “Golden Anniversary” in the industry.
Most recently, Marty Krofft received the prestigious Julie Award at the 2023 Dragon Con in Atlanta, a testament to his enduring impact and influence.
Marty Krofft’s passing leaves a void in the world of children’s entertainment, but he leaves behind a remarkable legacy. He is survived by his brothers, Harry Krofft and Sid Krofft, his daughters Deanna Krofft-Pope, Kristina, and Kendra Krofft, as well as five grandchildren and a great-grandchild.
Marty Krofft’s creative genius brought joy and wonder to millions of children and adults alike. His imaginative worlds and colorful characters will continue to inspire, reminding us of the power of imagination and the importance of nurturing our inner child. Rest in peace, Marty Krofft, and thank you for making our childhoods magical.
