Puppets and Props Worth $40,000 Stolen from Los Angeles Puppeteer

Jackie Smook, creator of the 'Dilly's World' web series, is racing to rebuild her show's handmade puppets and props before a live performance later this month.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A Los Angeles puppeteer who created the 'Dilly's World' web series and touring theatrical show had $40,000 worth of handmade puppets, props, and other items stolen from outside her Hollywood Hills home. The theft occurred just 11 days before a scheduled live 'Dilly's World' performance, forcing the puppeteer to scramble to rebuild the stolen elements in time for the show.

Why it matters

The theft of the specialized puppets and props has put the upcoming 'Dilly's World' live show in jeopardy, as the puppeteer races against the clock to recreate the stolen items. The incident highlights the challenges that independent artists and performers can face when their essential equipment and materials are stolen, potentially derailing their work and livelihood.

The details

According to a stolen vehicle report filed with the Los Angeles Police Department, the theft occurred on Feb. 9 outside of Jackie Smook's apartment on Beachwood Drive. The stolen items were inside a U-Haul U-Box on a trailer with Idaho license plates, which Smook said was filled with puppets handmade by artists, instruments, props, and merchandise for her 'Dilly's World' show. Smook had the U-Box delivered from Chicago, where she recently toured with the show, but when she went to unpack it on Monday, it was gone. A neighbor's camera captured some photos of the box before it was stolen.

  • The theft occurred on February 9, 2026 outside of Jackie Smook's Hollywood Hills apartment.
  • A live 'Dilly's World' show is scheduled to take place at Dynasty Typewriter theater on February 22, 2026.

The players

Jackie Smook

The creator of the 'Dilly's World' web series and touring theatrical show, who had $40,000 worth of handmade puppets, props, and other items stolen from outside her home.

Los Angeles Police Department

The law enforcement agency that Smook filed a stolen vehicle report with regarding the theft of the 'Dilly's World' items.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I'm freaking out. I would love support, if you know anything or you know what to do.”

— Jackie Smook, Puppeteer (Instagram)

“The show will totally go on, and it's going to be incredible. Theater is what makes the world go 'round. Live theater is important.”

— Jackie Smook, Puppeteer (Instagram)

“This is extremely devastating and this does not stop the amazing powers of being a creative person and an artist, and coming together as a community, which is all we need to do all the time.”

— Jackie Smook, Puppeteer (Instagram)

What’s next

Smook has already mobilized to rebuild the stolen puppets and props in time for the scheduled February 22 live 'Dilly's World' show, and is calling for artists to help her in this effort.

The takeaway

This theft highlights the vulnerability that independent artists and performers can face when their essential equipment and materials are stolen, potentially derailing their work and livelihood. However, Smook's determination to rebuild and move forward with her show despite this setback demonstrates the resilience and community-driven spirit of the performing arts.