Legendary Puppeteer and TV Producer Sid Krofft Dies at 96

Krofft co-created iconic family shows like 'Land of the Lost' and 'H.R. Pufnstuf'.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 2:20pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a vintage television screen displaying a glittering, high-contrast texture of shimmering lights and shadows, conceptually representing the glamour and nostalgia of classic children's television programming.The vibrant, imaginative worlds created by puppeteer Sid Krofft continue to captivate audiences decades after his iconic children's television shows first aired.Los Angeles Today

Sid Krofft, the famed puppeteer and TV producer behind beloved 1960s and 1970s children's shows like 'Land of the Lost' and 'H.R. Pufnstuf', has died at the age of 96 due to natural causes. Krofft co-created these iconic programs with his late brother Marty, and their puppets also appeared in shows with legendary entertainers like Judy Garland and Frank Sinatra.

Why it matters

Sid Krofft and his brother Marty were pioneers of children's television, creating imaginative, fantastical worlds that captivated young audiences for decades. Their unique blend of puppetry, music, and storytelling left an indelible mark on pop culture and inspired generations of creators.

The details

Krofft passed away at the Los Angeles home of his friend and business partner Kelly Killian on April 10. In addition to 'Land of the Lost' and 'H.R. Pufnstuf', Krofft's other credits include 'The Banana Splits Adventure Hour', 'The Bugaloos', 'Sigmund and the Sea Monsters', and 'Lidsville'. At the time of his death, he was working on two books and hosting an Instagram Live podcast with Killian called 'Sundays with Sid'.

  • Sid Krofft died on April 10, 2026.
  • Krofft co-created many of his iconic children's shows in the 1960s and 1970s.

The players

Sid Krofft

A famed puppeteer and TV producer who, along with his late brother Marty, created several beloved children's television programs in the 1960s and 1970s such as 'Land of the Lost' and 'H.R. Pufnstuf'.

Marty Krofft

Sid Krofft's late brother, with whom he co-created many iconic children's television shows in the 1960s and 1970s.

Kelly Killian

Sid Krofft's friend and business partner, who confirmed his passing and shared heartfelt memories of their time together.

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What they’re saying

“I loved Sid with my whole heart. The last six years of my life were devoted to him, and his to me. In that time, he taught me more than I could ever put into words -- about the art of Hollywood, the magic of the stage, and the depth and complexity of human nature.”

— Kelly Killian, Sid Krofft's friend and business partner

“I wish so very much that I had more time with him.There is no way I could ever repay the life lessons he gave me, both the beautiful and the difficult. Even now, I find myself instinctively checking in on him, walking into a room ready to ask him a question about a piece of history or a person that no longer exists.”

— Kelly Killian, Sid Krofft's friend and business partner

“Last Thursday night, he grabbed my arm and said, 'Kelly, I need you to know something... I love you.' Those words will stay with me forever.”

— Kelly Killian, Sid Krofft's friend and business partner

What’s next

Krofft's legacy will continue to inspire new generations of children's television creators and puppeteers.

The takeaway

Sid Krofft's pioneering work in children's television, blending puppetry, music, and fantastical storytelling, left an indelible mark on pop culture and continues to captivate audiences decades later.