Land of the Lost creator Sid Krofft dies at 96

Krofft co-created iconic TV series like 'Land of the Lost' and 'H.R. Pufnstuf' with his brother Marty

Apr. 17, 2026 at 1:50am

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An abstract, minimalist illustration featuring stark black silhouettes and jagged geometric shapes, conceptually representing the fantastical characters and settings of the Krofft brothers' television creations.The imaginative, psychedelic worlds of Sid and Marty Krofft's iconic television shows continue to captivate audiences decades later.Los Angeles Today

Sid Krofft, the legendary puppeteer and television producer who co-created beloved shows like 'Land of the Lost' and 'H.R. Pufnstuf' alongside his brother Marty, has died at the age of 96. Krofft's business partner and friend, Kelly Killian, shared that Krofft passed away from natural causes on Friday.

Why it matters

Sid and Marty Krofft were pioneers of children's television, creating highly imaginative and visually striking programs that captivated audiences for decades. Their work, marked by colorful puppetry and fantastical worlds, left an indelible mark on pop culture and influenced generations of creators.

The details

Sid Krofft co-created 'Land of the Lost' and 'H.R. Pufnstuf' with his brother Marty, who passed away in 2023 at the age of 86. The Krofft brothers were known for their innovative use of puppetry and costume design, creating vibrant, psychedelic worlds that appealed to both children and adults. Despite speculation about drug use, the brothers insisted they never worked under the influence, saying 'If we did the drugs everybody thought we did, we'd be dead today.'

  • Sid Krofft died on Friday, April 17, 2026.
  • Marty Krofft, Sid's brother and creative partner, passed away in 2023 at the age of 86.

The players

Sid Krofft

A legendary puppeteer and television producer who co-created iconic shows like 'Land of the Lost' and 'H.R. Pufnstuf' alongside his brother Marty.

Marty Krofft

Sid Krofft's brother and creative partner, who co-created many of the Krofft brothers' most famous television series before passing away in 2023 at the age of 86.

Kelly Killian

Sid Krofft's business partner and friend, who shared a statement about Krofft's passing.

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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. I wish so very much that I had more time with him.”

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

The takeaway

Sid and Marty Krofft's innovative and imaginative television work, marked by their distinctive puppetry and costume design, left an indelible mark on pop culture and inspired generations of creators. Their shows, like 'Land of the Lost' and 'H.R. Pufnstuf,' continue to be beloved cult classics that captivate audiences of all ages.