Sid Krofft, Co-Creator of Cult-Classic Kids TV Shows, Dies at 96

The Canadian-born entertainment pioneer and puppeteer was known for 1960s hits like 'H.R. Pufnstuf'.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 4:23am

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A stark, geometric black silhouette of the H.R. Pufnstuf character, with jagged edges and bold negative space, set against a vibrant red background, conceptually representing the Krofft brothers' innovative and influential children's television programs.The Krofft brothers' whimsical, psychedelic children's TV shows from the 1960s and 70s left an indelible mark on television history.NYC Today

Sid Krofft, the Canadian-born entertainment wizard who teamed with his brother Marty Krofft to create beloved children's television shows like 'H.R. Pufnstuf' in the 1960s, has died at the age of 96 in New York.

Why it matters

Krofft and his brother were pioneers of children's television, developing innovative puppet-based shows that became cult classics and influenced generations of young viewers. Their unique, fantastical visual style and imaginative storytelling left a lasting mark on the industry.

The details

Sid Krofft, along with his brother Marty, were the creative forces behind a number of whimsical, psychedelic children's television programs in the 1960s and 1970s. Their most famous creation was 'H.R. Pufnstuf,' a live-action series featuring a cast of colorful puppet characters that developed a devoted following among young viewers.

  • Sid Krofft died on April 12, 2026 in New York at the age of 96.

The players

Sid Krofft

A Canadian-born entertainment wizard and puppeteer who, along with his brother Marty, created cult-classic children's television shows in the 1960s and 1970s.

Marty Krofft

Sid Krofft's brother and fellow puppeteer, who collaborated with him to develop innovative, fantastical children's TV programs.

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The takeaway

The Krofft brothers' innovative, puppet-based children's shows left an indelible mark on television history, influencing generations of young viewers with their unique, fantastical visual style and imaginative storytelling.