Who Is Bob Keeshan? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Bob Keeshan was born on June 27, 1927, in Lynbrook, New York. He became an iconic children’s television personality, best known for hosting "Captain Kangaroo," which premiered in 1955 and became a staple of American children's programming for decades. Although Bob Keeshan passed away on January 23, 2004, his influence on children's entertainment continues to resonate, impacting generations of viewers with his compassion and educational approach to storytelling.
| Occupation | Producer |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | June 27, 1927 |
| Age | 76 Years |
| Birth Place | Lynbrook, New York, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Cancer |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 23 January, 2004 |
| Died Place | Windsor, Vermont, U.S. |
Popularity
Bob Keeshan's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Throughout his career, Bob Keeshan was characterized by his warm presence. While specific measurements about his height and weight aren’t prevalent in public records, he was typically seen in a jovial and welcoming appearance that made him relatable to young audiences.
Network television programs began shortly after the end of the war. Howdy Doody, which premiered in 1947 on NBC, was one of the first. Starting on January 3, 1948, Keeshan played Clarabell the Clown, a silent Auguste clown who communicated by honking several horns attached to a belt around his waist. One honk meant "yes"; two meant "no".
Clarabell often sprayed Buffalo Bob Smith with a seltzer bottle and played practical jokes. Keeshan had conflicts with Smith and in late 1952 left the show, or possibly was fired, after hiring an agent for himself and other workers on the show.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Bob Keeshan was married to Anne Keeshan, and together they had four children: Megan, Michael, and the late Patrick and Brian. His family was a crucial part of his life, often cited in interviews as a source of inspiration for his work. Keeshan’s dedication to family values shone through in his programming, where he emphasized kindness, understanding, and the importance of family.
Developing ideas from Tinker's Workshop, Keeshan and his long-time friend Jack Miller submitted the concept of Captain Kangaroo to the CBS network, which was looking for innovative approaches to children's television programming. CBS approved the show, and Keeshan starred as the title character when it premiered on CBS on October 3, 1955.
He described his character as based on "the warm relationship between grandparents and children". The show was an immediate success, and he served as its host for nearly three decades. Recurring characters included his sidekick (and fan favorite) Mr.
Green Jeans (played by Hugh "Lumpy" Brannum), Dennis (played by Cosmo Allegretti), and puppets such as Bunny Rabbit and Mr. Moose.
Net Worth and Salary
While specific figures on Bob Keeshan's net worth at the time of his death are not widely disclosed, he is estimated to have amassed a net worth in the millions during his lifetime, largely through his television career and involvement in children's programming. His salary as a television host, combined with various endorsements and appearances, contributed significantly to his financial stability.
Career, Business, and Investments
Bob Keeshan's career spanned several decades and included various roles, from a puppeteer to a television producer. He created and hosted "Captain Kangaroo," which ran until 1984 and earned him numerous awards, including a Peabody Award. Keeshan was also involved in various charitable organizations and initiatives aimed at childhood education.
Beyond television, Keeshan published several children’s books and remained an advocate for children’s rights. His impact on early childhood education was profound, influencing how children's programming was approached in the industry.
In the 1990s, Keeshan expressed an interest in bringing back a new version of Captain Kangaroo as a gentler and kinder answer to the violent cartoons on children's television. Despite having sponsors and television stations lined up, he was unable to obtain permission from ICM, the company that owned the rights to Captain Kangaroo at that time.
In 1994, Keeshan was featured as a semi-regular on the FX daytime talk show Breakfast Time.
Social Network
Even though Bob Keeshan passed in 2004, his legacy lives on through various social media channels managed by fans and organizations. These platforms celebrate his life, share cherished memories, and maintain the educational values he championed.
By September 21, 1953, Keeshan came back to local TV on WABC-TV, Channel 7 in New York City, in a new children's show, Time for Fun. He played Corny the Clown, and this time he spoke. Later that same year, in addition to Time for Fun, he began Tinker's Workshop, a program aimed at preschoolers, where he played the grandfather-like Tinker.
Education
Bob Keeshan graduated from the University of Oklahoma in the late 1940s, where he developed his interest in performing arts and child development. His education laid the foundation for his compassionate approach to children's programming, combining entertainment with valuable life lessons that many parents and grandparents still cherish today.
After an early graduation in 1945 from Forest Hills High School in Queens, New York, during World War II, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps Reserve, but was still in the United States when Japan surrendered. He attended Fordham University on the GI Bill. He received his bachelor's degree in education in 1951.
