Arthur: The Grown-Up Show Hiding on PBS Kids
Don’t let the PBS Kids label fool you. “Arthur” is packed with witty cultural and pop culture references that often go over children’s heads, making it a delightful watch for adults. The clever writing and subtle humor elevate “Arthur” beyond typical children’s programming, establishing it as a show the whole family can enjoy.
The show’s writers consistently incorporate clever spoofs and allusions to popular culture. Season 7 alone featured a plethora of references, including “Alan Greenspaniel” discussing the “sock market,” a nod to the famous economist Alan Greenspan. The season also included appearances by the iconic artist “Andy Warthog,” a play on Andy Warhol, and Dr. Phil MacGraw, a humorous take on the popular television psychologist.
“Arthur” also cleverly parodies classic literature and film. One episode featured a hilarious rendition of “Waiting for Godot,” with Binky and Brain patiently waiting for a ride while sustaining themselves on root vegetables. Another episode cleverly combined elements of “Back to the Future” and “Bill and Ted” into a single, hilarious spoof. Even popular music icons like N’SYNC weren’t spared, with the show featuring its own version of the popular boy band. And of course, no discussion of “Arthur” would be complete without mentioning the beloved recurring character, Muffy the Vampire Slayer, a clear homage to the popular television series “Buffy the Vampire Slayer.”
Celebrity cameos also abound in “Arthur.” The show has featured appearances by real-life figures like Larry King, the Backstreet Boys, and the popular radio hosts from Car Talk. This frequent inclusion of real-world personalities adds another layer of humor and sophistication to the show. The sheer volume and variety of references have led many to consider “Arthur” the “Simpsons” of public television.
Previous seasons of “Arthur” also boast an impressive array of cultural references. A memorable spoof of the Teletubbies had the colorful characters reciting Shakespeare, a hilarious juxtaposition of high and low culture. Another episode featured the acclaimed poet William Carlos Williams passionately advocating for “Free verse!” These clever and unexpected references are a hallmark of the show.
“Arthur” even delves into meta-commentary on television itself, with lines like, “Is there someone inside your head watching everything you do on TV?” This self-aware humor further distinguishes “Arthur” from typical children’s programming. One particularly noteworthy episode, “The Contest,” presented a tour-de-force of animated parodies, including spoofs of South Park, Dexter’s Lab, and WWF.
The show’s creators aren’t afraid to delve into more obscure references as well. One episode featured a face-off between Bionic Bunny and Elias Howe, a historical figure not typically known to children. Another episode brought together renowned musicians Yo-Yo Ma and Joshua Redman, showcasing the show’s commitment to incorporating high-brow cultural figures. The show’s writers have consistently demonstrated a remarkable ability to weave together a diverse range of cultural references into a cohesive and entertaining narrative. The ongoing success of “Arthur” is a testament to the show’s high quality and enduring appeal. It’s a show that continues to entertain and engage viewers of all ages, proving that educational programming can be both smart and funny.
