Harry Corbett, English puppeteer, actor, and screenwriter (d. 1989)
Harry Corbett OBE (28 January 1918 – 17 August 1989) was a visionary English entertainer, primarily celebrated as the ingenious mind behind Sooty, the beloved yellow bear glove puppet. His creative genius fundamentally shaped children's television in the United Kingdom, where he excelled as a multifaceted talent, embodying roles as a professional magician, skilled puppeteer, and pioneering television presenter.
The Genesis of a Beloved Puppet
Before charming millions with Sooty, Harry Corbett honed his craft as a professional magician, a background that later imbued his puppetry with an element of wonder and theatricality. The iconic Sooty character wasn't meticulously designed but rather serendipitously discovered. In 1952, while on holiday in Blackpool, Corbett purchased a simple yellow teddy bear puppet for seven shillings and sixpence from a joke shop on the town's North Pier. This unassuming purchase, initially intended to entertain his children, quickly transformed into one of Britain's most enduring and cherished children's television characters.
Sooty's Ascent to Stardom
Sooty first gained public attention when Corbett performed with him at a local talent show in his hometown of Guiseley, West Yorkshire. His big break arrived in 1955 when he was offered a slot on the BBC's "Talent Night." Sooty's distinctive trait was his silence, communicating solely through whispers to Harry and expressive gestures, a unique dynamic that instantly captivated young viewers. The immense popularity led to "The Sooty Show," which became a staple on British television, evolving through various iterations from BBC to ITV. Over the years, the show introduced other popular characters, including the mischievous dog puppet Sweep and the gentle panda Soo, further enriching Sooty's world and enhancing the comedic interplay.
Harry Corbett's Enduring Legacy
Harry Corbett's profound contribution extended far beyond merely creating a puppet; he established a foundational format for children's entertainment that seamlessly blended gentle humour, subtle educational elements, and a touch of magic. His warm, avuncular presence on screen, combined with Sooty's innocent charm, created a comforting and engaging viewing experience for generations. In recognition of his significant services to children's television, Corbett was awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1976, a testament to his lasting impact and the cultural phenomenon he had created. Upon his retirement, his son, Matthew Corbett, successfully continued the legacy, ensuring Sooty's enduring popularity for new generations of viewers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Harry Corbett and Sooty
- Who was Harry Corbett?
Harry Corbett OBE was an influential English magician, puppeteer, and television presenter, best known as the creator of the iconic glove puppet character, Sooty.
- How did Harry Corbett create Sooty?
He serendipitously acquired the original Sooty puppet from a joke shop on Blackpool's North Pier in 1952, initially intending it for family entertainment before it became a television sensation.
- When did Sooty first appear on television?
Sooty made his initial television appearance on the BBC's "Talent Night" in 1955, rapidly gaining popularity and leading to his own long-running program, "The Sooty Show."
- What was Harry Corbett known for besides Sooty?
Beyond his work with Sooty, Harry Corbett was a professional magician and a pioneering television personality who helped shape the landscape of children's programming in the UK.
- What is Harry Corbett's legacy in children's television?
His legacy is defined by his unique blend of warmth, humour, and engaging storytelling through puppetry, which captivated audiences and established a beloved, multi-generational franchise that continues to entertain.