68 years of pencils, cabbages and gunge
Happy birthday Crackerjack! The beloved and iconic television variety show for children made its debut on 14th September, 1955. Initially hosted by Eamonn Andrews and also starring Jack Douglas and Joe Baker, Crackerjack! would go on to become a staple of children’s programming, one that would entertain and enthral generations of young viewers.
At a time when there was still only one television channel in the UK (preceding the launch of ITV by eight days), Crackerjack! came as a breath of fresh air. It featured a mix of comedy sketches, musical performances, and, most notably, games and contests, including the popular ‘Double or Drop’ quiz, where contestants had to answer questions without dropping objects they were given. This game was devised by the show’s original host, Eamonn Andrews; he, along with later hosts such as Leslie Crowther, Ed ‘Stewpot’ Stewart and Stu Francis, would become synonymous with the programme.
In addition to the hosts, Crackerjack! introduced the audience to beloved comedy performers such as Peter Glaze and Don Maclean, who provided humour and fun throughout the show; and it also featured regular guest appearances by celebrities and musicians, making it a must-watch for both children and their families.
The programme quickly gained popularity among young audiences, and its catchphrase, ‘It’s Friday, it’s five to five, and it’s Crackerjack!’ became well-known across the UK – although the actual phrase had to be constantly tweaked throughout the show’s run, as the start time was constantly varied according to the whims of BBC schedulers.
Crackerjack! continued to air successfully until 1984 when it was discontinued due to changing tastes and programming preferences. However, the nostalgia associated with the show prompted the BBC to bring it back in 2020. The revival, hosted by presenters Sam and Mark, sought to capture the essence of the original programme while introducing it to a new generation. The format remained largely the same, with comedy sketches, games, and audience participation. Although well-received, it was unfortunate that the revival coincided with the global Covid-19 pandemic leading to elements of the production having to be scaled back; after two seasons, there is as yet no word of the show being continued.
While Crackerjack! is no longer in production, it remains a cherished part of British television history, holding a special place in the hearts of British viewers who grew up watching the show. The programme’s catchphrase and theme song remain iconic in the world of British television. Many of its hosts and cast members went on to have successful careers in entertainment, and its success inspired other children’s shows and influenced the development of children’s television in the UK.
Alan Stafford’s meticulously researched and beautifully written book about the series was first published by Fantom in 2018 and rapidly became one of our best sellers. A paperback reissue was inevitable, but no one – least of all Alan himself – could have predicted that the show was about to be revived! He therefore took the opportunity to revise and update the book in 2022, with much new material, interviews with the cast and production team, and the full behind-the-scenes story of how Crackerjack! came back. The paperback edition of It’s Friday, It’s Crackerjack! The Inside Story of a Teatime TV Classic is available from Fantom now.