Retro Saturday Morning: The Yogi Bear Show (1961-1962) | Hanna-Barbera

 Hanna-Barbera's Yogi Bear has proven to be one of the most successful and enduring animated characters ever created. He first appeared as a supporting character on The Huckleberry Hound Show in 1958, but quickly became the star of his own series, The Yogi Bear Show, which premiered in 1961. This series also featured supporting segments with Snagglepuss and Yakky Doodle.

Cleopatra 2525 - From The Land Of Forgotten Television - Retro TV Rewind

 Cleopatra 2525 is an intriguing American science fiction television series that delighted viewers during its run from January 2000 to March 2001, airing in syndication for two adventurous seasons. The show originally kicked off as part of the Back2Back Action Hour, paired with another action-packed series, Jack of All Trades. Interestingly, the initial idea from the producers was for a show titled "Amazon High," featuring a young woman, played by Monica McSwain, who travels back in time. Though this concept only made it to the pilot stage, some of the footage was creatively repurposed for a "Xena: Warrior Princess" episode called "Lifeblood." The producers later reimagined their concept, giving birth to what we know as "Cleopatra 2525."

Retro Saturday Morning: The Batman/Superman Hour (CBS) (1968-69) - Classic Superhero Cartoons | Retro TV Rewind

The Batman/Superman Hour was a Filmation animated series broadcast on CBS from 1968 to 1969. Premiering on September 14, 1968, this 60-minute program featured new adventures of DC Comics superheroes like Batman, Robin, and Batgirl alongside shorts from The New Adventures of Superman and The Adventures of Superboy. This series marked the first animated Saturday morning cartoon for Batman and his classic enemies.

Retro Saturday Morning: Jana of the Jungle (1978)(NBC)

"Jana of the Jungle" is a captivating 30-minute animated series that delighted audiences on Saturday mornings, crafted by the creative mind of Doug Wildey and brought to life by the renowned Hanna-Barbera Productions. It aired on NBC from September 9, 1978, to December 2, 1978, captivating young viewers with its adventurous spirit. Originally part of the "Godzilla Power Hour," this animated gem found its place in the spotlight before transitioning into "The Godzilla Super 90."

The Star Trek Format | The Star Trek Guide | 60 Years of Star Trek

 Written By Ken Hulsey

AND SO, IN EVERY SCENE OF OUR STAR TREK STORY... 

...translate it into a real life situation. Or, sometimes as useful, try it in your mind as a scene in GUNSMOKE, NAKED CITY, or some similar show. Would you believe the people and the scene if it happened there? 

 IF YOU'RE ONE OF THOSE WHO ANSWERS: "THE CHARACTER ACTS THAT WAY BECAUSE IT'S SCIENCE FICTION", DON'T CALL US, WE'LL CALL YOU.

 - The Star Trek Guide: Third Revision - April 17, 1967

Retro Saturday Morning | 2025 Year in Review | Classic Cartoons Remembered

Written By Ken Hulsey

As 2025 comes to a close, I can't help but reminisce about one of the standout features here at Atomic Robot: our beloved weekly Retro Saturday Morning articles. These pieces celebrate the enchanting cartoons that captivated a generation from the 1960s through the 1980s—a transformative era when cartoons transitioned from being the highlight of early weekend mornings to a delightful part of after-school programming.

Who among us doesn't recall the sheer joy of hopping out of bed on a Saturday morning, still clad in our cozy PJs, and scampering into the family den or living room? For a magical span between 6 AM and noon, the television belonged to us! It was our golden opportunity to take the reins of the television dial, a rare moment I cherished deeply. Back then, with only three major networks—NBC, CBS, and ABC—tuning in meant a treasure trove of animated wonders and live-action series tailored just for children and young adults. What bliss it was!

Frankenstein Jr. in The Shocking Electrical Monster (1966) | Retro Saturday Morning

When the mischievous Dr. Shock, a villainous scientist with a striking resemblance to a mix of Fu Manchu and a vampire, unleashes his Master Mix Monster Machine to transform his servant Igor into the colossal, energy-sucking Shocking Electrical Monster, it’s time for Buzz Conroy and his amazing creation, Frankenstein Jr., to leap into action!

 

Quark - From The Land Of Forgotten Television | Retro TV Rewind

Quark is a delightful American science fiction sitcom that originally graced the NBC network screens, featuring the talented Richard Benjamin in the lead role. The pilot episode made its debut on May 7, 1977, and the show was later picked up as a mid-season replacement, hitting the airwaves again in February 1978. Sadly, despite its unique charm, the series was canceled in April 1978, having left a distinct mark during its brief run.

Great Cartoons of the 90s: Pinky and The Brain in Bubba Bo Bob Brain

 Written By Ken Hulsey

In this entertaining episode, we dive back into the chaotic world of Pinky and the Brain, two iconic characters from the beloved animated series. As usual, these two are up to their classic antics, determined to execute their nightly mission of "trying to take over the world." This time, The Brain devises an intriguing plan involving a subluminal message tape, designed to turn any listener into his loyal, uncontested servant. However, like many of his elaborate schemes, he soon encounters a hurdle—he's unsure how to reach a wider audience.

One Of The Funniest Moments In TV History - As God As My Witness, I Thought Turkeys Could Fly!

 Written By Ken Hulsey

Just a mere 45 years ago, an iconic moment in television history unfolded that still brings a chuckle today. Picture this: the November 22, 1978 episode of the beloved sitcom *WKRP in Cincinnati*, titled "Turkeys Away." The plot revolved around a rather outrageous publicity stunt where the radio station decided to drop live turkeys from a helicopter. Sounds like a recipe for disaster, right? Well, there's just one little hiccup with this plan—turkeys are not exactly known for their flying abilities.

 

Project U.F.O. | Season 1 - Episode 3 | "Sighting 4003: The Fremont Incident" | From The Land of Forgotten Television

 Project U.F.O. is a fascinating television series that aired on NBC in the late 1970s, specifically from 1978 to 1979. This intriguing show ran for two seasons and was inspired by the real-life Project Blue Book, which focused on the United States Air Force's investigations into unidentified flying objects. The series was the brainchild of Jack Webb, a seasoned creator known for his work on Dragnet. He extensively combed through Air Force documents to find ideas for the episodes, offering viewers a unique glimpse into the world of UFO investigations.

Remember The Addams Family's Spooky Charm? | Retro Saturday Morning

Written By Ken Hulsey

It's truly exciting to dive into the intricacies of the human mind! Over the past two weeks, I’ve been on a joyful journey researching early 1970s cartoons for my Retro Saturday Morning feature, and it’s been like a treasure hunt as I rediscover a plethora of shows that filled my childhood with laughter and good times. What’s most captivating? The astonishing speed at which our minds can reignite memories and emotions from long ago, simply triggered by a familiar image or tune.

 

Retro Saturday Morning: Remembering Godzilla's Animated Adventures!

 Written By Ken Hulsey

As many of you know, I’m a huge Godzilla enthusiast, so I thought it was about time to highlight a classic that’s been long overdue on Retro Saturday Morning. We're talking about an American cartoon that features Japan's most iconic monster, Godzilla! Back in 1978, Hanna-Barbera—famous for beloved shows like The Flintstones and The Jetsons—decided to create its own animated series featuring this legendary creature. This project, dubbed **Godzilla Power Hour**, not only spotlighted Godzilla but also featured the adventure series Jana of the Jungle. It made its debut on NBC on September 9, 1978, and ran in various formats until 1981. 

Rediscovering Land of the Lost: Your Guide to the 1970s Classic | Retro TV Rewind

 Written By Ken Hulsey

During what began as an ordinary rafting adventure, the Marshall family—Rick and his spirited children, Will and Holly—suddenly find themselves catapulted through a mysterious time portal into a fantastical realm teeming with prehistoric creatures and bizarre beings. As they navigate this extraordinary world, the Marshalls must adapt quickly to survive, leaning on surprising allies and drawing strength from each other in this tumultuous landscape. Facing daily challenges, whether it's outrunning ferocious dinosaurs or outsmarting the menacing Sleestack, a species of lizard-like humanoids, their bond as a family deepens.

Rediscovering the Magic of Wonder Woman | Retro TV Rewind

 Written By Ken Hulsey

Lynda Carter holds a special place in television history, forever cherished for her iconic portrayal of Wonder Woman during her four-year run in American prime time. This Amazonian goddess, celebrated for her strength and beauty, became the quintessential defender of freedom and captivated audiences worldwide. Lynda, a talented actress with Native American and Hispanic heritage, was a natural choice for the role that originated in DC Comics back in the 1940s. Considering her recognition as Miss World-USA in 1973, it was no surprise that her involvement would sparkle like television gold.

Remembering The Pebbles and Bamm Bamm Show: A Retro Saturday Morning Favorite

The Pebbles and Bamm-Bamm Show marked the very first spin-off from the iconic The Flintstones franchise, emerging on our screens in 1971, a fun follow-up to the theatrical film The Man Called Flintstone released five years earlier. This lively series brought together a talented team of writers, including Joel Kane, Woody Kling, Howard Morganstern, Joe Ruby, and Ken Spears, all contributing to the show's unique charm and humor. 

Remembering the Excitement of Emergency +4 on NBC | Retro Saturday Morning

This week on Retro Saturday Morning, we're diving into a classic from 1973! One of the standout shows of the time was *Emergency*, which focused on the exciting lives of two firemen/paramedics, Johnny Gage and Roy DeSoto, played by the talented Randolph Mantooth and Kevin Tighe. The show not only captured viewers' hearts but also inspired an animated series featuring Johnny and Roy, along with four enthusiastic youths—Carol, Matt, Jason, and Randy—and their adorable pets: Flash the dog, Charlemayne the myna bird, and Bananas the monkey. Seriously, what was it about the '70s and having a monkey in every show? 

Remembering the Fun of Retro Saturday Mornings with Speed Buggy | Retro TV Rewind

Speed Buggy is a delightful Saturday morning cartoon that aired on CBS from September 8, 1973, to August 30, 1975, and was created by the talented folks at Hanna-Barbera Productions. Much like the beloved Scooby-Doo Where Are You!, Speed Buggy takes viewers on exciting adventures with its lively cast including an adorable anthropomorphic fiberglass dune buggy named Speed Buggy (voiced by the legendary Mel Blanc), his enthusiastic driver Tinker (voiced by Phil Luther Jr. and inspired by Jim Nabors' character Gomer Pyle), and their friends Mark (voiced by Michael Bell) and Debbie (voiced by Arlene Golonka). 

Doctor Who: Unleashed - 20 Years of Revival Celebration | BBC Television

 Get ready to embark on an extraordinary journey through time and space as BBC presents a thrilling special edition of Doctor Who: Unleashed to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the show's triumphant revival. This captivating celebration will take viewers on a nostalgic trip down memory lane, exploring the rich history and enduring legacy of one of the most beloved sci-fi franchises in television history. Hosted by the charismatic Steffan Powell, this hour-long extravaganza will feature exclusive interviews with an all-star lineup of cast members and creative minds who have shaped the Whoniverse over the past two decades. From the iconic Doctors themselves, including David Tennant, Jodie Whittaker, and the newest incarnation Ncuti Gatwa, to cherished companions like Billie Piper, Pearl Mackie, and Mandip Gill, fans will be treated to intimate conversations and behind-the-scenes revelations that showcase the passion and dedication that goes into bringing Doctor Who to life. The special will also delve into the visionary minds of showrunners past and present, including Steven Moffat, Chris Chibnall, and the legendary Russell T Davies, who masterminded the show's triumphant return in 2005. As they share their insights and memories, viewers will gain a deeper appreciation for the creativity, innovation, and sheer love that has gone into crafting each thrilling adventure through time and space. But the celebration doesn't stop there – Doctor Who: Unleashed will also take fans behind the cameras, offering exclusive access to the tireless efforts of the production team who work their magic to create the show's iconic sets, costumes, and special effects. From the intricate design of the TARDIS to the creation of the fearsome Daleks, this special episode will showcase the artistry and technical wizardry that have made Doctor Who a visual marvel for generations. With its star-studded lineup, revelatory interviews, and stunning visuals, Doctor Who: Unleashed promises to be an unforgettable celebration of a show that has captured the hearts and imaginations of fans around the world for over half a century. So mark your calendars, Whovians – this is one journey through the time vortex you won't want to miss!

The special hour-long episode of Doctor Who: Unleashed will land on Saturday, 7 June at 6am on BBC iPlayer, and air on BBC One Wales and BBC Three later that day, the week following Doctor Who’s epic season two finale The Reality War. Previous episodes of Doctor Who: Unleashed are available to watch now in the Whoniverse on BBC iPlayer.

Intergalactic Refugees Flee Cylon Empire | Battlestar Galactica (TV 1978-1979) | Retro TV Rewind

Written By Ken Hulsey

Battlestar Galactica (TV 1978-1979)

Directed By: Richard A. Colla & Alan J. Levi
Written By: Glen A. Larson
Cast: Richard Hatch as Captain Apollo, Dirk Benedict as Lt. Starbuck, Lorne Greene as Commander Adama, Herb Jefferson Jr. as Lt. Boomer, Maren Jensen as Athena, Tony Swartz as Sgt. Jolly, Noah Hathaway as Boxey, Terry Carter as Col. Tigh, Lew Ayres as President Adar, Wilfred Hyde-White as Sire Anton, John Colicos as Count Baltar, Laurette Spang as Cassiopeia, John Fink as Dr. Paye, Jane Seymour as Serina, Ray Milland as Sire Uri, Anne Lockhart as Sheba, Ed Begly Jr. as Ens. Greenbean, Patrick Macnee as Imperious Leader (Voice), Jonathan Harris as Lucifer (Voice), Janet Julian as Lt. Brie, Sarah Rush as Flight Cpl. Rigel.

No TV series that lasted only one season can boast a bigger fan base than Battlestar Galactica. The series that Newsweek Magazine dubbed "Son of Star Wars" still, decades later, hosts hordes of loyal, die-hard fans. What is the appeal of the series so many years after it left the airwaves in 1979? It was a popular series revived by the Sci Fi Channel as a new reinvisioned series. This fleet-on-the-run story, based loosely on Mormonism, may be more popular today than it was then. As a fan of the show from its original airing, I can tell you that the series left a lasting impression. I can still remember being that eleven-year-old boy who tuned in every Sunday night with joy for a new episode of Galactica. Star Wars had come to TV, or at least the next best thing. Remember, there were no DVDs or VCRs in the late 1970s.