Emu (puppet)

Emu
The logo for the new series of Emu.
Created by	Rod Hull
Portrayed by	Toby Hull
Information
Species	Emu
Gender	Male

Emu is a puppet emu given to British entertainer Rod Hull in the 1960s while he was presenting a children's breakfast television programme in Australia. Hull adopted the mute puppet for his cabaret act, and took it with him to the United Kingdom when he returned in 1970.^[1] The character was given a mischievous and sometimes aggressive onstage persona, attacking celebrity guests (and Hull himself) for comic effect. Hull and Emu also appeared on several episodes of The Hudson Brothers' comedy show in the United States.

Revival

Hull's son Toby Hull returned Emu to television on CITV in October 2007.^[1] The new persona of Emu vocalises, allowing viewers to understand what the character is thinking. Emu is controlled by an unseen puppeteer, allowing his handler Toby to move around independently. The series is set in a modern apartment block where no pets are allowed, so Emu has to beware of his next door neighbour, Sophie.^[2]

Emu's other neighbours are two young cousins, Charlie and Dani, who help Emu outwit Sophie, who wants to use Emu as a quick way to make money. While Toby is oblivious to Sophie's scheming, Charlie, Dani, and Emu know her true colours. Toby also has to keep Emu a secret from Ken Cole, a grumpy security guard.

In June 2009, it was announced that CITV had ordered a second series of the show, set in a craft cafe,^[3] Emu being pitted against the health inspector Leo. The first episodes were broadcast on September 13 on ITV1.

References