The 1990s American sitcom 'Dinosaurs' is a unique blend of family comedy and prehistoric fantasy. Created by David Kirschner, the show aired on ABC from 1991 to 1994. It was a groundbreaking series that featured a family of anthropomorphic dinosaurs living in a modern society. The show's development was deeply influenced by the creative vision of Jim Henson, who conceived the idea before his death in 1990. This article delves into the origins and production
journey of this innovative series.
The Vision of Jim Henson
Jim Henson, the legendary puppeteer and creator of the Muppets, was the driving force behind the concept of 'Dinosaurs.' In 1988, Henson envisioned a sitcom that would feature a family of dinosaurs, a concept that was initially considered unconventional. The idea was to create a show that combined the traditional family sitcom format with the unique twist of using animatronic dinosaurs as the main characters. Henson's vision was to use the show as a platform to explore social and environmental issues through the lens of a prehistoric family.
Despite initial skepticism, the success of 'The Simpsons' in the late 1980s helped pave the way for 'Dinosaurs.' The Henson organization, led by Alex Rockwell, believed in the potential of the show and continued to develop the concept. Henson's collaboration with fantasy artist William Stout on a related project, 'The Natural History Project,' further fueled the creative process, although Henson passed away before the show came to fruition.
Production and Challenges
The production of 'Dinosaurs' was a collaborative effort between Michael Jacobs Productions, Jim Henson Productions, and Walt Disney Television. The series was initially developed for CBS but eventually found its home on ABC. The characters were brought to life by the talented team at Jim Henson Productions, with Kirk Thatcher leading the design of the animatronic dinosaurs.
One of the significant challenges faced during production was the high cost associated with the animatronics. Cast member Stuart Pankin recalled that 'Dinosaurs' was one of the most expensive half-hour TV shows at the time. Despite the financial challenges, the show was a hit upon its premiere, thanks to its unique concept and engaging storytelling. However, frequent changes in time slots and the high production costs eventually led to a decline in ratings and the show's cancellation after four seasons.
Legacy and Impact
'Although 'Dinosaurs' was short-lived, its impact on television and popular culture was significant. The show was praised for its innovative use of animatronics and its ability to tackle social issues in a humorous and accessible way. The series finale, which depicted the extinction of the dinosaurs due to environmental neglect, left a lasting impression on audiences and highlighted the show's commitment to delivering meaningful messages.
In retrospect, 'Dinosaurs' stands as a testament to Jim Henson's creative genius and the collaborative efforts of the production team. It remains a beloved series that continues to be appreciated by fans for its originality and thought-provoking themes.
