It’s the Great Space Coaster
Get on board
On the Great Space Coaster
We’ll explore
A comet ride of fantasy
To a place where dreams are fast and free
With new friends and new things to see
We’ll spin you through the galaxy
On the Great Space Coaster
Oh-oh-oh
On the Great Space Coaster
Off we go
Get on board, step inside
Soarin’ on a magic ride
Roarin’ towards the other side
Where only rainbows hide
On the Great Space Coaster
(Oh-oh oh)
On the Great Space Coaster
(Get on board)
On the Great Space Coaster
(Get on board)
On the Great Space Coaster
Off we go
Watch: The Great Space Coaster Intro
Plain Talk: About the Series
A staple of early 1980s syndicated television, The Great Space Coaster was a vibrant children’s variety show that combined live action, puppetry, and animation. Premiering in January 1981, the show followed three human hosts—Francine, Danny, and Roy—who traveled through space to an asteroid populated by a colorful cast of puppets. The most famous resident was likely Goriddle Gorilla, known for his frequent banter and “knock-knock” jokes with the bird character, Knock-Knock.
The series produced 250 episodes over five seasons and was noted for its educational segments, short cartoons (like La Linea), and musical guests. Produced by Sunbow Productions, the show left a lasting cultural footprint with its catchy, high-energy theme song and its imaginative “space-age” setting. It remains a definitive piece of nostalgic media for those who grew up in the mid-80s, ending its original run in September 1986.
Questions & Answers
Who was Baxter?
Baxter was a large, gentle puppet character who served as the show’s “gentle giant” and often interacted with the human hosts.
What were the “Gary Gnu” segments?
Gary Gnu was the “No-Gnews News” anchor known for his famous catchphrase: “No gnews is good gnews with Gary Gnu!”
Did the show win any awards?
Yes, the show was widely acclaimed during its run and won multiple Action for Children’s Television awards for its creative approach to educational broadcasting.
