When you think of British puppetry, the cheeky, silent little bear with a magic wand, Sooty, is almost certainly among the first characters to come to mind. As we celebrate his 75th birthday this year, we look back at the journey of this lovable character who has managed to delight generations of children and adults alike since his inception in 1948. We also the captivating world of Sooty collecting, as we unveil a treasure trove of delightful Sooty collectables and Sooty merchandise that have graced the shelves over the years.

There have been a number of Sooty puppets and his friends puppets used in the shows and TV series over the years. A number of these have made there way to auction 0ver the years. The Sooty and Sweep below were part of the Peter Jago Collection and were sold in 2021 (click to read more).

Born out of the imagination of Harry Corbett, Sooty made his first television appearance in 1952 on the BBC, quickly rising in popularity due to his engaging magic tricks and mischievous antics. With his sidekicks Sweep, a dog who communicates in a unique squeak, and Soo, a calm and collected panda, Sooty embarked on numerous hilarious adventures that often culminated in Corbett receiving a water squirt from Sooty’s iconic water pistol.

Throughout the years, Sooty’s enduring charm has remained constant even as puppetry’s popularity waxed and waned. As Corbett’s health declined, his son, Matthew Corbett, inherited the role of Sooty’s puppeteer, and the show enjoyed continued success. Today, the show is helmed by Richard Cadell, ensuring Sooty’s magic lives on for newer generations.

Sooty’s appeal transcends beyond the borders of Britain. His show was exported to various countries, with children from Australia to Zimbabwe laughing at his silent yet expressive antics. Whether it’s his magic spells, usually accompanied by the words “Izzy wizzy, let’s get busy!”, or his playful interactions with friends, Sooty has a universal language of humour that resonates with everyone.

Sooty Collectables

Apart from his television adventures, Sooty has also made appearances in theatre shows, comic books, and even had his own amusement park ride. His 75th birthday is being marked by a 75th Anniversary Show tour, sadly however we have not seen any 75th related on exclusive collectables or merchandise. Over the years, a variety of Sooty merchandise has been released, ranging from annuals to Wade figurines, and from jigsaws to hand puppets..

1. Wade Figures: Among the most coveted Sooty collectables are the porcelain figurines made by Wade Ceramics. These finely crafted figures feature Sooty, Sweep, and Soo in various classic poses. The attention to detail and the high-quality craftsmanship of these figures make them highly sought after by collectors. (click for more on Wade Sooty and Sweep)
2. Annuals: Sooty annuals are another popular piece of memorabilia. Released yearly, these hardcover books feature stories, puzzles, and games centered around Sooty and his friends. Some of the earliest annuals, released from 1957 have become collectible items due to their age and rarity.
3. Hand Puppets: Perhaps the most iconic Sooty collectable is the hand puppet. Various versions have been released over the years, often accompanied by Sooty’s magic wand and water pistol. These puppets offer fans the chance to bring Sooty’s world to life in their own homes.
4. Board Games and Jigsaw Puzzles: Games and puzzles featuring Sooty and his friends offer another interactive way for fans to engage with their favorite characters. These range from simple jigsaw puzzles for younger children to more complex board games for older fans.

   

5. Comic Books: Sooty comic books were published for many years, with the stories bringing Sooty’s silent comedy into a visual medium. Some of these early comics are now considered collector’s items.
6. Stuffed Animals: Sooty, Sweep, and Soo have all been made into soft, cuddly toys over the years including Deans and Steiff.

The above list just covers some of the collecting areas where Sooty is found. The Sutcliffe Sooty’s Speadboat and the Luntoy Sooty figure below show some of variation of collectables available.

While Sooty might be a puppet, his impact is undoubtedly real. In a rapidly changing world, the consistency of his character provides a comforting sense of familiarity. As he turns 75, Sooty is a testament to the timeless power of simple, wholesome entertainment, bringing joy and a sense of childlike wonder to millions of fans worldwide.

Here’s to many more years of magic, mayhem, and Sooty’s never-ending ability to make us laugh and remember the joy of being children. Happy 75th Birthday, Sooty!

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