Doug MacLeod (TV writer) facts for kids

Doug MacLeod (born 13 October 1959 – died 22 November 2021) was a talented Australian writer. He wrote for many different things, including books, television shows, and plays for the theatre. He was known for his funny and imaginative stories, especially those for children and young people.

Doug MacLeod's TV Work

Doug MacLeod started his writing career in the 1980s, working for ABC Radio's comedy department. This is where he helped create funny shows for radio.

After that, he became the main writer for a popular TV show called The Comedy Company on Network Ten for two years. He also wrote for other well-known sketch comedy shows like Fast Forward and Full Frontal. These shows were famous for their funny skits and characters.

Later, he worked as the script editor for the very popular Australian comedy series Kath & Kim when it was shown on the ABC. A script editor helps make sure the story and dialogue are perfect.

Taking a break from comedy, Doug also co-wrote five episodes of the drama series SeaChange with another writer, Andrew Knight.

One of his big achievements was co-writing the animated children's TV series Dogstar. This show was about a space adventure with dogs! For his work on Dogstar, he won the first-ever John Hinde prize for science fiction in 2008. He also worked on the second season of Dogstar in 2011 with co-writer Philip Dalkin.

In 2008, Doug MacLeod was honored with the Fred Parsons Award. This award recognized his important contributions to Australian comedy writing.

Writing for the Theatre

Doug MacLeod also wrote for the stage. He teamed up with another famous Australian satirist, John Clarke. Together, they created a musical play based on the classic children's book Snugglepot and Cuddlepie. The musical was called The Adventures of Snugglepot & Cuddlepie and Little Ragged Blossom.

Books for Young Readers

Doug MacLeod wrote many wonderful story books especially for children and young people. His books often had funny or imaginative titles and stories. Here are some of the books he wrote:

• Sister Madge's Book of Nuns
• Siggy and Amber
• Tumble Turn
• Spiky Spunky, My Pet Monkey
• Leon Stumble's Book of Stupid Fairytales
• I'm Being Stalked by a Moon Shadow
• Kevin the Troll
• The Clockwork Forest
• My Extraordinary Life & Death
• The Life of a Teenage Body-snatcher
• The Shiny Guys
• Tigers on the Beach

Later Life and Passing

Doug MacLeod passed away in Melbourne, Australia, on 22 November 2021. He was 62 years old. He left behind a great collection of funny and imaginative stories for people of all ages to enjoy.