Ricki & Copper facts for kids

Ricki & Copper was a popular TV show for kids. It aired weekday mornings from 1959 to 1969. The show was on WTAE-TV in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It was one of two kids' shows made in Pittsburgh for WTAE. The other was Paul Shannon's Adventure Time. Adventure Time aired in the afternoons. Ricki & Copper actually started from another show called The Comedy Show. That show ran from 1958 to 1959.

Meet Ricki and Copper

The show was hosted by Ricki Wertz. Her co-star was "Copper," a special dog. Copper was part whippet and part golden retriever. He had reddish fur. In real life, Copper was Ricki Wertz's own pet.

The show was broadcast live. It often featured children from the audience. Like many kids' shows back then, it had lots of fun. There were games, helpful safety tips, and cartoons. Ricki would also give out Hostess CupCakes. She did this after everyone chanted "Ala-ka-zaam, Ka-zaam, Ka-zoom!"

Other Characters on the Show

Another character on the show was Mr. Boom-Man. He was a puppet created by Ricki's husband, Tom Borden. Mr. Boom-Man was attached to a boom microphone. He helped Ricki keep the young kids (mostly 4 to 8 years old) focused. Viewers often thought Copper was the real star!

Ricki also hosted a shorter show during the day. It was called Ricki & Magoo. This 15-minute program aired after WTAE's noon news. On Ricki & Magoo, she introduced Mr. Magoo cartoons.

Changes and Final Years

In 1967, Copper became very ill. He had a stroke and could no longer move. Sadly, he had to be put to sleep that same year. A new dog then joined the show. This dog was a full golden retriever with reddish fur. She was named Copper Penny and became the new "Copper."

By 1969, Ricki Wertz decided to leave Ricki & Copper. She wanted to be a full-time mother. Her daughter had been born early. Ricki did continue to host another WTAE show. This show was called Junior High Quiz. She hosted it until 1982.

Remembering the Show

Most episodes of Ricki & Copper are thought to be gone. However, people in Pittsburgh still remember the show fondly. You can find photos and old records of the program. Some are on websites, including WTAE's homepage. In December 2014, a rare full episode was found. WTAE had taped it and posted it on their website.

Images for kids

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  An invitation to appear on the Ricki and Copper Show, WTAE-TV, 1961.