The Adventures of Pete and Pete facts for kids

The Adventures of Pete and Pete was a fun American television show that aired on the Nickelodeon network in the early 1990s. It was all about two brothers who both happened to be named Pete. The show followed their adventures as they grew up in a quirky town called Wellsville.

The series was known for its unique humor and often surreal (dream-like) situations. It explored the everyday challenges and joys of childhood and growing up. Many people remember it for its cool music and interesting characters.

Meet the Petes

The show focused on two main characters, both named Pete Wrigley. They were brothers with very different personalities.

Big Pete

From left to right: Danny Tamberelli, Michael C. Maronna, Toby Huss and Rick Gomez during the "Pete & Pete Forever" reunion at SF Sketchfest 2016.

The older brother, Big Pete, was played by Mike Maronna. He was often the narrator of the show, telling the stories from his point of view. Big Pete was more thoughtful and tried to make sense of the strange things happening around him. He often found himself trying to guide his younger brother through their adventures.

Little Pete

The younger brother, Little Pete, was played by Danny Tamberelli. Little Pete was full of energy and had a very active imagination. He often got into unusual situations and had a special tattoo on his arm called "Petunia." This tattoo was a drawing of a dancing lady. Little Pete also had a unique ability to attract strange events and people.

Who Created the Show?

The show was created by Will McRobb and Chris Viscardi. They wanted to make a show that felt different from other kids' programs. They focused on telling stories that were both funny and a little bit weird. Their goal was to capture what it felt like to be a kid, with all the strange and wonderful things that can happen.

When Did It Air?

The Adventures of Pete and Pete first started as short clips on Nickelodeon in 1991. These shorts were very popular, so Nickelodeon decided to turn it into a full TV series. The first episode of the main series aired in 1993. The show ran for three seasons and ended in 1996. In total, there were 34 episodes, plus the earlier short clips and some special episodes.

Where Did They Live?

The show was set in a fictional (made-up) town called Wellsville. This town was full of interesting places and people. It often felt like a slightly exaggerated version of a typical American suburb. Many of the outdoor scenes were filmed in places like Leonia, New Jersey and Cranford, New Jersey. The Wrigley family's house, for example, was a real house in Cranford.

Memorable Characters

Besides the two Petes, the show had many other memorable characters:

• Ellen Hickle: Played by Alison Fanelli, Ellen was Big Pete's best friend. She was smart and often the voice of reason.
• Artie, the Strongest Man in the World: Played by Toby Huss, Artie was Little Pete's personal superhero. He was a very quirky and strong character who helped Little Pete with his problems.
• Don Wrigley: The Petes' dad, played by Hardy Rawls, was a bit eccentric (unusual) himself.
• Joyce Wrigley: The Petes' mom, played by Judy Grafe, was also unique. She had a metal plate in her head that could pick up radio signals!

Why Was It Special?

The Adventures of Pete and Pete is remembered for many reasons. It had a unique style of humor that appealed to both kids and adults. The show often used surreal elements, like a dancing tattoo or a mom who could pick up radio waves. It also featured music from popular indie bands, which was unusual for a kids' show at the time. Many fans still love the show today because it was so creative and different.

Images for kids

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  Danny Tamberelli (top) as Little Pete and Mike Maronna (bottom) as Big Pete

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  Alison Fanelli (pictured in 2012) played Ellen Hickle, Big Pete's best friend.

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  The Wrigley house from season 3, located in Cranford, New Jersey.

See also

In Spanish: Las aventuras de Pete y Pete para niños