It’s 59 years since The Magic Roundabout began revolving in the UK. For any newcomers to this much-loved children’s animation series, here’s a beginner’s guide to the main characters!
Dougal
The most identifiable member of The Magic Roundabout, it wasn’t long before the curmudgeonly dog became the breakout star.
In some ways, Dougal’s a bit of an anti-hero. He’s frequently surly, grumpy and sarcastic. He’s quick to jump in with a sly quip about the other inhabitants of The Magic Garden. But despite this, he’s still a loyal friend – especially to his owner Florence, and also with Brian the snail who’s the yin to his yang – or the yang to his yin. One of the two.
Dougal’s vice is sugar cubes, which he frequently munches on in episodes. Another regular occurrence is when he’s outwitted or duped by the others, resulting in a quick-fire splutter of “What?”
Goodies fans will also recognise Dougal from his king size, 20 foot long appearance in the 1975 Goodies Rule OK special when he terrorises the Super Chaps Three and helps to destroy Chequers. He’s also the first thing to be seen in the opening titles between 1976 and 1980.
Florence
Despite possessing a hairdo that looks like it inspired obnoxious vlogging ignoramus Jack Doherty, Florence is poles part in terms of personality. She’s a kind, sweet, caring sort who would do anything for her friends.
Florence is Dougal’s owner, and her level headed, sensible nature allows her to keep him in check. If Dougal crosses the line, a quick stern wag of her finger will bring him back down to earth. Her practical nature means that she’s more than capable of helping her chums in the event of trouble.
She has her own regular outfit of blue hair bow and sweater, orange skirt, and white shoes. Zebedee must magic up a fresh set of clothes for Florence every day. Either that, or he can wash and spin dry Florence’s outfit in seconds flat.
Zebedee
In the beginning, Zebedee was locked in a box for 4000 years. Only released after Mr Rusty opened the box, it’s no wonder that Zebedee springs into action with unbridled gusto. Spring cramp can do that, I suppose.
One of the most recognisable characters in the series, Zebedee is marked out by his bright red face, bulging eyes and droopy handlebar moustache – not to mention the spring! His catchphrase is a holler of “TIME FOR BED!!”
While he may hold court over the Magic Garden, and has formidable magic powers (plus looking a bit scary), Zebedee is still a benevolent figure. He uses his powers for good and is frequently summoned by the locals whenever he’s needed (which is often, to be honest).
Also appeared in The Goodies Rule OK episode.
Brian
In any other world, Brian and Dougal wouldn’t get on. Brian’s a smiley, optimistic type, while Dougal’s a cynical miseryguts who frequently makes sly digs at the snail. Despite this, the two strike up an unlikely but sweet friendship.
Brian has a knack of getting on with everyone, although in the event of a crisis, he can retreat into his shell with cowardice or shyness. Like others in the list, he’s easily recognised by his choice of headgear – in this case, a straw hat with green feather tucked in.
Dylan
The lazybones of the group, flop-eared rabbit Dylan’s heavy lidded eyes are in a permanent state of nodding off. His laissez-faire approach to life makes him the most laidback of the little group, and wastes no time with being grumpy or combative.
Despite being partial to the odd snooze or seven, Dylan is surprisingly proficient when it comes to cooking, either creating culinary delights of his own or helping his friends to make snacks or meals. He’s also an excellent guitarist, and could well have been quite the rock star if he’d have put his mind to it.
Ermintrude
Perhaps Ermintrude the cow and Dylan should have formed their own novelty act. While Dylan can strum the acoustic guitar like a mean machine, Ermintrude possesses an operatic warble that would make Kiri te Kanawa green with envy.
Like the others, Ermintrude is easily spotted a million miles off. She wears a natty blue hat and red neckerchief, and can also be heard from as far away as Mercury, such is her loud voice. While she does like to be the centre of attention (and also to munch the grass, which helps Mr McHenry a bit), Ermintrude is still a kindly, friendly moo. But she shouldn’t be crossed. If Dougal gets too snarky, she’ll turn on a sixpence.
Mr Rusty
Without Mr Rusty, there would be no Magic Roundabout. At the beginning of each episode, he can be seen powering the roundabout by a quaint barrel organ. Mr Rusty clearly missed his calling when it came to putting forward alternative energy technologies. Forget your electricity, just pop to the nearest junk yard, find an old-fashioned barrel organ, and presto! Instant energy at the press of a key.
A vital power source still needs maintenance, and Mr Rusty is happy to oblige. He’s always on hand to effect any repairs in the event of a problem with the Roundabout. But as well as being the finest odd job man in the Magic Garden, Mr Rusty is also a kindly father figure to all the locals. Part paternal, part wise old sage, Mr Rusty is the all-round senior figure – sorry Mr McHenry. Rusty also beats McHenry when it comes to eccentric appearances, sporting a white 1990s curtain cut (the hat conveniently hides the bald) and droopy moustache.
Train
Similar to today’s cattle trucks in that you hardly see the character in the original series, only occasionally popping up here and there to take characters from A to B. But unlike today’s cattle trucks, Train’s watchword is punctuality, always arriving on time. Plus, modern day trains don’t have freaky boggle eyes.
Mr McHenry
Don’t be fooled by Mr McHenry’s elderly appearance. For someone who looks about 280 years of age, he’s full of energy, tending to the Magic Garden like a down and out Percy Thrower. He whizzes about on an orange tricycle, which is about 100 times faster than your average Brian-paced trike.
(Screengrabs credited to BBC/ORTF/Danot Production)
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