The Electric Company Cast: Learn Who Starred in the Show

'The Electric Company' is a groundbreaking educational television series designed specifically for children, produced by the Children's Television Workshop for PBS in the United States. Airing 780 episodes over six vibrant seasons from October 25, 1971, to April 15, 1977, the show significantly contributed to children's programming by blending entertainment with education. After its original run, the series continued to delight audiences through reruns until 1985, thanks to a 1975 decision to create two additional seasons for ongoing use. The show was filmed at Teletape Studios Second Stage in Manhattan, a familiar location that also played host to the beloved 'Sesame Street.'

The innovative format of 'The Electric Company' incorporated sketch comedy, music, and various engaging techniques to captivate its young audience while helping them strengthen their grammar and reading abilities. Aimed primarily at children who had outgrown the foundational lessons of 'Sesame Street,' the humor and themes of 'The Electric Company' embraced a more mature approach, making it relatable and enjoyable for older kids. Talented cast members, including the iconic Bill Cosby as The Milk Man and Irene Cara as Iris from the vibrant Short Circus, brought life to the series with their charismatic performances and engaging storytelling.

Over the years, 'The Electric Company' has earned a revered place in television history, setting the bar for educational children's programs. Its legacy continues to resonate with educators and parents alike, as the show not only focused on literacy but also celebrated creativity, teamwork, and the joy of learning. By harnessing the power of laughter and entertainment, 'The Electric Company' successfully inspired a generation of children, paving the way for future programming aimed at fostering literacy and cognitive development in young viewers.

Full Cast of The Electric Company

Bill Cosby

The Milk Man

Bill Cosby's portrayal of The Milk Man on the children's television series "The Electric Company" was a memorable and vibrant component of the show's educational mission. Debuting in the early 1970s, "The Electric Company" was designed to teach children reading and grammar skills through the use of comedy, music, and sketch comedy. Cosby's character, The Milk Man, was often seen delivering milk in various humorous and fantastical scenarios, using his charm and comedic timing to engage young viewers. His segments were particularly notable for their use of slapstick and wordplay, which not only entertained but also reinforced the show's educational content. Cosby's ability to connect with children and his knack for physical comedy made The Milk Man a standout character, helping to solidify "The Electric Company" as a beloved staple of children's educational programming during its run.

Irene Cara

Iris - Member of the Short Circus

Irene Cara's portrayal of Iris, a member of the Short Circus on the innovative children's television show "The Electric Company," showcased her early talent and charisma in the world of entertainment. As Iris, Cara brought a vibrant energy and a natural flair for performance to the screen, captivating young audiences with her dynamic presence and impressive vocal abilities. The character was an integral part of the Short Circus, a group of musically inclined teens who engaged viewers through catchy songs and humorous skits designed to promote literacy and reading skills. Cara's performances were not only entertaining but also educational, helping to solidify "The Electric Company" as a beloved staple of children's television during its run from 1971 to 1977. Her role as Iris was an early testament to her versatility as a performer, a quality that would later become a hallmark of her successful career in both music and film, including her iconic performance in the movie "Fame."

Rita Moreno

Carmela

Rita Moreno (born Rosa Dolores Alverío Marcano; December 11, 1931) is a Puerto Rican actress, dancer, and singer....

Morgan Freeman

Count Dracula , Easy Reader , Mad Scientist

Morgan Freeman (born June 1, 1937) is an American actor, director, and narrator. Noted for his distinctive deep...

Skip Hinnant

Boy (Love of Chair)

Skip Hinnant's portrayal of the character known as Boy (Love of Chair) on the innovative children's television program "The Electric Company" was both memorable and endearing. His performance was characterized by a whimsical yet earnest portrayal of a young boy with an anthropomorphic and sentient easy chair as his sidekick, which was affectionately named "Easy Reader." Hinnant's Boy was a central figure in the show's engaging sketches, which aimed to teach children reading and grammar through humor and song. With his expressive face and natural comedic timing, Hinnant brought a sense of relatability and warmth to the screen, effectively capturing the hearts of young viewers. His interactions with the chair, often filled with playful banter and exaggerated expressions of affection, were a highlight of the show, showcasing Hinnant's ability to connect with the audience on a level that was both educational and genuinely entertaining. Skip Hinnant's performance was an integral part of "The Electric Company," contributing to the show's legacy as a beloved staple of 1970s children's television.

Ken Roberts

The Last Word (voice) , Announcer (Love of Chair)

Crew of The Electric Company

Full backstage crew list →