Series Premiere Monday, May 3 on WHRO Kids

A new PBS Kids series empowers kids to dream big, be resourceful and persevere to realize their goals.

The colorful multi-platform show follows the adventures of Donkey Hodie, granddaughter of the original Donkey Hodie character from Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood (now known as “Grampy Hodie”). The original puppet appeared in 59 episodes of the beloved children’s series. Inspired by the quirky, funny side of Fred Rogers, Donkey Hodie, furthers the children’s TV pioneer’s mission of helping young viewers navigate the challenges of childhood. The series features original new music along with reimagined versions of Rogers’ songs.

DonkieHodie Panda

Set in the whimsical land of Someplace Else, created by Rogers on Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, the imaginative social-emotional series for children ages 3-5 centers on the adventures of Donkey Hodie, an enthusiastic, “can-do” yellow donkey with a bright magenta mane, and her pals: Purple Panda, her loyal and empathetic best friend who wears his big heart on his sleeve; Duck Duck, a practical, quick-witted young mallard who loves to figure things out; and Bob Dog, an energetic and eager canine who is always ready to boogie to music or fetch a ball. In Someplace Else, everyone’s big dreams are possible—whether it’s Purple Panda finding the end of the Golden Rainbow, Duck Duck planning a Book-A-Palooza Festival or Bob Dog playing the largest kickball game in history. Episodes include catchy songs that reinforce the stories’ positive messages and fun adventures. The series will encourage preschoolers to aim high, embrace challenges and work hard to achieve their goals.

“Perseverance is a skill that’s of extra importance for children right now,” said Ellen Doherty, chief creative officer, Fred Rogers Productions, and executive producer of Donkey Hodie. “We hope Donkey and her pals will inspire kids to keep trying even when tasks get hard and to face challenges with an ‘I can do this’ attitude. The show will also help parents guide their children in becoming strong critical thinkers and problem solvers.”

Meet Donkey Hodie:

Watch Donkey Hodie on WHRO Kids, which can be found on the following channels: 15.3 | Cox 108 | Charter Digital 120 | FiOS 462.

You can also watch online at whrokids.org.