The Floppy Show: Iowa Time Machine January 4, 1923

Iowa Time Machine ⏰: On January 4, 1923, Duane Ellett was born. Ellett was the man behind the popular WHO-TV Des Moines program “The Floppy Show.” Duane and Floppy endeared themselves to Iowans on the popular children’s show from 1957 to 1987.

Ellett, a U.S. Army veteran of World War II, attended Drake University. Initially interested in studying law, a journalism class led to a job with WHO Radio in 1947. Developing various entertainment skills, including ventriloquism, Ellett regularly appeared on radio and television programs for WHO in the late 1940s and early 1950s.

Carved by Ellett from balsa wood, Floppy the high-voiced beagle awed Iowa children eager to boop his nose for good luck. One of several characters brought to life by Ellett’s ventriloquism, Floppy became well known for segments in which he answered riddles from participating children. Paired with vintage “Looney Tunes” and “Tom and Jerry” cartoon clips, the cast of Ellett’s puppets also performed short sketches. Off camera, Ellett also tirelessly worked to bring Floppy out to visit children. Known for making over 200 personal appearances a year during the show's glory years, Floppy remains a memory for many Iowans of a certain age. Often asking, “Why did the man put the car in the oven?” hoping to get the answer, “Because he wanted a hot rod,” children never grew tired of Floppy getting the riddle wrong.

After the show ended in 1984, Ellett and Floppy continued to appear on other WHO programs until the performer died in 1987. Floppy lives on, currently in the State Historical Society of Iowa collection and recently on display in the State Historical Museum, at the Ankeny Area Historical Museum, and during a stint at the Iowa State Fair. #Iowa #OTD #History #Floppy #TV