Prime Video’s latest documentary titled Mr. Dressup: The Magic of Make-Believe dives deep into the life and career of the late entertainer Ernest ‘Ernie’ Coombs. His more common name was Mr. Dressup after his role in the popular Canadian children’s series of the same name. The streamer’s latest addition also celebrates the iconic series’ legacy.
Coombs starred in the titular role in the long-running TV series with 29 seasons comprising 4,000 episodes. It ran on CBC from 1967 to 1996. The entertainer would then guide the children’s audience through a variety of songs, tales, crafts, games and his tickle while acting out his role. He would also use his puppet friends – a child named Casey and a dog called Finnegan – for the same purpose.
Mr. Dressup: The Magic of Make-Believe dropped on Prime Video this Tuesday, October 10, 2023, and is now available to stream.
Check out the official trailer of the Mr. Dressup: The Magic of Make-Believe below:
What Happened to Mr. Dressup AKA Ernie Coombs?
According to a CBC report, Coombs, following a long and successful career, died after suffering a stroke in September 2001. He was 73 years old at the time of his death. He captivated the likes of generations of Canadian children through Mr. Dressup as the series turned into a morning staple.
The entertainer first started out as the titular character in 1964, shortly after moving to Canada from the US. He was a Lewiston, Maine native and made the career-changing move alongside kids’ show personality Fred Rogers. The former officially became a Canadian citizen in 1994.
After creating a legacy, the cultural icon retired in February 1996, two years after he received a Gemini for his lifetime contribution to Canadian television. The show bagged numerous other achievements, including an ACTRA for best program.
Coombs’ Career and Achievements
Before appearing as Mr. Dressup, Ernie Coombs studied commercial art and had a penchant for theater. His career kicked off after he started working at the Pittsburgh Miniature Theater. Following this, he met Fred Rogers in 1963 and the two soon moved to Canada. The duo started working as puppeteers on Mr. Rogers.
According to IMDb, Rogers returned to their native country a year later. But, Coombs stayed back to host the Butternut Square where he played the iconic character. Then, in 1967, CBC gave Mr. Dressup his own series, which turned out to be a massive hit among children. Episodes aired every weekday morning for nearly 30 years.
Ernie Coombs received the Earle Grey Award for excellence in TV in 1994 as well as the above-mentioned Gemini Award. Following his retirement, he actively participated in charity work, made theatrical appearances for children, and toured the country.
