Stand-ins appear from time to time in popular culture. In this entry of Stand-In Central, we look at an appearance of the stand-in in the television show H.R. Pufnstuf.

– The Editor

In the first season of 1969’s children’s television show H.R. Pufnstuf, Episode 5 titled “The Stand In” has a movie come to town to film, and the main characters want to get involved.

The Great Toadenoff offers Jimmy a role in his movie, and Witchiepoo is given the role of the star’s stand-in.

The characters help define a stand-in for the audience.

Freddy the Flute: What’s a stand-in?

H.R. Pufnstuf: She gets pushed around pretty good while the star takes it easy.  It’s a rough job.  And take it from me: It’s gonna be even rougher on her.  I’m really going to sock it to her!

Witchiepoo disguises herself as Lola Lollapalooza and is subjected to makeup abuse (not something you’re going to see on a set!).

Rarely are you going to see stand-ins given makeup, at least in the way that Witchiepoo gets powdered in the episode.  But it’s interesting to see how the role of stand-in was presented and perceived in 1969.

Do you know of other emergences of stand-ins in television shows? If so, reply below.  Even better, write to Stand-In Central with a review of an episode!