Metal Mickey (ITV 1980-1983, Michael Stainton, Georgina Melville)

This popular 1980s kids show, which went out at 5.15pm on Saturdays, followed the antics of the lovable silver robot, Metal Mickey, whose catchphrase was “Boogie boogie boogie”. He lived with the Wilberforce family and helped them around the house, often ending up in very funny situations. His biggest fan was Granny (played by Irene Handl), whose special pet name for him is “Fluffy”.

Memorable moments: Whenever Mickey is happy, the red electronic heart on his chest lights up and flashes – usually when he spots what he thinks is a female robot, but is in actual fact the family’s vacuum cleaner.

Trivia: In addition to his hugely popular annuals, lunchboxes and other merchandise, Metal Mickey had his own range of sweets called the Atomic Thunderbuster and sold over 90 tons.

One of the show’s directors was none other than former Monkee Michael (Micky) Dolenz (he also produced). Meanwhile, the programme’s writer Colin Bostock-Smith also penned sketch shows and sitcoms such as Alas Smith and Jones, Not the Nine O’Clock News and As Time Goes By.

cast
Michael Stainton as Father
Georgina Melville as Mother
Ashley Knight as Ken
Lucinda Bateson as Haley
Lola Young as Janey
Gary Shail as Steve
Metal Mickey as Himself
Irene Handl as Granny

crew details
Writer: Colin Bostock-Smith
Music: Phil Coulter
Producer: Michael Dolenz

production details
Country: UK
Network: ITV – London Weekend Television
Duration: 39×25 minute episodes
Aired From: 6 September 1980 – 15 January 1983