George Newall

George Newall was a prominent figure in American educational entertainment, best known as a co-creator and executive producer of the beloved animated series Schoolhouse Rock!. Born on June 17, 1934, in Lakewood, New Jersey, he had a diverse career as a producer, writer, and advertising executive. Newall passed away on November 30, 2022, in Hastings-on-Hudson, New York.13

Early Life and Education

Newall attended Florida State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Music degree with a major in Music Composition in 1960. His musical talents were evident early on; he won awards from the Florida Composers League during his college years.3

Career Highlights

Newall's career began in advertising at McCaffrey & McCall in New York City. His big break came when he was tasked with creating educational songs to help children learn multiplication. This led him to collaborate with jazz musician Bob Dorough, resulting in the creation of Schoolhouse Rock!, which premiered in 1973. The series combined catchy songs with animated shorts to teach various subjects including math, grammar, and history.23

As an executive producer and creative director alongside Tom Yohe, Newall was instrumental in developing many iconic segments such as "Three Is a Magic Number" and "Conjunction Junction." The series not only became a staple of Saturday morning television but also won multiple Emmy Awards for its innovative approach to education.34

Legacy

Newall's contributions extended beyond the original series; he continued to write and produce new content for Schoolhouse Rock! throughout its various revivals. His work has left a lasting impact on children's education and entertainment, making learning enjoyable for generations.23

In recognition of his achievements, Schoolhouse Rock! remains a cultural touchstone, celebrated for its unique blend of education and entertainment. The series has inspired books, merchandise, and even parodies over the years.3