A true TV pioneer is gone — and for generations of fans, a piece of childhood magic goes with him.Sid Krofft, the creative force behind some of the most unforgettable children’s television of the 1960s and ’70s, has died at the age of 96.The legendary producer, who teamed up with his brother Marty Krofft, helped shape an entire era of Saturday morning TV with wildly imaginative shows like H.R. Pufnstuf, Land of the Lost, and The Banana Splits Adventure Hour.His passing was announced by close friend and business partner Kelly Killian, who shared an emotional tribute.The last six years of my life were devoted to him, and his to me,” Killian wrote. “In that time, he taught me more than I could ever put into words — about the art of Hollywood, the magic of the stage, and the depth and complexity of human nature. I wish so very much that I had more time with him.”

According to reports, Krofft died peacefully in his sleep of natural causes.The man who made Saturday mornings magicalTogether, the Krofft brothers created a colorful, surreal world that stood apart from anything else on television. Their breakout hit, H.R. Pufnstuf, aired for just 17 episodes in 1969, but its impact lasted decades through reruns and syndication.With its psychedelic sets, quirky puppets, and unforgettable characters like the dragon mayor and the scheming witch Witchiepoo, the show became a cult favorite — even catching the attention of The Beatles, who reportedly requested tapes of the series.