The Magic School Bus was an American-Canadian animated television show based on the book series created by Joanna Cole and Bruce Degen (1986-2010). The show aired on PBS and ran from 1994 to 1997 for a total of four seasons and 52 episodes.
The opening theme “Ride on the Magic School Bus” was performed by none other but the late, great Little Richard. Dolly Parton’s co-star from 9 to 5, Lily Tomlin voiced Miss Frizzle.
The book series was intended to make it fun for kids to learn about science. I’m sure we can all agree that we wish all school excursions were as fun as ride on Miss Frizzle’s magic school bus.
Originally announce in 2014, it wasn’t until 2017 (20 years since the show’s cancellation) that Netflix released The Magic School Bus Rides Again series. Lily Tomlin reprised her voice role of Miss Frizzle, but Lin Manuel Miranda sang the theme song. There have been two seasons and 26 episodes, along with two, 45 minute specials in 2020 which were dedicated to Joanna Cole who passed away this year.
Were you a big fan of the books or television series growing up? Would you get a Magic School Bus themed tattoo?
Magic School Bus tattoo by @katietattoos