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List of The Den programmes
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This is a list of television programmes to have been broadcast on the children's television strand The Den of RTÉ in the Republic of Ireland from 1986 until its conclusion.

Creature Feature

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Éanna ni Lamhna presented Creature Feature. It had a nature theme.[1][2]

Draw with Don

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Each week Don Conroy would arrive at the studio to draw a picture (often of his beloved owls) or read from one of his children's books. The Den presenter, on his own sketchpad, would typically try to mimic Don's style; he would inevitably fail to match Don. Towards the end, Don would show the viewers a selection of drawings sent to him over the course of that week.[3][4][5][6]

Echo Island

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Main article: Echo Island

Echo Island —a "children's magazine" show along the lines of Blue Peter—first aired in 1994. It ran three days a week for the first season, adding an extra programme at the start of the second season in September 1995, with two in English and the other two as Gaeilge. It was renamed Echo in 1999 (for its final season). Original hosts were Derek Mooney and Bláthnaid Ní Chofaigh. Comedian Dara Ó Briain, who has since become recognisable abroad, spent most of his RTÉ career on Echo Island from 1995 onwards. Carrie Crowley joined the show in 1996, later achieving global recognition by presenting Eurovision Song Contest 1997.

FISH

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FISH, seen here in 1999. The Den2 DOG tag can also be seen.

An acronym for Friday It Starts Here, this was a weekly show presented by Danann Breathnach and Louise Loughman during the Den2 era.[6][failed verification]

The Grip

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Ryle Nugent presented this sports programme from 1994 until 1998.[7]

Happy Birthday

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Every day (even on Christmas Day),[8] photographs of children would roll along the screen commemorating their birthdays, after which a music video would be shown.[5][9][10][11]

Pop Gossip

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Simon Young, a former disc jockey with RTÉ 2fm, would present a weekly popular music news chat with Dempsey and D'Arcy.[10][12] Emma Ledden succeeded Young in the mid-1990s; from there she transferred to MTV Europe in the late 1990s.[13]

Stream

[edit]

Five of these aired, each on a different day of the week.

  • Mondays had Quiz Stream[14]
    • In Quiz Stream, two teams of three boys or three girls faced each other. The first to answer six questions correctly (spelling out S-T-R-E-A-M in lights before them) won.
  • Tuesdays had Pet Stream[11] and, later, Style Stream[15]
  • Wednesdays had Cyber Stream[16]
  • Star Stream would presumably therefore have been on Thursdays
  • Fridays had Sports Stream[6]

The Works

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Mary Kingston presented The Works on Wednesdays between 17:00 and 17:30 (just before Spider-Man).[17]

The Yes-No Game Show

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The Yes-No Game Show

The Yes-No Game Show ran from roughly 1995 to 1998 and happened twice a week, on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. Two children would partake in this, seated behind a desk upon which lay a selection of their favourite soft toys, which would be introduced in advance. The children would attempt to answer questions on themselves without the use of "Yes" or "No". If they lasted a desirable length, many prizes would be bestowed upon them, including the coveted Yes-No Game Show winners' mug. If they stumbled into a "Yes" or a "No" they received all the prizes anyway, apart from the mug. This was later part of Dustin's Daily News, running for a few weeks at a time before a break.[18]

Various successor quizzes featured on The Den, including The Furry Green Telly Quiz[9][19] and The Furry Blue Telly Quiz. When the Furry Green Telly Quiz "stopped", there was a running gag that Dustin was working on a new quiz which promised to be bigger and better. This new quiz was kept under wraps and hidden under a blanket at the back of the studio. Finally, after much anticipation, Dustin proudly unveiled the new game... The Furry Blue Telly Quiz. There was also The Big Bus Quiz.[11] During the Den2 era there were also holiday-themed "challenges" (e.g. a Pumpkin Challenge at Halloween, a Mince Pie Challenge at Christmas, an Easter Egg Challenge at Easter). Viewers would telephone in and pick from a selection of the eponymous challenges, laid out and numbered on the desk in front of Damo, to reveal a prize.

Imported programming

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Summer

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Initially, The Den broke for the summer months, returning when children went back to school in September. From 1996 to 1997, The Swamp replaced The Den as a weekday strand during the summer. Mossy Ferguson, Rory and Rasher Bacon presented The Swamp. The Swamp took place in a chip-van and later a shop. The cast were involved in plots, such as saving Rasher from an eagle and getting rid of a vampire. Skelly, a talking skeleton, made several guest appearances on the show. In 1997–1998, The Swamp was aired on Saturdays and Sundays, while The Den was broadcast on weekdays. Although The Swamp proved a successful venture, RTÉ cancelled it in May 1998, much to the disappointment of its fans.[56][57]

In its latter years, The Den remained on air during the summer. However, there were often either replacement presenters (Aidan Power and a girl called Aoileann, for example) and/or weeks when there was no live presentation.

Another earlier summer replacement for The Den aired for one summer between 26 June and 1 September 1995. This was Jump Around, presented by Joe Rooney with the assistance of Agnes Detortois.[58]

Morning

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Initially, The Den aired only in the afternoons. Then came Soky's Big Little Morning Show, with Soky and Geri Maye.

TV specials

[edit]

Christmas

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The Christmas period was noted for having two specials, one bizarrely overdramatic one on Christmas Eve and another slightly more realistic and rational one on Christmas Day. The Den was the only TV programme (besides the news) to be broadcast live around Ireland on Christmas Day.[59][60]

During December, The Den would go off air for a few days, during which the Christmas special (to be broadcast on Christmas Eve) would be filmed. This almost always involved a trip to Lapland and an improbable but amusing plot in which the cast had to somehow save Christmas, often having to rescue Santa Claus from some perilous event. Children with serious illnesses would often accompany the cast, as an extension of their Make a Wish programme. The elves would be shown at work as they prepared for the events of Christmas Eve and Socky might feed carrots to the reindeer. In the earlier days, RTÉ newsreader Vere Wynne-Jones would often be given a cameo role reading a newsflash concerning Zig and Zag (Zig was given one last chance by Santa to be good one year, or Christmas would be cancelled), or the mysterious disappearance of Santa Claus.[61]

The Christmas special would be given a prime time slot on RTÉ 1. One such Christmas programme managed to coincide with one of the most important events of the twentieth century. In December 1991, The Den crew went to Moscow to film their special, which was perfectly calm, as one would expect for a children's Christmas special. By Christmas Day, as The Den was being shown, the Soviet Union had just conveniently collapsed into chaos, with its remaining contingent states declaring independence. On another occasion the evil Podge (now a reformed individual with a background as a highly successful talk show co-host) tried to thwart Santa and jeopardise Christmas by locking him inside a large wooden cabinet in his own house. Ray D'Arcy and others from the cast very conveniently happened upon the scene just as time was running out and Santa availed of their presence to scuttle off to his workshops to save Christmas. On another occasion the problem was a depressed Rudolph, whose nose had lost its legendary shine, thus giving Santa the difficulty of having no method of finding his way through the night sky.[62]

A memorable Christmas under presenter Damien McCaul had him, Socky and Dustin travel to New York in search of a Mr. Micro Blue Bucket with Removable Arms, a present that Socky desired but which would not be available in Ireland until the following March.[63] After persistently demanding that Socky be granted this gift and searching through the internet, overcoming Derek Davis's diet tips and Pat Kenny's guide on how to be "an insufferable bore" along the way, Dustin discovered that 100 Mr. Micro Blue Bucket action figures would be delivered to F.A.O. Swarz, the largest toy store in the world located in Manhattan, New York, on Christmas Eve (the following morning). He then persuaded Damien to bring himself and Socky there instead of surrendering to Damien's preferred option of buying LEGO for Socky. Despite Damian explaining that there was no way they could fly to New York with so little time left, they were soon inside F.A.O. Swarz. The naive but kind-hearted Socky was exuberant, as Dustin pointed out Laa-Laa the Teletubby, and wanted to find presents for his Mammy (Geri Maye), his best friend (Thomas), and "all the boys and girls in playschool". Despite Socky being a preschooler, Damian and Dustin allowed him to wander off in the busy store, whilst they went in search of Mr. Micro Blue Bucket, with Dustin mistaking a Furby for Anne Doyle along the way.[64]

Each Christmas Day, The Den would traditionally start at around 06:00 and continue until 13:00. Christmas-themed cartoons would be shown and the cast would talk about the toys they had received from Santa, whom they would have usually only just have saved from some terrible danger on the previous day. The first hour of this, it was later revealed, would be recorded and the rest would go out live.

The Den is Ten

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This aired between 4 and 6 one afternoon in 1996, commemorating ten years of The Den. Presented by Ray D'Arcy (who tripped over Dustin's toolbox upon entering the not-quite completed studio), this aired in front of a live studio audience, which featured third and fourth class children from Carrickallen National School in County Cavan, as the postal address described it. But, as it turned out, D'Arcy breaking it gently to Dustin live on the air, that the school was on the border between County Cavan and County Leitrim. Renowned Leitrimophobe Dustin was unimpressed. Ian Dempsey was the first guest; he re-enacted the first day of Dempsey's Den, indicating the unavailability of the original tape. Then Bosco appeared, only to be whisked away upon the arrival of Zig and Zag. Other guests included Stephen Gately, Simon Young, a boy called Patrick Egdop, The Saw Doctors (described by D'Arcy as the band to have appeared most often on The Den) and Don Conroy. Towards the end Ciara Carroll was brought on and D'Arcy was forced to kiss her; Ian Dempsey was on hand to escort the startled assistant from the studio when the kiss was complete. The broadcast concluded with the cast and guests singing "Happy birthday" to The Den, balloons cascading into the studio from the ceiling and children running on to play.

Best Bitz from Back Den

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The television special and DVD Best Bitz From Back Den returned to Zig and Zag's origins on The Den. Broadcast on RTÉ One on 27 October 2008 at 18:30, it was compiled to celebrate the 21st anniversary of the birth of Zig and Zag and later released as a DVD in November 2008. Presenters D'Arcy and Dempsey featured heavily in the special; other highlights included assaults perpetrated by Ted—a malicious panda—on the presenters, Christmas specials of The Den, footage of characters like Captain Joke, Captain Pillowcase and Cousin Nigel and Ireland's 1989 Irish Film and Television awards at which Zig and Zag "accidentally" mistook then taoiseach Albert Reynolds as actor Burt Reynolds and addressed him as "your majesty".[65][66]

Dustin: 20 Years a Pluckin

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The television special and DVD Dustin: 20 Years a Pluckin' was released in November 2009. Broadcast on RTÉ One on 8 November 2009 at 18:30, it was compiled to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Dustin's birth.[67]

References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

List of The Den programmes

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The list of The Den programmes catalogues the diverse array of television series, segments, and shows broadcast within The Den, a flagship children's programming strand on Ireland's public broadcaster Raidió Teilifís Éireann (RTÉ). Launched on 29 September 1986 as Dempsey's Den on RTÉ1 under presenter Ian Dempsey, the strand quickly became a cultural staple, transitioning to Network 2 (later RTÉ2) in 1988 and evolving into an afternoon continuity block featuring live hosting, puppet characters, and a mix of imported animations alongside original Irish content. Over its original 24-year run until 19 September 2010, with a limited revival in 2020, The Den was presented by figures such as Ray D'Arcy (1990–1998), Damien McCaul (1998–2003), and Francis Boylan (2003–2005), and it incorporated iconic elements like the puppets Dustin the Turkey, Socky, and the duo Zig and Zag to engage young audiences through quizzes, competitions, and storytelling. The programmes aired ranged from home-produced series—such as the adventure show Echo Island (1994–1999) and the family-oriented The Morbegs (mid- to late 1990s)—to international imports, fostering a blend of education, entertainment, and interactivity that defined Irish children's television for generations.

Home-produced programming

Creature Feature

Creature Feature was a nature-themed educational segment within , a children's television programme broadcast by . Presented by botanist and consultant Éanna Ní Lamhna, the 10-minute programme focused on animal facts, environmental topics, and , aimed at engaging young viewers with the natural world. Airing as a regular feature in the 1990s, Creature Feature was integrated into 's afternoon schedule on Network 2, often under the Den 2 strand. Produced by Karen Rodgers, it emphasized accessible learning about Ireland's and conservation. Segments typically showcased live animals and ecological insights, such as Ní Lamhna demonstrating marine life by holding a lobster to explain its habitat and characteristics. The programme contributed to The Den's broader educational mission by fostering curiosity about the environment through simple, relatable presentations.

Draw with Don

Draw with Don was a long-running creative segment on the Irish children's television programme The Den, hosted by and author Don Conroy from 1986 until the conclusion of The Den in 2010. As part of the show's home-produced programming, it aired as a short daily or weekly feature during the and , emphasizing simple techniques to engage young viewers in artistic expression. The segment integrated into The Den's broader educational block, complementing other creative and learning-focused content. In each episode, Conroy demonstrated step-by-step drawing of animals, such as his signature , or other whimsical subjects like clowns and creatures, using basic materials to make the process accessible for children. He often incorporated by reading excerpts from his own children's , blending narrative with visual instruction to inspire . Adding humor, a Den presenter—such as or others—would attempt to replicate Conroy's drawing on a separate , typically resulting in comically failed efforts that highlighted the fun in trying. The segment uniquely encouraged viewer participation by inviting children to submit their own drawings via post, with selected works showcased on air to celebrate amateur creativity and provide simple art tips for home replication. This interactive element fostered a sense of community, as Conroy praised submissions and tied them to themes like wildlife or fantasy, reinforcing the show's goal of making art approachable without requiring professional skills. Over its two-decade run on The Den, Draw with Don inspired a series of instructional books by Conroy, extending its educational reach beyond television.

Echo Island

Echo Island was an Irish children's magazine television programme broadcast on Network 2 as a key component of from September 1994 to June 1999. It served as a daily afternoon show starting in 1996, airing at 17:00 for approximately 30 minutes, and focused on engaging young audiences through a mix of educational and entertaining segments. The programme adopted a desert island theme, complete with a resident Moluccan named , to create an adventurous atmosphere for its content. The format emphasized viewer interaction, including phone-ins and competitions, alongside interviews with celebrity guests and reviews of music, films, and books. Regular segments such as "Make and Do" for crafts, Pet Clinic for animal features, and debates on topics like urban versus rural living provided diverse, youth-led content. Den puppet characters, notably the alien brothers Zig and Zag, frequently appeared to add humor and tie the show into the broader Den universe. Originally launched with hosts and , the programme evolved through multiple presenting teams, including , , Alan Hughes, and Mary Kingston, reflecting its six-season run and growing popularity among Irish youth. In its final 1999 season, it was rebranded simply as while maintaining core elements like bilingual episodes in English and Irish. The show's legacy persisted into The Den's 2020 revival, where original puppets like Zig and Zag returned to evoke its 1990s spirit.

FISH

FISH was a children's programme that aired as part of on Network 2 during the Den2 era, spanning the late and early . The show featured a "glam and global" format, blending interviews with international celebrities and showcases of local Irish talent to engage young audiences with trends. Initially co-hosted by Danann Breathnach and Louise Loughman, FISH highlighted dynamic segments such as on-location reporting from cities like and conversations with high-profile guests including and . By the second series in early 2001, Loughman took over as solo presenter after Breathnach departed for Select. Emerging during the rebranded Den2 afternoon block, the programme offered a lighter, music-centric evolution from earlier magazine-style segments like those in Echo Island, emphasizing quick-paced entertainment within the daily schedule.

The Grip

The Grip was a sports-focused segment within the Irish children's television programme , airing on from 1994 to 1998. Hosted primarily by broadcaster Ryle Nugent, the programme targeted young viewers by providing engaging coverage of events, including match highlights and interviews with emerging Irish athletes. It debuted on 12 1994 and featured co-presenters such as O'Flaherty in its early years and Sallie McArdle later on, the latter being a world amateur champion in 1997. The format consisted of weekly or bi-weekly segments that delivered live scores, expert tips on skills and techniques, and interactive Den-themed sports challenges designed to inspire participation. Content emphasized popular Irish sports like (GAA) games and soccer, with a strong focus on encouraging among children through relatable, fun demonstrations and viewer encouragement. These elements helped position The Grip as an educational tool that blended with promotion of healthy lifestyles. Occasionally, The Grip integrated with other Den segments, such as linking to sports day activities in Stream for broader engagement. The programme's run concluded in 1998, after which Nugent transitioned to other RTÉ sports roles, including rugby commentary and eventually heading RTÉ Sport in 2010.

Happy Birthday

The Happy Birthday segment, commonly referred to as the Birthday Roller, was a recurring daily feature on The Den that celebrated the birthdays of child viewers by displaying their submitted names on a scrolling on-screen ticker. Introduced during the early years of the show under host Ian Dempsey in the late 1980s, it continued as a staple through the 1990s and into the 2000s, serving as a lighthearted filler to engage the audience and build a communal spirit. Hosts like Dempsey and later Ray D'Arcy would provide on-air shoutouts, reading out names and ages while the roller animated across the screen, often accompanied by a repetitive upbeat song chanting phrases like "it's your birthday." Viewers participated by sending in birthday details via postal mail to RTÉ, including names, ages, and simple messages, which were then curated for broadcast to personalize the celebrations and make children feel specially acknowledged on national television. This format emphasized community interaction in a non-competitive way, akin to other viewer-driven elements on the show but focused solely on joyful milestones. The segment's charm lay in its simplicity and inclusivity, airing regularly to fill short slots and end segments on a positive note, contributing to 's reputation for fostering a sense of belonging among Irish families. By the , submission methods evolved slightly with options during revivals, but the core rolling display and host narration remained consistent.

Pop Gossip

Pop Gossip was a music news and celebrity chat segment featured on the Irish children's television strand , airing weekly during the and into the 2000s. Initially hosted by Simon Young, a former 2fm , the segment delivered informal popular music updates in collaboration with 's main presenters, including and , often without scripted material to foster a lively, unpolished vibe. In the mid-1990s, Emma Ledden succeeded Young as host, taking over at age 18 and continuing for approximately two years before transitioning to other roles. Under Ledden's tenure, the format emphasized engaging news, including chats on emerging pop stars, album critiques, and responses to viewer-submitted music requests, all integrated with The Den's broader programming of music videos and youth-oriented content. The segment highlighted era-defining acts, with a particular nod to Irish talent amid global pop trends; for instance, it featured interviews with members such as Mel C and , alongside coverage of homegrown groups like to resonate with young Irish audiences. These short, dynamic discussions not only gossiped about celebrity happenings but also tied into promotional elements like 's video rotations, helping to cultivate music enthusiasm among viewers during the vibrant pop explosion.

Stream

Stream was a multi-themed daily and activity show broadcast as part of on Network 2 during the late and early , designed to engage young viewers with interactive content and prizes. The programme aired within the Den2 strand, allowing children to participate via phone calls for competitions, evolving to reflect changing interests from animal care to fashion and emerging digital topics. The show followed a structured format with distinct themes each weekday to cover a broad range of children's interests. Mondays featured Quiz Stream, where two teams of three children—either all boys or all girls—competed by answering questions to light up letters spelling "S-T-R-E-A-M," with the first team to complete it winning prizes. Tuesdays alternated between Pet Stream, focusing on animal care and advice, and later Style Stream, which provided tips and style segments, such as romance advice in a 2002 episode. Wednesdays were dedicated to Cyber Stream, exploring , gaming, and pop culture like Pokémon, with hosts Nisha and Breen leading interactive quizzes and music archive features in episodes around 2000. Thursdays highlighted Star Stream, a celebrity and talent-focused segment that included competitions for young performers, drawing hundreds of applicants for auditions and on-air showcases, as seen with groups like Drogheda dancers in 2002 and solo acts in 2004. Fridays centered on Sports Stream, offering sports-related activities and discussions to wrap up the week, airing in slots like 5 p.m. in 1999. This rotating theme approach ensured variety, briefly overlapping with sports elements from The Grip but emphasizing quiz-style engagement unique to Stream.

The Works

The Works was a home-produced children's science programme broadcast as part of The Den on RTÉ Television during the 1990s. Hosted by Mary Kingston and co-presented by Michael Sheridan, it aired on Wednesdays from 17:00 to 17:30, immediately preceding imported shows like Spider-Man. The format emphasized educational content designed to spark interest in science among young viewers, featuring short videos on inventors, scientific experiments, and real-world applications of concepts. Episodes often included interactive segments where participants engaged with demonstrations, encouraging hands-on exploration of topics like physics and invention history. Running for four series, the programme integrated with The Den's schedule to provide mid-week enrichment, aligning with school terms and occasionally tying into broader educational themes promoted by RTÉ's youth programming.

The Yes-No Game Show

The Yes-No Game Show was a humorous segment featured on the Irish children's television strand The Den, targeting young audiences in the . In this game, child contestants were required to respond to a series of personal questions without uttering the words "yes" or "no," with the goal of avoiding elimination through creative or evasive answers. The format emphasized quick thinking, verbal creativity, and comedy, often leading to entertaining slip-ups by participants. Hosted by 's presenters alongside iconic puppets like , the show typically involved two children seated at a desk, sometimes with their favorite soft toys for comfort. Questions escalated in rapidity and trickiness to challenge the contestants' restraint, and successful evasion earned points toward prizes such as (e.g., a PlayStation) or merchandise like a denim jacket. Even unsuccessful players received consolation gifts, maintaining the segment's light-hearted tone with humorous on-air reactions to failures. Viewer participation was encouraged through letters sent to the show, allowing children to apply as contestants or engage in related antics, such as Dustin's on-air responses to fan correspondence. Airing approximately twice weekly during its run from 1995 to 1998, the segment integrated seamlessly into 's afternoon , fostering a among viewers who tuned in for the unpredictable and relatable child-led gameplay. Its focus on simple rules belied the skill required for evasion, making it a memorable staple of Irish children's programming that highlighted self-expression without direct confrontation.

Seasonal and time-slot programming

Summer programming

During the summer months, when school holidays provided children with more free time, The Den was temporarily replaced by dedicated seasonal strands on Network 2, featuring lighter, holiday-oriented programming to maintain viewer engagement in the afternoon slots. These shows emphasized fun, adventurous segments with increased emphasis on outdoor activities, games, and puppet-based humor, often incorporating special guests to enhance the festive atmosphere. One of the earliest such replacements was , which aired from 26 June to 1 September 1995 as a weekday afternoon series. Presented by comedian and assisted by Agnes Detortois, the show delivered energetic challenges, physical games, and interactive fun segments designed to encourage active play and excitement during the vacation period. It briefly shifted to for two weeks due to scheduling conflicts with Wimbledon coverage, maintaining its high-energy format throughout. Following this, The Swamp served as the primary summer strand from 1996 to 1997, replacing as a weekday strand. Hosted by Mossy Ferguson, , and the Rasher Bacon, the program was set in a whimsical chip van that later became a shop, weaving narrative plots around outdoor adventures such as rescuing Rasher from an eagle or battling a , alongside games and guest appearances like the talking Skelly. This format blended antics with exploratory themes to keep young audiences entertained and immersed in imaginative, vacation-friendly escapades.

Morning programming

Den AM, also known as Socky's Big Little Morning Show, was the dedicated morning strand of , airing in early morning slots on during the late and to provide content for pre-school audiences before transitioning into the main afternoon programming. The show was hosted by presenter Geri Maye alongside the character Socky the Sock Monster, who served as a playful sidekick appealing to young viewers through its gentle, child-friendly interactions. It featured songs, stories, and simple activities designed to engage pre-schoolers with educational play elements, maintaining a calm pacing to ease children into the day. The programme ran until early , when Geri Maye departed for other projects and was replaced by Bríd Treasa Wyndham, after which the morning format evolved. Socky, a longstanding character from , helped bridge the morning content to the broader Den universe.

Imported programming

Animation series

The Den's animation series segment featured a selection of imported animated programs, primarily from the , which were integrated into its weekday afternoon and morning schedules from 1986 to to appeal to school-aged children. These shows were chosen for their age-appropriate themes, humor, and educational elements, helping to balance locally produced content with global entertainment and fostering a diverse viewing experience for Irish audiences. Scheduling often placed these animations in dedicated blocks, such as post-school afternoons around 3-5:30 p.m., allowing viewers to unwind with episodic adventures after homework. This approach not only entertained but also introduced young viewers to international storytelling styles, complementing the strand's live-action imports in broader imported programming. Notable examples from the 1990s, a peak era for such airings, included:
  • Rugrats (1991–2004): This Nickelodeon series followed the imaginative escapades of toddlers like Tommy Pickles and Chuckie Finster, exploring family dynamics and childhood curiosity through playful, relatable scenarios; it became a staple on The Den for its lighthearted family adventures.
  • X-Men: The Animated Series (1992–1997): A Marvel production centering on mutant superheroes like Wolverine, Cyclops, and Storm battling prejudice and villains, it spanned five seasons and introduced action-oriented narratives to The Den's lineup.
  • Dexter's Laboratory (1996–2003): Created by Genndy Tartakovsky for Cartoon Network, the show depicted boy genius Dexter's secret inventions clashing with his sister Dee Dee's chaos, running four seasons and emphasizing inventive comedy on the program.
  • KaBlam! (1996–2000): An anthology-style sketch comedy featuring hosts Henry and June alongside segments like Action League Now! and Prometheus and Bob, it aired four seasons and brought experimental, fast-paced humor to afternoon slots.
  • Animaniacs (1993–1998): Warner Bros.' zany variety show starring siblings Yakko, Wakko, and Dot Warner, with spin-offs like Pinky and the Brain, known for satirical parodies and musical numbers across 99 episodes.
  • Batman: The Animated Series (1992–1995): This darker take on the DC Comics hero, produced by Warner Bros., explored Gotham's crime-fighting with sophisticated animation and voice acting, broadening the appeal of superhero tales for young viewers.
  • Hey Arnold! (1996–2004): Nickelodeon's series about fourth-grader Arnold Shortman navigating urban life in Hillwood, addressing themes like friendship and social issues through Helga's unrequited crush and community stories over five seasons.
  • Doug (1991–1999, 1999–2005): Following teenager Doug Funnie's journal-style adventures in Bluffington, this Disney/ABC and Nickelodeon co-production spanned seven seasons and over 100 episodes, highlighting coming-of-age experiences.
Later airings extended to series like (1998–2005), Cartoon Network's action-comedy featuring superpowered sisters Blossom, Bubbles, and Buttercup fighting crime in . Additional examples from the included Batman Beyond, Superman: The Animated Series, The Zeta Project, and Static Shock. These selections underscored The Den's role in curating content that mixed whimsy, action, and moral lessons suitable for its target demographic.

Live-action series

The Den frequently featured imported live-action series to complement its original programming, providing viewers with a mix of educational, adventurous, and comedic content primarily from British and American productions during the 1980s and 1990s. These shows were typically aired in the afternoon slots following host-led segments, allowing presenters like or Zig and Zag to introduce episodes and tie them into interactive discussions or competitions. This integration helped fill scheduling gaps while exposing Irish children to international stories focused on teen life, school dynamics, and fantasy adventures, often premiering episodes ahead of other European networks. A prominent British import was , a teen drama series produced by the that explored youth club friendships, family issues, and coming-of-age challenges in , airing on from the early 1990s. The show, which ran from 1989 to 2006, emphasized realistic portrayals of adolescence, including social pressures and relationships, and was introduced by Den hosts to encourage viewer letters about similar experiences. Its appeal lay in relatable characters and storylines that resonated with Irish audiences, contributing to its status as a staple filler for post-school viewing. Another key example was the Canadian-American anthology series Are You Afraid of the Dark?, which debuted on in the 1990s, presenting eerie tales around a told by a group of kids, blending suspense with moral lessons. Running from 1990 to 2000, it was slotted to air after lighter fare, with hosts providing reassurance to younger viewers, and focused on imaginative horror suitable for children. These selections underscored 's role in curating diverse, non-animated content to engage audiences through real-world settings and actors.

TV specials

Christmas specials

The Christmas specials of The Den were annual holiday-themed television events produced by RTÉ, airing primarily during the late 1980s and 1990s as family-oriented programming that blended adventure, humor, and festive entertainment. These specials typically featured the show's iconic puppet characters, such as Zig and Zag, in plots centered on saving from various mishaps, often incorporating international journeys to locations like Lapland in . Broadcast on , they aired on Christmas morning, starting as early as 7 a.m., and combined pre-recorded adventure segments with live studio elements to engage young audiences across . The format of these specials emphasized a mix of songs, comedic sketches, games, and guest appearances, creating an immersive holiday experience that built excitement over weeks leading up to the broadcast. For instance, the 1988 special, Dempsey's Den Go to Santaland, marked the first in the series, with host and puppets Zig and Zag traveling to Santa's realm for a whimsical visit filled with seasonal cheer. Subsequent installments escalated the adventure narratives; in 1992's The Den Christmas Crisis, presenter , along with Zig, Zag, , and Zuppy, thwarted a plot by the villainous Postman Patrick (voiced by Podge) who stole D'Arcy's "Scent of Man" and trapped Santa in a box, culminating in a dash to Lapland to rescue him. This special included investigative elements like a "Crimeline" segment and interactions with Gardaí, highlighting the puppets' chaotic yet heroic antics. Later specials continued the tradition of puppet-led escapades with celebrity guests and musical performances. The 1995 edition, The Den Christmas Carol, incorporated Boyzone for festive songs and sketches adapting the classic tale, while 1996's Christmas Crisis 2 served as a sequel, reuniting D'Arcy, Dustin, Zig, and Zag with additional characters like Soky and Snotzer for more holiday hijinks. The 1998 special shifted to an urban quest, with Dustin, Soky, and presenter Damien McCaul traveling to New York in search of a rare blue bucket toy. Other notable entries included 1991's Must Go to Moscow, involving a Cold War-era twist on the Santa rescue, and 1993's Together for Christmas, focusing on unity and seasonal games. In 2001, The Mystery of Rudolph's Nose continued the tradition with further puppet-led holiday antics. These programs were distinctly family-focused, incorporating viewer participation through live phone-ins for holiday messages, excited children's calls sharing wishes, and on-air letters about the puppets' antics, such as concerns over Podge's scariness. Festive competitions, including games and improvised sketches, added interactivity, while guest stars like President in the early elevated the specials' cultural significance, making them a staple of Irish holiday viewing. The annual tradition tapered off in the early , though repeats of earlier specials occasionally aired.

The Den is Ten

"The Den is Ten" was a special television programme broadcast by in 1996 to mark the tenth anniversary of the long-running children's strand , which had debuted in 1986 as Dempsey's Den. The special served as a retrospective, showcasing the evolution of the show through clips from its early years, including segments like Creature Feature, and highlighting key milestones such as the introduction of iconic characters Zig and Zag in 1990. It emphasized the programme's growth in popularity, noting its fan club had amassed over 200,000 members by that point. Hosted primarily by , with appearances from original presenter and puppets including , Socky, and Podge, the special featured a mix of live segments, comedy sketches, and guest performances. Notable comedy elements included humorous skits with Zig and Zag's alien antics and Dustin's mock presidential candidacy, alongside interactive bits like line dancing lessons broadcast live from The Ark in Dublin's Temple Bar. Guest stars such as from , who performed "Coming Home Now," and the added musical flair, while fans like Kira Fula and Denise O’Shaughnessy shared personal memories of the show. The programme also recapped adventurous highlights, such as the cast's trips to for coverage and , as well as the 1992 relocation to a fictional "Number 10 Celebrity Square" set. Aired as a standalone event in the afternoon slot from 4 to 6 p.m., it celebrated the show's decade of engaging young audiences with a blend of , , and Irish cultural touches, underscoring its status as a national institution for children.

Best Bitz from Back Den

"Best Bitz from Back Den" is a half-hour produced by to mark the 21st anniversary of the puppet duo Zig and Zag's debut on the children's programme in 1987. Aired on at 6:30 p.m. on 27 October 2008, the special focuses on the duo's origins as mischievous alien puppets from Planet Zog, known for their chaotic and irreverent humor that defined much of 's early entertainment style. The programme compiles classic clips from , originally launched as Dempsey's Den, highlighting key moments such as attacks on the character Ted, festive specials, and appearances by recurring figures like Captain Joke, Captain Pillowcase, and Cousin Nigel. It traces the puppets' impact on Irish children's television history, from their initial 22 September 1987 appearance hosted by to their role in shaping the show's playful anarchy. Interviews with former Den presenters Ian Dempsey and Ray D'Arcy provide reflective commentary on the series' legacy, underscoring Zig and Zag's enduring appeal through their disruptive antics and cultural resonance in Ireland. Directed by Daniel O'Hara, the special also features contributions from puppeteers Ciaran Morrison and Rónán Johnston, who originated the characters. Following its broadcast, "Best Bitz from Back Den" was released as a DVD on 7 November 2008, preserving the nostalgic retrospective for fans.

Dustin: 20 Years a Pluckin'

"Dustin: 20 Years a Pluckin'" is a one-hour television documentary that aired on on November 8, 2009, at 6:30 p.m., commemorating the 20th anniversary of Dustin the Turkey's debut on the Irish children's programme in 1989. Produced by Kite Entertainment, the special traces Dustin's multifaceted career, highlighting his roles as a pop star, , model, , newsreader, builder, and national icon, with a particular emphasis on his evolution as a solo entertainer following his early collaborations. The programme features behind-the-scenes insights into Dustin's television history, including reflections on the limited archived footage from due to early production constraints. The format blends documentary storytelling with comedic elements and musical segments, showcasing Dustin's signature humorous style alongside performances that nod to his musical achievements, such as his representation of at the 2008 with the entry "Irelande 12 Points." Guest appearances by prominent Irish figures, including , , , , , Bosco, Zig and Zag, , , and , provide testimonials and anecdotes that celebrate Dustin's impact on Irish entertainment over two decades. Dustin himself describes the special as an "epic" production, humorously comparing it to cinematic landmarks like Ben-Hur and the soap opera The Clinic, underscoring its ambitious scope in honoring his solo journey. An extended two-hour DVD version was released on November 20, 2009, incorporating additional unreleased television clips and outtakes to offer fans a deeper look into Dustin's behind-the-scenes world and his enduring role in Irish popular culture. The special also touches on Dustin's interactions with international celebrities, such as , and his songwriting contributions, including a Eurovision track penned for , further illustrating his versatile and influential presence beyond The Den.

Revivals

2020 lockdown series

The revival began with a one-off special for RTÉ Does Comic Relief on 26 June 2020, followed by a seven-episode live series on Sunday evenings at 6:30 p.m. on RTÉ One, beginning on 8 November 2020. The revival was designed to provide family-oriented entertainment during a period of restricted activities, drawing on the show's legacy to appeal to both children and nostalgic adults from previous generations. The series was hosted by , who had previously presented the show during its Echo Island era in the 1990s, alongside the returning puppet characters Zig and Zag (performed by Mick O'Hara and Ciarán Morrison, respectively) and (performed by John Morrison). Adapted for a broader amid constraints, the format shifted from its original daily children's block to a Sunday night incorporating nostalgic elements, interactive games, sketches, and virtual appearances by guests such as Irish celebrities. Episodes featured updated versions of classic segments, like chaotic storytelling and puppet-led antics, while emphasizing the original Den's irreverent and bold spirit to foster a sense of fun and escapism. Viewer engagement was encouraged through platforms, where audiences shared memories and participated in real-time polls and challenges, enhancing the communal feel of the experience. The series achieved high viewership, with reports of bumper ratings that highlighted its success in capturing family audiences during the second wave of the pandemic.

Post-revival developments

Following the success of the 2020 revival series, announced plans for to return to screens in January 2022 with hosts , , and Zig and Zag, but the broadcaster cancelled the series in October 2021, citing scheduling issues amid broader programming changes. The decision disappointed fans and cast members alike, with publicly expressing hurt over the axing in July 2025, noting the revival's strong reception had not translated into sustained commitment. This cancellation highlighted the challenges of reviving legacy formats in a shifting media landscape, where no new episodes of have aired as of November 2025. The fallout prompted fan-led efforts to revive the show, including an launched shortly after the announcement that urged RTÉ to bring back the original lineup and amassed over 1,500 signatures by early 2022, reflecting ongoing campaigns through 2021–2023. Despite this advocacy, RTÉ did not reverse course, and legacy episodes from the original run and 2020 revival remain accessible for streaming on the RTÉ Player, preserving the programme's archive for new generations. The 2020 episodes' high viewership and nostalgic appeal boosted interest in Irish children's TV heritage but failed to spur a full reboot, as RTÉ prioritized other formats. This post-revival stasis aligns with RTÉ's strategic pivot after , when the broadcaster phased out The Den's afternoon block in favor of dedicated children's channels for younger audiences and TRTÉ for tweens and teens, aiming to consolidate youth programming on digital platforms. The channels, launched in September , marked a departure from the integrated live-host format of The Den toward segmented, on-demand content, a model that persisted despite the temporary surge from the 2020 lockdown episodes. The enduring cultural footprint is evident in occasional character appearances, such as Dustin the Turkey's cameos in entertainment segments and specials, which continue to evoke the show's influence on Irish media and audiences.

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