I was a big fan of Hong Kong Phooey back in the day. I always figured he was a Brother too and not just because he was voiced by the one-of-a-kind Scatman Crothers. He had style just like his theme song said. He had charisma, the power of Kung Fu, the Phooey mobile that could change into any kind of vehicle with the smack of the gong and a more than competent sidekick. Even with all that the original show only lasted one season back in 1974. I was sure it would make a comeback though, especially considering all the less than successful attempted comebacks of other cartoon characters. If you’re not familiar with the character, check out the intro then read on:
It appears a failed attempt was made to bring the character back to the present with a movie. It even sounds like Eddie Murphy voicing the titular hero. I can’t say I’m a fan of the comedy in this bit but it probably made sense for the time. Take a look:
I still hold out hope for a working version of this hero to return to some screen somewhere. Until then I’ll have to hold onto the possibilities created by the fans and maybe the help of this particular toon presented as part of Cartoon Network’s Web Premier toons back in 2001. I’m kind of feeling this version: