"Way up in the trees live the Monchichis…"

When it comes to unleashing beasts on an unsuspecting public, Japan’s forte isn’t only giant menacing turtles and lizards. No, they have a few cuddly little critters in their arsenal as well, perhaps none cuter than the Monchichis. These thumb-sucking monkey creatures instantly became a huge hit across Europe and Australia and it was only a matter of time before their sugary-sweet presence made it’s way across the Atlantic, both as a toy and as a Saturday morning animated series called Monchichis.

In 1979, Mattel Toys acquired the rights to distribute the Monchichi in the U.S. And like any toy of this cuddly caliber, it was only logical that a television series be created to accompany them. Teaming up with animation icons, Hanna-Barbera, Monchichis made its debut on Saturday morning airwaves in 1983.

Taking place high atop the forested land of Monchia, the benevolent Monchichis found their existence threatened by the evil Grumplins of Grumplor. But luckily, the little monkey creatures had a secret weapon in the way of a kind and wise wizard named Wizzar. He was able to dispense plenty of advice, and when that failed, magical spells to keep the Grumplins and their leader, Horgg, from taking control of the furry forest creatures. The side of cuddly goodness was represented by Moncho, Tootoo, Parchitt, Kyla and the small, hyperactive Thumkii, while danger lurked in the form of creatures such as Scumgor and the Snogs.

Even with a sweet disposition that would make any diabetic nervous, Monchichis failed to put a dent in the popularity of similar shows like The Smurfs and The Snorks and their television presence was short-lived, lasting only a single season. Their Saturday morning demise didn’t spell the end for the lovable thumb-sucking monkeys though, who continue to be adopted from toy store shelves to this day. Even Godzilla couldn’t match that kind of staying power.