Astro Duck

Duckula has a new craze for computers. A lightning flash boosts its circuit and the computer has amazing powers. After several experiments it "hacks" into T.R.A.S.H. the Transylvanian Space Centre, and lets off a space probe to the moon.

Count Duckula, Igor, Nanny, Emma, Von Goosewing, Von Gänseklein, Dimitri the Bat, Sviatoslav the Bat

Count Duckula was a centuries-old vampire who also happened to be a duck. While trying to revive him, the Count's assistant Igor accidentally injected him with ketchup instead of blood. This mishap resulted in the canard's refusal to eat meat and his becoming a strict vegetarian. Another side effect was that the ancient bird had a driving desire to become an entertainer instead of a longing to bite the necks of unsuspecting swans.

Following his new wanderlust, Count Duckula took Igor along to all his old haunts (a new location each week), traveling inside his castle itself. Following close behind the duo was Dr. Von Goosewing, who was determined to deliver a stake to the breast of the fine-feathered fiend. Through it all, Count Duckula's nanny was the cheerful voice of reason, regardless of the circumstances.

Count Duckula was produced in England and appeared on Nickelodeon along with another English series, Danger Mouse, both produced by Cosgrove-Hall. The Count's quirky humor was a hit with American audiences, the Monty Python-esque alternative to contemporary fare like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. This was technically the first animation project for Nick, preceding Ren & Stimpy by a couple of years.