For those who cherish animated shows that blend cultural richness with heartwarming stories, looking back at Sagwa, the Siamese Cat, reveals a true treasure from the PBS Kids lineup. This delightful series introduces viewers to Sagwa, a Siamese kitten living in a grand palace in ancient China. Her family, including her parents, older brother Dongwa, and younger sister Sheegwa, are not just royal pets but also serve as the palace calligraphers. Adding to Sagwa’s adventures is her bat friend, Fu-Fu, whose clumsiness often leads to amusing situations.
Created by Chinese American author Amy Tan, and originating from her picture book, Sagwa The Siamese Cat is more than just a cartoon; it’s a window into Chinese traditions and aesthetics, co-produced by Sesame Workshop (known for Dragon Tales) and Cinegroupe. Premiering on PBS Kids in 2001, the show ran for a single season but remained on air in reruns on PBS and Sprout until 2009, captivating young audiences with its gentle narratives and vibrant setting.
Interestingly, Sagwa’s debut coincided closely with the events of 9/11 in September 2001. It’s speculated that the extensive news coverage following this event impacted viewership for many shows, including Sagwa. Additionally, while its focus on Chinese culture was a strength in terms of representation, it may have also contributed to it being perceived as more of a niche program compared to broadly appealing shows like Arthur or Clifford.
Despite its merits, Sagwa the Siamese Cat has faced challenges in reaching a wider modern audience due to complex rights issues involving PBS, Sesame Workshop, and Cinegroupe. While Common Sense Media began streaming the first 16 episodes in 2021, a full re-release of all 40 episodes remains elusive. Though VHS recordings of most episodes exist, their quality varies, and unfortunately, four segments of the English dub are considered lost. Adding to the scarcity, the few DVDs that were produced are now out of print and quite rare.
Sagwa the Siamese Cat remains a standout children’s program, particularly for those with an interest in Chinese culture. Its blend of education and entertainment makes it a show that deserves to be rediscovered and appreciated by a new generation.
