Here's Why "Hi-5" Has My Whole Heart — Even As An Adult

    Jup Jup over everything and everyone.

    Hameda Nafiz
    by Hameda Nafiz

    BuzzFeed Staff

    I'm going to be honest — when it comes to Aussie kids shows, my memory's pretty bleak. But one show that I'll always cherish and remember, is the marvel that was Hi-5.

    Nine Network

    Picture this: It's the '00s and you're sat in front of the TV, eagerly awaiting the start of Hi-5. As the show begins, you're instantly transported to a vibrant world of colours, unbelievably catchy tunes and a cast of characters who felt like our best buddies.

    I mean, who could forget Kathleen, Charli, Kellie, Nathan, Tim — and the cheeky alien puppet Jup Jup?

    Nine Network

    They were our idols, our role models and our mates, all rolled into one.

    The best part about Hi-5 was that it didn't just entertain us — it taught us valuable life lessons along the way.

    Nine Network

    From embracing diversity and inclusivity to the importance of teamwork and friendship, Hi-5 seamlessly weaved these themes into its episodes. We danced, we sang and we soaked up knowledge like sponges. It was like learning disguised as pure fun.

    Let's not forget those unforgettable songs that still echo in our minds to this day. "L.O.V.E." had us belting out the chorus like rockstars.

    Nine Network

    "Jump and Shout" made us, well, jump and shout — and "Ready or Not" had us moving and grooving like nobody's business. Those tunes were the soundtrack of our childhood and they never fail to bring a smile to my face whenever they randomly pop up in my head.

    And can we take a moment to appreciate the creative genius behind the show?

    Nine Network

    Hi-5 had this magical ability to turn everyday activities into extraordinary adventures. Going to the park? Well, Hi-5 turned it into a thrilling quest for treasure. Baking cookies? Suddenly, you're having a dance party in the kitchen. The show knew how to ignite our imaginations and make the ordinary feel extraordinary.

    Let's not forget Jup Jup, the quirky five-legged alien that resided in Kathleen's magical world.

    Nine Network

    I know some people couldn't stand Jup Jup, but I loved them. They were a master of mischief, always kept us guessing and brought a unique dynamic to the Hi-5 adventures. They'd playfully cause chaos for a seemingly unknowing Kathleen (though there are theories that she knew) and fun fact — they were voiced by Tim! 

    As we conclude this nostalgic trip, let's raise a virtual toast to the magic of Hi-5 and the memories it created.

    Nine Network

    It was a time of joy, laughter, and learning disguised as pure fun. Hi-5 brought us together, sparked our creativity and taught us the value of friendship and inclusion.