Canada is mourning the loss of one of its most beloved artists and cultural figures. Noreen Young, the legendary puppeteer, producer, and creative force behind some of the country’s most cherished children’s programming, has passed away. She was a pioneer in her field, and her imaginative spirit and artistry left an indelible mark on generations of Canadians.
Born in Almonte, Ontario, Noreen Young developed a passion for puppetry at an early age. She went on to study at the Ontario College of Art and honed her craft with a singular vision — one that combined whimsy, humor, and deep emotional resonance. Over the course of her long and distinguished career, Young became synonymous with Canadian puppetry, a true icon whose work transcended age and background.
She was perhaps best known for creating and starring in beloved shows such as Under the Umbrella Tree, which aired on CBC and later Disney Channel in the United States. Her characters — Gloria Gopher, Jacob Bluejay, and Iggy Iguana — were not just puppets, but personalities that helped teach lessons about friendship, kindness, and perseverance. Her distinctive puppet-making style, marked by expressive faces and a unique sense of charm, made her creations instantly recognizable.
Beyond Under the Umbrella Tree, Young’s influence reached far and wide. She worked on numerous other programs, including Readalong, The Friendly Giant, and Sesame Street (Canadian segments). She also founded her own production company, Noreen Young Productions, through which she continued to innovate in children’s television and stage puppetry.
Noreen was not just an entertainer; she was an advocate for the arts. She spent decades championing puppetry as a serious art form, bringing it into schools, libraries, and festivals across Canada. Her efforts helped ensure that puppetry remained a vibrant and respected part of Canadian culture. She also mentored countless young artists, generously sharing her time and expertise to inspire the next generation.
In recognition of her remarkable contributions, Young was appointed a Member of the Order of Canada and received numerous awards throughout her life, including the ACTRA Award and the Governor General’s Performing Arts Award for Lifetime Artistic Achievement.
Friends, colleagues, and fans are remembering Noreen Young not only for her extraordinary talent but also for her warmth, generosity, and boundless imagination. Tributes have poured in from across the country, many recalling the deep sense of comfort and joy her work brought during childhood.
“Noreen created a world where everyone felt welcome,” one longtime admirer shared. “Her characters taught us about life, about caring for each other, and about finding magic in the everyday.”
As Canada reflects on the legacy of Noreen Young, there is a deep sense of gratitude for all the ways she enriched the cultural landscape. Her puppets may have been made of fabric and foam, but the emotions and lessons they conveyed were as real and lasting as anything in life.
Noreen Young leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire artists, educators, and dreamers for years to come. She taught generations that it was not only acceptable but necessary to see the world through a lens of creativity, kindness, and wonder.
Funeral and memorial service details have not yet been publicly announced. Her family asks for privacy during this difficult time, but encourages those touched by her life to honor her memory by supporting the arts and embracing the magic of storytelling.