The Berenstain Bears

An animated television series based on Stan and Jan Berenstain's Berenstain Bears children's book series.

The Berenstain Bears (1985-1987) is an American animated children's series created by Jan Berenstain and Stan Berenstain for CBS, adapted from the couple's long-running picture book series. Papa, Mama, and their cubs Brother and Sister Bear navigate ordinary childhood and family dilemmas in a cozy woodland community, with each half-hour episode built around a small problem such as a mix-up, a broken promise, or a squabble between siblings. The engine is simple and clear: the bears want to get along, a minor misunderstanding threatens to spoil things, and the family works it out through conversation and patience. Voice performances include Ruth Buzzi as Mama Bear, with David Mendenhall, Brian Cummings, Christina Lange, Billy Rosemberg, and Jake Scott among the principal voice cast. The series runs two seasons totaling 52 episodes, with each season standing as self-contained lesson-driven stories rather than a continuing arc. Its tone is warm, gentle, and reassuring, with a wholesome sensibility that recalls the moral storytelling of Arthur and Bluey. Fans of gentle preschool animation and classic picture book adaptations will find it comforting and easy to watch together.

• Blueygentle family-oriented animated life lessons, kids moral tales
• Arthurwholesome animated children's series with simple moral storytelling
• Peppa Piggentle animated kids series teaching everyday lessons in a cozy setting

Created by

Jan Berenstain, Stan Berenstain

Release Date

1985-09-14

Episode runtime

30 min

Rating

6.9 / 10 (44)

What is The Berenstain Bears about?

A gentle animated series following the Berenstain bear family as they learn everyday lessons about growing up and getting along.

What is The Berenstain Bears like to watch?

Ember's analysis rates the pacing of The Berenstain Bears as measured, its intensity as mild and its storytelling as simple.

Is The Berenstain Bears violent?

No — Ember's analysis finds no violence in The Berenstain Bears.

Which shows are like The Berenstain Bears?

Shows with a similar feel include Bluey, Arthur, and Peppa Pig.

How long is The Berenstain Bears?

The Berenstain Bears: 2 seasons, 52 episodes.

Is The Berenstain Bears still running?

No, The Berenstain Bears has ended.

Where can I watch The Berenstain Bears?

In United States, The Berenstain Bears streams on PBS Kids Amazon Channel.