By Natalie Gadeikis, Staff Writer
Steve Irwin, nicknamed “The Crocodile Hunter”, was an Australian zookeeper and conservationist that sparked the interest in all of us to take care of and respect not only our magnificent wildlife, but the planet that we both share. Irwin was dedicated to revealing the wonder and beauty of the world around us, and the creatures that roam it. Although he passed away in 2006, his memory and legacy will live on forever in our hearts.
Bill Nye was often responsible for single-handedly teaching an entire 4th grade class a lesson on a certain science topic through a VHS tape played on a chunky TV set at school. Nye’s wacky and energetic teaching style could keep any hyperactive kid in their seat, completely mesmerized and entertained by the science experiments shown on the TV screen.
Mulan was a feminist icon for children of the early ‘00s, and broke the norms of Disney princess storytelling. Disney turned Mulan into the hero of the story, rather than the damsel in distress, proving to her society that she is more than capable of doing everything a man, and soldier could do. Mulan proved to all of the girls of our generation that there is strength in femininity.
Spider-man is one of the most beloved superheroes of our generation. When he’s not busy saving the city, Peter Parker is an average, lonesome teenager who struggles to find his place in society. Before Spider-man’s character was created, most teenage heroes were usually sidekicks to the protagonist. Spider-man was the first teenage superhero who got his own spotlight, as well as being the first superhero that the younger crowd could relate to.
Hannah Montana was not only a pop sensation, but a musical influence for many young teens across the globe, reaching out to her audience with impactful and encouraging lyrics when they face times of trouble. “Next time you feel like it’s just one of those days when you just can’t seem to win, if things don’t turn out the way you plan, figure something else out! Don’t stay down, try again!” – Lyrics from the song “Nobody’s Perfect” by Hannah Montana.
Drake & Josh, the most iconic duo in early 2000s television for Gen Z kids, brought an abundance of entertainment, silly drama, and life lessons through our TV screens. Despite having polar opposite personalities, the show revealed to its audience that two people can have an unbreakable bond, no matter how different they may be from each other.