Topo Gigio
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Topo Gigio (lit. Lou Mouse) was the lead character of a children's puppet show on Italian television, in the early 1960s. It was created by artist Maria Perego in 1961 and has been customarily voiced by actor Peppino Mazzullo.
Topo Gigio, a soft foam mouse with dreamy eyes and childish personality, was very popular in Italy for many years — not only on TV but also in children magazines, such as the classical Corriere dei Piccoli, animated cartoons, movies, and merchandising. Its popularity spread to the world after being featured on Ed Sullivan's weekly TV show. Today Topo Gigio still has a cohort of faithful fans, and has become an icon of Italian pop culture.
The endearing puppet has made appearances and has a fan base in many other countries — including Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Japan, Mexico, and Venezuela.