Clarabell was played mainly by three different actors through the years (others sometimes doubled as Clarabell, to allow them to play other characters). Robert Keeshan originated the role, but left the show to star in Captain Kangaroo (1955); Bobby Nicholson continued the role until Lew Anderson took over in 1954, and he carried the role from then on. Richie's goal was thus to unmask Anderson as Clarabell.