The Penguin Store TV Show: 5 Wild Facts You Missed
Fans of quirky television love discovering hidden gems, and The Penguin Store TV show is one of those delightful oddities that keeps viewers coming back for more. From its off‑beat humor to its unexpected back‑stage drama, the series offers more than just a simple storefront setting. Yet many of its most compelling details slip past casual watchers. In this post, we’ll dive into five wild facts you probably missed, giving you fresh insight into why The Penguin Store has cultivated a cult following. Get ready to see the show in a whole new light.
Fact 1: The real penguins are CGI, not trained animals
Although the series showcases adorable penguins waddling around the shop, none of them are actual birds. The production team opted for high‑quality computer‑generated imagery to avoid the logistical nightmare of caring for live animals. This decision allowed for more expressive “behaviors” that match the script’s comedic beats. The CGI team spent months perfecting each feather‑by‑feather detail, ensuring the birds looked authentic on camera. Viewers who thought the penguins were real may have missed the subtle lighting cues that give away the digital art. This clever workaround also kept the budget lean, freeing up resources for sharper writing and set design.
Fact 2: The storefront is a repurposed 1950s diner
The iconic shop interior is actually a renovated 1950s diner, complete with chrome accents and a classic jukebox. The original building sat abandoned for decades before the show’s creators discovered it. By preserving the retro vibe, the designers gave the series a nostalgic feel that contrasts with the modern, absurd storylines. Hidden behind the counter, you’ll find original tile patterns and vintage signage that were carefully restored. This blending of eras adds a layer of visual storytelling, hinting at the timeless nature of the characters’ quirky ambitions.
Fact 3: The scriptwriters used a “penguin‑first” approach
Unlike typical sitcoms that prioritize human dialogue, the writers of The Penguin Store began each episode by imagining what the penguins might be thinking. They crafted “penguin POV” outlines before fleshing out the human plot, ensuring the birds remain central to the humor. This method resulted in unexpected punchlines, like a penguin’s protest against a new store layout that mirrors real‑life animal welfare debates. By treating the avian cast as equal partners, the show balances silliness with subtle commentary, a nuance many viewers overlook on first watch.
Fact 4: The series includes hidden Easter eggs referencing classic penguin movies
Sharp-eyed fans will notice subtle nods to iconic penguin films tucked into background props. In one episode, a framed poster on the wall mirrors the famous “March of the Penguins” documentary, while another scene features a toy that resembles the beloved “Penguins of Madagascar” characters. The crew intentionally placed these Easter eggs as a playful salute to penguin pop culture. Spotting them rewards attentive viewers and builds a deeper connection between the show and its audience, turning each episode into a treasure hunt.
Fact 5: The show’s soundtrack is made up of royalty‑free Antarctic recordings
To enhance the immersive atmosphere, the sound designers layered authentic Antarctic wind and ocean recordings under the comedic score. All the audio clips are sourced from public domain archives, allowing the team to avoid costly licensing fees while still delivering an organic feel. The subtle background sounds echo the penguins’ natural habitat, creating a whimsical juxtaposition against the bustling shop environment. This auditory detail often flies under the radar, but it enriches the viewing experience for those who listen closely.
These five wild facts reveal why The Penguin Store stands out in today’s crowded TV landscape. From clever CGI to hidden Easter eggs, the series packs layers of creativity that reward dedicated fans. Next time you tune in, keep an eye on the details—you might just catch something you’ve never noticed before. Happy watching!
