Mummies Alive!
Encyclopedia
Mummies Alive! is an American animated series from DIC Entertainment
. It originally aired for one season in 1997.
In ancient Egypt, an evil sorcerer
named, Scarab, kills the pharaoh's son, Prince
Rapses, so he can become pharaoh immortal
. Entombed alive
for his crime (Rapses' body was also never found), Scarab revives in the modern world and begins his search for Rapses' reincarnation, a San Francisco-dwelling boy named Presley Carnavon
to retrieve the spirit of Rapses' so he can become immortal. Rapses' (Presley's) bodyguards, Ja-Kal, Rath, Armon, and Nefer-Tina, along with Rapses' cat, Kahti, awake from the dead to protect him from Scarab. They use the power of Ra to transform into powerful guardians.
Each of the mummies is aligned with the power of an Egyptian god. Ja-Kal uses the spirit of hawk or falcon, Rath uses the spirit of snake, Armon uses the spirit of ram, and Nefer-Tina uses the spirit of cat. They are able to call upon it for magical armor and powers to fight superhuman evildoers; although, once their strength is exhausted they must rest in their sarcophagi
to regain the ability. In order to access these powers, the mummies call out the phrase "With the Strength of Ra!", which triggers their transformation. The mummies also have the power to make a horrifying face, usually used to scare away nosy bystanders.
In addition to Scarab, the mummies often had to contend with gods and spirits from Egyptian myth summoned to the modern world, including Anubis
, Set
, Geb
, Apep
, Bast
, Sekhmet
, Bes
, and many others usually as part of one of Scarab's schemes that went out of his control.
Eric and Julia Lewald, writers/producers for Mummies Alive!, were also head writers for the non-canonical series, Gargoyles
: The Goliath Chronicles. Both programs share common plot elements, including a group of warriors from the past that awaken in the present to fight a wealthy, immortality obsessed, enemy; the use of mythological figures in numerous episodes; and a recurring femme fatale antagonist. These similarities made Mummies Alive! vulnerable to criticism describing it was little more than a Gargoyles clone.
After its first and only season, repeats of Mummies Alive! continued to air on local stations across the country. The series airs every Sunday on Cookie Jar Toons
on This TV
.
Then Mummies Alive! aired in repeats in September 2006 through 2007, airing every Saturday morning on CBS
's new programming block called KOL Secret Slumber Party on CBS, then aired on a new block called KEWLopolis, from September 2007 through 2009.
A 12 year old boy, who has the spirit of Prince Rapses XII (an ancient pharaoh
) who is based on Ramses. He soon discovers this when the Mummies introduce themselves as his guardians. He lives in San Francisco with his mother. He is reluctant to accept his role as Rapses, but on at least two occasions where he had the chance to be freed of his role- when Rapses's father apparently came through the Western Gate and when the original Rapses was drawn into the present-, he expressed reluctance at losing his status as 'pharaoh' because it would have also meant him losing the mummies.
Presley's mother. She works at the City Museum. In Ghouls' Gold, Armon refers to her as "the wise Amanda" when recalling advice she gave Presley. She has insecure feelings that Presley misses being with his father, who is away on business, and tries to bond with her son often.
The leader of the Mummies. In his transformed state, his armor resembles a falcon and also allows him to fly. His weapon is his razor sharp talons/claws and a bow that can shoot out flaming arrows. In ancient Egypt, Ja-Kal was a hunter who had a wife named Tia and a small baby son named Padjet; he died without knowing what happened to his family. He worries the most of Presley's safety. He commonly uses hunting terms to talk to others and explain situations. Ja-Kal commonly cares for others needs first and him second.
Rath - voiced by Scott McNeil
The most intelligent of the Mummies (but also the most arrogant). When he transforms, a green snake which turn into a golden cobra wraps around him and serves as armor. His weapon of choice is a sword that can transform into a snake but he is also able to perform magical incantations. He also designed and built the Mummies' vehicles. In the past, he served as the young Prince's tutor. He claims to know about science, but his definition is such things as turning a staff into a serpent, although he has learned to adapt some spells to the present (Such as a spell that summoned underground snakes to bind his enemies in the past, now summons electric cables in the present).
Armon - voiced by Graeme Kingston
Armon is huge and eats very often. He is very strong even when he has not transformed. He is missing his right arm and when he transforms he obtains a golden arm that is used as his weapon. His armor resembles a ram. In Ghouls' Gold, it was explained that Armon lost his real arm fighting in the Pharaoh's army. The pharaoh then gave him his golden arm. While not fighting, Armon spends most of his time eating or watching 'the magic box' TV that Presley gave them. In the past, Armon was Rapses teacher of combat.
Nefer-Tina - voiced by Cree Summer
She is the only female of the Mummies. She is an expert with her whip, has great agility, and is extremely proficient at driving the Hot-Ra — the Mummies' dragster-like vehicle. When she transforms, her armor is like a cat. Back in ancient Egypt, she had to hide the fact that she was a girl with a head piece or she would not have been allowed to drive chariots. She was known to everyone as Nefer. Only Prince Rapses knew her true identity during that period of time. Ja-Kal and the other members were shocked to find out about the revelation. Armon then comments "That explains why Nefer never went swimming with them". Out of the group, she is the only one who is absolutely willing to try anything modern, such as driving a car, and constantly learns under Presley. She also travels the modern world in disguise to try new things. Nefer-Tina's name was based on Queen Nefertiti
.
Scarab - voiced by Gerard Plunkett
The Pharaoh's adviser, who later sucked the life force from Prince Rapses for youth and immortality. However the effects were not permanent and started to wear off after a few centuries. Now with Prince Rapses reincarnated as Presley Carnovan, he will stop at nothing to steal the prince's life force again. When Scarab transforms, his body is covered in golden and purple armor, resembling that of a scarab beetle
and possessing the power of flight. He also possesses a magical talking snake named Heka that acts as his magical staff from time to time, much to her dismay. His powers include shooting energy blasts from his hands, the creation of Shabti and extensive knowledge in summoning creatures from the afterlife in ancient Egypt. However, he has also shown a good grasp of modern technology, as shown most keenly in Sleight of Hand, where he used technology while competing against the mummies in a mystical contest to try and become Presley's 'guardian' himself (Although Je-Kal and Presley were able to expose the deception at the last minute).
The identity Scarab takes when he needs to be in public. Harris Stone is known as a wealthy individual. As a major benefactor for the Museum, he gives a speech in Who's Who that is one to remember. Even though he is trying to kill Rapses, Scarab feels responsible for the Egyptian artifacts of the museum and feels a degree of sadness when they are damaged. He is also quick to offer money to people who oppose his point of view.
The Snake Familiar, and sometimes Staff, of Scarab, she acts as his loyal companion and advisory, who often makes snide, sarcastic remarks and witty observations. She also has the ability to spit fire.
Prince Rapses' father, the Pharaoh and ruler of all of Egypt. He was a good Pharaoh and was very respected by all his people. He appears in Scarab and Presley's dreams in Pack to the Future. In Reunion, Scarab makes the Mummies believe that Amenhotep has returned. In Family Feud I - Brother's Keeper, Amenhotep appears in some of Ja-Kal's recollections.
Scarab's dog-like pet. He has the head of a crocodile, the body of a lion and the hindquarters of a hippopotamus. Presley describes him in Pack to the Future as "That's the ugliest dog I've ever seen." Ammut usually messes up on anything Scarab tells him to do. Ammut has good parts in Pack to the Future and Who's Who. In Egyptian Mythology, Ammut is female.
Serpent of the Desert. A huge cobra-like beast with an ability to change shape. Rapses' grandfather drove Apep out of Egypt and into the desert 3500 years ago. Apep is after revenge and wants Rapses to pay for what his grandfather did to him. Apep appears in Desert Chic and Pepped With Good Intention.
Arakh is Ja-Kal's evil brother and was known as the "Scorpion of the Desert". He can transform into Scorpion armor. His story is told in the three "Family Feud" episodes.
Cat Goddess of ancient Egypt and the patron goddess of Nefer-Tina, brought to the present in Paws. She demands to be worshipped by the people.
Master of Chance and Trickery. He is a small mischievous green guy who enjoys playing games on people. He especially enjoys flipping a coin to decide on outcomes. Bes appears in Who's Who and Tree O'Clock Rock.
Rath's student of magic 3500 years ago. She was the best student he ever had, and she became more powerful than Rath. Rath was falling in love with her, but had to stop teaching Chontra when the pharaoh ordered him to teach Prince Rapses. For that, Chontra became vengeful and wants to make Rath pay. She gets her first chance in Good Bye Mr. Cheops. She tries again in Tempting Offer and Eye of the Beholder.
Horrific monster trapped in a mirror. No one knows his origin. Every 3500 years, when the planets align, he seeks the soul of a Pharaoh so he can exchange himself with the spirit to free himself from the mirror. The Pharaoh's soul would then be lost until the planets realign in 3500 more years. Once unleashed, no power on earth would be able to stop him. Only the one who sets the spell in motion can stop him. The Eye of Darkness makes its appearance in The Face in the Mirror.
Spirit of the Earth - a huge rock giant that makes earthquakes when he walks. He is a rather unintelligent giant that attacks anyone who disturbs him. Geb is first featured in The Gift of Geb. Geb also has a major part in Monster Truck Mania. He is married to Net in Married to the Geb.
A headless and bodiless guy with just two arms who is a spirit that lives inside Scarab and comes out of his mouth. For an example, see Body Slam. In ancient Egyptian religion, the Ka is the spirit of a man's soul and is represented by the symbol of two upright arms.
The sacred cat, sometimes called the sacred kitty. Kahti can transform into a bigger, more-powerful cat. She was Prince Rapses pet 3500 years ago.
Friend of Nefer-Tina 3500 years ago. Chontra appears as Kenna in Eye of the Beholder.
Arakh's son and Ja-Kal's nephew. He might not truly be considered a bad guy, but does side with Scarab and cause the Mummies a lot of grief before he determines where his true allegiances lie. He also can transform into Scorpion armor like his father. Kimas appears in the second and third "Family Feud" episodes.
A cloudlike being who can produce rain and lightning and can turn into a tornado. Geb and Net might be called your typical married couple. They have a little spat in Married to the Geb.
Source of all the waters and rivers of the Earth. A stupid villain made of water who thinks he is all-powerful, but is not even close. He is a prankster and makes real lame jokes. But even worse, he laughs at his own jokes. Nuhn appears in High Nuhn and Water, Water, Everywhere.
Ancient goddess of sickness and health. She has destroyed whole civilizations with her evil temper. She can transform into a vulture-like bird. Nobody was ever able to defeat her. Sekhmet appears in The Curse of the Sekhmet.
Set is a dog-like spirit who is leader of the "Trackers of Souls". He calls himself "Dog of the Desert, Master of Evil, Lord of Thunder". Anubis, the not-so-competent jackal (wild dog) spirit of the underworld, tags along with Set. Anubis has a scepter that causes "the sleep of forgetting". They appear in Pack to the Future, The Face In The Mirror, Dog Bites Mummy, and Family Feud I - Brother's Keeper.
Robot-like armies of men made of clay controlled by Scarab. They are very easy to defeat, except that there are so many of them. They shatter easily when hit. They also dissolve in water. They most often look like Egyptians, but can be dressed up as anything, such as construction workers or policemen. Sometimes, if they are broken in half, both halves are still in action.
Brought to life by Scarab. In natural form he is 100 feet tall, but can reduce his size. In Body Slam, he reduces himself to about 10 feet tall and 500 pounds for the Contest. Then in Miscast, he is recreated by Rath. He comes back looking for a mate in Object of His Affections. Talos
is from Greek mythology. The human anklebone is called the "Talus".
Ja-Kal's wife 3500 years ago. They had a small baby son named Padjet. In Sleep Walk Like an Egyptian, we see the scene of the last time Ja-Kal sees Tia and Padjet. Tia gives Ja-Kal an imprint of his son's hand. This hand print is now a sad memory for Ja-Kal of the family he once had. At the end of Sleep Walk Like an Egyptian, Presley asks Ja-Kal, "What happened to your family?" Ja-Kal responds sadly with, "I don't know." Presley then says, "It was Rapses fault - my fault! I don't know how, but some day I'll make it up to you. I promise!" Ja-Kal thinks about Tia and Padjet in Eye of the Beholder and Chontra appears as Tia.
Works as a Regional Subdirector for the Department of Federal Investigation. He analyzes Rath in We've Got One.
A clumsy, nerdy sales clerk who sells clothes but is allergic to wool. Nonetheless, he gets a kiss from Nefer-Tina in True Believer.
Rotund police officer, and Joe Pendleton's partner.
Walter's older sister. Presley has a crush on her, but she is a couple of years older than Presley and likes Benjamin who is in college. Cynthia usually cannot even remember Presley's name and calls him "Preston" or "Wesley".
The janitor at the City Museum. Murdoch is his dog. Charlie is an old navy man. He is really proud of the times when he met Mike Conners (Mannix) in '62. "That was when me and Larry met Kojak." Charlie appears in Honey, I Shrunk the Mummies.
She is a student in Presley's grade. She likes Presley, but often has a tough time getting his attention.
Joe is a police officer, and the Regional Treasurer of the Third Annual Paranormal Alien Visitors Psychic Convention and Brat-Bust. He finally meets his first "space alien" in A Dark and Shrieky Night when Ja-Kal humors him by making it sound like he is from outer space. Joe and Bob both get deeply involved with the "aliens" in We've Got One. They also appear briefly in many other episodes. Joe is featured in the final episode Show Me the Mummy!.
Presley's science teacher. Known as Mr. Huxley to his students, and considered to be a "science geek", he is someone who never has fun. He also believes there is an explanation for everything. He has starring roles in Good Bye Mr. Cheops and Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Huxley. He also appears in Sleep Walk Like an Egyptian, The Gift of Geb, The Curse of the Sekhmet, Missing Ja-Kal, and Eye of the Beholder.
Amanda Carnovan's boss and the director of the Museum. He makes appearances in Ra, Ra, Ra, Ra, Sleep Walk Like an Egyptian, and Pack to the Future.
Owns the Java Spot cafe. Presley's mother spends some time with him in Tempting Offer.
Presley's father who lives in Memphis (presumably Presley's parents are divorced). His dad claims to be an archeologist, but his true activities are somewhat suspect. He visits Presley in My Dad the Hero.
An expert but extremely bad and boring lecturer who discovered the scroll that can open the gates of time. His lecture takes place at the beginning of The Prince and the Presley.
Head of Federal Investigation and is Agent Phillips' boss.
Four homeless street people who befriend Rath when he loses his memory in Dead Man Walking.
The school bully. He and his punk friend Chuck like to rough up the other kids. Tiny and Chuck appear in The Egyp-Tsu Kid and briefly in Dog Bites Mummy and Kid Scarab.
Cynthia's brother and Presley's friend who is in 7th grade with him.
as follows:
entitled Mummies Alive! - The Legend Begins was released. DVDs have also been released including Mummies Alive: The Beginning and two volume sets in 2007.
To coincide with the animated series, Hasbro
produced a series of Mummies Alive! 5" tall action figures and vehicles in 1997. No commercial was made.
DiC Entertainment
DIC Entertainment was an international film and television production company. In addition to animated television shows such as Ulysses 31 , Inspector Gadget , The Littles , The Real Ghostbusters , Captain Planet and the Planeteers , and the first two seasons of the English adaptation of...
. It originally aired for one season in 1997.
In ancient Egypt, an evil sorcerer
Magician (fantasy)
A magician, mage, sorcerer, sorceress, wizard, enchanter, enchantress, thaumaturge or a person known under one of many other possible terms is someone who uses or practices magic that derives from supernatural or occult sources...
named, Scarab, kills the pharaoh's son, Prince
Prince
Prince is a general term for a ruler, monarch or member of a monarch's or former monarch's family, and is a hereditary title in the nobility of some European states. The feminine equivalent is a princess...
Rapses, so he can become pharaoh immortal
Immortality
Immortality is the ability to live forever. It is unknown whether human physical immortality is an achievable condition. Biological forms have inherent limitations which may or may not be able to be overcome through medical interventions or engineering...
. Entombed alive
Premature burial
Premature burial, also known as live burial, burial alive, or vivisepulture, means to be buried while still alive. Animals or humans may be buried alive accidentally or intentionally...
for his crime (Rapses' body was also never found), Scarab revives in the modern world and begins his search for Rapses' reincarnation, a San Francisco-dwelling boy named Presley Carnavon
George Herbert, 5th Earl of Carnarvon
George Edward Stanhope Molyneux Herbert, 5th Earl of Carnarvon was an English aristocrat best known as the financial backer of the search for and the excavation of Tutankhamun's tomb in the Valley of the Kings.-Biography:...
to retrieve the spirit of Rapses' so he can become immortal. Rapses' (Presley's) bodyguards, Ja-Kal, Rath, Armon, and Nefer-Tina, along with Rapses' cat, Kahti, awake from the dead to protect him from Scarab. They use the power of Ra to transform into powerful guardians.
Each of the mummies is aligned with the power of an Egyptian god. Ja-Kal uses the spirit of hawk or falcon, Rath uses the spirit of snake, Armon uses the spirit of ram, and Nefer-Tina uses the spirit of cat. They are able to call upon it for magical armor and powers to fight superhuman evildoers; although, once their strength is exhausted they must rest in their sarcophagi
Sarcophagus
A sarcophagus is a funeral receptacle for a corpse, most commonly carved or cut from stone. The word "sarcophagus" comes from the Greek σαρξ sarx meaning "flesh", and φαγειν phagein meaning "to eat", hence sarkophagus means "flesh-eating"; from the phrase lithos sarkophagos...
to regain the ability. In order to access these powers, the mummies call out the phrase "With the Strength of Ra!", which triggers their transformation. The mummies also have the power to make a horrifying face, usually used to scare away nosy bystanders.
In addition to Scarab, the mummies often had to contend with gods and spirits from Egyptian myth summoned to the modern world, including Anubis
Anubis
Anubis is the Greek name for a jackal-headed god associated with mummification and the afterlife in ancient Egyptian religion. In the ancient Egyptian language, Anubis is known as Inpu . According to the Akkadian transcription in the Amarna letters, Anubis' name was vocalized as Anapa...
, Set
Set (mythology)
Set was in Ancient Egyptian religion, a god of the desert, storms, and foreigners. In later myths he was also the god of darkness, and chaos...
, Geb
Geb
Geb was the Egyptian god of the Earth and a member of the Ennead of Heliopolis. It was believed in ancient Egypt that Geb's laughter was earthquakes and that he allowed crops to grow. The name was pronounced as such from the Greek period onward,...
, Apep
Apep
In Egyptian mythology, Apep was an evil god, the deification of darkness and chaos , and thus opponent of light and Ma'at , whose existence was believed from the 8th Dynasty onwards...
, Bast
Bast (goddess)
Bastet is the name commonly used by scholars today to refer to a feline goddess of ancient Egyptian religion who was worshipped at least since the Second Dynasty...
, Sekhmet
Sekhmet
In Egyptian mythology, Sekhmet , was originally the warrior goddess as well as goddess of healing for Upper Egypt. She is depicted as a lioness, the fiercest hunter known to the Egyptians. It was said that her breath created the desert...
, Bes
Bes
Bes was an Egyptian deity worshipped in the later periods of dynastic history as a protector of households and in particular mothers and children. In time he would be regarded as the defender of everything good and the enemy of all that is bad...
, and many others usually as part of one of Scarab's schemes that went out of his control.
Production and airing
Originally, Mummies Alive was geared towards an older audience, but during production it became predominately a children's show. The series ran for one season of 42 episodes; the last two episodes link together to end the show, as it appears episodes 38-40 were the finale of the first season. A second season was planned, but due to low ratings, it was canceled.Eric and Julia Lewald, writers/producers for Mummies Alive!, were also head writers for the non-canonical series, Gargoyles
Gargoyles (TV series)
Gargoyles is an American animated series created by Greg Weisman. It was produced by Greg Weisman and Frank Paur and aired from October 24, 1994 to February 15, 1997. Gargoyles is known for its dark tone, complex story arcs and melodrama...
: The Goliath Chronicles. Both programs share common plot elements, including a group of warriors from the past that awaken in the present to fight a wealthy, immortality obsessed, enemy; the use of mythological figures in numerous episodes; and a recurring femme fatale antagonist. These similarities made Mummies Alive! vulnerable to criticism describing it was little more than a Gargoyles clone.
After its first and only season, repeats of Mummies Alive! continued to air on local stations across the country. The series airs every Sunday on Cookie Jar Toons
Cookie Jar Toons
Cookie Jar Toons is a daily children's programming block on the This TV digital broadcast network. The block is programmed by Toronto based Cookie Jar Entertainment...
on This TV
This TV
This TV is a United States general entertainment television network, with a large emphasis in its programming on movies....
.
Then Mummies Alive! aired in repeats in September 2006 through 2007, airing every Saturday morning on CBS
CBS
CBS Broadcasting Inc. is a major US commercial broadcasting television network, which started as a radio network. The name is derived from the initials of the network's former name, Columbia Broadcasting System. The network is sometimes referred to as the "Eye Network" in reference to the shape of...
's new programming block called KOL Secret Slumber Party on CBS, then aired on a new block called KEWLopolis, from September 2007 through 2009.
Humans
Presley Carnovan - voiced by Bill SwitzerBill Switzer
Bill Switzer is a Canadian actor. He is perhaps best known for his work on the animated television series series Mummies Alive!. He has also played the title roles in Eerie, Indiana: The Other Dimension and Sabrina, the Animated Series...
A 12 year old boy, who has the spirit of Prince Rapses XII (an ancient pharaoh
Pharaoh
Pharaoh is a title used in many modern discussions of the ancient Egyptian rulers of all periods. The title originates in the term "pr-aa" which means "great house" and describes the royal palace...
) who is based on Ramses. He soon discovers this when the Mummies introduce themselves as his guardians. He lives in San Francisco with his mother. He is reluctant to accept his role as Rapses, but on at least two occasions where he had the chance to be freed of his role- when Rapses's father apparently came through the Western Gate and when the original Rapses was drawn into the present-, he expressed reluctance at losing his status as 'pharaoh' because it would have also meant him losing the mummies.
- Prince Rapses - was the heir to the Egyptian throne 3500 years ago. He was protected by the Mummies (before they were Mummies), but was killed when he was Presley's age by Scarab. This story is told in Sleep Walk Like an Egyptian. His spirit now lies within Presley, and is drawn out by Scarab in several episodes. Rapses himself comes to the present in The Prince and the Presley, when Scarab steals a time travel scroll to draw him to the present in the hopes that he would be easier to capture than the present Presley. Rapses returns to the past at the end of the episode.
- Amanda Carnovan - voiced by Louise Vallance
Presley's mother. She works at the City Museum. In Ghouls' Gold, Armon refers to her as "the wise Amanda" when recalling advice she gave Presley. She has insecure feelings that Presley misses being with his father, who is away on business, and tries to bond with her son often.
Mummies
Ja-Kal - voiced by Dale WilsonThe leader of the Mummies. In his transformed state, his armor resembles a falcon and also allows him to fly. His weapon is his razor sharp talons/claws and a bow that can shoot out flaming arrows. In ancient Egypt, Ja-Kal was a hunter who had a wife named Tia and a small baby son named Padjet; he died without knowing what happened to his family. He worries the most of Presley's safety. He commonly uses hunting terms to talk to others and explain situations. Ja-Kal commonly cares for others needs first and him second.
Rath - voiced by Scott McNeil
Scott McNeil
Scott McNeil is a Canadian actor and voice actor. He currently resides in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada...
The most intelligent of the Mummies (but also the most arrogant). When he transforms, a green snake which turn into a golden cobra wraps around him and serves as armor. His weapon of choice is a sword that can transform into a snake but he is also able to perform magical incantations. He also designed and built the Mummies' vehicles. In the past, he served as the young Prince's tutor. He claims to know about science, but his definition is such things as turning a staff into a serpent, although he has learned to adapt some spells to the present (Such as a spell that summoned underground snakes to bind his enemies in the past, now summons electric cables in the present).
Armon - voiced by Graeme Kingston
Armon is huge and eats very often. He is very strong even when he has not transformed. He is missing his right arm and when he transforms he obtains a golden arm that is used as his weapon. His armor resembles a ram. In Ghouls' Gold, it was explained that Armon lost his real arm fighting in the Pharaoh's army. The pharaoh then gave him his golden arm. While not fighting, Armon spends most of his time eating or watching 'the magic box' TV that Presley gave them. In the past, Armon was Rapses teacher of combat.
Nefer-Tina - voiced by Cree Summer
Cree Summer
Cree Summer Francks , best known as Cree Summer, is a Canadian actress, musician and voice actress. She is perhaps best known for her role as college student Winifred "Freddie" Brooks on the NBC sitcom A Different World...
She is the only female of the Mummies. She is an expert with her whip, has great agility, and is extremely proficient at driving the Hot-Ra — the Mummies' dragster-like vehicle. When she transforms, her armor is like a cat. Back in ancient Egypt, she had to hide the fact that she was a girl with a head piece or she would not have been allowed to drive chariots. She was known to everyone as Nefer. Only Prince Rapses knew her true identity during that period of time. Ja-Kal and the other members were shocked to find out about the revelation. Armon then comments "That explains why Nefer never went swimming with them". Out of the group, she is the only one who is absolutely willing to try anything modern, such as driving a car, and constantly learns under Presley. She also travels the modern world in disguise to try new things. Nefer-Tina's name was based on Queen Nefertiti
Nefertiti
Nefertiti was the Great Royal Wife of the Egyptian Pharaoh Akhenaten. Nefertiti and her husband were known for a religious revolution, in which they started to worship one god only...
.
Scarab - voiced by Gerard Plunkett
The Pharaoh's adviser, who later sucked the life force from Prince Rapses for youth and immortality. However the effects were not permanent and started to wear off after a few centuries. Now with Prince Rapses reincarnated as Presley Carnovan, he will stop at nothing to steal the prince's life force again. When Scarab transforms, his body is covered in golden and purple armor, resembling that of a scarab beetle
Scarabaeidae
The family Scarabaeidae as currently defined consists of over 30,000 species of beetles worldwide. The species in this large family are often called scarabs or scarab beetles. The classification of this family is fairly unstable, with numerous competing theories, and new proposals appearing quite...
and possessing the power of flight. He also possesses a magical talking snake named Heka that acts as his magical staff from time to time, much to her dismay. His powers include shooting energy blasts from his hands, the creation of Shabti and extensive knowledge in summoning creatures from the afterlife in ancient Egypt. However, he has also shown a good grasp of modern technology, as shown most keenly in Sleight of Hand, where he used technology while competing against the mummies in a mystical contest to try and become Presley's 'guardian' himself (Although Je-Kal and Presley were able to expose the deception at the last minute).
- Harris Stone
The identity Scarab takes when he needs to be in public. Harris Stone is known as a wealthy individual. As a major benefactor for the Museum, he gives a speech in Who's Who that is one to remember. Even though he is trying to kill Rapses, Scarab feels responsible for the Egyptian artifacts of the museum and feels a degree of sadness when they are damaged. He is also quick to offer money to people who oppose his point of view.
- Heka - voiced by Pauline NewstonePauline NewstonePauline Newstone is a voice actress.- Voice credits :*Beast Wars - Airazor *Dragon Ball Z - Frieza *Class of the Titans - Medusa*Hamtaro - Kaitlin Endo*Inuyasha - Mistress Centipede...
The Snake Familiar, and sometimes Staff, of Scarab, she acts as his loyal companion and advisory, who often makes snide, sarcastic remarks and witty observations. She also has the ability to spit fire.
Ancient Egyptians
- Amenhotep
Prince Rapses' father, the Pharaoh and ruler of all of Egypt. He was a good Pharaoh and was very respected by all his people. He appears in Scarab and Presley's dreams in Pack to the Future. In Reunion, Scarab makes the Mummies believe that Amenhotep has returned. In Family Feud I - Brother's Keeper, Amenhotep appears in some of Ja-Kal's recollections.
- Ammut (Devourer of Souls)
Scarab's dog-like pet. He has the head of a crocodile, the body of a lion and the hindquarters of a hippopotamus. Presley describes him in Pack to the Future as "That's the ugliest dog I've ever seen." Ammut usually messes up on anything Scarab tells him to do. Ammut has good parts in Pack to the Future and Who's Who. In Egyptian Mythology, Ammut is female.
- Apep
Serpent of the Desert. A huge cobra-like beast with an ability to change shape. Rapses' grandfather drove Apep out of Egypt and into the desert 3500 years ago. Apep is after revenge and wants Rapses to pay for what his grandfather did to him. Apep appears in Desert Chic and Pepped With Good Intention.
- Arakh
Arakh is Ja-Kal's evil brother and was known as the "Scorpion of the Desert". He can transform into Scorpion armor. His story is told in the three "Family Feud" episodes.
- Bastet
Cat Goddess of ancient Egypt and the patron goddess of Nefer-Tina, brought to the present in Paws. She demands to be worshipped by the people.
- Bes
Master of Chance and Trickery. He is a small mischievous green guy who enjoys playing games on people. He especially enjoys flipping a coin to decide on outcomes. Bes appears in Who's Who and Tree O'Clock Rock.
- Chontra
Rath's student of magic 3500 years ago. She was the best student he ever had, and she became more powerful than Rath. Rath was falling in love with her, but had to stop teaching Chontra when the pharaoh ordered him to teach Prince Rapses. For that, Chontra became vengeful and wants to make Rath pay. She gets her first chance in Good Bye Mr. Cheops. She tries again in Tempting Offer and Eye of the Beholder.
- The Eye Of Darkness
Horrific monster trapped in a mirror. No one knows his origin. Every 3500 years, when the planets align, he seeks the soul of a Pharaoh so he can exchange himself with the spirit to free himself from the mirror. The Pharaoh's soul would then be lost until the planets realign in 3500 more years. Once unleashed, no power on earth would be able to stop him. Only the one who sets the spell in motion can stop him. The Eye of Darkness makes its appearance in The Face in the Mirror.
- Geb
Spirit of the Earth - a huge rock giant that makes earthquakes when he walks. He is a rather unintelligent giant that attacks anyone who disturbs him. Geb is first featured in The Gift of Geb. Geb also has a major part in Monster Truck Mania. He is married to Net in Married to the Geb.
- Ka
A headless and bodiless guy with just two arms who is a spirit that lives inside Scarab and comes out of his mouth. For an example, see Body Slam. In ancient Egyptian religion, the Ka is the spirit of a man's soul and is represented by the symbol of two upright arms.
- Kahti
The sacred cat, sometimes called the sacred kitty. Kahti can transform into a bigger, more-powerful cat. She was Prince Rapses pet 3500 years ago.
- Kenna
Friend of Nefer-Tina 3500 years ago. Chontra appears as Kenna in Eye of the Beholder.
- Kimas
Arakh's son and Ja-Kal's nephew. He might not truly be considered a bad guy, but does side with Scarab and cause the Mummies a lot of grief before he determines where his true allegiances lie. He also can transform into Scorpion armor like his father. Kimas appears in the second and third "Family Feud" episodes.
- Net Spirit of the Sky
A cloudlike being who can produce rain and lightning and can turn into a tornado. Geb and Net might be called your typical married couple. They have a little spat in Married to the Geb.
- In mythology, Net is spelled as "Nut", however, she and Geb are spouses and siblings of each other.
- Nuhn - The Spirit of the Primeval Waters
Source of all the waters and rivers of the Earth. A stupid villain made of water who thinks he is all-powerful, but is not even close. He is a prankster and makes real lame jokes. But even worse, he laughs at his own jokes. Nuhn appears in High Nuhn and Water, Water, Everywhere.
- SekhmetSekhmetIn Egyptian mythology, Sekhmet , was originally the warrior goddess as well as goddess of healing for Upper Egypt. She is depicted as a lioness, the fiercest hunter known to the Egyptians. It was said that her breath created the desert...
Ancient goddess of sickness and health. She has destroyed whole civilizations with her evil temper. She can transform into a vulture-like bird. Nobody was ever able to defeat her. Sekhmet appears in The Curse of the Sekhmet.
- Set and Anubis
Set is a dog-like spirit who is leader of the "Trackers of Souls". He calls himself "Dog of the Desert, Master of Evil, Lord of Thunder". Anubis, the not-so-competent jackal (wild dog) spirit of the underworld, tags along with Set. Anubis has a scepter that causes "the sleep of forgetting". They appear in Pack to the Future, The Face In The Mirror, Dog Bites Mummy, and Family Feud I - Brother's Keeper.
- Shabti
Robot-like armies of men made of clay controlled by Scarab. They are very easy to defeat, except that there are so many of them. They shatter easily when hit. They also dissolve in water. They most often look like Egyptians, but can be dressed up as anything, such as construction workers or policemen. Sometimes, if they are broken in half, both halves are still in action.
- Talos Man of Bronze
Brought to life by Scarab. In natural form he is 100 feet tall, but can reduce his size. In Body Slam, he reduces himself to about 10 feet tall and 500 pounds for the Contest. Then in Miscast, he is recreated by Rath. He comes back looking for a mate in Object of His Affections. Talos
Talos
In Greek mythology, Talos or Talon was a giant man of bronze who protected Europa in Crete from pirates and invaders by circling the island's shores three times daily while guarding it.- History :...
is from Greek mythology. The human anklebone is called the "Talus".
- Tia
Ja-Kal's wife 3500 years ago. They had a small baby son named Padjet. In Sleep Walk Like an Egyptian, we see the scene of the last time Ja-Kal sees Tia and Padjet. Tia gives Ja-Kal an imprint of his son's hand. This hand print is now a sad memory for Ja-Kal of the family he once had. At the end of Sleep Walk Like an Egyptian, Presley asks Ja-Kal, "What happened to your family?" Ja-Kal responds sadly with, "I don't know." Presley then says, "It was Rapses fault - my fault! I don't know how, but some day I'll make it up to you. I promise!" Ja-Kal thinks about Tia and Padjet in Eye of the Beholder and Chontra appears as Tia.
Modern humans
- Agent Phillips
Works as a Regional Subdirector for the Department of Federal Investigation. He analyzes Rath in We've Got One.
- Bix Bingsley
A clumsy, nerdy sales clerk who sells clothes but is allergic to wool. Nonetheless, he gets a kiss from Nefer-Tina in True Believer.
- Bob
Rotund police officer, and Joe Pendleton's partner.
- Cynthia Lu
Walter's older sister. Presley has a crush on her, but she is a couple of years older than Presley and likes Benjamin who is in college. Cynthia usually cannot even remember Presley's name and calls him "Preston" or "Wesley".
- Charlie the Janitor
The janitor at the City Museum. Murdoch is his dog. Charlie is an old navy man. He is really proud of the times when he met Mike Conners (Mannix) in '62. "That was when me and Larry met Kojak." Charlie appears in Honey, I Shrunk the Mummies.
- Elaine Setter
She is a student in Presley's grade. She likes Presley, but often has a tough time getting his attention.
- Joe Pendleton
Joe is a police officer, and the Regional Treasurer of the Third Annual Paranormal Alien Visitors Psychic Convention and Brat-Bust. He finally meets his first "space alien" in A Dark and Shrieky Night when Ja-Kal humors him by making it sound like he is from outer space. Joe and Bob both get deeply involved with the "aliens" in We've Got One. They also appear briefly in many other episodes. Joe is featured in the final episode Show Me the Mummy!.
- Milton Huxley
Presley's science teacher. Known as Mr. Huxley to his students, and considered to be a "science geek", he is someone who never has fun. He also believes there is an explanation for everything. He has starring roles in Good Bye Mr. Cheops and Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Huxley. He also appears in Sleep Walk Like an Egyptian, The Gift of Geb, The Curse of the Sekhmet, Missing Ja-Kal, and Eye of the Beholder.
- Mr. Hepplewhite
Amanda Carnovan's boss and the director of the Museum. He makes appearances in Ra, Ra, Ra, Ra, Sleep Walk Like an Egyptian, and Pack to the Future.
- Mr. Ludie
Owns the Java Spot cafe. Presley's mother spends some time with him in Tempting Offer.
- Paul Carnovan
Presley's father who lives in Memphis (presumably Presley's parents are divorced). His dad claims to be an archeologist, but his true activities are somewhat suspect. He visits Presley in My Dad the Hero.
- Professor Henry Bogglesworth
An expert but extremely bad and boring lecturer who discovered the scroll that can open the gates of time. His lecture takes place at the beginning of The Prince and the Presley.
- The General
Head of Federal Investigation and is Agent Phillips' boss.
- Theo, Rosey, Wilcox, and Max
Four homeless street people who befriend Rath when he loses his memory in Dead Man Walking.
- Tiny Turner
The school bully. He and his punk friend Chuck like to rough up the other kids. Tiny and Chuck appear in The Egyp-Tsu Kid and briefly in Dog Bites Mummy and Kid Scarab.
- Walter Lu
Cynthia's brother and Presley's friend who is in 7th grade with him.
Theme Song
A brief Summary of the show can be described from its opening theme song. The words of the song areas follows:
- A little boy named Presley
- found a secret out this year,
- that he was once a Pharaoh
- when Egyptians ruled the world,
- and now some sorcerer named Scarab
- tries to get him day and night,
- but Presley has four guardians
- to protect his very life.
- He has the Mummies:
- from 1525 B.C.
- He has the Mummies:
- protection for the new Rapses.
- He has the Mummies:
- they're hanging by the 'Frisco Bay.
- He has the Mummies:
- protectors of the world today.
- He has the Mummies:
- protection for the Pharaoh teen.
- He has the Mummies:
- they're hanging by the Western Gate.
- He has the Mummies:
- they're going to save the world today,
- the Egyptian way.
- They're Mummies Alive!
Season one
| No. | Title | Original air date |
|---|---|---|
Home video release and action figures
In 1998, a VHSVHS
The Video Home System is a consumer-level analog recording videocassette standard developed by Victor Company of Japan ....
entitled Mummies Alive! - The Legend Begins was released. DVDs have also been released including Mummies Alive: The Beginning and two volume sets in 2007.
To coincide with the animated series, Hasbro
Hasbro
Hasbro is a multinational toy and boardgame company from the United States of America. It is one of the largest toy makers in the world. The corporate headquarters is located in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, United States...
produced a series of Mummies Alive! 5" tall action figures and vehicles in 1997. No commercial was made.
External links
- Mummies Alive at TV.com
- Mummies Alive! Homepage at lkessler.com