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Rocko & Co. learn about life in their ‘almost adult’ world

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TIMES STAFF WRITER

He’s one Aussie who doesn’t care about throwing another shrimp on the barbie. Rocko, of Nickelodeon’s new Rocko’s Modern Life, follows the strange and twisted adventures of the Australian wallaby, on his own for the first time and learning about life as an “almost adult,” in the USA.

In each episode, Rocko manages to turn everyday problems into a larger-than-life trauma.

Heffer, a bumbling steer, is Rocko’s best friend and sidekick whose preoccupation with his next meal turns a simple trip to the market into an obstacle course.

This smart but sensitive “mate” tries to balance the outrageous folks who populate his surreal suburban existence. Rocko resides in O-Town in what seems like an average neighborhood with his sweet, but stupid dog, Spunky. Among his carnival cast of neighbors: anal-retentive Ed and Bev Bighead, the uptight and loudmouthed cane toads who live in an immaculate house next door; Filburt, a timid and phobic turtle, and Slippy the Slug, a con artist who always shows up when there’s a buck to be made.

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Producer and former cartoonist Joe Murray created the show for Nick.

“Rocko’s Modern Life” airs 11:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. Sunday on Nickelodeon. For ages 2 to 10.

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