The Boldavian princes were three members of a performing troupe known as The Mums. In an article in the Los Angeles Times on June 23, 1986: "For those new to the Mums (the name signifies "mind under matter"), the performances blend juggling, magic and acrobatics with storytelling, all in a highly stylized manner.", "And [Roy] Johns, Albie Selznick and Nathan Stein--the Mums."
Dan dons an eye-patch in an attempt to seduce the glamorous lady reporter. This parodies comic strip "Brenda Starr, Reporter." Brenda's lover-turned-husband was Basil, an adventurer who wore an eye-patch.