Kids

Channel 4 has commissioned a new half-hour animated special based on Judith Kerr’s beloved picture book Mog’s Bad Thing (1x24’) from Lups Films. 

Following the BAFTA-nominated success of Mog’s Christmas (HarperCollins Children’s Books), Lupus Films will bring Kerr’s mischievous family cat back to screens in a heartwarming and humorous seasonal tale. The film will premiere theatrically in the UK ahead of its Channel 4 broadcast during Christmas 2026, in a double-bill with Mog’s Christmas under an exclusive deal with a UK theatrical distributor (to be announced).

London-based Serious Kids will handle worldwide distribution across theatrical and TV outside of the UK.

Produced by Ruth Fielding and Camilla Deakin for Lupus Films (Kensuke’s Kingdom, The Tiger Who Came to Tea), Mog’s Bad Thing is written by Joanna Harrison and directed by Robin Shaw, continuing the creative partnership behind Mog’s Christmas and The Tiger Who Came to Tea.

In this story, the Thomas family hosts a cat show in their garden, and it should be Mog’s moment to shine. But when excitement gets the better of her and she does a “bad thing,” Mog hides away in the attic, missing the start of the show. Can she overcome her embarrassment, rejoin her family, and save the day?
“We are thrilled to bring Mog’s funny feline adventures back to the big and small screen,” said Ruth Fielding, co-founder and joint Managing Director, Lupus Films. “With Serious Kids on board once again, we’re confident Mog’s Bad Thing will charm audiences worldwide.”
“We’re excited to continue our collaboration with Lupus Films,” added Leila Ouledcheikh, Director of Global Sales, Serious Kids. “We’ve already seen strong broadcaster interest and look forward to presenting the project at MIPCOM Junior.”
Gwawr Lloyd, Interim Head of Drama at Channel 4, said: “Judith Kerr’s stories resonate with audiences of all ages. Following the success of Mog’s Christmas, we’re delighted to bring families another beautifully crafted festive special from Lupus Films.”

The Mog book series, inspired by Judith Kerr’s real-life cat, began with Mog the Forgetful Cat (1970) and has since sold over 4 million copies in 21 languages. Mog’s Christmas, which first aired on Channel 4 in 2023, featured an all-star cast including Benedict Cumberbatch, Claire Foy, Adjoa Andoh, and Miriam Margolyes, winning the British Animation Award for Best Long Form Film and earning a BAFTA nomination in 2025.