Magic Light
Pictures has produced three delightful new idents exclusively for BBC One and
BBC iPlayer, commissioned especially for this holiday season. The idents
highlight beloved characters from the magical adaptations of Julia Donaldson
and Axel Scheffler’s picture books, which have become central to the BBC’s
Christmas programming.
This year’s
animated special, “The Scarecrow’s Wedding”, is honoured with an ident starring
main characters Harry O’Hay and Betty O’Barley, who receive a festive visit
from Santa. Another ident showcases Zog, Pearl and Gadabout from Zog and the
Flying Doctors, along with the Witch from Room on the Broom; while the third
brings together The Gruffalo and The Gruffalo’s Child alongside Stick Man and
his family.
The idents
will debut on BBC One and BBC iPlayer following Strictly Come Dancing on Sunday
30th November and will run throughout the Christmas period. The idents are
produced by Magic Light Pictures with animation by Triggerfish Animation
Studios.
Kate
Phillips, BBC’s Chief Content Officer, said: “Magic Light have done the BBC
proud and created three unforgettable idents that beautifully capture the
festive spirit. Featuring a selection of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s
most popular characters, I hope they will spread some extra joy and togetherness
into homes across the UK.”
Martin
Pope, Joint CEO of Magic Light Pictures, added: “It’s a real joy to see our
much-loved characters returning to the BBC this Christmas. These new idents
capture the heart of what makes the stories so special – imagination, warmth
and wonder – and they also celebrate BBC iPlayer as the home of Gruffalo and
Friends, where families can enjoy the entire wonderful collection of specials
together.”
This year’s
animated holiday special will be “The Scarecrows' Wedding”, an enchanting tale
about two devoted scarecrows, Betty O’Barley and Harry O’Hay, who are preparing
a wedding to remember. When Harry insists on leaving the farm to collect one
final item for their big day, a smooth-talking scarecrow named Reginald Rake
appears with plans of his own. Chaos follows, placing Betty in danger and
everything at stake.
“The
Gruffalo” first captivated BBC audiences on Christmas Day 2009. Since then,
Magic Light Pictures and the BBC have brought to life thirteen award-winning
animated specials based on Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much-loved
books. All thirteen films will be broadcast on BBC One and BBC iPlayer
throughout the festive season.
