Kids

S4C is bringing one of Wales' most beloved children's characters back to television, announcing that Sali Mali will return in 2027 with her first live-action series in more than two decades. The announcement was made during the National Eisteddfod in Llantood, near Cardigan, where the broadcaster also launched the search for a new actress to take on the iconic role. Producer Mojo Productions has begun casting at the festival, with auditions taking place from August 4 to August 7.

Created by Mary Vaughan Jones, Sali Mali first appeared in a series of children's books beginning in 1969 before becoming a television favourite. The character made her S4C debut in Caffi Sali Mali in 1994, portrayed by Rebecca Harries, and later appeared in an animated adaptation launched in 2000, narrated by Rhys Ifans with a theme song performed by Cerys Matthews. The latest animated episodes aired in 2021. The last live-action appearance of Sali Mali was in Pentre Bach, which ran from 2004 to 2007 and featured the character alongside friends including Jac y Jwc and Jini.

Reflecting on the revival, former Sali Mali actress Rebecca Harries said: “I am delighted to hear that Sali Mali is returning to entertain Wales’s children and their families and to keep them company once again. Being her friend for so long was a privilege and was one of my career’s greatest pleasures. I had the opportunity to meet children all over Wales and make best friends at work. Good luck to all the new crew, you’ll work very hard, but it will be worth it. And to the new Sali Mali…enjoy every second of the orange, embrace everything that comes your way – it’s an exciting ride.”

Sioned Geraint, S4C's Commissioner for Children and Welsh Learners, highlighted the character's enduring legacy: “From the original books to the TV series, Sali Mali has played a part in the formative years of generations of Welsh children. 20 years since Pentre Bach came to an end, many children who grew up watching Sali Mali are now parents themselves, and I’m sure they’ll be delighted to see her return to S4C to entertain their children, too.”

Llion Iwan, S4C's Chief Content Officer, added: “When it comes to iconic characters on S4C, there’s few more iconic than Sali Mali. To many of us, Sali Mali’s return will be like catching up with an old friend. But for a generation of children, this will be their first encounter with Sali Mali and it’s incredibly exciting that someone will have the opportunity to make this role their own. I know that Sali Mali will be one of Cyw’s most prominent friends in the years to come and I look forward to watching her latest adventures.”