EXCLUSIVE: Blue Peter is a 67-year-old British television institution — and now the BBC is relaunching the kids series with a new format and studio home.
Blue Peter is switching from a live to a pre-recorded format from September as it aims to keep pace with young viewers, who are increasingly turning to phone screens and non-BBC outlets for their fix of entertainment.
The BBC said the show will have a “digital-first magazine format” and will be recorded at Campfield Facilities at Versa Studios in Manchester. Hosted by Abby Cook, Joel Mawhinney and Shini Muthukrishan, Blue Peter’s home is currently at Salford’s Media City UK, where the show’s famous garden will remain.
Changes to Blue Peter follow the BBC completing a competitive tender to produce the long-running series. BBC Studios Kids & Family Productions retained the contract. Key elements of the show, including the awarding of Blue Peter badges, competitions, and pets, will continue.
Sarah Muller, senior head of children’s commissioning at the BBC, said: “Blue Peter is such an iconic part of children’s television, and we’re evolving the show with innovative ways that will be really exciting for our young audience.
“The move to the new studio will provide a variety of creative locations and visual options that a whole new generation of viewers will love. Whether through interactive social media moments, global adventures, or on-demand content.”
Blue Peter editor Ellen Evans added: “As the longest-running children’s TV show in the world, Blue Peter holds a unique place in the hearts of multiple generations. The show’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to encourage and inspire children to be curious, adventurous, and imaginative. Kids, celebrities, parents, and grandparents know what the Blue Peter badge means; that you have tried your best, done something to be proud of, made something, most importantly, you have earned it.”
