BBC and Aardman launch new series of Shaun the Sheep as beloved character celebrates 30-year anniversary
Produced by multi-award-winning independent studio Aardman, Shaun the Sheep is back for a side-splitting new series of the stop motion animation, with more madcap adventures from Shaun and the flock.
The family favourite launches with a double episode 'Shirleyverse' on CBBC and BBC One at 3.30pm on Saturday 24 May, a heartwarming tale about learning to value a friend. Everything Shaun knows and loves comes into question, when he impulsively wishes away his pal Bitzer the dog. The new series is available to watch on BBC iPlayer from Saturday 24 May.
Now in its seventh series, Shaun the Sheep follows the exploits of Shaun, the long-suffering, loyal sheepdog Bitzer and the flock at Mossy Bottom Farm. It features classic Shaun the Sheep scenarios – relatable, everyday situations with a rural twist – spun into comedy gold by the flock.
Vocal effects are by CBeebies star Justin Fletcher (Shaun the Sheep, Timmy, the Pigs and Mowermouth) and comedian and actor John Sparkes (Farmer, Bitzer and Bitzer's Dad), with a theme tune sung by Vic Reeves.
Director of BBC Children's & Education, Patricia Hidalgo, says: 'We're so proud of our longstanding relationship with Aardman, supporting British animation and bringing families more Shaun the Sheep adventures. As you would expect, the new episodes are brilliantly characterised and full of British humour, as we celebrate this very special anniversary year by bringing audiences together to be entertained by Shaun and his pals.'
Chief Creative Director at Aardman, Sarah Cox adds: 'It's a real joy to be marking Shaun the Sheep's 30th anniversary with brand-new episodes on the BBC — our longtime creative partner. This new series continues to celebrate Shaun and the flock's unique blend of warm and witty mischief through visual storytelling that aims to entertain all ages.'
In celebration of the anniversary and as part of the special TV event, BBC One and CBBC will also air Wallace & Gromit: A Close Shave, Aardman's Academy Award-winning film which first introduced the character Shaun the Sheep to audiences in 1995 (3pm, Saturday 24 May, BBC One and CBBC).
The Shaun the Sheep double episode at 3.30pm is followed on BBC One by the most recent Wallace & Gromit film, Vengeance Most Fowl (3.45pm, Saturday 24 May, BBC One) which became the most-watched programme in the UK over Christmas, demonstrating the appetite for British storytelling and the love for these iconic characters.
On CBBC, viewers can watch the brand-new double episode (3.30pm, Saturday 24 May) followed by Shaun the Sheep back-to-back episodes (3.45pm) and Shaun the Sheep Movie (5.00pm).
The new series is available on BBC iPlayer from Saturday 24 May and more episodes will air at 7am weekdays from Monday 26 May on CBBC.
Shaun the Sheep series 7 was commissioned by Director of BBC Children's & Education, Patricia Hidalgo and Sarah Muller, Senior Head of Commissioning and Acquisitions 7+. Lucy Pryke is the Commissioning Executive for BBC Children's. WDR Germany is co-producer of the series.
The show, which was originally created by Richard Starzak, is delivered by a stellar Aardman team, directed by Seamus Malone (Lloyd of the Flies) and produced by Danny Gallagher (Robin Robin) with Jacqueline White as Senior Producer/Executive Producer and Carla Shelley and Sarah Cox as Studio Executive Producers.
Watch Shaun the Sheep on BBC iPlayer
HH
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Metro
20 minutes ago
- Metro
Stephen Graham had emergency operation on a plane to the US
Stephen Graham may be known for his intense on-screen performances, but his recent appearance on Late Night with Seth Meyers showcased a very different side of the acclaimed British actor. A story the Adolescence star, 51, told on the show has gone viral online for good reason: It involves mid-air panic, unexpected medical heroics, and the actor 'dropping his kecks.' Prompted by Meyers' question about a particularly eventful journey to the United States, the A Thousand Blows star chuckled and admitted it had been 'a hell of an experience.' 'I'm of a certain age now,' Graham began. 'You know, once you hit 45, the trips to the loo start to rack up.' That complaint led the actor to seek a medical solution months prior – a non-invasive procedure designed to reduce frequent urination by slightly enlarging the prostate, often aided by a catheter. For a while, everything had been fine. That is, until Graham found himself at 10,000 feet and suddenly unable to urinate. 'It just didn't feel right,' he recalled. He returned to his seat and downed more water, hoping it would work itself out. But the next time he visited the toilet, things took a frightening turn. 'Long story short, I went, but it was just pure blood,' he said. 'It was very scary. I couldn't stop this trajectory of blood and I'm having a slight panic attack. I'm about to cry and I'm having a moment,' Graham added. Earlier that day, Graham had posed for a selfie at the gate with a fan, who, as luck would have it, was a doctor. Even better? The doctor's travel companion was a surgeon. Once the severity of Graham's situation became clear, the cabin crew sprang into action. 'Next minute, the doctor comes around the corner and goes, 'Stephen!' and I'm like, 'Doc! Hello!'' What happened next could rival the drama of any Graham-led series. The space between economy and first class was hastily converted into an operating bay. Curtains were drawn, medical kits opened, and the lounge area sterilized. More Trending 'I dropped me kecks, got on the couch, and they performed a catheter procedure right there,' Graham said. The cause? A blood clot that had lodged behind his urethra. But once it was removed, Graham described the relief in the most Graham way possible: 'It was one of the nicest experiences with me and my penis,' he quipped, grinning. 'I came running out like a kid who'd just learned to use the toilet.' He also made sure to commemorate the surreal incident: 'We took a photo at the end, me, the doctors, and the flight crew. Wonderful people.' What could have been a nightmare turned into a memorable, oddly uplifting tale of mid-air humanity – and one more reason fans continue to love Stephen Graham. Got a story? If you've got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@ calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we'd love to hear from you. MORE: Stephen Graham has an idea of where Adolescence season 2 could go
The Sun
31 minutes ago
- The Sun
Award-winning bar & restaurant in UK seaside town to close after 10 years as owner teases ‘it's just the beginning'
Nawal Abdisamad Published: Invalid Date, A MUCH-LOVED bar and restaurant is set to close its doors after almost a decade in the heart of the seaside town. Ojo Rojo, located in the Bournemouth Triangle, has announced it will be leaving the area after ten years of serving up tacos, cocktails, and a lively Mexican atmosphere. 4 4 4 Founded in Bournemouth, Dorset, by Trevor Hill and JJ Adams, Ojo Rojo made a name for itself with its bold flavours, mezcal-based drinks, and vibrant setting. It even earned a spot in the UK's Top 50 Cocktail Bars for three years running. The news was first reported by the Bournemouth Echo, who spoke with co-founders Trevor Hill and JJ Adams, confirming the closure is a 'strategic move' shaped by 'national industry pressure and local challenges.' But they've made it clear – this isn't the end. 'After nearly ten years of tacos, mezcal, music and magic, it's time for a new chapter,' they said. 'Ojo Rojo is moving on. Not because we've lost what makes us special but because we're ready to take everything that we've learnt and shape it into something stronger.' Locals have responded with an outpouring of emotion, sharing memories and messages of support on social media. Rachel Grant posted: 'Our first date venue, where will we go for our anniversary now.' Kelly Marie Young added: 'Such a shame! We love this restaurant.' Others praised the team's effort. There's also been frustration about the wider town centre. Ojo Rojo is well known for its dedication to authentic Mexican culture. From its diverse cocktail menu featuring house-made syrups and infusions, to its proud selection of agave spirits, the bar has drawn fans from across the South Coast. 'Our ambition is to revolutionise the well-known taco, while educating people about the deep-rooted Mexican culture,' reads a statement on their website. 'We are passionate that everyone who comes into contact with us feels refreshed.' The venue, which includes a downstairs bar, upstairs dining, and an outdoor hacienda, will continue to operate for a short while longer. Its sister site, Hacienda Harden, is also set to close. The owners remain hopeful and committed to the future. 'You reminded us what this place means to people and why this next chapter matters so much, from me, Jayjay and the whole office thank you so much for all the love,' they said. 'We're here for a little bit longer. Remember we are not done yet… This is just the beginning. "We want to build what comes next with you. Because whatever that next version looks like, it's going to have the same soul – yours.' Ojo Rojo's closure adds to a growing list of businesses shutting their doors in Bournemouth and across the UK. In Bournemouth, the Winton branch of WHSmith closed earlier this year, and the town has seen other high street names disappear amid rising costs and shifting shopping habits. Nationally, the retail and hospitality sectors are facing significant challenges. Department store Beales, which first opened in Bournemouth in 1881, closed its last remaining store in Poole in May 2025, citing increased operational costs and tax burdens. Other notable closures include Karen's Diner in Islington, which shut its final UK branch in June 2025 after its parent company went into liquidation with £400,000 in debt. Fashion retailer River Island is reportedly developing a radical rescue plan amid financial struggles, with store closures and job losses being potential outcomes. The Original Factory Shop is undergoing significant restructuring, with several stores across regions such as Worcestershire, Durham, and Cumbria slated to shut down this month. These closures highlight the broader economic pressures facing UK businesses, including rising operational costs, changing consumer behaviours, and increased competition from online retailers. What is happening to the hospitality industry? By Laura McGuire, consumer reporter MANY Food and drink chains have been struggling in recently as the cost of living has led to fewer people spending on eating out. Businesses had been struggling to bounce back after the pandemic, only to be hit with soaring energy bills and inflation. Multiple chains have been affected, resulting in big-name brands like Wetherspoons and Frankie & Benny's closing branches. Some chains have not survived, Byron Burger fell into administration last year, with owners saying it would result in the loss of over 200 jobs. Pizza giant, Papa Johns is shutting down 43 of its stores soon. Tasty, the owner of Wildwood, said it will shut sites as part of major restructuring plans 4
The Guardian
37 minutes ago
- The Guardian
Jack Reacher author Lee Child: ‘More sex is medically implausible and I'm as rich and famous as I need to be'
Born in the West Midlands, Lee Child, 70, studied law before working in television. After losing his job following a corporate restructuring, he published Killing Floor, the first in the Jack Reacher series, in 1997. His novels have been adapted into two films, starring Tom Cruise, and an Amazon Prime series. He now writes with his brother Andrew and they headline Theakston Old Peculier crime writing festival in Harrogate next month. The 30th Reacher thriller, Exit Strategy, is out in November. He is married with a daughter, and lives in the north of England. When were you happiest? In 1993, making love on the beach of a deserted island in the Bahamas. What is your greatest fear? I'm from Birmingham. I'm not afraid of things. Things are afraid of me. Which living person do you most admire, and why? The exact median middle-aged black woman in the US. If hard work guaranteed success, she'd be the most successful person on the planet. But she isn't, yet she keeps on going. What is the trait you most deplore in yourself? Always saying yes to people. For example, I'm doing this. What was your most embarrassing moment? Appearing on US breakfast radio. I heard the DJ say that after the news we would hear from the author Lincoln Child. I had to choose between making a guy with a mixed-up PR release look like an idiot or pretending to be Lincoln. I pretended. Aside from a property, what's the most expensive thing you've bought? A painting by Renoir, paid for by demanding a huge fee for a screenwriting deal with a producer I didn't want to work for. The movie was never made. What makes you unhappy? That people my age honestly believed the arc of the universe bent towards justice. Oops. A lot to rethink, at this late stage. What do you most dislike about your appearance? My chin. You could hang a kettle off it. What is your most unappealing habit? This year I'll have been a smoker for 60 years. I started when I was 11. I really enjoyed it then, and I really enjoy it now. Who is your celebrity crush? Has to be either Alice Roberts or Lucy Worsley. Can it be a threesome crush? What did you want to be when you were growing up? First loved, then laid, then paid. Sign up to Inside Saturday The only way to get a look behind the scenes of the Saturday magazine. Sign up to get the inside story from our top writers as well as all the must-read articles and columns, delivered to your inbox every weekend. after newsletter promotion What's the worst thing anyone has said to you? 'Try this, you'll love it.' What do you owe your parents? They made sure we got the best education available. They encouraged books. Otherwise, very little. What would you like to leave your children? More than I can, sadly. I led the softest of lives in the softest of times, and my daughter will face sterner challenges. What keeps you awake at night? Nothing. If I'm worried or upset or tormented, I go to sleep quickly and easily, to find welcome oblivion. Would you rather have more sex, money or fame? More sex is medically implausible, I have plenty of money, and I'm as famous as I need to be. What is the most important lesson life has taught you? Do the secret thing you know you were born to do. Tell us a secret I love ironing.
