02-05-2025
BBC reveals ‘new look' Blue Peter – as staff were left with ‘no idea what's going on' after big change to show
THE BBC have announced a 'new look' Blue Peter - after staff were left with 'no idea what's going on' following a big show change.
Blue Peter launched in 1958 and has become a staple across several generations.
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From September, the beloved kids' show will reveal an all new look and format.
There will be a new creative space and digital first magazine format, recorded in Campfield Facilities at Versa Studios in Manchester.
Meanwhile, the show will continue to invite children into the studio and show them how Blue Peter is made.
The iconic Blue Peter garden will remain at Media City, as well as the garden at RHS Bridgewater - both of which will be used for filming.
Sarah Muller, Senior Head of Children's Commissioning +7, BBC Children's and Education, said in a statement: '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.
"We're proud to continue the legacy of a show that has inspired generations, and we can't wait to show audiences our new look in September.'
It comes as a shock move from the legendary show left staff devastated.
In March, it was revealed the iconic children's programme will no longer be broadcast live.
Blue Peter legend's appearance leaves Good Morning Britain fans gobsmacked
Former star Simon Thomas shared the news on Instagram, writing: "Apparently (I had no idea) today is the last ever LIVE Blue Peter on television.
"The show isn't finishing, there is apparently going to be a show online; just not live on the TV anymore."
Fellow show alum Matt Baker commented: "Mate we had the most incredible time!
"The best memories and the end of the most magical energy and spirit to be shared across the country at tea time.
"I feel very fortunate to have experienced and shared the feeling."
Insiders claimed the move was kept a secret by the show's bosses, and its current presenters Shini Muthukrishnan, Joel Mawhinney and Abby Cook were unaware of the decision.
A show insider revealed the move had been kept under wraps for months, with many crew members still unaware of the full details.
'Of course, this has been in the works for months,' the source told The Mail on Sunday.
'The big bosses all knew what was happening, and those they did tell were told to keep it quiet.
"It's a huge shock, and a number of the crew still have no idea what's going on.'
The BBC said it had made the decision because viewing habits have changed.
They also said a number of the crew 'still have no idea what's going on' and it 'has all been handled very badly'.
Blue Peter's biggest stars
With over 5,000 episodes produced, Blue Peter has been on air since 1958 and has seen a raft of famous faces at the helm
Christoper Trace - 1958 to 1967
Valerie Singleton - 1962 to 1972
John Noakes - 1965 to 1978
Peter Purves - 1967 to 1978
Simon Groom - 1978 to 1986
Janet Ellis - 1983 to 1987
Peter Duncan - 1985 to 1986
Yvette Fielding - 1987 to 1992
John Leslie - 1989 to 1994
Konnie Huq - 1987 to 2008
Matt Baker - 1999 to 2006
Gethin Jones - 2005 to 2008
Helen Skelton - 2008 to 2013
Barney Hardwood - 2011 to 2017
Lindsey Russell - 2013 to 2021
Radzi Chinyanganya - 2013 to 2019
The BBC said pre-recorded shows will continue to air on CBBC, Sign Zone, BBC2 and iPlayer.
A spokeswoman told The Sun: 'The programme will not be online only, but on CBBC, sign zone, BBC2 and iPlayer.
'Ways to watch Blue Peter will not change for audiences.
"Blue Peter has been a mix of live and pre-recorded shows for decades and we have transitioned to a pre-record model as viewing habits change."
