Latest news with #VersaStudios
The Sun
02-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
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. 3 3 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."
Glasgow Times
01-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Glasgow Times
BBC's Blue Peter to unveil new look and format this autumn
Blue Peter is one of the world's longest-running children's TV shows, having run for more than 67 years. The BBC said it has continued to evolve over the years, "adapting to meet the needs and interests of its audience while staying true to its core". The top 10 best British TV series BBC to unveil new look and format this autumn Now, Blue Peter is set to unveil and brand new look and format in September. The show will be filmed in a different studio - Campfield Facilities at Versa Studios in Manchester in a new "digital-first magazine" style format. The Blue Peter Garden will remain at Media City, as well as the garden at RHS Bridgewater - both of which will continue to be used for filming. The BBC added: "Blue Peter will continue to invite children into the creative studio to experience how the show is made and to bring their energy and excitement as the action happens. "Spontaneous moments and unscripted surprises will remain key parts of the show." Blue Peter has continuously maintained a strong connection with its audience over the decades, the broadcaster continued, through the iconic Blue Peter badges, exciting challenges, memorable competitions, lovable pets, and much more. In 1977, Blue Peter showcased the vocal talents of Marcus, a three-year-old Afghan Hound who found his love of singing after securing a walk(ies)-on part with the Wheatley Society Drama Group. — BBC Archive (@BBCArchive) March 16, 2025 The BBC said: "The upcoming format refresh and new studio will maintain all those core elements, cementing the show's legendary status, while providing audiences with a dynamic, interactive, and engaging viewing experience. "Blue Peter has always been an interactive show, and will continue to encourage kids to submit their own ideas and artwork, participate in competitions, and enjoy adventures with their favourite presenters." Senior Head of Children's Commissioning at BBC Children's and Education, Sarah Muller, 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. "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.' RECOMMENDED READING: 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.' Blue Peter airs Fridays at 5pm on CBBC and BBC iPlayer and has a constant digital presence on YouTube and social media (and iPlayer).
Yahoo
01-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
BBC's Blue Peter to unveil new look and format in autumn 2025
Iconic BBC children's programme Blue Peter is set to unveil a new look and "refreshed" format later this year. Blue Peter is one of the world's longest-running children's TV shows, having run for more than 67 years. The BBC said it has continued to evolve over the years, "adapting to meet the needs and interests of its audience while staying true to its core". Now, Blue Peter is set to unveil and brand new look and format in September. The show will be filmed in a different studio - Campfield Facilities at Versa Studios in Manchester in a new "digital-first magazine" style format. The Blue Peter Garden will remain at Media City, as well as the garden at RHS Bridgewater - both of which will continue to be used for filming. The BBC added: "Blue Peter will continue to invite children into the creative studio to experience how the show is made and to bring their energy and excitement as the action happens. "Spontaneous moments and unscripted surprises will remain key parts of the show." Blue Peter has continuously maintained a strong connection with its audience over the decades, the broadcaster continued, through the iconic Blue Peter badges, exciting challenges, memorable competitions, lovable pets, and much more. In 1977, Blue Peter showcased the vocal talents of Marcus, a three-year-old Afghan Hound who found his love of singing after securing a walk(ies)-on part with the Wheatley Society Drama Group. — BBC Archive (@BBCArchive) March 16, 2025 The BBC said: "The upcoming format refresh and new studio will maintain all those core elements, cementing the show's legendary status, while providing audiences with a dynamic, interactive, and engaging viewing experience. "Blue Peter has always been an interactive show, and will continue to encourage kids to submit their own ideas and artwork, participate in competitions, and enjoy adventures with their favourite presenters." Senior Head of Children's Commissioning at BBC Children's and Education, Sarah Muller, 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. "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.' RECOMMENDED READING: Brits urged to retune TV as channel changes made in new Freeview update Sir David Attenborough opens up about 'the end of my life' in new documentary A League of Their Own axed by Sky after 20 years - see teaser for final series 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.' Blue Peter airs Fridays at 5pm on CBBC and BBC iPlayer and has a constant digital presence on YouTube and social media (and iPlayer).
Yahoo
18-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Former Coronation Street actor joins Hollywood stars as they start filming Sky Christmas movie
A former Coronation Street actor is amongst the stars currently filming in North Yorkshire as part of a new Sky Christmas film which will be aired later this year. The film, which is called Tinsel Town and is set to air on Sky later this year, features a host of Hollywood stars including award-winning actor Kiefer Sutherland and actress, writer and producer, Rebel Wilson. Many will know the Canadian star and son of Donald Sutherland for his long-running role as Jack Bauer in the series '24'. He also played President Tom Kirkman in the political drama series, Designated Survivor. READ MORE: The hidden castle 30 minutes from Manchester perfect for a half term day out READ MORE: The beach resort that's 24C in February with direct flights from Manchester Airport Fans will also recognise former Coronation Street and Emily in Paris star Lucien Laviscount, and Salford-born comedian Jason Manford on the star-studded lineup. The film follows award-winning actor Kiefer Sutherland as Bradley Mack, a failed Hollywood actor who ends up in a small, snow-dusted UK village to star in the town's production of Cinderella. He ends up encountering a colourful cast of locals who he eventually warms to, including no-nonsense choreographer Jill played by Rebel Wilson. Speaking about the new festive film Kiefer Sutherland said: 'I'm thrilled to be working back in the UK and with director Chris Foggin. The cast is fantastic, and I can't wait to tell this story.' Rebel Wilson added: "I love British Christmas movies - because in Australia we're just on the beach having a BBQ - and so now I feel like I get to have a classic British Christmas - freezing my t*** off but laughing and sledding all the way!' Filming for the Christmas rom-com has been taking place across the North of England and and at Leeds' Versa Studios. This week the North Yorkshire town of Wetherby has been transformed into a winter wonderland complete with festive decorations and a sprinkling of artificial snow for the movie. The festive caper boasts an extensive A-list cast, which also includes Gladiator II star Derek Jacobi, Jason Manford, Danny Dyer and former Coronation Street star Lucien Laviscount. Mawaan Rizwan, Maria Friedman, Asim Chaudhry, Ray Fearon, Alice Eve, James Lance, Meera Syal, Katherine Ryan, and Savannah Lee Smith have all been confirmed as starring in the show too. Robbie Williams' daughter Teddy was also pictured filming on set of the upcoming Christmas movie on Monday (February 17). Images from the set show Teddy holding hands with her co-star Rebel as they walked through the snow alongside actor Kiefer Sutherland. Also pictured on set, comedian Jason Manford can be seen with Rebel as the snow falls down on the North Yorkshire filming location. He can be seen sporting a green puppet ensemble and a pair of sunglasses. Directed by Chris Foggin, known for the 2023 Netflix comedy drama Bank of Dave, Tinsel Town will be available to stream on Sky Cinema at Christmas 2025. Meanwhile, in another shot from behind the scenes, Lucien Laviscount, who played Ben Richardson on the ITV soap Coronation Street from 2009 to 2010, is shown being fitted with a cape. Tinsel Town was commissioned and developed by Sky in association with Future Artists Entertainment. Mister Smith Entertainment will launch worldwide sales at the upcoming European Film Market. Directed by Chris Foggin, known for the 2023 Netflix comedy drama Bank of Dave, Tinsel Town will be available to stream on Sky Cinema at Christmas 2025.
