The BBC is bringing Marilyn Kaye’s popular Gifted book series to life with a fresh Scottish perspective. The 10-part children’s action-adventure drama shifts the story from its original American setting to Scotland, following a group of diverse teenagers who discover they have extraordinary superpowers.
As the teens navigate their new abilities, they face a looming threat from the powerful organization known as the Bodkin, compelling them to unite to protect themselves and their loved ones.
More than 3,000 young Scots have applied to join the cast of the show, which will feature an exciting ensemble of local talent. The adaptation is penned by Emma Reeves, known for her work on The Worst Witch. It is an international co-production involving Glasgow-based Black Camel Pictures, Paris-based Media Valley, and Germany’s NDR/ARD via One Gate Media, with additional support from Screen Scotland.
Arabella Page Croft, Executive Producer at Black Camel Pictures, highlighted Scotland’s wealth of young talent, said, “Scottish kids clearly have talent and they want to act! We are excited to produce this show for CBBC and bring these young talents and our beautiful capital city to a young audience globally.”
The series is part of a broader effort by BBC Children’s to bring high-quality, family-friendly dramas to audiences. Recent adaptations have included Oliver Twist and The Famous Five.
Sarah Muller, Senior Head of Commissioning for BBC Children’s and Education, said, “Gifted will bring audiences high-quality action-filled adventures from the book series, brought to life in Scotland. We’re working with Screen Scotland to represent their vibrant creative industry with an exciting young Scottish cast and brilliant talent behind and in front of the camera.”
The slate also features upcoming productions such as Epic Pranks, a Gladiators spin-off from Hungry Bear and MGM, and Stage Stars, a behind-the-scenes documentary about life at a boarding school.
Patricia Hidalgo, Director of BBC Children’s and Education, emphasized the importance of showcasing diverse stories, shared, “We continue to showcase homegrown dramas and series which aim to give our young viewers an insight into the diverse lives of children, characters, and settings from across the UK with unique stories to tell which will resonate with them and their families.”
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