Sky Kids is gearing up for an exciting year with a fresh slate of original programming and returning favourites, reinforcing its dedication to high-quality, engaging content for young audiences. Announced at this year’s Kidscreen Summit, the upcoming lineup promises a mix of laughter, heartwarming storytelling, and moments of calm for kids and families across the UK.
Among the new additions is Funny Talking Animals, an innovative series blending real wildlife footage, cutting-edge animation, and the candid voices of children. Narrated by BAFTA-winning comedian and TV personality Iain Stirling, the show brings real animals to life with real kids sharing their unique perspectives on topics ranging from food preferences to conquering bedtime monsters. Sharing his enthusiasm for the project, Stirling said, “I never thought I would be able to combine my Love Island voiceover and my years in kids TV. But thanks to Funny Talking Animals we’ve only gone and done it!”
Also making its debut is Happy Town, featuring the first-ever children’s television narration by Mel B. The show follows the delightful adventures of best friends Pep the hedgehog and Tabitha the ladybird, who work together to solve problems in their vibrant community. The brightness of Happy Town’s iconic sign depends on the happiness of its residents, so when it dims, Pep and Tabitha spring into action to help those in need, ensuring that kindness and teamwork keep their town glowing.
Returning favourites include BooSnoo!, recommissioned for a third season to continue offering children moments of calm and creativity through its visually captivating storytelling. The beloved The Very Small Creatures, created by Aardman and director Lucy Izzard, is also set for a third season, with upcoming episodes exploring themes like bedtime, celebrations, and messy play, ensuring plenty of comedy and heartfelt moments.
Lucy Murphy, Director of Kids Content at Sky, expressed her excitement about the new lineup, said, “With this new slate of commissions from Sky Kids we are excited to continue investing in the UK’s creative industry and working with amazing talent in British studios across the UK. Working with the brilliant Mel B and Iain Stirling has been a joy – we know our audience will love the warmth and comedy they bring to our brand-new shows Happy Town and Funny Talking Animals. And of course, we are delighted to be announcing our first co-production with BBC Studios, Funny Talking Animals.”
Sky Kids content is commissioned by Lucy Murphy for Cécile Frot-Coutaz, CEO of Sky Studios & Chief Content Officer for Sky, with Ian France and Lisa Mackintosh serving as commissioning editors for Sky Kids.
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