CBeebies Named Channel of the Year at Children’s BAFTAs

LONDON: The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) unveiled the winners for its Children’s Awards last night at a ceremony in London, where Gary Barlow was on hand to present the Channel of the Year Award to CBeebies.

Children’s TV presenter Brian Cant—whose career spans 21 years, having worked on numerous BBC programs, including Play School—won the Special Award for his contribution to the kids’ television segment. The award in the animation category went to Shaun the Sheep. The top comedy honors went to Horrible Histories, which bagged a total of three awards, including best writing and best performer for Jim Howick. Tracy Beaker Returns won in the drama category.

Relic: Guardians of the Museum was named best entertainment program, while Newsround Special: Living with Alcohol took the win in the factual category. Disney-Pixar’s Up was awarded as the best feature film. In the interactive arena, ZingZillas took the BAFTA win. The award for best international program went to The Penguins of Madagascar.

From the preschool arena, Timmy Time won as best animation, with Something Special winning for best live action. The host of Something Special, Justin Fletcher, was named best children’s presenter for the second year.

The BAFTA Kid’s Vote gave children a chance to have their say. Alvin and the Chipmunks 2: The Squeakquel was the favorite for film and Wizards of Waverly Place for television, with Just Dance winning video game and Club Penguin voted as the top website for the second consecutive year.

BAFTA chief executive Amanda Berry OBE said: “These awards reflect the many ways that children engage with content and it’s great to see so much talent celebrated tonight. The enthusiasm for the BAFTA Kids’ Vote is obvious and we are also thrilled at the success of our new competition, BAFTA Young Game Designers. However, the highlight of the ceremony was undoubtedly the Special Award for Brian Cant. He has provided so much inspiration for today’s program makers and also holds a very special place in the hearts of older audiences.”