ABC Kids, BBC Worldwide Order Aussie Preschool Show

ABC Kids and BBC Worldwide have co-commissioned the new animated preschool series Bluey, which is being produced by Emmy-winning Ludo Studio in association with Screen Australia and Screen Queensland.

Bluey follows the playful adventures of a 6-year-old puppy and her family. The 52×7-minute series is created by showrunner Joe Brumm (Charlie and Lola), with Emmy-winning producers Charlie Aspinwall and Daley Pearson (Doodles) also on board. It is slated for broadcast on ABC Kids and ABC Kids iview in 2019. CBeebies Australia will air the show after ABC Kids. BBC Worldwide is handling global merchandise and licensing distribution rights.

“Bluey is based on the experience of raising two daughters,” said Brumm. “Playing seems as natural to them as breathing. It’s fascinating seeing how much they learn from devising and playing their own games, especially the more elaborate and social ones. So Bluey is a celebration of the role imaginative play has in shaping healthy kids. We’re excited to express this universal message in a uniquely Australian setting.”

Michael Carrington, the head of ABC Children’s Television, who is also executive producing Bluey, noted: “By creating Bluey solely in Australia, Ludo Studio is giving Aussie animation talent a chance to shine on a delightful and engaging series that will be broadcast here and distributed internationally. Our ABC Kids audience will instantly fall in love with this imaginative and curious little blue cattle dog, and we’re thrilled to be partnering with Ludo Studio once again on another unique and endearing preschool series.”

Henrietta Hurford-Jones, the director of children’s content for BBC Worldwide and exec producer, commented: “We’re thrilled to be working with the talented team at Ludo and Michael and team at the ABC on Bluey. This show introduces a wonderful character in Bluey who uses everyday gameplay to understand the world around her. The show takes an authentic and very funny view on family life with young children that ensures it will be enjoyed by parents as well as children. Add in the beautiful Australian locations and colors and we feel Bluey will become a new global hit.”

Sally Caplan, Screen Australia’s head of production, stated: “Ludo Studio are carving out a niche for themselves as innovative storytellers and creators of fun, fresh kids’ content. Their International Emmy Awards demonstrate the global appeal of their shows, so it is no surprise to see BBC Worldwide come on board and co-commission Bluey with ABC Kids. We are sure children around the world will love the adventures of this adorable Australian cattle dog!”

Screen Queensland CEO Tracey Vieira added: “Screen Queensland has provided funding for Bluey’s development and it’s great to see the series begin production. Children will fall in love with this wonderful animated show, created by one of Australia’s most innovative production houses.”