Tiddler Makes Waves This Christmas with New Animated Special on BBC iPlayer and One

In an exciting announcement that will surely delight families this holiday season, the BBC and Magic Light Pictures have unveiled plans for a new animated special titled Tiddler, set to air on BBC iPlayer and BBC One this Christmas. Based on the beloved picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, Tiddler follows the adventures of a small fish with a vibrant imagination who navigates the challenges of being a little fish in a vast ocean. The half-hour special features a stellar voice cast, including Hannah Waddingham, known for her roles in Ted Lasso and Game of Thrones, who will serve as the narrator. Joining her are Lolly Adefope (Ghosts, Saltburn) as Miss Skate, Jayde Adams (Ruby Speaking, Alma's Not Normal) as Plaice, and the versatile Rob Brydon (Gavin and Stacey, The Trip), who takes on multiple roles, including Fisherman, Whale, Starfish, and Anchovy. Child actors Reuben Kirby and Theo Fraser will lend their voices to Tiddler and Johnny Dory, respectively. Tiddler's story revolves around his imaginative tales of adventure, which he shares with his teacher and friend, Johnny Dory. Each day, Tiddler spins a new story explaining why he's late for school—ranging from riding seahorses to evading squids. However, when he eventually finds himself lost in the expansive ocean, it is his own storytelling prowess that may help him navigate his way home. This enchanting narrative serves to illustrate the themes of imagination, confidence, and the journey to self-acceptance. Julia Donaldson, the acclaimed author, expressed her enthusiasm for the adaptation, highlighting the importance of storytelling and creativity in her work. She noted her admiration for the young actors leading the cast, affirming the film's ability to capture the essence of her story. Narrator Hannah Waddingham shared her joy in voicing the narrator, stating, "Tiddler is the tale of the storyteller in all of us, and helps children understand what it's like to be a small fish in a very big pond." She conveyed her personal connection to the story, reminiscing about reading Donaldson's books to her daughter over the years. Producer Barney Goodland remarked on the film's beautiful illustrations and imaginative adventure, emphasizing Magic Light's commitment to celebrating the power of storytelling. Tiddler is poised to join the ranks of previous successful adaptations, with last year's Tabby McTat attracting an audience of 8.6 million viewers. Lindsay Salt, the Director of BBC Drama, expressed her excitement about introducing viewers to Tiddler, noting that Magic Light's adaptations have become a cherished part of the UK's cultural landscape. With a talented team at the helm, including directors Andy Martin and Alex Bain, and writers Michael Bohnenstingl, Tiddler promises to be a captivating addition to the festive viewing lineup. As the anticipation builds for this animated adventure, families can look forward to joining Tiddler on his journey through the ocean, where storytelling becomes an essential tool for overcoming obstacles. Tiddler is set to make quite the splash this Christmas, reaffirming the enduring charm of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler's beloved tales.