BBC ONE has revealed a big change to the channel kicking off this weekend – with a Gavin and Stacey icon in a starring role.
Rob Brydon – who plays Uncle Bryn in the hit BBC comedy – is taking on the role of Fred in this year’s Christmas animation, Tabby McTat.
The story follows the warm and wonderful friendship between Fred, a talented busker, and a musical cat on the streets of London.
The cast also includes Gangs of London’s sopẹ́ Dìrísú as Tabby, Cariad Lloyd as Prunella, Joanna Scanlan as Pat, Jodie Whittaker as the Narrator, and Susan Wokoma as Sock.
The programme is adapted from the popular picture book written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler and has been produced by Magic Light Pictures.
It is the eleventh adaptation by the company for BBC One, following the likes of The Gruffalo, Stick Man and Zog.
Some of those characters will actually feature in 40 second animations alongside Tabby McTat, with the first being revealed on BBC One after Strictly Come Dancing this Saturday (December 2).
They will then continue to appear throughout the festive season.
One shows Tabby McTat and family enjoying a quiet snooze under the Christmas Tree when they’re abruptly awakened, another sees Stick Man and his family receiving their gifts from Santa.
The third will show the Gruffalo’s Child’s playful antics that almost cause havoc for the Gruffalo and his Christmas Tree.
Charlotte Moore, BBC’s Chief Content Officer said: “Especially for BBC One this Christmas, Magic Light have created charming, animated idents of some of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s best loved characters to bring some extra festive joy and warmth into everyone’s homes.”
Tabby McTat airs on Christmas Day on BBC One.
