BBC Studios secures a deal to continue producing Blue Peter until 2027.
- The BBC launched a tender process seeking bids for producing Blue Peter from 2025.
- BBC Studios will produce at least 20 hours of Blue Peter annually from Salford.
- There was uncertainty about the production location, but Salford remains the base.
- Blue Peter, a long-standing children’s show, continues to inspire young audiences.
In a significant development, BBC Studios has successfully secured the rights to continue producing the renowned children’s television program, Blue Peter, until 2027. This decision follows a competitive tender process initiated by the BBC earlier this year, specifically seeking bids to produce the show from April 2025 onwards.
The contract, valued at approximately £2 million annually, mandates BBC Studios to produce a minimum of 20 hours of Blue Peter each year. The production will remain at Blue Peter’s current location in Media City, Salford. This decision comes amidst earlier speculations about a potential move from this purpose-built studio, as the tender document did not explicitly mandate a location beyond the stipulation of being ‘outside London.’
Blue Peter holds the distinction of being the longest-running children’s program in the world. Previously, it was produced by BBC Children’s Productions before transitioning to BBC Studios Kids & Family in 2022. The current contract underscores the enduring appeal and significance of the show in the realm of children’s entertainment.
Alongside the Blue Peter tender, the BBC also announced bids for major productions like Eurovision and Sports Personality of the Year. While BBC Studios retained the contract for Eurovision, the production of Sports Personality of the Year was awarded to Whisper North.
Sarah Muller, senior head of commissioning for BBC Children’s and Education, emphasized the show’s enduring popularity, stating, ‘Blue Peter is a much-loved icon of children’s TV and is still a family favorite 66 years since it first began.’ Muller highlighted that the show continues to inspire its young audience, encouraging them to send in letters and artwork in the hope of receiving the coveted Blue Peter badge.
The continuation of Blue Peter’s production at its Salford base marks a new chapter in the show’s illustrious history.
