A collaboration between Studio AKA, BBC Studios Kids & Family, and CBeebies has resulted in a prestigious nomination for the BAFTA Television Craft Award. The recognition is for an exceptional episode titled The Music Video Badge from the celebrated series Hey Duggee. Now in its tenth year, with 191 episodes aired, this show continues to redefine preschool television. Since its inception in 2014, Hey Duggee has captivated audiences with its unique blend of humor and creativity. This particular episode, produced by Janine Voong and co-directed by Grant Orchard and Sander Jones, showcases the team's innovative approach. Written by Sander Jones, who also provides the voice for Duggee, it features a distinctive mix of animation styles.
The Music Video Badge stands out due to its mixed-media animation techniques. It combines elements such as 2D animation, stop motion, CGI, live-action backgrounds, and hand-drawn components. Phillip Warner initiated the process by transforming the script into detailed storyboards. Ross Phillips and Malcolm Mole then took charge of designing and animating the episode, creating a vibrant visual experience. Simultaneously, Tin Sounds developed a catchy soundtrack that enhances the narrative and appeals to young viewers.
Grant Orchard, the creator of Hey Duggee, brings extensive experience in animation direction, having received numerous BAFTAs and an Oscar nomination. Under his guidance, the show has achieved remarkable success, earning seven BAFTAs and multiple International Emmys. It was the most-streamed program on BBC iPlayer's CBeebies section for three consecutive years and has amassed over 3.1 billion YouTube views and 1.3 billion iPlayer streams.
Critical acclaim accompanies its popularity; The Guardian hailed it as “the best kids’ show ever made,” and Clash Magazine described it as “a phenomenon.” This BAFTA nomination honors the hard work of a highly skilled team and underscores the lasting influence of a series that keeps reinventing children’s entertainment.
The journey of Hey Duggee exemplifies how creative innovation can resonate deeply with both critics and audiences. Its ability to seamlessly integrate diverse animation techniques while maintaining a strong narrative core sets it apart. As it continues to inspire young minds through engaging storytelling, the series proves its timeless appeal in the realm of children's programming.