A timeless piece of British children’s television is stepping back through the shop door and into the world of live-action cinema. BAFTA-nominated filmmaker Kirk Jones has been confirmed to write and direct ‘Mr Benn,’ a feature adaptation of the beloved animated series that has charmed generations.
Currently in development, the film is being produced by a collaboration between 48 Films, BeaglePug Ltd, Jackpot Productions, and One Story High. Casting for the iconic lead role, along with supporting characters, is expected to begin later this year, with cameras set to roll in 2027.
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‘Mr Benn’ is based on the cherished animated series created by David McKee, which first aired on the BBC in 1971. The original show followed the quiet, bowler-hatted Mr Benn, an ordinary man who stumbles into extraordinary adventures through a mysterious fancy-dress shop.
Each visit to the shop would see Mr Benn don a new costume and step into a different world, from swashbuckling pirate escapades to fantastical journeys beyond imagination. The series’ gentle storytelling and whimsical tone made it a standout in children’s programming.
Despite producing just 13 episodes, Mr Benn carved out an enduring legacy. Its repeated broadcasts over the years helped it become one of the most fondly remembered programmes in British television history. It frequently appears in viewer polls celebrating the greatest children’s shows of all time, a testament to its quiet magic and lasting appeal.
Main image: ©BBC
