CBeebies has announced a major change to a long-running show, with the shakeup set to begin in a matter of days. Something Special, hosted by Mr Tumble - real name Justin Fletcher - was first broadcast in 2003, and has followed a similar structure in the decades since, with Mr Tumble always the star of the show. Now, however, two more BBC stars - Maddie Moate and Ben Cajee - will be joining him at the helm to expand the cast.
On the BBC website, the broadcaster revealed: “The new series will see two additional presenters joining the much-loved Mr Tumble and Justin Fletcher. Maddie Moate and Ben Cajee will bring their warmth and skills to the show, making it even more special for young viewers. We will also see more of George Webster as he joins Justin throughout the series.”.
They added: “At the start of each episode, Mr Tumble sends his Spotty Bag and Tumble Tapp to one of his presenter friends – Justin, Maddie or Ben. The presenter takes the Spotty Bag to meet some children and together they uncover Mr Tumble's special clues, learn new Makaton signs, and explore, play and have fun together.”.
Maddie Moate, 36, also shared the news on Instagram, alongside some behind-the-scenes photos of herself on set. She wrote: “Last year I was lucky to be part of something special… THE ‘Something Special,’ now in its 14th series, starring the much loved Mr Tumble and Justin Fletcher!”.
In a later paragraph, she reassured fans that nothing major would change, explaining: “The new series remains the same happy, welcoming place (featuring lots of Mr Tumble!), bit with the addition of a few friendly familiar Cbeebies faces! @ben_cajee @george_webster_actor and myself all joined the team and had the chance to guide the children as they looked for clues and tried to find their spotty surprise!”.
