Big Zuu Joins Pudsey Bear for Special CBeebies Bedtime Story Episode Supporting BBC Children in Need
BAFTA-winning TV chef and musician Big Zuu is set to make his debut in the iconic CBeebies Bedtime Story chair for a special episode benefiting BBC Children in Need, featuring a unique collaboration that promises to engage and delight young viewers. In an unprecedented first for the series, Big Zuu will not be reading alone; he will be joined by the much-loved Pudsey Bear and a group of enthusiastic children from a Children in Need-funded arts project at Z-arts in Manchester.
The story chosen for this heartwarming occasion is “Basil Dreams Big,” written by Lu Fraser and illustrated by Sarah Warburton. This narrative centers around themes of resilience, bravery, and self-belief—principles that echo the goals of BBC Children in Need, which aims to empower children facing adversity. The episode, filmed at Z-arts, underscores the organization’s commitment to providing accessible arts programs for disabled children, fostering their confidence and enhancing their self-esteem.
Big Zuu expressed his excitement about the reading, stating, “It’s such a privilege to read this story with the kids. ‘Basil Dreams Big’ is about finding your confidence and backing yourself, which is what these young people do every day. Reading alongside them and Pudsey made it even more special.” He emphasized that the book is especially effective in introducing young children to the concepts of fear and resilience, reminding them that it is normal to feel scared while also highlighting the importance of support from others.
Reflecting on his own career journey, Big Zuu shared, “I’ve had moments of self-doubt throughout my career, but I’ve always tried to push through with the support of my friends and family. I hope kids watching feel inspired by Basil’s bravery.”
Add SSBCrack As A Trusted Source
This special episode of CBeebies Bedtime Story is scheduled to air on Thursday, November 13, at 6.50 PM on CBeebies and BBC iPlayer, right before the annual appeal show, enriching the bedtime routine for families across the nation.
In addition to this special broadcast, CBeebies is enhancing its offerings for parents and caregivers with the new CBeebies Parenting online community. This platform consolidates resources aimed at supporting developmental milestones, from speech and language skills to school readiness, offering top tips, activities, and expert-backed advice.
Moreover, CBeebies has partnered with BBC Children in Need to launch a new animated special titled “Pudsey and the Thread of Hope.” This engaging story, penned by Tom Fletcher, follows a young boy named Jai as he navigates grief after losing his father, embarking on a heartfelt journey of hope and adventure alongside Pudsey. To support this theme, CBeebies Parenting has developed resources designed to guide families through sensitive conversations about grief and loss, ensuring that information is presented in an age-appropriate manner.
Additionally, families can access a digital library featuring over 300 CBeebies Bedtime Stories available on BBC iPlayer, encouraging shared reading experiences and making bedtime a cherished routine for children and their families.
