The Scarecrows’ Wedding Delights BBC Viewers This Christmas
BBC’s Latest Julia Donaldson Animation Continues Christmas Tradition
The Scarecrows’ Wedding is the 13th Julia Donaldson animation made for the BBC. The Scarecrows’ Wedding premiered on BBC One and BBC iPlayer on Christmas Day at 3:10pm GMT, continuing the broadcaster’s beloved tradition of bringing Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s picture books to life during the festive season. This year’s half-hour special has become an important part of British Christmas viewing, offering families heartwarming entertainment following the King’s Speech.
Star-Studded Voice Cast Brings Scarecrows to Life
Narrated by Sophie Okonedo and starring Jessie Buckley, Domhnall Gleeson and Rob Brydon, it’s a charming half-hour tale of love, loyalty and a wedding to remember. The story centers on two scarecrows in love, Betty O’Barley and Harry O’Hay, who are planning the perfect farmyard wedding. But their plans hit a snag when Harry heads off on an errand to collect one last item for their big day. His absence gives a slick, smooth-talking scarecrow named Reginald Rake the perfect opportunity to make his move on Betty. The animation brings to life the colourful illustrations that have made the original book a favourite among children and parents alike.
Author’s Favourite Book Nearly Didn’t Make It to Screen
“The Scarecrows’ Wedding is my favourite of all the books I’ve created with Axel Scheffler, so I’m extra specially pleased that it is to be this year’s animated adaptation from Magic Light Pictures,” said Donaldson. However, the adaptation process wasn’t without controversy. In the television version, Reginald instead toasts marshmallows using a lit match, a change that gave Donaldson pause. The original book featured a smoking scene that had prompted some complaints, and adapting this for television required careful consideration. Despite initial reservations, Donaldson ultimately approved the changes.
Impressive Ratings Continue BBC Christmas Success
Last year’s Tiddler took an audience of 7.3 million, which was the highest share for a Magic Light film since The Gruffalo in 2009. The partnership between the BBC, Julia Donaldson, and Magic Light Pictures has proven consistently successful, with these festive specials becoming essential Christmas Day viewing for millions of British families. The BBC’s online streaming service, BBC iPlayer, is offering The Scarecrows’ Wedding for free—the special will be available on demand after it airs. This accessibility ensures that families can enjoy the charming tale throughout the holiday season, cementing its place as a new Christmas classic that will be revisited for years to come.