Key Highlights
- BBC Children in Need and CBeebies collaborate for a special Bedtime Story episode.
- Big Zuu, BAFTA-winning TV chef and musician, reads the story “Basil Dreams Big” alongside Pudsey Bear and children from Z-arts theatre project.
- The story emphasizes themes of resilience and self-belief, aligning with BBC Children in Need’s mission.
- “Pudsey and the Thread of Hope,” a new animated special by Tom Fletcher, is also announced for the day before the appeal show.
New Bedtime Story Episode Aims to Inspire Children
The BBC and CBeebies have teamed up for an emotionally resonant collaboration, marking the first time Pudsey Bear will join Big Zuu on a Bedtime Story. This special episode, titled “Basil Dreams Big,” is set to air on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at 6:50 PM on CBeebies and BBC iPlayer.
The story, written by Lu Fraser and Sarah Warburton, focuses on resilience, bravery, and self-belief, themes that resonate strongly with the mission of BBC Children in Need. Big Zuu, a BAFTA-winning TV chef and musician, takes on the role of narrator, reading alongside Pudsey Bear and children from a theatre and arts project at Z-arts in Manchester.
Big Zuu expressed his excitement about the collaboration: “It’s such a privilege to read this story with the kids.
Basil Dreams Big is all 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.”
Z-arts, a recipient of funding from BBC Children in Need, provides accessible arts sessions for disabled children and young people, aiming to enhance their confidence and self-esteem. This episode marks a significant step towards combining CBeebies’ storytelling with the mission-driven efforts of BBC Children in Need.
Pudsey Bear Joins the Lineup for “Pudsey and the Thread of Hope”
In addition to the Bedtime Story episode, Pudsey Bear will make his animated debut in a new special titled “Pudsey and the Thread of Hope.” This story, written by Tom Fletcher, follows Jai, a young boy navigating grief after losing his father. The narrative focuses on themes of healing, hope, and adventure as Jai embarks on a journey with Pudsey Bear.
This new animated special aims to provide families with sensitive and age-appropriate guidance for discussing grief and loss. Accompanying the animation, CBeebies Parenting will develop resources and advice tailored to support families in these conversations.
The launch of this special is set for the day before the appeal show, further integrating Pudsey Bear into the Children in Need campaign.
CBeebies Bedtime Story continues its mission of inspiring the nation to read together each weekday at 6:50 PM on CBeebies and BBC iPlayer. This initiative not only supports children’s literacy but also encourages families to establish a daily bedtime routine, promoting bonding and creativity.
Expanding the Reach through Digital Platforms
BBC iPlayer currently houses over 300 Bedtime Stories, offering parents and children a wide array of stories to enjoy together. These digital resources serve as an extension of CBeebies’ commitment to enhancing young people’s lives through engaging content.
CBeebies Parenting has also expanded its offerings, providing comprehensive support for families in various areas such as developing speech and language skills, potty training, and preparing for school. By bringing all these resources into one platform, BBC aims to offer a holistic approach to child development, emphasizing the importance of literacy and emotional well-being.
These initiatives underscore BBC Children in Need’s ongoing commitment to supporting disadvantaged children and young people across the UK. Through innovative storytelling and digital platforms, they are working towards making a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most.
Finding Hope through Collaboration
The collaboration between CBeebies and BBC Children in Need exemplifies how entertainment can be harnessed for social good. By integrating themes of resilience, hope, and self-belief into their storytelling, these organizations are not only entertaining but also empowering the next generation.
As Pudsey Bear steps into new roles, the expansion of his presence through animation reflects a broader strategy to engage younger audiences in meaningful ways. This approach aligns with BBC’s mission to use its platforms for positive change, ensuring that children and families benefit from both entertainment and educational content.
