Blue Zoo Animation to Produce New Doctor Who Series for Preschoolers

British animation studio Blue Zoo has been awarded the contract to create a new animated series based on the iconic Doctor Who franchise, specifically tailored for preschool audiences. This marks a significant expansion of the Doctor Who universe, known as the 'Whoniverse,' into animation for younger viewers. The series is commissioned for 52 episodes, each lasting 11 minutes, and is set to begin production in 2026.

Blue Zoo Animation wins pitch to produce animated Doctor Who for CBeebies

The opportunity to produce this series was made available through a competitive pitch process initiated by BBC Children’s and Education in June 2025. Blue Zoo's proposal was selected as the strongest among a diverse field of submissions, demonstrating the studio's capability to meet the BBC's criteria for quality and creativity.

Blue Zoo Animation Studio wins pitch to produce Doctor Who CBeebies animation

Patricia Hidalgo, Director of BBC Children’s & Education, expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating, "We can't wait to welcome the Doctor to CBeebies, introducing this beloved family favourite to our youngest audience for the very first time." She emphasized the BBC's commitment to supporting the British animation industry and highlighted the competitive nature of the bidding process, commending all shortlisted producers for their high-quality proposals.

Blue Zoo Animation Studio wins pitch to produce Doctor Who CBeebies animation

Adam Shaw, Co-founder of Blue Zoo Animation Studio, remarked on the significance of this project, noting, “This year, we celebrated 25 years of Blue Zoo so it's an extra special honour to be given the chance to bring such a much-loved classic and a true British icon to a whole new generation of young viewers.” He acknowledged the challenge of reimagining Doctor Who for preschoolers as a "brilliant creative challenge."

Blue Zoo Animation Studio wins pitch to produce Doctor Who CBeebies animation

Blue Zoo Animation has a history of successful collaborations with the BBC, having previously worked on popular CBeebies programs such as Numberblocks, Alphablocks, and Mojo Swoptops. This new series represents a strategic move by the BBC to engage younger audiences with familiar and beloved characters from the Doctor Who franchise.

Blue Zoo Animation wins pitch to produce animated Doctor Who for CBeebies

The introduction of a Doctor Who animated series for preschoolers is significant as it aims to cultivate a new generation of fans for the franchise. By adapting the series for a younger demographic, the BBC is not only expanding the reach of the Doctor Who brand but also reinforcing its commitment to producing high-quality, homegrown content that resonates with families.

Blue Zoo Animation wins pitch to produce animated Doctor Who for CBeebies

• “Patricia Hidalgo, Director of BBC Children’s & Education, says: "We can't wait to welcome the Doctor to CBeebies, introducing this beloved family favourite to our youngest audience for the very first time.” — Patricia Hidalgo, Director of BBC Children’s & Education

Blue Zoo Animation Studio wins pitch to produce Doctor Who CBeebies animation

• “ Adam Shaw, Co-founder of Blue Zoo Animation Studio, says: “This year, we celebrated 25 years of Blue Zoo so it's an extra special honour to be given the chance to bring such a much-loved classic and a true British icon to a whole new generation of young viewers.” — Adam Shaw, Co-founder of Blue Zoo Animation Studio

Blue Zoo Animation Studio wins pitch to produce Doctor Who CBeebies animation

This new Doctor Who series for preschoolers is poised to be a landmark addition to the franchise, promising to engage young audiences with its imaginative storytelling and beloved characters.

Blue Zoo Animation Studio wins pitch to produce Doctor Who CBeebies animation