Mr Benn the movie

The history of Mr Benn…..

Mr. Benn was a must-watch for many children growing up. This classic animated series, created by David McKee and narrated by the wonderful Ray Brooks, first aired on the BBC in 1971. The show followed an ordinary man who embarked on incredible adventures every time he went to a special costume shop. Despite only 13 episodes being made, it became hugely popular, was shown repeatedly, and remains one of the most cherished children’s programs in British television history, frequently appearing on lists of the greatest kids’ shows ever. After years of speculation – dating back to 1999 – a Mr. Benn movie has finally been confirmed.

Helming the Mr Benn movie will be….

BAFTA-nominated director Kirk Jones, known for the well-received film ‘I Swear’ about Tourette’s syndrome, will be writing and directing a live-action movie based on Mr. Benn, rather than a remake of the animated TV series. Casting for Mr. Benn and other characters will begin later this year, and filming is scheduled to start next year.

What they’re saying…..

Kirk Jones, the writer and director known for films like Nanny McPhee and Waking Ned Devine, says he quickly felt a connection to the story and its adaptation into a live-action movie.

As a child, I was a huge fan of Mr Benn, and I immediately knew it would be wonderful to bring him to life for a new audience in a live-action adventure. The show features Mr Benn’s extraordinary ability to travel through time and space, taking him to both the past and the future where he uses kindness, empathy, and practical thinking to resolve significant challenges. After working on ‘I Swear,’ I wanted to create something fun and engaging that also reminds people of what truly matters in today’s busy world. Hopefully, Mr Benn will even manage to save the world!

The family of the late David McKee said  :

The Mr. Benn movie has been a passion project for our family for years – our father often dreamed of seeing it made. It’s been a slow process, but everything is finally falling into place. We’re incredibly happy to have Kirk Jones directing, and we’re especially excited to revisit Festive Road, the street where we spent our childhoods.

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2026-03-24 21:23