BBC confirms hit show making a comeback after 20 years with original cast

Two decades have passed since the beloved children's programme Balamory graced our television screens, but that's about to change as the BBC has announced the show's highly anticipated return.

The final episode of Balamory was broadcast in June 2005, concluding an impressive run of 253 episodes spanning four series on CBeebies.

The programme centres around a fictional small island community situated off Scotland's west coast, called Balamory, featuring eight main characters who each sport distinctive coloured clothing and reside in houses painted to match.

Five of these beloved characters are set to return in the reimagined series, with the BBC confirming that the original actors will be reprising their iconic roles.

Julie Wilson Nimmo is returning as Miss Hoolie, Andrew Agnew will once again don the uniform of PC Plum, Kim Tserkezie is coming back as Penny Pocket, and Julie Cadzow will be stepping back into the shoes of Edie McCredie, reports Wales Online.

The revived series will launch on BBC iPlayer and CBeebies next year, combining the cherished original characters with an array of fresh faces to deliver preschoolers an updated version of the treasured show.

Among the new additions are scientist Ava Potts (portrayed by Danielle Jam), the Harbour Master (played by William Andrews), and local veterinarian Dr Ollie (brought to life by Carl Spencer).

The BBC assures viewers that the programme's essence "remains the charming fictional town of Balamory and its lively inhabitants, where brightly-coloured houses cluster around a scenic harbour and life revolves around the nursery school and its caring teacher".

The much-anticipated filming of the beloved children's show Balamory is set to take place both in a Glasgow studio and on location in Tobermory, the Isle of Mull town that served as the inspiration for the show's charming setting.

Kate Morton, Head of Commissioning 0-6 for BBC Children's and Education, expressed her excitement: "It's wonderful to see some of the original cast returning alongside new faces, creating a perfect mix of nostalgia and discovery for families to enjoy together. This vibrant new series will delight both children and the grown-ups who remember it fondly."

Fans of the colourful world of Balamory can rejoice as two new series have been announced, each featuring ten 14-minute episodes. The show will continue to weave tales around the nursery school and the tight-knit island community, with audiences being able to immerse themselves once again in 2026.

The creation of Brian Jameson, Balamory is brought to life by Lion Television Scotland, a subsidiary of All3Media.

At the helm of production is Lisa Hazlehurst as the executive producer, with Adrian Mead directing and Jacqueline Sinclair taking on the role of series producer.

Original episodes of Balamory are available to watch on BBC iPlayer