Balamory is back – Miss Hoolie and PC Plum lift the lid on what to expect
Balamory Returns: Miss Hoolie and PC Plum Reveal New Adventures
After more than two decades since its CBeebies finale, the iconic children’s series Balamory is making a comeback this month. Among the returning faces is Julie Wilson Nimmo, who portrays the character Miss Hoolie, and Andrew Agnew, known for his role as PC Plum. The pair are reuniting for the revival, sharing insights into the new stories and how the show has evolved.
Reconnecting with the Past
Miss Hoolie, the show’s beloved character, has been a familiar presence in the lives of countless fans for over 20 years. “People have been asking me that question for 20-something years, almost every day,” she remarks, reflecting on the show’s lasting impact. The revival aims to reignite that connection, with original stars stepping back into their roles.
“What’s the story in Balamory?” Julie Wilson Nimmo, affectionately dubbed Miss Hoolie, asks. “People have been saying that to me for 20-odd years, practically every day.”
Andrew Agnew, who played PC Plum, expresses pride in the return. “It’s such an honour to be back doing something we love so much,” he says, highlighting the show’s enduring charm. The duo hopes the nostalgic elements will captivate a new audience, offering a refreshing blend of familiarity and innovation.
A Nostalgic Revival
The series’ resurgence comes amid concerns about declining UK-made children’s content, as noted in a recent BBC report. Despite these challenges, Balamory’s revival arrives at what Wilson Nimmo calls “the perfect time.” She notes that while animation is now ubiquitous, fewer programs feature peers on screen, making the show’s approach feel fresh.
“It’s come at the perfect time,” Wilson Nimmo states. “Children are exposed to so much animation now, which is fantastic. But for children to turn the television on… for kids to sit and watch kids on the telly, not a lot of shows do that any more.”
The original show, which once drew two million weekly viewers in the UK and millions globally, has left a lasting legacy. Wilson Nimmo and Agnew recall their international recognition, from meeting The Wiggles in Australia to being identified as PC Plum by children in Turkey. These experiences underscore the show’s global reach.
New Characters and Modern Touches
The revival introduces fresh faces, including Dr Ollie (Carl Spencer), a vet with his two children, and The Harbourmaster (William Andrews). While some original cast members, like Miles Jupp (who played Archie), are absent, new characters like Ava Potts (Danielle Jam) are taking their place. Agnew highlights the addition of new songs, which have been “revamped a wee bit” to modernize the series.
“There’s new songs as well and new takes on the songs because they’ve been revamped a wee bit to modernise them,” Agnew explains. “People come up to me and sing my song at me. That’s lovely and I wouldn’t change that for the world, but it doesn’t go away.”
The new series, produced by Lion Television Scotland, consists of two 10-episode seasons. Viewers can expect a blend of beloved original elements and updated storytelling, with the first episodes airing on CBeebies on Monday, 20th April, and all 10 available on BBC iPlayer the same day.
