The ABC and BBC will work together on a co-commissioned children’s comedy project, “The Spooky Files”.
The show comes from Tony Ayres productions and Megaboom Pictures, the creative teams behind “Nowhere Boys” and “Hardball”. It will feature 10 24-minute episodes which take a “fun, spooky, adventure-filled look at the universal experience of childhood fears”.
Production is expected to commence early next month in Victoria, with major production investment from Screen Australia and financial support from Vic Screen and BBC.
It will air on ABC ME in 2023 and in the U.K. on CBBC and BBC iPlayer.
Libbie Doherty, head of children’s at the ABC, said the broadcaster is proud to revisit its creative alliance with the BBC and to partner with Tony Ayes productions.
“This brilliant Australian creative team has another hilarious hit on their hands that demonstrates their understanding of the tween audience, their humour, their hang-ups and how to squeeze the funny out of every moment on screen,” she said.
“We know this one is going to be big. A huge thank you to Screen Australia and Vic Screen for their dedication in supporting Australian productions and supporting the ABC to deliver exceptional quality children’s content to Aussie kids.”
Andrea Denholm, executive producer at Tony Ayres Productions, added: “When Guy [Edmonds] and Matt [Zeremes] brought “The Spooky Files” to TAP at concept stage, we jumped at the chance to work in this incredibly talented team. From the creators of “Hardball” and the creator of “Nowhere Boys”, “The Spooky Files” is filled with humour, heart, mystery and is destined to find a huge and loyal audience.
“We are thrilled to have the support of ABC ME, CBBC and Universal International Studios in bringing this delightful series to children all over the world.”
Grainne Brunsdon, head of content at Screen Australia, said: “It’s vital that Australian children can see themselves reflected on screen, and we are pleased to support this exciting new series that will represent the diversity of the Australian playground. The team behind the widely loved “Hardball” have proven their ability to connect with young viewers around the world, and “The Spooky Files” is a fresh, clever comedy that is set to entertain and thrill audiences on ABC and BBC.”