In a brand-new episode of Peppa Pig airing today (9 March), Peppa’s younger brother, George, is fitted with a hearing aid after being diagnosed with hearing loss.
To ensure the storyline authentically reflects the everyday realities of deaf children and their families, the production team collaborated from the earliest stages of development with the National Deaf Children’s Society (NDCS) and Camilla Arnold, a deaf executive producer and script consultant.
Adding a special touch to the episode, George’s audiologist is voiced by Jodie Ounsley. Best known to fans as ‘Fury’ from the BBC's Gladiators, Jodie was born deaf and was one of the UK's youngest cochlear implant recipients.
“When deaf children see deaf characters in the media, it gives them more self-confidence and helps them feel more included,” says Colin Brook, Media Relations Officer at the NDCS.
“And when hearing children understand deafness better, they’re more likely to be supportive of their deaf friends.”
He adds: “It’s vital that deaf children see their experiences reflected authentically on screen. We hope the episode is another step towards creating a world where differences are celebrated, and every deaf child feels seen, valued and included.”
Leading up to today's premiere, the public response has been overwhelmingly positive.
“We’ve already seen a lot of feedback from the parents of deaf children," says Colin. “Their kids are incredibly excited to finally see a character just like them on one of their favourite TV shows.”
Peppa Pig is shown on Milkshake! on Channel 5.
Photo: Channel 5/Milkshake!
