A scene from Peppa Pig. Photo / YouTube
Young fans of the television series Peppa Pig will see the family navigate a new journey next season, with a key character set to receive an important diagnosis.
The popular British animated show announced in an Instagram post today that George Pig is moderately deaf.
“George is growing ... and his story is growing with him,” the post read.
“We’re embarking on an important new chapter, sharing the news that our dearest George is moderately deaf.”
The show said it was partnering with the National Deaf Children’s Society and Hearing Loss Association of America to inform and introduce the upcoming storyline, which will debut when the series kicks off its 11th season soon.
Peppa Pig follows the lives of 4-year-old Peppa, her parents Daddy and Mummy Pig, and younger siblings George and Evie, who was born last May.
The series’ five-minute episodes have been viewed more than 32 billion times on its YouTube channel, which boasts 66 million subscribers, according to the show’s producer, Hasbro.
“We’re airing George’s hearing loss story as he continues to discover the world in his own way – with support, curiosity and plenty of muddy puddles!” a promotional social media post read.
Hasbro senior vice-president of franchise strategy and management Esra Cafer said George’s character had emerged out of sister Peppa’s shadow, exploring “his own voice and experiences”.
“As he enters this next phase of his development, we continue to celebrate joy, growth and confidence, reminding every child that there’s a place for them in Peppa’s world.”
USA Today reported the upcoming episode, titled Hearing Test, will depict George receiving the life-changing diagnosis at a regular doctor’s appointment.
After his family learn of his condition, they will support him as he is fitted with his first hearing aid that will allow him to “experience the world of sound in a new way”.
The role of the audiologist will be voiced by deaf English rugby star and BBC television personality Jodie Ounsley, according to the Independent, who said she was “so grateful” to be included in the storyline.
“Once we got into the storyline, it just made it even more special to work on, because it was something I’ve really related to in so many aspects of my own life,” she said.
Ounsley described the moment in the episode where her character tells George of his diagnosis.
“I was so young, so I wasn’t aware of this experience, only through what my mum and dad have told me.
“I don’t think I realised how emotional it felt for them in that moment in time. It was quite bizarre to be in that position.
“But even more so, I think it’s why I put more heart into it, because it felt quite real. Hopefully that comes across in the episode, to the parents and kids watching it.”
A new YouTube channel, Peppa Pig Sign Language for Kids, was also announced in preparation for the storyline.
A special episode of Peppa Pig, told from George’s audio perspective, is set to be released on YouTube this weekend.
Kiwi pre-schoolers can enjoy the new episodes from April 1.