CBBC and BBC iPlayer announce 'Gifted' based on Marilyn Kaye's Novels

BBC Children’s and Education is backing the best homegrown storytelling with new commissions for CBBC and iPlayer. The brand-new shows have everything for young audiences: an ambitious access series set in one of the UK’s best stage schools, Scottish-based teen adventure drama and the Gladiators taking the competition to the next level in mischievous ways we’ve seen before.

Brand new Epic Pranks for CBBC, from Hungry Bear Media and MGM Alternative UK,  the makers of Gladiators, gives viewers exclusive access behind the scenes at the Sheffield Arena and an insight into the world of the much-loved superhumans.

Stage Stars immerses viewers in the world of aspiring singers, actors and dancers at a UK school, following a group of exceptionally talented young students balancing boarding school life with hard work to earn their place in the spotlight.

Gifted is an ambitious action adventure series set in Edinburgh, adapted from the novels by Marilyn Kaye.

The three new commissions demonstrate the BBC’s commitment to backing homegrown stories that bring families together to enjoy high quality productions and much-loved brands.

Patricia Hidalgo, Director BBC Children’s and Education says: “We continue to showcase homegrown dramas and series which aim to give our young viewers an insight into the diverse lives of children, characters and settings from across the UK with unique stories to tell which will resonate with them and with their families.”

Gifted

Gifted (10 x 30’) is a new action-adventure series adapted from Marilyn Kaye’s popular novels by award-winning screenwriter Emma Reeves (The Worst Witch, Eve).

Set in the breathtaking city of Edinburgh, it tells the story of a diverse group of young Scottish teens who discover they each have unique superpowers, from telekinesis to invisibility and mind reading.

With over 3,000 Scottish children applying, Gifted has uncovered a wealth of new talent, bringing fresh faces to the screen.

Gifted is an international co-production between Glasgow-based producer Black Camel Pictures and Paris-based French producer Media Valley. The show has been commissioned by CBBC in association with NDR/ARD via One Gate Media in Germany, with additional support from Creative Scotland. VFX are provided by Lip Sync. Studio 100 International will handle global distribution.