News > 2010

14 December 2010

‘THERE'S NO SUCH THING AS A GRUFFALO’ THOUGHT BILL PATERSON UNTIL HE BECAME THE STAR OF THE SHOW FOR BBC ALBA

Animation classic The Gruffalo, based on the popular book by award winning children’s author, Julia Donaldson, has been specially adapted for a BBC ALBA production, with acclaimed Scottish actor Bill Paterson providing the voice over for the lead role.

Bill Paterson & The Gruffalo

Viewers will be able to enjoy the delights of this family favourite as ‘An Gruffalo’ will be broadcast on BBC ALBA on Christmas Eve at 6pm.

Bill Paterson has been perfecting his lines for the Gruffalo character under the watchful eye of popular Gaelic broadcaster and presenter Cathy MacDonald, whose production company, Bùrach Productions Ltd, produced ‘An Gruffalo’ for BBC ALBA.

Talking about his role in An Gruffalo, Bill Paterson said: “Fortunately, at the last moment, I discovered that The Gruffalo was from Ardrossan and that his Gaelic was a bit rusty. This made it much easier for me!”

Margaret Cameron, Channel Editor for BBC ALBA, said: “The Gruffalo has become quite a phenomenon and it is extremely exciting to bring this fantastic animation to Gaelic audiences via our TV production. With Bill Paterson providing the husky voice for The Gruffalo and Tony Kearney as the shrewd mouse, this film is sure to provide entertainment for all the family during the festive season.”

An Gruffalo will be broadcast on BBC ALBA on Christmas Eve, Friday 24th December at 6pm and repeated on Christmas Day at 5pm and again on Monday 27th at 4.15pm.