London’s Australia House celebrates cultural impact of Bluey on the world by renaming it “Bluey House” on Sunday. Source: David Parry, Australian High Commission.
London’s Australia House has been renamed “Bluey House” for a day, in recognition and celebration of the TV hit series’ cultural impact on Britain and the world.
Australia House, which is home to the Australian High Commission, hosted a celebratory event on Sunday presenting the program with a Special Recognition Award — first of its kind.
The embassy was adorned with Bluey flags, artworks, and decorations. The ceremony also featured a Bluey marching band procession, performing the program’s title music.
@AusHouseLondon became #BlueyHouse today as TV phenomenon #Bluey herself leapt from the screen and arrived in London to receive a special Australian High Commission London award recognising her cultural impact across the UK and the world! ????? @OfficialBlueyTV pic.twitter.com/hUaY9rcuSC
— Australia House (@AusHouseLondon) April 21, 2024
The renaming coincides with the release of a new Bluey episode, “Surprise”, that arrived after fears that the show was coming to an end with the release of the extended episode, “The Sign”, dropped globally on April 14.
During “The Sign”, Bluey’s parents announced that they were selling the family home, implying that the Heeler family would be moving from their iconic Red Hill home in Brisbane.
A producer confirmed to BBC Radio 4 that the show would be returning.
Bluey, an animated children’s series from Australia, follows the adventures of puppy Bluey and her family. The show has become a global hit since its premiere in 2018, tackling subjects like mental health, and has more than 150 episodes.
In the US last year, the show came only second to the legal drama “Suits” with a viewership of 43.9 billion minutes.
“Bluey highlights the power of Australian stories to resonate with children and parents the world over,” Australian High Commissioner, Stephen Smith, said.
“Bluey‘s phenomenal success in the UK and globally is testament to the ingenuity and artistry of Australia’s creative industries.”
Nicki Sheard, president of BBC Studios brands said: “What an incredible accolade for an Australian-born show that has truly become part of the world’s cultural zeitgeist.
“We are thrilled to have created experiences that have unlocked family time and opened the magical world of Bluey for fans across the world of all ages.”
The show’s creator, Joe Brumm, added: “It is an honour to receive this award on behalf of everyone who helped bring Bluey to life.
“Our beautiful country is a character in the show just as much as any of the dogs, so to have brought it into the living rooms of the whole world, encouraging people to come and visit is something I’ll always be proud of.
“It’s been a very enjoyable week seeing the range of reactions to “The Sign” around the world.
“Thanks so much to the ABC, BBC studios and Disney for making it all possible.”
