The world’s longest-running children’s TV show has unveiled Shini Muthukrishnan as its newest Blue Peter presenter.
Muthukrishnan will co-host alongside Abby Cook, Joel Mawhinney and Henry the dog, with her first live show airing Friday, January 19 on CBBC and BBC iPlayer at 5.00pm.
The new host is a content creator who has built up a large social media following since lockdown with videos celebrating her British, Indian and Malaysian heritage, including her love of Chai.
This is a first TV presenting role for the 22-year-old, who recently graduated from King’s College London where she studied Philosophy, Politics & Economics.
She has experience of working with children, having taught in Hong Kong during her gap year and volunteered at a youth camp in Birmingham. She is passionate about engaging young people and the possibility of having a positive impact on children’s lives.
In a perfect fit for Blue Peter, which does so much to tap into children’s passion for reading, Muthukrishnan loves books and said she read a grand total of 62 books during lockdown. She also plays acoustic guitar and enjoys theatre, music and singing.
For five years, she also played badminton for Staffordshire county and loves adventures and sport.
Muthukrishnan said: “Being part of the Blue Peter team is such a surreal and exciting feeling. It’s my first time on the big screen and I can’t wait for all the adventures to come.”
The new presenter also admitted Blue Peter had a big impact on her when she was younger: “I have really fond memories of Blue Peter, Helen and Barney were my era. As a kid, I looked up to Helen Skelton, she seemed fearless on screen. She took on incredible challenges with such a headstrong attitude that made me think I can be fearless too.”
Muthukrishnan will be earning her Blue Peter badge straight off the bat with her first challenge by taking part in some incredible aircraft aerobatics, while in her first live show this Friday she’ll be attempting to bath Henry the dog and cooking up a tasty treat.
Blue Peter Editor, Ellen Evans, said: “Shini is an exciting new talent, who impressed us with her adventurous spirit, sense of humour, determination and aspiration to have a positive impact on kids’ lives.
“As a digital creative, she’s built a following online creating a fun, positive space connecting with young people, and I can’t wait for the Blue Peter audience to meet Shini too.”
