New-look Emu back on television

Toby Hull, son of Emu's late creator, Rod, will introduce a new-look version of the popular children's character to a new generation of viewers on CITV.

The 26-part live action comedy series, called Emu, is aimed at 6-11 year olds.

Emu became a fixture of both children's and adult television in the 1970s, achieving notoriety for attacking host Michael Parkinson on his chat show.

Mr Hull, a trained actor, has performed with Emu since his father's death in 1999.

"Having worked with Rod Hull in the past it is a particular thrill and pleasure to be reacquainted with the extraordinary Emu," said executive producer Christopher Pilkington.

"Chat show hosts be warned - the beak is back," he added.

The bird will be freed from Hull's arm, with puppeteers allowing him to move independently.

Rod Hull, from Kent, was given Emu as a prop in the 1960s while presenting a children's breakfast programme in Australia.

He adopted the mute puppet for his cabaret act, and brought it to the UK when he returned in 1970. The bird became famous for launching unprovoked attacks on anyone within striking distance.

Hull died in 1999 after falling from the roof of his cottage in Rye, East Sussex, while adjusting his TV aerial.

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