In case you haven’t heard, TV bigwigs have announced that a new TV adaptation of Jill Murphy’s The Worst Witch is in the works for CBBC.
Having been fully obsessed with the show (and with trying to figure out how we could attend Miss Cackle’s Academy for Witches) when we were younger, it’s safe to say we are EXCITED.
Now, the remake’s cast has been announced, with talented newcomer Bella Ramsey stepping into the lead role of Mildred Hubble, a role originally played by Georgina Sherrington.
Meibh Campbell and Tamara Smart will play Mildred’s friends Maud Spellboy and Enid Nightshade, while Maud’s enemy Ethel Hallow, who was originally played by Felicity Jones, will be portrayed by Jenny Richardson.
Meanwhile, Downton Abbey and Doctor Who’s Clare Higgins will play headteacher Miss Cackel, Downton Abbey’s Raquel Cassidy will take on the role of Deputy Head Miss Hardbroom and Miss Bat will be portrayed by The Royal’s Wendy Craig.
Nicole Stephenson from Emmerdale will play Ms Hubble, while EastEnders star Kacey Ainsworth will play health-and-safety conscious teacher Miss Gullet.
Jill Murphy says: “Published 42 years ago, The Worst Witch has been
the cornerstone of my career. I illustrate my own books, so I am very
protective about them in every way, and I’m delighted to say that this
wonderful new production ticks all the boxes.
“There have been a few
changes, to nudge the Academy into the 21st century, but die-hard fans
needn’t worry, Miss Hardbroom is always on hand making sure that
‘Standards will NOT be slipping!’ Now, when my readers ask if they can
visit the school, I can tell them ‘watch the new series of The Worst
Witch on CBBC and you’ll feel as if you’ve just flown in through the
window!‘”
