Emu makes a return to CITV

The bird-puppet Emu is to return to TV screens this October in a new live action comedy series for CITV.

The show will be feature a 'younger' Emu in earlier years alongside 'best friend' Toby, who will be assuming the role of a young Rod Hull. Toby, who is actually Hull's son, is a trained actor and has already appeared with Emu in two high profile pantomimes.

Emu and Hull came to fame on kids shows in the 1970s, as well as making iconic appearances on prime time shows like Parkinson, with Emu 'attacking' the chat show host.

Aimed at 6 - 11 year olds, the series tells the story of Toby and Emu moving in to a 'no pets allowed' apartment building and how, with their neighbours Charlie and Dani, they outwit the building's security guard.

Emu is produced by Initial, an Endemol company. The executive producer is Christopher Pilkington and the series producer is Candida Julian Jones.

Pilkington said: "Having worked with Rod Hull in the past it is a particular thrill and pleasure to be reacquainted with the extraordinary Emu. I am delighted to be working with Toby and bringing Emu to a brand new audience. Chat show hosts be warned - the beak is back!"