An upcoming episode of the iconic children’s series Peppa Pig will see the show introduce a new storyline for George, Peppa’s younger brother, who is diagnosed as moderately deaf.
Airing on Friday, 6 February, the episode named, ‘Hearing Loss’, will be the first told through George’s audio perspective.
Furthermore, Gladiator’s star, Jodie Ounsley, known as Fury, will be playing his audiologist.
According to an announcement, creators Hasbro worked in close collaboration with the UK’s National Deaf Children’s Society, as well as deaf producer and script consultant Camilla Arnold, to ensure the portrayal is thoughtful, accurate and respectful.
Fans of the show have taken to social media to express their thoughts with one user commenting the episode as “a meaningful moment for representation” and “a gentle, powerful way to teach kids about difference, empathy and inclusion”.
Viewers will follow George as he begins to experience the world of sound in new ways, from the splash of muddy puddles to the familiar jingle of the ice-cream van, as he starts to understand his diagnosis.
Images from the episode show George being fitted with a hearing aid, while Peppa is seen offering gentle support, wrapping her brother in a warm hug.
In a statement, RNI:D, the charity which supports people who are deaf, have hearing loss, or tinnitus said: “We’re delighted to see that Peppa Pig has introduced a new storyline about George, Peppa’s younger brother, experiencing hearing loss.
“In the new episode, George talks to his audiologist, played by Jodie Ounsley (also known as Fury), the storyline is shown from George’s perspective, as we see his experience of starting to use a hearing aid.
“This positive representation, especially in children’s TV will help open up conversations and breakdown barriers.”
Frankie Garforth, Head of Inclusion at RNID, said: “Our research shows that people who are deaf or have hearing loss face negative attitudes every day, which can make them feel excluded and lonely. However, our research also showed the public want to communicate with deaf people, but they’re worried about getting it wrong. We hope this storyline encourages families to talk openly about hearing loss and make life more inclusive for our communities. “
