There will be fireworks in Peppa Pig world after pop star Katy Perry signed up to join the hit kids franchise.
Perry will join as a guest star, voicing a new character, Ms. Leopard. It comes ahead of the 20th anniversary of the preschool animated series, which was created by Neville Astley and Mark Baker.
Perry’s performance will feature in an episode for the three-part Peppa Pig Wedding Party Special, which is set to premiere in spring 2024. The series, which initially launched in May 2004, airs on Nickeldeon and Paramount+ in the U.S.
The series comes from Hasbro Entertainment, which kept the franchise after selling TV and film production division eOne to Lionsgate earlier this year.The company noted that casting and filming for the special was contracted and completed before the actors and writers strikes and it is compliant with SAG-AFTRA rules and conditions.
Perry plays dress maker Ms. Leopard, who assists with the preparations for the first-ever Peppa Pig wedding between Mr. Bull and Mrs. Cow.
It is Perry’s latest role in an animated project; she previously starred in The Simpsons as Moe’s girlfriend. She also played Smurfette in The Smurfs movie.
Perry has previously posted on social media about watching Peppa Pig with her daughter.
“We’re incredibly thrilled to have such an A-list talent join the family-fun adventures in Peppa Pig. As a loving parent and fan of Peppa herself, Katy Perry is a perfect fit to voice the character of Ms. Leopard,” said Olivier Dumont, President of Hasbro Entertainment. “Reaching this brand milestone of two decades and being able to work with outstanding talent like Katy is a testament to the worldwide success of Peppa Pig and her ability to deliver entertainment no fans will want to miss. This is just one of the many exciting projects we have in the pipeline for fans and families to commemorate Peppa Pig’s 20th anniversary in 2024, such as live events and attractions, products and partnerships, Peppa parties all over the world and much more. Everyone’s invited to our year-long celebration.”
[Source: Deadline]