S4C To Bring Sali Mali Back To Screens

Iconic Welsh children's character Sali Mali is set to return to S4C in 2027 with a new live-action series, marking her first appearance in the format for more than two decades.

The announcement was made at the National Eisteddfod in Llantood, near Cardigan, where production company Mojo Productions revealed it will create the new series for S4C.

Casting is now underway to find the actress who will take on the role of Sali Mali, with a dedicated casting booth open at the Eisteddfod from Tuesday 4 August to Friday 7 August, between 11am and 1pm and 2pm and 4pm each day.

Created by author Mary Vaughan Jones, Sali Mali first appeared in a series of children’s books beginning with Sali Mali in 1969. The character made her S4C debut in 1994 in the series Caffi Sali Mali, with Rebecca Harries playing the lead role.

An animated version of Sali Mali followed in 2000, featuring narration by Rhys Ifans and a title song performed by Cerys Matthews. The latest animated episodes were broadcast in 2021.

Sali Mali's last live-action appearance was between 2004 and 2007 in the series Pentre Bach, where she appeared alongside familiar characters including Jac y Jwc and Jini.

Reflecting on her time portraying the much-loved character, Rebecca Harries said: “I am delighted to hear that Sali Mali is returning to entertain Wales's children and their families and to keep them company once again.

"Being her friend for so long was a privilege and was one of my career's greatest pleasures. I had the opportunity to meet children all over Wales and make best friends at work.

"Good luck to all the new crew, you'll work very hard, but it will be worth it. And to the new Sali Mali…enjoy every second of the orange, embrace everything that comes your way – it's an exciting ride."

The new series will introduce Sali Mali to a new generation of viewers while continuing the legacy of one of Wales' best-known children's characters.