Hulu and BBC Acquire Adult Animated Series ‘Deano’ from ‘Bluey’ Creator

Hulu has greenlit a full-series adaptation of the popular web display “Childish Deano,” with Variety reporting the news on February 20, 2026. The eight-episode, half-hour comedy will also air on BBC iPlayer and BBC One, and stream on Disney+, marking a significant international co-production.

From Web Series to Global Distribution

Originally created by Dean Thomas and David Ferrier, “Deano” began as a web series that garnered millions of views across social media platforms since its debut in 2022, according to the BBC. The series centers on a mischievous eight-year-aged boy with a good heart, navigating life in a challenging neighborhood.

Creative Team and Production Details

Joe Brumm, the creator of the acclaimed animated children’s series “Bluey,” will serve as script editor and executive producer for Hooligan Animation. This marks Brumm’s first foray into producing adult animated content. Thomas also voices the character of Deano. Hooligan Animation will produce the show at its studios in Brisbane, Australia, with financial support from the Australian Federal government’s Producer Offset and a PDV grant from the State of Queensland.

Co-Production and Distribution

The series is a co-production between Hooligan Animation, BBC Studios, and 20th Television Animation, with BBC Studios leading the production. Hulu will distribute the show worldwide. Adam Bailey for BBC Studios, Greg Basser, Tracey Robertson, Ross Shuman, Nathan Mayfield, and Tracey Vieira for Hooligan Animation are also executive producers.

What to Expect from ‘Deano’

“Deano” follows the adventures of a spirited and cheeky boy who, despite facing hardship, maintains a positive outlook and embraces everyone he meets, from local teenagers to the town’s police chief. The show explores his friendship with Kit, his best friend from a more affluent background. Sue Deeks, Head of Scripted Pre-buy Acquisitions at the BBC, described Deano as “mischievous, engaging, and irrepressible,” highlighting the series’ blend of “irreverent humour, warmth, and optimism,” as reported by The New Daily.

Creators’ Statement

According to Variety, Thomas and Ferrier expressed their excitement about bringing their creation to a global audience through Disney and the BBC, calling their character a “spicy child” and his sidekick a unique addition to the streaming landscape.