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Michael Carrington Announces Retirement After Influential Career in Children’s Television

Animation and children’s TV executive Michael Carrington has declared his retirement following decades of pioneering work. His extensive career includes executive producing award-winning programs across the U.K., U.S., and Australia, featuring popular titles such as Bluey, Postman Pat, Shaun the Sheep, The Amazing World of Gumball, Mike the Knight, LazyTown, and Thomas and Friends.

In reflecting on his retirement, Michael stated: “The world of television has provided me with more than I could have ever envisioned. I’ve had the honor of collaborating with exceptionally talented individuals and contributing to content that has delivered joy, education, and wonder to countless families. As I transition away, I take pride in knowing that the principles of creativity, diversity, and inclusion that have guided me will continue to motivate the next generation of storytellers. I look forward to witnessing the future of this industry and am thankful for all the moments we’ve shared.”

Career Beginnings and Major Contributions

Carrington launched his career at Channel 10 Sydney, working on shows like Ridgey Didge and Double Dare. He later relocated to London, where he made significant impacts at the BBC, LEGO Media, Cartoon Network, HIT Entertainment, and Zodiak Media. During this time, he played a key role in shaping iconic series such as Charlie & Lola, LazyTown, and The Amazing World of Gumball, earning a reputation as one of the most influential figures in children’s television. He became the first creative director/controller of CBeebies, where his innovative work transformed preschool content. A pivotal moment in his career was the appointment of Cerrie Burnell, the channel’s first disabled presenter, advocating for enhanced representation on screen.

Award-Winning Leadership

Under his leadership, Carrington’s initiatives garnered numerous accolades, including the channel’s first-ever BAFTA Children’s Channel of the Year award. Among the many programs he commissioned were In the Night Garden, Mister Maker, and the first narrative drama for preschoolers, Grandpa In My Pocket. By collaborating with non-traditional broadcasting entities like LEGO and Mattel, Carrington successfully merged storytelling with immersive off-screen experiences, integrating beloved characters such as Thomas & Friends, Little Robots, and Bob the Builder with creative play materials.

Impact at the Australian Broadcasting Corporation

Later in his career, Michael returned to Sydney, where he played a crucial role at the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). As Director of Content, he continued to advocate for inclusivity and screen diversity, commissioning acclaimed programs like the global sensation Bluey. His intuitive storytelling approach helped position these shows as international successes, cherished by audiences worldwide. He leaves behind a legacy of innovation, inclusivity, and leadership in the children’s media landscape.

 

Person

Michael Carrington, Cerrie Burnell

Company Names

Channel 10 Sydney, BBC, LEGO Media, Cartoon Network, HIT Entertainment, Zodiak Media, Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC)

Titles

Bluey, Postman Pan, Shaun the Sheep, The Amazing World of Gumball, Mike the Knight, LazyTown, Thomas and Friends, Ridgey Didge, Double Dare, Charlie & Lola, In the Night Garden, Mister Maker, Grandpa In My Pocket, Thomas & Friends, Little Robots, Bob the Builder

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