Jack Whitehall in talks for live action Mr Benn revival
Jack Whitehall is hoping to bring back animated classic Mr Benn as a live action feature film.
Jack Whitehall is in talks for a live action adaptation of Mr Benn.
The 37-year-old comedian grew up "obsessed" with the iconic animated series, which followed the titular character in a suit and bowler hat as he went into a fancy dress shop, tried on an costume and - thanks to a shopkeeper who appeared "as if by magic" - got transported into a world based on that episode's outfit.
His mother Hilary told the Guestimators podcast: "Somebody has got the rights and they are interested in Jack playing Mr Benn."
The show - which was based on author David McKee's book series of the same name - first aired on BBC One with 13 episodes between 1971 and 1972, before returning for a one off special on Nick Jr. in 2005.
It's reported a live action adaptation is on the cards with Jack lined up for what would be a dream role.
His mum added: "Jack was obsessed with Mr Benn, because it's all about dressing up. Jack loves to dress up.
"The whole notion of make believe and going into another world and becoming a character played into Jack's head completely. He loves Mr Benn."
Back in 2014, Mr Benn creator McKee voiced his support for his character getting the big screen treatment.
He told the BBC: "I'd like to see that [the film] happen, because Mr Benn's a big boy and he can live his own life. I think he's right for being developed on the big screen."
In August, Ray Brooks - who narrated the animated series in the 1970s - died aged 86.
In a statement, the actor's sons, Will and Tom, told the BBC that he he was best known for Mr Benn, "with people continually asking him to say the catchphrase 'as if by magic!'"
They added: "Although only 13 episodes were made, they were repeated twice a year for 21 years."
