Sali Mali's Big Comeback: Welsh Kids' Favorite Returns After 20 Years!

Sali Mali is a beloved character in Wales, known by many children and their families. She was first created by Mary Vaughan Jones in 1969 as part of a children's book series. Sali Mali became even more popular when she appeared on television in 1994 in the show Caffi Sali Mali, with Rebecca Harries playing the main role. After many years, Sali Mali is set to return to TV, but this time she will not be animated. Instead, she will be played by a real actress, just like in the earlier shows. The production company, Mojo Productions, is now searching for someone new to wear the famous orange costume and bring Sali Mali back to life.

The last time Sali Mali was played by a real person was between 2004 and 2007 in the series Pentre Bach. After that, she appeared as a cartoon character, with the most recent episodes airing in 2021. Rebecca Harries, who played Sali Mali in the past, said she was delighted to hear about the character's return. She shared that being Sali Mali was a privilege and one of the best parts of her career. She enjoyed meeting children all over Wales and making new friends through her work. Rebecca wished the new actress good luck and encouraged her to enjoy every moment in the orange outfit.

Sioned Geraint, the children and learners commissioner at S4C, said that Sali Mali has influenced generations of Welsh children. Now, many of those children are parents themselves, and they will be happy to see Sali Mali return to entertain their own kids. Llion Iwan, S4C's chief content officer, said that Sali Mali is one of the most iconic characters on the channel. He explained that for many people, seeing Sali Mali again will feel like catching up with an old friend. For a new generation of children, it will be their first time meeting Sali Mali, which is very exciting. The search for the new Sali Mali is on, and everyone is looking forward to seeing her on TV once more.