Home / Arts and Entertainment / TikTok Sensation Leaves BBC's Blue Peter
TikTok Sensation Leaves BBC's Blue Peter
8 Feb
Summary
- Joel Mawhinney, 28, is leaving Blue Peter after four years.
- Mawhinney's girlfriend and co-presenter Shini Muthukrishnan might also leave.
- Mawhinney has 16.5 million followers on TikTok.
Joel Mawhinney, a prominent presenter on the long-running children's show Blue Peter, has announced his departure after four years. The 28-year-old, who boasts an impressive 16.5 million followers on TikTok, conveyed his decision to BBC executives recently. His exit has sparked concerns among the show's management regarding the potential departure of his girlfriend and co-presenter, Shini Muthukrishnan, 24.
Mawhinney and Muthukrishnan's on-screen chemistry is reportedly strong, and an insider noted their significant partnership both professionally and personally. They fell in love while collaborating on the CBBC show, often sharing their life together on social media. Mawhinney, originally from Bangor, joined Blue Peter in 2022 and has undertaken numerous challenging assignments during his tenure, including meeting King Charles and Queen Camilla.
Despite Mawhinney's departure, a Blue Peter spokesperson confirmed that Shini Muthukrishnan will continue presenting the show alongside Abby Cook and the dog Hacker. However, the BBC is actively searching for a replacement for Mawhinney. Mawhinney's career also includes experience as a magician and reaching the final stages of selection for Strictly Come Dancing.
