BLUE Peter has signed up a popular TikTok influencer as the show's 43rd host.
The BBC programme is the longest-running children's TV show and it seems it will only be getting even longer after snapping up a brand new face.
Shini Muthukrishnan will be joining the team this week in her TV debut having built a large following online thanks to her numerous social media videos.
The 22 year old first began posting to TikTok during the lockdown and has seen her career skyrocket since then.
A graduate of Philosophy, Politics & Economics from King's College London, Shini will join the existing team of Abby Cook, Joel Mawhinney and Henry the dog from this Friday.
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Speaking of her excitement at landing the role, Shini said: “Being part of the Blue Peter team is such a surreal and exciting feeling. It’s my first time on the big screen and I can’t wait for all the adventures to come!”
“I have really fond memories of Blue Peter, Helen [Skelton] and Barney [Harwood] were my era. As a kid, I looked up to Helen Skelton, she seemed fearless on screen.
"She took on incredible challenges with such a headstrong attitude that made me think I can be fearless too.”
The Stafford-born star has been described as a perfect fit for the role by the BBC thanks to her love of reading, books, adventure and sport.
Shini is set to receive her first Blue Peter badge with participation in a dazzling aircraft aerobatics challenge.
She will also be seen attempting to bath Henry the dog in her first episode which airs this Friday at 5pm on the CBBC Channel.
Ellen Evans, the editor of Blue Peter, said of her appointment: “Shini is an exciting new talent, who impressed us with her adventurous spirit, sense of humour, determination and aspiration to have a positive impact on kids’ lives.
"As a digital creative, she’s built a following online creating a fun, positive space connecting with young people, and I can’t wait for the Blue Peter audience to meet Shini too!”
Blue Peter airs on CBBC every Friday at 5.00pm and is available on BBC iPlayer.
