Shaun the Sheep fans are in for a treat, as Sky has announced a brand new movie coming next year – here are the full details we know so far.
Shaun the Sheep: The Beast of Mossy Bottom is touted as a "monstrously fun" entry for the beloved character, who first debuted in Wallace & Gromit entry A Close Shave 30 years ago.
The movie – which marks the character's third feature outing – comes from writer Mark Burton, who penned last year's acclaimed Wallace & Gromit entry Vengeance Most Fowl, and Shaun the Sheep: The Flight Before Christmas' Giles Pilbrow.
The Flight Before Christmas' Steve Cox and Lloyd of the Flies' Matthew Walker are directing, while Wallace & Gromit creator Nick Park is on board as a studio executive producer.
According to the synopsis, the movie follows the residents of Mossy Bottom Farm while in high spirits ahead of Halloween – though things go awry when the clumsy Farmer trashes the Flock's pumpkin patch.
Related: Best streaming services
What to Read Next
"When Shaun turns MAD SCIENTIST to fix the problem, things rapidly spiral out of control…," the synopsis adds. "With The Farmer missing and a wild beast roaming the woods of Mossingham, all the ingredients are in place for a monstrously fun family adventure."
Teasing the film, Sky Cinema's executive producer and head of originals, Andrew Orr, said: "Shaun is a household name, so it’s huge news for us to be welcoming him and the flock to our 2026 Sky Original film slate.
"It’s an honour to work with Aardman at such an exciting time for the studio, with a film that we know fans of all ages will love. Expect laughs, spookiness and some brilliantly entertaining new characters."
As mentioned, Sky is making the film in collaboration with studio Aardman, having previously collaborated on the likes of 2016's Morph and Make Your Own Movies with Merlin.
Aardman's chief creative director Sarah Cox said: "Shaun the Sheep is an iconic character, beloved by viewers of all ages around the world.
"In our new animated movie, we bring family-friendly thrills to this light-hearted, spooky Halloween adventure. Expect smashed pumpkins, wayward science, and a wild hairy beast on the loose in Mossy Bottom – all delivered with the Flock’s trademark joyous comedy."
Related: Wallace & Gromit creator addresses future of the series
The film will launch worldwide sales at the upcoming Cannes Film Festival, with Studiocanal acting as global partner outside the UK.
Studiocanal CEO Anna Marsh and EVP global production Ron Halpern said: "We have taken such pride in establishing Shaun the Sheep and the flock as movie stars and in this – our third feature film in the franchise – we have a tantalising seasonal hook in Halloween with thrills, spills, surprises, a touch of science and characters old and new.
"We cannot wait to reveal more of this highly anticipated family treat in the coming months. It’s a genuine pleasure to be back in partnership with Aardman for Shaun’s very welcome return, and in Sky we have a UK partner who share our passion and ambition to bring Shaun the Sheep (and friends) to the biggest possible audience with his timeless appeal and in his home territory."
As for the premiere date, we know that the film will get a cinema release in 2026 alongside dropping on Sky Cinema – though details on a specific date are yet to be confirmed.
Following his debut in 1995, Shaun the Sheep has spawned his own spin-off series, as well as 2015 movie Shaun the Sheep Movie and 2019 sequel Farmageddon. He has also appeared in short films, video games and a stage show.
Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl was released last year, earning a perfect score on Rotten Tomatoes and winning a BAFTA for Best Animated Film.
Shaun the Sheep: The Beast of Mossy Bottom will be released in cinemas and on Sky Cinema in 2026.
Digital Spy's first print magazine is here! Buy British Comedy Legends in newsagents or online now, priced at £7.99.
Sam is a freelance reporter and sub-editor who has a particular interest in movies, TV and music. After completing a journalism Masters at City University, London, Sam joined Digital Spy as a reporter, and has also freelanced for publications such as NME and Screen International. Sam, who also has a degree in Film, can wax lyrical about everything from Lord of the Rings to Love Is Blind, and is equally in his element crossing every 't' and dotting every 'i' as a sub-editor.
