A New Chapter for a Welsh Treasure
Generations of Welsh viewers are set to welcome a familiar face back to their screens. Sali Mali, the iconic character originating from the books by Mary Vaughan Jones, will return to S4C in 2027. This marks a major milestone: her first live-action series in over 20 years.
The announcement was made at the National Eisteddfod in Llantood, confirming that Mojo Productions has been tasked with bringing the new series to life. For many, Sali Mali is more than just a character; she is a cornerstone of Welsh children’s literature and media that has been a part of the cultural fabric since her debut in 1969.
Why Sali Mali Matters
Since her creation by Mary Vaughan Jones while working as a lecturer at Normal College, Bangor, Sali Mali has transcended her literary roots. She has appeared in multiple formats, including animated series and the beloved live-action shows 'Caffi Sali Mali' and 'Pentre Bach.' Her reach has even extended globally, with her shows dubbed into 14 languages, including Korean and Polish.
- First live-action series in over two decades.
- Produced by Mojo Productions for S4C.
- Original source material dates back to 1969 books.
- Casting is currently underway to find a new lead actress.
Looking Ahead to 2027
The production team is currently in the process of searching for the new actress who will step into Sali Mali’s iconic shoes. As S4C continues to navigate the digital landscape, the return of such a well-established character highlights the broadcaster's commitment to maintaining a vibrant cultural ecosystem for Welsh-language media.
It's very rare to get the chance to play a character from a book you read as a little girl.
— Rebecca Harries, actress who previously played Sali Mali