Classic drama series The Demon Headmaster is to be revived for CBBC.
Nicholas Gleaves (Bodyguard, Coronation Street) will take on the lead role when it returns for 10 30-minutes episodes later this year.
The Demon Headmaster was broadcast between 1996 and 1998 and originally starred Terrence Hardiman as the horrifying headmaster with hypnotic powers.
Gillian Cross, the author of the books the original series was based on, has released a new novel which reveals the Demon Headmaster has become a ‘Super Head’ of an Academy.
Gleaves said: “It is an absolute stroke of genius to bring back this iconic series and I feel incredibly lucky to play the role. The Demon Headmaster is a dark magician and I’ve loved bringing the character to life. It’s always an actors dream to play extremes and he is the ultimate villain.”
Cheryl Taylor, Head of Content BBC Children’s, added: “We all know how compelling and memorable the original Demon Headmaster series was and when we heard that Gillian Cross had created an updated version we thought it was too wonderful a creative opportunity to miss.
“We’re sure that the fierce battle between the plucky pupils and our manipulative new Demon Head – Nicholas Gleaves – will prove just as hypnotic for all CBBC drama fans.”
The Demon Headmaster is produced for CBBC by Children’s In House Productions and Spencer Campbell is the Executive Producer.
