TikTok star becomes new Blue Peter presenter

A 22-year-old who built up a large TikTok following during the coronavirus pandemic has joined Blue Peter as the show’s 43rd presenter.

Shini Muthukrishnan, from Stafford, will go live for her first show on CBBC at 17:00 GMT on Friday.

She will co-host the world’s longest-running children’s TV programme alongside Abby Cook, Joel Mawhinney and Henry the dog.

Blue Peter will be the first TV presenting role for Ms Muthukrishnan whose lockdown videos celebrated her British, Indian and Malaysian heritage.

Ms Muthukrishnan, who played badminton for Staffordshire county, recently graduated from King's College London where she studied philosophy, politics and economics.

She said: “Being part of the Blue Peter team is such a surreal and exciting feeling.

“I have really fond memories of Blue Peter. 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'.”

Blue Peter editor Ellen Evans said she was excited for the show’s audience to meet the new presenter.

She said: “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.”

The programme’s producers have revealed that Ms Muthukrishnan’s first challenge will involve taking part in aircraft aerobatics.

In her first live show, she will also be attempting to bathe Henry the dog and cook up a tasty treat.

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