The original creator of the popular children's television program Balamory, Brian Jameson, has revealed behind-the-scenes details of the show's production and his contentious relationship with the BBC in his new book, "What's the Story."
Jameson, an actor-turned-producer, described how some scenes for the show were filmed in a disused morgue in Glasgow. He also recounted an audition for the role of Miss Hoolie, the show's central character, where the actress, who was Jameson's wife, audaciously replaced the word 'diamonds' with a sex toy in her rendition of "Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend."
The book traces Jameson's childhood inspirations, drawing from his holidays in the Western Isles, which heavily influenced the creation of the community-based children's soap opera. The show, which first aired more than 20 years ago, was commissioned by the BBC under the working title "Applecross" and was eventually filmed in Tobermory on the Isle of Mull.
Jameson expressed frustration that he was not offered residuals or royalties for his creation, receiving an ultimatum to accept the terms or decline the project. Despite these initial hurdles, Balamory became a significant success, broadcast internationally in countries such as Australia, Hong Kong, and South Africa.
Production Challenges and Local Reception
Filming on the Isle of Mull presented logistical challenges, including reliance on ferry services and favorable weather conditions. The production crew also faced a less-than-welcoming reception from some locals in Tobermory, with one landlord reportedly becoming violent when Jameson attempted to contact the outside world. However, the town eventually warmed to the production, with ferry sailings increasing and a tourist trail based on the show's locations being established.
The success of Balamory led to increased public attention, with crowds gathering at filming sessions and fans, particularly young children, seeking out the characters' homes. This popularity also brought its own set of challenges, including the impact on local businesses and residents.
Ownership Disputes and Revival Exclusion
Following the original run of 250 episodes across four seasons, Jameson's ownership of the program remained a point of contention. Despite an acknowledgment from the BBC that mistakes had been made regarding his creative input, plans for a fifth series did not materialize. Jameson pursued legal advice, which indicated a strong chance of winning ownership, but the escalating costs and psychological toll led him to abandon a court case.
More recently, Jameson learned that Balamory was being revamped for a 2026 return, but he was informed he would not have a say in its development. His production company, Tattiemoon, bid to produce the new series, with Jameson envisioning the return of original characters alongside new ones. However, the commission was awarded to Lion TV, a company Jameson noted lacked prior experience in preschool television.
Jameson expressed dismay at the direction of the revival, stating that the new production had halved the regular cast, removed key elements such as the emphasis on island life and continuous storytelling, and lost the show's original warmth and appeal across different age groups. He likened the pitching process for the revival to the Hatton Garden Heist, suggesting his creation was being devalued.
In response to the concerns, a BBC spokesman stated that Brian's contribution to the original series has been recognized with a production credit in the new series, which reads: "Created by Brian Jameson at BBC Scotland."
Jameson's book, "What's the Story," is published by Mad Alice and is available from September 2. The first episode of the new Balamory series reportedly garnered 1.5 million viewers in its first 28 days, making it the biggest new CBeebies episode of 2026.