A heartwarming animated special is set to grace BBC One screens this Christmas Day, bringing a beloved children's tale to life. The Scarecrows' Wedding, a half-hour adaptation of Julia Donaldson's popular book, will air on 25 December 2025, offering festive family entertainment.
A Festive Tale of Romance and Rescue
The story follows two devoted scarecrows, Betty O’Barley and Harry O’Hay, as they plan their perfect wedding. Their preparations are thrown into chaos when Harry leaves the farm to find one last item for their big day. In his absence, the smooth-talking scarecrow Reginald Rake arrives with his own schemes, putting Betty in danger and risking everything. The narrative builds to a suspenseful climax, leaving viewers to wonder if Harry can return in time to save his beloved and their wedding.
The Star-Studded Voice Cast
The magic of this adaptation is brought to life by a celebrated cast of actors, lending their voices to the charming characters.
Betty O'Barley is voiced by Irish actress Jessie Buckley. The BAFTA-winning performer first came to public attention on the BBC talent show I'd Do Anything. She has since starred in major dramas like War and Peace and Taboo, earning a BAFTA nomination for her role in Wild Rose. Buckley, who hails from Killarney, County Kerry, will next be seen in the 2026 film Hamnet alongside Paul Mescal. She maintains a private personal life but is known to be married to a man named Freddie, with the couple welcoming a child earlier this year.
Harry O'Hay is voiced by fellow Irish actor Domhnall Gleeson. The son of acting legend Brendan Gleeson, Domhnall is widely recognised for playing Bill Weasley in the Harry Potter films and General Hux in the Star Wars sequel trilogy. His other notable credits include Brooklyn, Anna Karenina, and the lead role in The Office spin-off, The Paper. He is married to Juliette Bonass, whom he met during his college years.
Supporting Narration and Villainy
The story is narrated by the acclaimed Sophie Okonedo. The British actress, who has received both BAFTA and Oscar nominations, has an impressive career spanning film and television. Her roles include The Secret Life of Bees, Wild Rose, and series such as Ratched and Criminal Justice. Okonedo has a daughter from a previous relationship and is now married to Jamie Chalmers, becoming stepmother to his two children.
The villainous Reginald Rake is voiced by Welsh comedy favourite Rob Brydon. The 60-year-old from Swansea is best loved for his role as Uncle Bryn in Gavin & Stacey and as a presenter on Would I Lie to You? His film work includes appearances in Barbie and Cinderella. Brydon is married to Clare Holland, with whom he has two sons; he also has three children from a previous marriage.
This enchanting BBC Christmas animation promises to be a highlight of the day's television schedule, combining a timeless story with a first-class vocal performance from its stellar cast.
