Media Opportunity | New BBC Series — Be My Friend

The award-winning makers of Channel 4’s The Dog House are casting for a brand-new BBC series about childhood friendship — and they’re looking for children aged 5 to 8.

(Shared for awareness. Please carry out your own research.)

About this opportunity

The award-winning team behind Channel 4’s beloved series The Dog House — made by Five Mile Films — are now casting for an exciting new BBC series all about childhood friendship.

They’re looking for children aged 5 to 8 from across the UK who are finding it hard to make friends. Perhaps your child is shy, finds social situations overwhelming, feels more comfortable at home, or is funny and full of personality with family but struggles to show that side of themselves around other children.

Many children are navigating real friendship challenges — from the lingering social effects of Covid, to the impact of screens and modern childhood. This series aims to understand and support that with warmth, sensitivity, and expert guidance.

What’s involved?

On the show, child psychologists will work with children to gently build confidence and social skills across three half-days. Children will then be sensitively matched for a play date with a potential new friend from their local area.

The whole process is led by experts who understand children, and the production team are experienced in creating warm, supportive filming environments where children feel safe and relaxed — never pressured.

There is no pressure to take part — applying is simply expressing an interest, and families can step back at any point.

Is this right for your child?

This could be a wonderful opportunity if your child:

✦ Finds it hard to make or keep friendships

✦ Feels shy or anxious around other children

✦ Gets overwhelmed in social situations

✦ Prefers screens over social interaction

✦ Is brilliant and funny at home but quieter around other kids

✦ Is aged between 5 and 8 years old

Filming takes place in July and August 2026 at locations across the UK.

Apply at bemyfriend.tv