If we're honest, a hug from Tom Hardy as always featured highly on our bucket list. But now that we're at home amid a global pandemic that rules out human contact, the idea of the husky-voiced actor giving us a cuddle is almost too much to handle. Evidently, CBeebies knows how we feel. Tonight, the children's channel kicks off Tom Hardy Week, giving us a nightly opportunity to be read to bed by one of the most gorgeous and talented individuals in British television.
Tonight's story is Simone Ciraolo's Hug Me, and a teaser has been released that sees Tom introduce himself and subtly acknowledge our current situation.
‘Hello. I’m Tom,’ he begins. ‘Sometimes, on a day like this, I feel strong and happy. But on other days, I just need somebody to give me a hug. Tonight’s bedtime story is all about a little cactus called Felipe, who just wants a hug too.’
Tom first appeared on CBeebies in 2016, and his episodes have been requested more than a million times on iPlayer. These new contributions will run every night until Friday. Tune in for the other books, Under the Same Sky by Robert Vescio and Nicky Johnston, There’s a Tiger in the Garden by Lizzy Stewart, Don’t Worry, Little Crab by Chris Haughton, and The Problem with Problems by Rachel Rooney and Zehra Hicks.
The programme is, ostensibly, for children, but Tom's gentle magnetism has made him a hit with parents, too. One adult fan has summarised the thoughts of many, writing: 'Can I just say a huge thank you for getting Tom Hardy to do more stories. You have just made most mums' lockdown. Well you have mine anyway.'
Is it ok to watch if you don't have children? Asking for... a friend.
CBeebies' Bedtime Stories airs at 6.50, and is available on BBC iPlayer
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