In between series 8 and 9, the BBC are airing a collection of specials. Produced under coronavirus restrictions, these consist of both animated sketches and green-screen performances from some of the cast. They are also 15 minute episodes, almost half the length of the regular live-action series, and without host Rattus Rattus for the first time.

The only exception to the shortened length is the Black British History Animated Special, which is a full 30 minutes. The episodes Ira Aldridge song was also filmed pre-pandemic.

One more special is expected to air later this year, and a regular ninth series is currently in the works.