‘We need representation because we are people too’: BBC makes history with first ever kids’ presenter with Down’s Syndrome as George Webster, 21, makes his CBeebies debut
- Following his appearance in the CBeebies house, the Leeds-born host spoke of his joy at making his history-making debut on Monday’s show
- Speaking to the Guardian , George said: ‘I just felt really positive and excited and happy to get going. I think there needs to be a lot more representation’
- George first appeared on the channel to make a video busting the myths surrounding Down’s Syndrome, before he was recruited as a presenter
- George’s mother told the publication: ‘I was blubbing one minute and smiling the next. I just love his work ethic and his positivity’
BBC bosses have made history by employing the first ever kids’ TV presenter with Down’s Syndrome, after George Webster, 21, made his debut on Monday.
Following his appearance in the CBeebies house, the Leeds-born host spoke of his joy at making his debut but also insisted there is still a desperate need for more representation of disabled people on television.
Speaking to the Guardian, George said: ‘I just felt really positive and excited and happy to get going. I think there needs to be a lot more representation because we are people too. Even though we are different we need to be treated equally.’
Proud: BBC bosses have made history by employing the first ever kids’ TV presenter with Down’s Syndrome, after George Webster, 21, made his debut on Monday
George first appeared on the channel to make a video busting the myths surrounding Down’s Syndrome, before he was recruited as a presenter.
While he was initially pegged to star as a guest host, his appearance was so popular that fans called for him to be taken on full-time.
CBeebies producer Claire Taylor also spoke to the paper, saying: ‘We originally agreed for George to be a guest presenter just to ease him in and introduce him to the CBeebies family…
‘But actually, I think rapidly we’re already looking at a Friday every other week, aren’t we, George? And then I’m sure that it will come to a weekly slot, if not more.’
Hi I’m George! Following his appearance in the CBeebies house, the Leeds-born host spoke of his joy at making his debut but also insisted there is still a desperate need for more representation of disabled people on television
Happy days: George’s mother told the publication: ‘I was blubbing one minute and smiling the next. I just love his work ethic and his positivity. We always say George’s days are all 10 out of 10 because he makes them like that’
George’s mother told the publication: ‘I was blubbing one minute and smiling the next. I just love his work ethic and his positivity. We always say George’s days are all 10 out of 10 because he makes them like that.’
His appearance was met with widespread praise on Twitter, with viewers’ parents lauding the recruitment and George’s debut.
Users penned: ‘You know George Webster is a special person when even he’s being praised by the legend of British children’s TV himself…
Happy days: Speaking to the Guardian , George said: ‘I just felt really positive and excited and happy to get going. I think there needs to be a lot more representation because we are people too. Even though we are different we need to be treated equally’
‘Massive congrats to George Webster on his new gig and enormous respect to CBeebies for hiring him – it’s a huge step for representation…
‘So happy to see this. Good luck George! Not that you’ll need it, you’re brilliant… Welcome George, great job this morning. Your smile and enthusiasm is so infectious and we Sparkling heart smoothies here too, great addition to the team…
‘@CBeebiesHQ great example of equality in the workplace #inclusion’.
Happy: The CBeebies Twitter page shared a video of the moment George was told of his job
He was scouted for the role through his work as a Mencap ambassador.
The official Mencap Twitter page shared a tweet congratulating George on his news, with the message reading: ‘We are so excited to see our fantastic ambassador George Webster become a presenter…
‘Congratulations, George from everyone here at Mencap! You are a brilliant role model so it is great you will have the chance to introduce yourself to so many people.’
Sweet: His appearance was met with widespread praise on Twitter, with viewers’ parents lauding the recruitment and George’s debut
In his myth-busting video about Down’s Syndrome, George said: ‘I call myself George because that’s who I am. Not Down’s George. People with Down’s are not always happy…
‘People with Down’s syndrome have emotions and feelings like every other person. Nor do they ‘suffer’ from the condition. I have an amazing life…
‘It’s been very positive. I loved going to school. I went to two local amazing schools. I had support at both schools, which helped me in my education. I got GCSEs and an A-level equivalent in BTec sport, level 3.’
Happy days: The official Mencap Twitter page shared a tweet congratulating George on his news, with the message reading: ‘We are so excited to see our fantastic ambassador George Webster become a presenter’
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