A CBEEBIES legend who left “an indelible mark on the industry” will be “deeply missed” after sadly passing away aged just 63.
Kay Benbow was lovingly known as the Queen of Beebies and dedicated 35 years of passion into producing children’s entertainment.
Stuart Rowson, a former BBC Children’s colleague who now runs Lucky Socks Media, wrote: “Kay was a legendary leader of CBeebies and affectionately known as the Queen of Beebies by some of those still within BBC Children’s, several years after her departure.”
Kay was a former CBeebies controller and worked tirelessly for the BBC for 30 years.
She successfully held the position from 2010 until the end of 2017.
During her time there, the network won Bafta Children’s Channel of the Year five times.
After leaving her role at the BBC, due to the post of Controller being closed, Kay became a children’s media content specialist.
At the time she said she would: “Leave with pride, knowing that CBeebies is in great shape, is loved by the audience and will go from strength to strength.
She was pivotal in taking CBeebies programmes into new and original areas, never afraid to stretch preschool minds into unthought-of territory – such as ballet, Shakespeare, mathematics, science and the joys of the annual live Christmas show.”
BBC statement
“I have always said that the very young deserve the very best and I have strived to give them just that.
“It is my hope that CBeebies inspires them and makes a positive impact on their lives, helping to create happy, confident children”
In her new position, Kay collaborated on shows including the popular Roots & Fruits for CBeebies, and The World According to Grandpa for Paramount-owned Channel 5’s Milkshake.
The Queen of Beebies was awarded an honorary doctorate from The University of Sheffield for services to children’s broadcasting in 2017.
Emotional tributes have poured in since her death.
Executive producer Michael Carrington, who preceded Benbow as controller of CBeebies posted: “During my tenure as controller of CBeebies at the BBC, Kay served as head of production, and I had the privilege of witnessing her exceptional talent, dedication and warmth first-hand.
“Her passion for children’s programming was evident in every project she undertook, leaving an indelible mark on the industry and audiences.
“Beyond her professional accomplishments, Kay’s kindness and unwavering support left a lasting impression on me.
“Her leadership and guidance were invaluable, and her presence will be sorely missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.”
‘PIVOTAL’
A statement from the BBC said: “Everyone in the BBC Children’s & Education department is incredibly sad to hear the news that Kay Benbow has passed away. Our most sincere condolences go to Kay’s husband, Ian, their sons and to the wider family.
“As the controller of CBeebies, Kay was known across the whole kids’ media sector for her passion and commitment to providing young children with the very best content.
“She was pivotal in taking CBeebies programmes into new and original areas, never afraid to stretch preschool minds into unthought-of territory – such as ballet, Shakespeare, mathematics, science and the joys of the annual live Christmas show.
“Kay will be deeply missed by a huge number of current and previous BBC colleagues, a testimony to the many lives she touched in addition to her service to the audience.
“She was an extraordinary person and did so much for CBeebies and young children across the UK.”
Alison Hume posted: “Kay Benbow was an absolute titan of CBeebies & it was never the same after she left as part of one of the infamous BBC restructurings. My condolences to Kay’s friends & family following the announcement of her death.”
Kay leaves behind her husband of 31-years, Ian Stubbs, and their two sons.
STELLAR CAREER
The CBeebies legend started her long-lasting career with the BBC in 1988, working for BBC Children’s.
She then transferred to CBeebies in 2002 and because the second controller of the channel in May 2010.
Then, in October 2014, Kay landed the role of Acting Director of BBC Children’s.
While she worked for CBeebies, they won the BAFTA Children’s Award for Channel of the Year in 2010, 2011, 2013 and 2016.
