Michael Carrington, the executive who championed the global children’s phenomenon Bluey, has announced his retirement. He has had a remarkable career spanning over thirty years and is known as one of the most knowledgeable leaders in the industry. His influence reshaped children’s programming in Australia and internationally.
The news comes after BBC Studios and The Walt Disney Company announced the first-ever animated feature film for Bluey, the Emmy and BAFTA Award-winning animated series.
From Australia to the world
Carrington’s career began in the early 1990s at Australia’s Network Ten. In 1993, he joined CBBC in the UK as a producer, where his talent for connecting with young audiences quickly propelled him into leadership roles. By the late 1990s, Carrington was spearheading innovation as the head of Lego’s TV and New Media department.
Returning to the BBC in 2004, he took on an acquisitions role before becoming the first creative director and controller of CBeebies in 2007. During his tenure, he commissioned beloved preschool staples such as In the Night Garden and Charlie & Lola.
Global adventures and popular creations
In 2010, Carrington joined Turner as chief content officer for Cartoon Network EMEA. There, he executive produced shows like The Amazing World of Gumball and founded Cartoon Network Studios Arabia, expanding the network’s creative footprint.
His next move brought him to Hit Entertainment, the home of Thomas & Friends, before taking on the role of CEO at Zodiak Kids Studios, now part of Banijay.
The Bluey legacy
Carrington’s defining moment came when he returned to Australia in 2016 to lead the ABC’s Children’s and Education department. At an industry pitch, he spotted potential in an early-stage pilot about a lovable family of blue heeler dogs. With his support, Bluey received development funding and a full season commission, setting the stage for its meteoric rise.
The series, co-produced with BBC Studios and later acquired by Disney+ internationally, became a cultural phenomenon. In the U.S., it has spent over two years on Nielsen’s most-streamed charts, cementing its status as a global juggernaut.
A broadcaster’s legacy
Promoted to head of programming at the ABC, Carrington expanded his leadership to oversee all TV channels and ABC iView. Under his guidance, the pubcaster commissioned hit shows like The Newsreader and navigated the early challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Carrington left the ABC in 2023 to establish his own independent production company, which has now closed as he steps into retirement.
Reflecting on his career, Carrington shared his gratitude on LinkedIn:
“The world of television has given me more than I could have ever imagined. I’ve had the privilege to work with incredibly talented people and help create content that has brought joy, education, and wonder to countless families. As I step away, I’m filled with pride knowing that the values of creativity, diversity, and inclusion that have guided me will continue to inspire the next generation of storytellers.”