The original Blippi actor, Stevin John, has not been replaced. Rather another actor named Clayton Grimm was added on to occasionally portray Blippi.
John created the Blippi series and uploaded its debut episode on YouTube back in 2014 before teaming up with Moonbug Entertainment in 2020.
Both John and Grimm interchangeably bring the beloved children’s show character to life on screens, and while they are doing a good job, some parents still continue to voice out their displeasure over the change.
Stevin John will continue to portray the original Blippi persona across different channels and forms of media. However, a new Blippi has been introduced for a YouTube series; it is crucial to note that this addition does not entail the replacement of the original Blippi.
Why Did Stevin John Step Back from Playing Blippi?
Fans noticed that Clayton Grimm took the place of Blippi creator Stevin John in 2021. The reason? Stevin stepped away from the role as he prepared for fatherhood, welcoming his son Lochlan in March 2022 with fiancée Alyssa Ingham.
What Happened To The Original Blippi?
Stevin John still plays the role of the Blippi on different platforms and media outlets, while Clayton Grimm has recently joined the Blippi team to appear in a new YouTube series as an additional performer embodying the character.
For several years after creating Blippi, Stevin John was the only one that portrayed the character both on YouTube and TV. However, in May 2021, the network airing the TV program, Moonbug, announced that the original Blippi actor won’t be the only one playing the role and that a new Blippi actor would be added.
The new Blippi actor, Clayton Grimm has some experience as he previously played the role in a live theatrical production of Blippi in 2019. Despite this possession of requisite experience, the unveiling of the new Blippi caused a small storm on social media. Someone wondered whether the real Blippi can stand up, while another wrote that their three-year-old immediately figured out that Clayton was not Blippi.
Why Was Stevin John Replaced?
Stevin John has not been replaced as Blippi, rather, another actor has been brought on that would occasionally take his place. In the statement released by Moonbug following the backlash that greeted the original announcement, they made it clear that Stevin will continue to play Blippi while a new Blippi will be added to perform on the new YouTube show.
Many have pointed out that this is a good development as it means that kids can expect more Blippi content than they are used to getting. They also view it as a teachable moment that parents can use to inculcate in their children that change is a constant thing in life and isn’t necessarily a bad thing.
Some people have, however, criticized Moonbug for how they handled the whole thing. They feel they should have been very vocal about the changes from day one rather than trying to sneak it past the kids, perhaps believing that they are gullible. They have also pointed out that having two Blippis can be confusing.
Did Stevin John Sell Blippi?
Stevin John sold Blippi to Moonbug Network in 2020 in a deal valued at $120 million, Candle Media later acquired Moonbug in an even bigger deal valued at $3 billion.
Moonbug is an entertainment company that is focused on providing content for kids. It was founded in 2018 and has since become a multi-million dollar company. One of their strategies is buying up premium kids’ content on YouTube and scaling it. Aside from Blippi, they have also purchased the popular Cocomelon brand.
Stevin John reached a deal with Moonbug for Blippi in 2020, the network is now the primary owner of the show. There is, however, a chance that Stevin John didn’t sell all his stake in Blippi but retained a small percentage. There is also the possibility that he negotiated to retain creative control as well as to continue being the lead star of the project on the screen.
What is Blippi All About?
Blippi is a children’s educational program that started on YouTube in 2014 and has since expanded to major TV networks such as Moonbug and streaming platforms. The titular character is an energetic and bubbly young man who wears bright orange and blue outfits whilst teaching and entertaining kids.
There are often trips to different places, such as zoos and theme parks, and Blippi offers lessons to the kids about each place. Blippi was created by American YouTuber named Stevin John, who was motivated by the need to create high-quality YouTube videos for his nephew and other kids. The show has been a major success and has spurned live theatrical productions, merch lines, toys, etc.
Expanding the Blippi Universe:
Blippi’s adventures now extend beyond the original show. Blippi Wonders, an animated series, features new explorations, while Blippi The Musical brings the beloved character to life on stage, with various performers embodying Blippi for live audiences.
Blippi continues to captivate kids with simple explanations of the world around them, from sandcastles to farmhouses, encouraging curiosity and learning through songs, dances, and adventures.