Wallace and Gromit creator Nick Park has revealed a surprising secret: Gromit was nearly a cat. This fascinating insight emerges as Aardman Animations celebrates its 50th anniversary. Park, who joined the studio in 1985, shared details about the beloved character’s surprising genesis, confirming that Gromit was nearly a cat.
He initially envisioned an English inventor with a pet. Park considered a cat for Wallace’s companion. However, modelling a feline proved “very difficult” for him. Therefore, he decided to create a dog instead, leading to the iconic Gromit.
Aardman’s managing director, Sean Clarke, also shared other intriguing facts. He disclosed that Shaun the Sheep almost spoke in its popular spin-off series. This silent comedy has become another significant success for the studio.
Wallace and Gromit specials are deeply ingrained in British culture. They have earned numerous Oscar and Bafta awards over the years. The studio also boasts hits like “Chicken Run,” the highest-grossing stop-motion film ever. Other celebrated productions include “Early Man” and “Flushed Away.”
A recent triumph, “Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl,” became one of the BBC’s most-watched scripted shows in two decades after its Christmas 2024 airing. Aardman itself began in Bristol in 1976. Founders Peter Lord and David Sproxton introduced the much-loved British children’s character, Morph, at that time.
The 50th anniversary is marked by several special exhibitions. These include displays at M Shed in Bristol and the Young V&A in east London. The Royal Mint even released a collectible 50p coin to commemorate the milestone. The Bristol exhibition, running until September 13, details Aardman’s journey from humble beginnings to global recognition.
More than 150 items are on view at the Young V&A in Bethnal Green. Visitors can see never-before-seen models, sets, and storyboards from the studio’s extensive archives. This includes Gromit’s meticulously crafted vegetable patch and a detailed ship from “The Pirates! In an Adventure with Scientists!”
Original Aardman models are also being auctioned for charity. This special anniversary sale features more than 220 lots, with bids starting at £100. Iconic characters like Wallace, Gromit, Shaun the Sheep, and Morph are available. The villain Feathers McGraw and a Shaun puppet from “Shaun the Sheep: The Beast of Mossy Bottom” are also included.
Ngaio Harding-Hill, Aardman’s director of attractions and archive, called it an “unprecedented opportunity.” She noted the collection’s careful curation by creative talent. Moreover, it features an original Nick Park sketch, connecting directly with fans.
Bidding for these unique pieces commences on September 4 and concludes on September 24. A live event will accommodate online, absentee, and telephone bids globally. Proceeds from this significant auction will fund Aardman’s talent development initiatives. This includes bursaries for its Aardman Academy training facility and support for emerging filmmakers.
