Happy 50th birthday Aardman!

50 Years of Clay (image: Aardman)

Aardman fans around the world took time out on 4th September 2026 to wish a Happy Big Birthday to Bristol’s iconic, multi-Academy Award® and BAFTA® award winning studio, as the company marked its official half century of operations.

Co-founded in Bristol in 1976 by Peter Lord and David Sproxton (both of whom received knighthoods in the King’s 2026 Birthday Honours), the independent studio’s work includes the creation of much-loved characters including Wallace & Gromit, Shaun the Sheep, Timmy Time and Morph. and is unrivalled in the animation field, producing a rare brand of visually stunning, comedic content for cinema, broadcasters, digital platforms and live experiences around the world.

Renowned for their uniquely entertaining and brilliantly characterised characters, Aardman continue to inspire generations with its distinctive stop-motion style and storytelling brilliance, and their 50th turn around the sun has been no exception.

A packed roaster of events and celebrations have been taking place throughout the year to highlight their craft and legacy – including right here in Bristol UNESCO City of Film, the ‘Cracking Exhibition Gromit: 50 Years of Aardman in Bristol‘ delivered in partnership with Bristol Museums throughout Summer 2026. Almost 33,000 visitors stepped through the doors of MShed between June and September to celebrate the creative studios’ deep-rooted connection to its hometown.

Other anniversary celebrations across the UK have included: Young V&A exhibition ‘Inside Aardman: Wallace & Gromit and Friends‘, unpacking the making of some of the best loved characters of all time to young audiences; the launch of a special edition Royal Mint collectable 50p coin celebrating 50 years of Aardman; epic social media tournament The Clay Offs where 50 of the studio’s most beloved characters battle it out for the title of Ultimate Aardman Champion (winners revealed on 30th October!); London’s Lightroom 360° immersive experience ‘Larger Than Life: Starring Wallace & Gromit, Shaun and More‘ inviting audiences to step directly into Aardman characters’ anarchic, joyful worlds; not to mention prepping for the launch of the very first Wallace and Gromit LEGO set (available in stores 1st October) and the release of ‘Grand’, Gromit’s first ever autobiography (in all good bookshops 22nd October)!

No major anniversary year would be complete without a blockbuster release, and highly anticipated new feature Shaun the Sheep: The Beast of Mossy Bottom certainly delivered, released in cinemas on 17th September to widespread critical acclaim and gaining a near-perfect 99% score on Rotten Tomatoes!

On 24th September 2026, Aardman partnered with Propstore to host a massive live auction of more than 220 original stop-motion puppets and pieces—including original models of Wallace, Gromit, Shaun the Sheep, and Feathers McGraw. Proceeds from the props that went under the hammer will be invested in talent development initiatives across Aardman, including bursaries at the world-class training facility, the Aardman Academy, skills development programmes, and opportunities for emerging filmmakers, helping to broaden access to careers in animation and nurture the next generation of creative talent.

In a special message, Managing Director Sean Clarke said: “This anniversary is first and foremost a tribute to Sir Peter Lord and Sir David Sproxton. Their vision, courage and unwavering commitment to independent creativity has been the foundation for everything that’s followed since 1976. They’ve also inspired generations of artists and filmmakers and helped shape the UK animation industry we see today.

“It is also a moment to celebrate the thousands of people, past and present, who have been part of the Aardman story.From animators, model makers, writers, and directors, to producers, technicians, craftspeople and business and operational teams. Their talent, dedication and imagination have brought unforgettable characters and stories to life, touching audiences across the globe and creating a legacy far greater than any one film, series, or achievement.

“Over fifty years, Aardman has grown from a small independent studio into a global multi award winning creative business, including 4 Academy Awards and 18 BAFTAs across films, television programmes, games, digital content, attractions, and experiences enjoyed by millions around the world. Yet our greatest achievement is not measured in awards, box office success, or international recognition. It is the affection millions of people feel for our work, the memories our stories have created for families across generations, and the enduring belief that creativity, humour, and humanity can transcend borders, cultures, and languages.

“We are proud of our Bristol roots, proud of our independence, and proud to be employee owned. Most of all, we are proud of the people who continue to make Aardman what it is today. To everyone who has helped shape our story over the last fifty years, our employees past and present, partners, broadcasters, distributors, licensees, clients, collaborators, supporters, and of course our audiences across the world, thank you. This milestone belongs to all of you.

“As we celebrate our past, we do so with excitement for the future. The next chapter of Aardman will continue to be built on the same values that have guided us for fifty years: creativity, innovation, craftsmanship and funny storytelling with heart. Here’s to the first fifty years, and to the stories still to be told.”

Here’s co-founder and Creative Director Sir Peter Lord talking about how the Aardman journey began: