Friday, 3 January 2025

Dani Harmer Returns to The Dumping Ground for a Special Cameo and Directorial Debut

Image: BBC Press

By Jon Donnis
This January, fans of The Dumping Ground are in for a treat as Dani Harmer makes a long-awaited return to the show, both on-screen and behind the camera. The beloved actress, best known for her portrayal of the iconic Tracy Beaker, will make a cameo appearance in the upcoming series, as well as direct her very own episode in a groundbreaking new role.
Set to launch on CBBC and BBC iPlayer on Friday, 17th January, Season 13 of The Dumping Ground promises to deliver all the drama and fun viewers have come to expect. However, this series comes with an extra dose of nostalgia, as Harmer returns to her roots, stepping back into the shoes of the unforgettable Tracy Beaker. For over 20 years, Dani has brought the character to life, and this special appearance marks another chapter in the character's ongoing journey in the care system.
Dani's connection to Tracy Beaker is undeniable, and her passion for the role shines through as she reflects on her return. "It is so good to be back and making a cameo as Tracy – she's been a part of my life for over 20 years now – but I'd quite happily play her forever!" she shares. "This series of The Dumping Ground will not disappoint. We've got some fantastic storylines and some incredibly talented actors joining the cast. The team do such an amazing job nurturing them and they have really supported me behind the camera too. It's such a special production to be working on."
In addition to her acting appearance, Dani is taking on a new challenge as a director. Having honed her skills in front of the camera for years, she embraced the opportunity to direct an episode of The Dumping Ground. "It was very different being sat in the director's chair, but I enjoyed every single second of it… it felt like that was where I was meant to be!" she admits. This marks a significant milestone in her career as she steps into a new creative role, showcasing her versatility and commitment to the show.
The Dumping Ground continues to follow the lives of a diverse group of young people in a children's home, offering an honest and often poignant look at the challenges they face. The series builds on the legacy of The Story of Tracy Beaker, Tracy Beaker Returns, My Mum Tracy Beaker, and The Beaker Girls. Known for its blend of emotional storylines and anarchic moments, the show has captured the hearts of viewers, offering a rich exploration of life in care.
The new season of The Dumping Ground promises to deliver on all fronts, with both lighthearted moments and impactful drama, while Dani's involvement in front of and behind the camera adds an exciting layer of depth. With her return to the role of Tracy Beaker and her directorial debut, this season is shaping up to be one of the most memorable yet.
Fans can look forward to seeing Dani's return as Tracy, as well as the exciting new directions the series will take, when The Dumping Ground premieres on CBBC and BBC iPlayer on January 17.

No comments:

Post a Comment