**Monkey Makes a Triumphant Return — With a Family in Tow**
After a lengthy absence from British television, the beloved PG Tips mascot, Monkey, is set to grace our screens once more in a fresh advertising campaign that takes inspiration from the ever-popular world of reality television. The new series of adverts, under the banner “At Home with Monkey,” will give audiences a unique glimpse into Monkey’s latest chapter: married life with two energetic children.
First introduced to viewers back in 2001, Monkey quickly became a household name, renowned for his cheeky wit and memorable companionship with comedian Johnny Vegas. Now, in a modern twist, Monkey is returning not only as a family man but as the star of his very own fictional reality show, chronicling the daily joys and struggles of home life. The inaugural ad will air on Friday, 9 May, on UK screens, marking the start of what PG Tips hopes will be a new era for its iconic knitted mascot.
Adding a new dimension to Monkey’s story, the campaign introduces viewers to his wife, Mrs. M, portrayed by actress and comedian Emily Atack. The couple’s dynamic, filled with playful banter and classic domestic mishaps, forms the heart of the show. Their children, named Earl and Chai — a fitting nod to popular tea varieties — bring additional mischief and warmth into the home, ensuring that there’s never a dull moment.
Monkey’s new voice is provided by stand-up comic Ivo Graham, who takes over from predecessors and infuses the character with fresh comedic energy. Speaking in typical tongue-in-cheek fashion about his return, Monkey quipped, “That’s right, I’m back! Spilling the tea on life with Alice… Mrs M, if we’re being posh. We’ve tied the knot and flung open the doors — and the biscuit tin — to let everyone in.” He continued with his trademark humour, reflecting on domestic chaos, marriage, and the essential comfort provided by a classic cup of tea: “Because married life’s a bit like a teabag: you don’t know how strong it is until it’s in hot water. But no matter what’s brewing, there’s always a PG to bring us back together.”
Emily Atack, who brings Mrs. M to life, expressed her excitement for the project: “It’s not every day you get to work with a true British staple. Filming as Monkey’s other half was both hilarious and genuinely heartwarming. Their relationship is full of relatable ups and downs — I think couples up and down the country will see themselves in them. I’m thrilled for viewers to see what we’ve created.”
The campaign, orchestrated by Lipton Teas and Infusions, aims to blend laughs with the gentle anarchy of family life, all united by the common thread of a good brew. Elle Barker, the company’s chief marketing officer for the UK and Ireland, remarked, “Monkey is an icon, cherished by the public. We’ve missed him, and so have our customers! This new series really gets to the heart of modern family living, showing just how much a simple cup of tea is part of daily life in Britain.”
“At Home with Monkey” marks a significant innovation for PG Tips, reflecting the evolving tastes of its audience, who are now just as likely to tune in for a reality TV fix as they are for their favourite brand’s classic adverts. Viewers keen to catch the first episode can do so from 9 May, while exclusive behind-the-scenes content will be available on the PG Tips social media channels.
The anticipation surrounding Monkey’s return says much about the enduring British affection for quirky ad mascots that capture the public’s imagination. While some may be tuning in for nostalgia, others will be eager to discover how the slightly chaotic and ever-charming Monkey copes with the everyday realities of hearth and home.
It’s worth noting that such high-profile advertising revivals demonstrate the shifting landscape of brand promotion — where long-running characters are revitalised to appeal to new, diverse audiences. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to Monkey’s world, the new campaign looks set to deliver a blend of comedy, warmth, and plenty of tea-related escapades that reflect the spirit of contemporary British families.
For all the latest updates, audiences can follow the PG Tips accounts across social media and, of course, catch “At Home with Monkey” as it debuts on television this May.