Hacker T. Dog

Hacker was introduced as a character in the CBBC television programme Scoop, performed by Andy Heath. The character became popular, and began to appear as a weekday presenter at the CBBC office in May 2009, with the puppetry and voice now being performed by Phil Fletcher. His "half-brother" Dodge T. Dog joined the following year. In July, he began presenting on weekdays with Scottish comedian Iain Stirling.[6] He presented with Stirling until his departure in 2013, when they began presenting with Chris Johnson.[7]

In 2011, Hacker was given a solo presenting role on a separate chat show titled Hacker Time.[8]

The character took a hiatus from CBBC in April 2014. During his absence, numerous guest presenters filled in for him during his usual weekday afternoon slot. Hacker returned temporarily on 24 May 2014, before making a permanent return on 18 June 2014.

Hacker is very fond of TV presenter Sue Barker and mentions her often.[9][10] In 2009 Hacker was the mascot for the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Championship.[11][12][13][14]

Hacker is known for saying ‘cockers’ - a Northern term for ‘mate’.[15]

Hacker, Barry Davies and Amberley Lobo provided CBBC commentary on the Russia v Belgium match at the 2014 FIFA World Cup.

Hacker appeared on an episode of Celebrity Mastermind in January 2018, his specialist subject being the Pet Shop Boys. He came in second place, losing to TV chef Paul Rankin.[16]

A Hacker T. Dog plush puppet was released in 2015 and made by Kidz Kreations, and sold in Argos and The Entertainer.

Hacker gained an official Twitter account in 2014, which as of March 2021 has over 42 thousand followers. An Instagram account was eventually created in April 2019, followed by an official YouTube channel. These social media channels are run by both Phil Fletcher and the BBC social media team.

The character has appeared in the following roles:

• Hacker Time
• Andy Heath (puppeteer)
• Warrick Brownlow-Pike
• Sue Barker
• List of CBBC presenters