How to watch Paddington films on TV: when will bear movies air on BBC for the Queen’s funeral bank holiday?

The BBC will air both Paddington films in a “special broadcast” over the bank holiday weekend, following the death of Queen Elizabeth II,

People across the nation have been remembering many of her beloved moments, including the recent sketch she took part in with Paddington Bear as part of her Platinum Jubilee Concert earlier this year.

When will BBC air the Paddington films? 

The BBC announced that there will be a “special broadcast” of the films on Saturday 17 September, and after the Queen’s funeral on Monday 19 September respectively.

The first film, which came out in 2014 starring Ben Whishaw as the voice actor behind the bear, will air at 7pm on Saturday on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.

The sequel, which premiered in 2017, will air at 6.50pm on Monday.

Why have the Paddington bear films been chosen as a way to honour the Queen? 

In the sketch for the Platinum Jubilee where she had afternoon tea with the beloved bear, the Queen comically revealed she keeps a marmalade sandwich in her handbag - a favourite food of the fictional children’s book character.

It appeared to be a particular favourite with Prince George and Princess Charlotte, who beamed with delight when watching their great-grandmother’s performance during the June celebrations.

The sweet sketch was immensely popular and earlier this week crowds were asked to stop leaving Paddington Bear toys and wrapped marmalade sandwiches as tributes to the Queen.

On Twitter, Paddington also paid heartfelt tribute to the Queen, saying “thank you Ma’am, for everything,” referencing a line from the Platinum Jubilee sketch.

National World has compiled a list of TV documentaries and factual programmes about the Queen as well as ITV’s plans for live coverage of her funeral.