‘Laugh, muchachos’: Spitting Image studio sued after Paddington Bear episode

StudioCanal and author’s estate taking action over video depicting Paddington with South American accent snorting powder

For the millions who adore Paddington Bear, Michael Bond’s marmalade-loving character is the epitome of English politeness and understatement – so a new depiction as a drug-taking, potty-mouthed podcast host was always going to prove challenging.

But the satirical overhaul of Paddington by the team behind Spitting Image has proved too much for the film studio and estate that own the character’s rights.