The BBC Children in Need 2026 appeal raised a total of £38,720,170 by the end of its live telethon on Friday night, according to the broadcaster's announced figure. The money is intended to help disadvantaged young people across the United Kingdom. The show, the 47th money-raising telethon in the appeal's history, was broadcast from Salford's MediaCityUK and featured comedy, music and surprises over three hours. This year's campaign, Challenge Yourself 2026, encouraged people to create their own challenge inspired by the number 26.
The biggest single contribution came from BBC Radio 2 presenter Owain Wyn Evans, 42, who raised £3,853,530 by completing a five-day challenge cycling roughly 400 miles through Scotland, Northern Ireland, England and Wales, ending in Cardiff. The Princess of Wales recorded a message of support for him, in Welsh, saying: "Hi Owain, it's Catherine, you're doing so well. Keep going! Wishing you all the very best!" Helen Thomas, head of Radio 2, praised his efforts, saying he had "captured the hearts of the nation" during his 4 Nations Challenge.S1S2
The live show was presented by Alex Jones, Mel Giedroyc, Rylan, Sara Cox and Tyler West, and included performances from the High School Musical stage show cast and the BBC Children in Need Choir. Actors Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Jason Momoa and Anya Taylor-Joy, the stars of Dune: Part 3, took part in a prank on presenter Rylan Clark alongside a group of young performers.S1S2
The total is comparable with last year's appeal, which raised £45.5m, although the broadcaster has indicated that the figure may rise further as more donations are received.S1S2
