Singer Alfie Boe's performance at the BBC's Festival of Remembrance on Saturday night left viewers divided, with some praising his rendition of Snow Patrol's hit song Run and others preferring the original version.
The event, hosted by Clive Myrie at London's Royal Albert Hall, saw senior members of the Royal Family join veterans, serving personnel and their families. The lineup also included performances from James Emmanuel, Mica Paris, Rita Wilson and Tom Odell, alongside The Band of The Royal Air Force Regiment and The Bands of HM Royal Marines Portsmouth and Collingwood.
Viewers praise Boe's voice
Minutes into Boe's rendition of Run, reactions on social media were mixed. One fan praised: "Alfie Boe never fails to deliver exceptional," while another agreed, "Alfie Boe is phenomenal. I don't know a voice like his. That Run performance was beautiful. My favourite singer."
Another viewer added: "I was already struggling to hold back the tears, and then Alfie Boe sang Run. What a voice, what a performance. We are all united in thinking of those who never made it home and the families they left behind."
Some prefer the original
However, not all viewers shared the same view. One said: "No need to shout Alfie Boe." Another commented: "I like Alfie Boe…. But only Snow Patrol can sing this song sorry," with a further fan echoing: "Agreed 100%."
Remembrance Sunday coverage continues
The BBC will continue its coverage on Sunday as Sophie Raworth and Petroc Trelawny present live coverage from London, where members of the Royal Family will lead the Remembrance Sunday commemorations at the Cenotaph. Senior members of the Royal Family will be joined on Whitehall by leading UK politicians, alongside representatives of the armed forces, the Commonwealth, and faith communities, for the two-minute silence at 11 o'clock and the National Service of Remembrance.
This is followed by the annual wreath-laying and the historic march past of 10,000 veterans as the nation remembers all those who have died serving their country. The BBC's Festival of Remembrance is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.
