Sir Kevin Sinfield was moved to tears during a new BBC documentary aired on Monday night (October 26), which marked the end of his 7 in 7 challenge for Motor Neurone Disease charities. The programme, titled Thank You Sir Kev, reflected on the fundraising challenges he has undertaken since 2020, including running 101 miles in 24 hours and completing seven marathons in seven days.
Since beginning his efforts six years ago, Sinfield has raised over £13 million for MND charities, inspired by his late friend Rob Burrow, who died from the disease in 2024 after being diagnosed in 2019. The 46-year-old was confirmed to receive a knighthood when he was named in the King's Birthday Honours list this year.
Emotional Moment Over Knighthood
As the documentary began, presenter Sally Nugent commented: "You have already been called Sir Kev, it's what you've always been. Now you really are, Sir Kevin Sinfield, what's that like?" Sinfield became visibly moved, his face dropping as she mentioned his official title. After taking a deep breath, he replied: "Er, please just Kev."
Prince William was among those who paid tribute to Sinfield's efforts, describing the decision to grant him a knighthood as one of the "easiest decisions" and adding that he should have been Sir Kevin years ago. Speaking further, Prince William said: "He leads from the heart, and I think he's built of quiet steel. You couldn't find a better bloke to lead a campaign around MND. I don't know how he keeps going. I'm worried about his knees, I'm worried about his hips."
Promise to Rob Burrow
Elsewhere in the documentary, Sinfield opened up about Rob Burrow and his mission to fulfil his friend's final wish. Speaking to the camera, he said: "I made a promise to Rob right at the start, trying to raise some money for Rob and his family. Look at the mess that got me into."
Viewers took to social media to share their reactions, with many moved to tears. One person wrote on X: "So who else is in tears? Thank you, Sir Kev. Is there or has there ever been a more humble or selfless human being than Sir Kevin Sinfield? As Prince William says, we all need more Kevin Sinfield in this world." Another added: "I'm shedding tears here. Thank You Sir Kev. Amen."
Viewer Praise and Availability
Others praised the programme's impact, with one viewer writing: "Watched Thank You Sir Kev on iPlayer. That is humbling/inspiring. Kevin Sinfield is the best of us. He will make you feel better. Makes me cry as soon as he opens his mouth. Wonderful Human." Another said: "Thank you, Sir Kev. The best 28 minutes on the BBC for ages. Totally heartwarming programme."
One viewer added: "Something in my eye after watching Thank You Sir Kev tonight. Everyone needs a friend like Sir Kevin Sinfield. What he's done for Rob, his family, and the MND community is friendship, loyalty, and determination at its very best. Quite simply, Sir Kev." Thank You Sir Kev is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.
