BBC Children in Need 2026 culminates tonight with the traditional star-studded show on BBC One. The annual fundraising extravaganza will feature sketches, performances and music, celebrating the efforts of people across the country who have taken on challenges to raise money for the Pudsey bear appeal.
Fundraisers and challenges
Among this year's fundraisers is BBC Radio 2 host Owain Wyn Williams, who has been undertaking a cycling challenge throughout this week, pedalling 400 miles through the country's four nations, starting in Scotland and finishing in Cardiff.
BBC Morning Live presenters Gethin Jones and Michelle Ackerley have also been fundraising by learning to play an instrument and forming a band in a matter of weeks. The One Show has been following four young people taking on personal missions as part of the campaign.
Official T-shirt design
Spice Girl Emma Bunton has designed the charity's official 2026 T-shirt, drawing inspiration from the bold colours, positivity and playful spirit of the 90s. The limited-edition T-shirt, available exclusively from George at Asda, features a design with Pudsey at its heart. Proceeds help fund projects for children and young people across the UK.
Emma said: "BBC Children in Need is a charity that's very close to my heart, so it was a real honour to design this year's official T-shirt. I wanted to create something playful and positive that people would love wearing while supporting such an important cause. The T-shirt brings a sense of fun, and of course there are some nostalgic cheeky nods to the 90s!"
Show details and presenters
The show will run for three hours and will be packed with entertainment. Viewers will be able to see the rolling total as money comes in for the charity as fundraisers across the UK finish their challenges.
Presenters include Mel Giedroyc and Alex Jones, joined by Sara Cox, who last year raised millions for the appeal when she ran five marathons in five days. Sara said: "It's a huge honour to be part of the 2026 Children in Need hosting team. It promises to be a spectacular night, that will hopefully raise oodles and oodles of cash for much needed projects."
Mel said: "Being part of Children in Need every year, as I have been for the last 10 years as presenter, which I'm so honoured and privileged to do, is everything to me. It's a red-letter day, and one of the most life affirming and important for me in my calendar."
Alex added: "I have watched it avidly since I was a little girl and Sir Terry Wogan was at the helm. It was always one of the big highlights of the year. And more recently for me, The One Show has always been very much at the heart of Children in Need, as we will be again this year with our Challenge Squad, so it feels amazing to be there with Pudsey on his big night."
Children in Need is on BBC One on Friday, November 13 at 7pm.
