The annual BBC Children In Need telethon delivered one of its most memorable moments yet with a brilliantly executed EastEnders parody that left viewers begging for more. The sketch featured a scene-stealing performance from a young actress playing a miniature version of Kat Slater, complete with leopard print blouse and iconic attitude.
Mini Walford Takes Over The Queen Vic
In what can only be described as a masterstroke of casting, the mini Kat Slater commanded the Queen Vic pub with all the swagger of Jessie Wallace's original character. Dressed in the character's signature leopard print with chunky belt and dangling earrings, the young performer served a 'double orange squash' to a child version of Billy Mitchell, explaining her youthful appearance came from a 'face mask and good night sleep'.
The scene reached its comic peak when a furious, pint-sized Phil Mitchell stormed into the pub, only to be told to 'sling your hook' by the formidable mini Kat. Jacqueline Jossa and Shane Ritchie provided the adult presence as Lauren Branning and Alfie Moon, watching the surreal scene unfold with expressions of pure shock.
Social Media Erupts With Praise
Viewers took to social media platform X immediately after the sketch aired, with one fan declaring: 'OMG EastEnders and Children In Need, Brilliant'. Another demanded: 'Mini Kat needs a full time part on EastEnders', while others praised the children's acting abilities as some of the best they'd ever seen from young performers.
The overwhelming consensus was that the sketch had viewers laughing uncontrollably, with multiple comments highlighting how the children's performances outshone even the adult cast members. The public response suggests BBC executives might want to seriously consider finding a permanent role for the talented young actress.
Children In Need 2023 Highlights
This year's Children In Need telethon began at 7pm on BBC One and was scheduled to run until 10pm, hosted by Mel Giedroyc, Rochelle Humes, Vernon Kay, Paddy McGuinness, Lenny Rush and Big Zuu. The evening opened with a special Simpsons-themed sequence recreating the sitcom's iconic opening titles.
In another standout moment, Lord Alan Sugar faced a boardroom grilling from junior apprentices who questioned everything from his famous grumpy streak to his football loyalties and inheritance plans. Surprisingly, the business mogul managed smiles throughout, showing a softer side to his character.
Meanwhile, Radio 2's Sara Cox completed her gruelling 135-mile challenge across five marathons in five days, raising an incredible £4.1 million for the charity. The Prince of Wales sent a video message congratulating her achievement and urging her to 'keep going', noting the nation's pride in her efforts.
The evening combined entertainment with heartfelt fundraising efforts, demonstrating once again why Children In Need remains one of Britain's most beloved charity events.
