Prince William was among those paying tribute to Sir Kevin Sinfield in the new BBC documentary Thank You Sir Kev, which moved viewers to tears.
The former professional rugby star has raised more than £13 million for MND charities through annual challenges, including running 101 miles in 24 hours and completing seven marathons in seven days.
Prince William's tribute
In the documentary, Prince William expressed concern for Kevin while praising his efforts, saying: "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."
Speaking about Kevin's knighthood, announced in the King's Birthday Honours list this year, Prince William described it as one of the "easiest decisions" and said he ought to have been Sir Kevin years ago.
Emotional moment on screen
As the documentary opened, presenter Sally Nugent remarked: "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?" Kevin became visibly emotional before responding: "Er, please just Kev."
Kevin began fundraising after his friend Rob Burrow was diagnosed with MND in 2019. Burrow died from the disease in 2024. Reflecting on his promise to his late friend, Kevin 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 react
Response to the documentary was immediate, with many viewers sharing their reactions on social media. One viewer wrote: "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 commented: "I'm shedding tears here. Thank you Sir Kev. Amen." A third added: "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."
One viewer remarked: "Thank you, Sir Kev. The best 28 minutes on the BBC for ages. Totally heartwarming programme." Another wrote: "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.
