Teen Actor Owen Cooper Makes History as Youngest Soccer Aid Player
Adolescence actor Owen Cooper has achieved a remarkable milestone by becoming the youngest ever star selected for the 20th anniversary edition of Soccer Aid. The 16-year-old will join a prestigious lineup of 32 players, including celebrities and athletes, for the annual charity football match at London Stadium on Sunday, May 31.
A Star-Studded Lineup for a Noble Cause
The stellar roster, announced on Tuesday, features notable names such as GK Barry, Tom Hiddleston, Robbie Williams, and AngryGinge. This event, held in aid of UNICEF, has raised over £121 million since its inception in 2006, supporting children's safety, health, and play opportunities worldwide.
Owen expressed his pride and excitement about participating, stating: "I'm incredibly proud to be playing at Soccer Aid for UNICEF in its twentieth anniversary year. I wasn't even born when the first Soccer Aid took place, but I'm a big fan. Becoming the youngest player to take part is a real honour, and I'm excited to step out at the London Stadium. This event raises vital funds to help children grow up safe, healthy, and able to play – and I'm grateful to be part of such an important cause."
Owen Cooper's Award-Winning Streak
This selection follows Owen's recent record-breaking achievement as the youngest person to win an Actor Award on Monday night, surpassing Kate Winslet, who was 20 when she won her first award for Sense and Sensibility. His debut role as Jamie Miller, a 13-year-old murder suspect, has earned him a sweep of major awards this season.
At just 15 last September, Owen became the youngest male actor ever to win a Primetime Emmy for a supporting role in a limited series or anthology. Then, in January, while studying for his GCSEs, he became the youngest recipient of the Golden Globe for best supporting actor on television.
Celebrity and Athlete Participants
The 20th anniversary match boasts an impressive array of talent. Wayne Rooney, Damson Idris, Usain Bolt, Jordan North, Joe Marler, Olly Murs, Paddy McGuinness, Big Zuu, Richard Gadd, Maisie Adam, and Gladiator's Nitro will showcase their skills on the pitch.
UNICEF UK Ambassador Robbie Williams will manage England, with rugby player Joe Marler serving as celebrity goalkeeper. The Traitors star will share goalkeeping duties with Paddy McGuinness, who is set to become the record appearance holder with his tenth participation.
Team Dynamics and Strategies
Hollywood actor and UNICEF UK Ambassador Tom Hiddleston returns, vowing to pass the ball to a professional as soon as he gains possession. Wayne Rooney will provide on-pitch leadership and skill, while Damson Idris adds star power as the third actor to sign up.
GK Barry is receiving tips from her footballer partner Ella Rutherford of Portsmouth FC. An I'm a Celeb theme emerges with Jordan North making his debut, hoping to partner with fellow northerner AngryGinge, the 2025 Player of the Match.
Usain Bolt's World XI FC Management
For the first time, Usain Bolt will manage the Soccer Aid World XI FC, returning to the scene of his 2012 London Olympics gold rush. His team includes attacking talent like 2025 match winner Big Zuu, Scotland's Jen Beattie, and two-time World Cup winner Ali Krieger.
Dutch goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar, Euro 2020 winner Leonardo Bonucci, and debutant Jordi Alba will bolster Bolt's squad. Robbie Williams commented: "I'm incredibly proud to be celebrating 20 years of Soccer Aid for UNICEF this year. Last year's event raised more money than ever, and £121 million raised since we started is genuinely life-changing. Let's hope we can break the record again this year."
Supporting a Global Cause
Wayne Rooney added: "I can't wait for this year's Soccer Aid for UNICEF and to pull on the England shirt one more time for the twentieth anniversary. It's England against World XI at the London Stadium on 31st May, and this year we want nothing less than an England win. The kids enjoy seeing football legends alongside their favourite celebrities and influencers on the same pitch."
He highlighted the impact of funds raised, noting that his wife Coleen witnessed UNICEF's work in Poland, supporting children with disabilities fleeing the war in Ukraine to continue their education and childhood.
Event Details and Tickets
A special twentieth anniversary extended half-time show will be announced in due course. Tickets are on sale for this summer's fixture, with adults priced at £20 and juniors at £10, including access to a pre-game 'Fan Zone'. Alex Scott and Dermot O'Leary will present the event, ensuring a memorable experience for all attendees.
