Rylan Clark to co‑host BBC Children In Need 2026 appeal

The 37‑year‑old broadcaster will present the charity’s flagship fundraising show on 13 November, alongside Alex Jones and Sara Cox.

By Felo News Desk · Published Sat, 17 Oct 2026 18:24:30 GMT

BBC Radio 2 presenter Rylan Clark said it is an “honour” to join the presenting team for the BBC Children In Need 2026 Appeal show, which will be broadcast on 13 November.

What happened

Clark, 37, will appear alongside Alex Jones and Sara Cox as part of the flagship fundraising broadcast. The appeal’s 2026 campaign, titled “Challenge Yourself 2026”, encourages the public to create personal challenges inspired by the number 26 to raise money for the charity.

What the reports add

Both the Independent and the Evening Standard reported Clark’s statement that he feels “honoured” to join the team. The Independent noted his previous involvement in 2019, when he raised more than £1 million by completing BBC Radio 2’s Great Ka‑RY‑Oke Challenge, a 24‑hour non‑stop singing marathon. The Standard echoed this figure and added that the 2019 challenge allowed him to meet young people at a BBC‑funded project.

What was said

Clark told the outlets, “What an honour to be joining the BBC Children In Need presenting team this year. When I took on my challenge in 2019, I had the privilege of meeting young people at a project funded by BBC Children In Need and heard how important that support was to them and what a huge difference it made to their lives. I can’t wait to be part of the show on 13 November, to shine a light on some incredible young people and raise lots of money to help ensure every child has someone by their side when they need it most.”

How it came about

Clark has been a long‑standing supporter of Children In Need, first gaining public attention for his 2019 fundraising challenge. His involvement follows a period of significant change at the BBC, including a reported drop in cash reserves earlier this year (BBC cash reserves hit decade‑low) and a series of presenter departures across the corporation.

Key facts

Rylan Clark will co‑host the BBC Children In Need 2026 appeal on 13 November. (independent.co.uk)
Clark previously raised over £1 million in 2019 through a 24‑hour singing challenge. (independent.co.uk)
The presenting team also includes Alex Jones and Sara Cox. (standard.co.uk)