BBC1 - Friday special
Ade Adepitan says the charity means more to him than ever...
Every year the organisers of Children In Need are overwhelmed by the nation’s generosity, as the funds roll in following the November telethon. And those donations will mean more than ever this year, reckons show host Ade Adepitan, as the country reels from the cost-of-living crisis.
‘I want people to enjoy the night,’ says Ade, 49, who hosted his first Children In Need show back in 2016. ‘It’s about people giving what they can afford, this year of all years.’
Ade admits it’s still a total thrill, hosting alongside Alex Scott, Chris Ramsey and Mel Giedroyc, with newcomer Jason Manford also joining them this year.
‘It always gives me butterflies, the fact that we can change people’s lives, as well as giving viewers a fabulous night in.’
Few presenters can have the same perspective on Children In Need as the Paralympian-turned-presenter. The charity helped fund the wheelchair that allowed him to take part in his sport.
‘It was very, very important for me, getting that chair,’ he recalls. ‘It set me off on the journey that led to me going to the Paralympics, playing basketball for Great Britain and winning medals at both the World and European Championships.’
And the cause feels even more poignant these days, as last year Ade became a father when his wife, Linda, gave birth to their little boy, Bolla.
‘I’m able to look after my son and hopefully give him everything he needs,’ he says. ‘I gaze at him and I just wish that every child could enjoy the things he’s enjoying.’
To donate, please visit donate.bbcchildreninneed.co.uk
