BBC Children in Need returns to television screens tonight, Friday 13 November 2026, with a spectacular evening of entertainment, celebrity appearances and inspiring stories.
The much-loved fundraising show starts at 7pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, broadcasting live from MediaCityUK in Salford. The three-hour special is expected to run until 10pm.
This year’s show promises plenty of excitement, with presenters Mel Giedroyc, Sara Cox, Alex Jones, Rylan and Tyler West joining forces to bring viewers an evening packed with music, comedy, exclusive sketches and surprise appearances.
What time does Children in Need start and finish?
BBC Children in Need 2026 begins at 7pm on Friday 13 November, with the live broadcast scheduled to finish at approximately 10pm.
Viewers can tune in through:
- BBC One
- BBC iPlayer
Who is presenting BBC Children in Need 2026?
This year’s presenting team features five familiar faces from across the BBC.
Mel Giedroyc, Sara Cox, Alex Jones, Rylan and Tyler West will host the celebrations, welcoming celebrity guests and introducing the evening’s entertainment.
Broadcasting live from Salford, the presenters will guide viewers through an action-packed programme celebrating the incredible fundraising efforts taking place across the country.
What can viewers expect from tonight’s show?
There is plenty to look forward to during this year’s Children in Need spectacular.
The programme will feature special collaborations with popular BBC programmes, dazzling performances, exclusive comedy sketches and some unexpected surprises.
One of the evening’s most heartwarming moments will be the return of the Children in Need Choir, performing a specially arranged medley live in the studio.
The One Show Challenge Squad will also be back, with new recruits Zoe and Serena taking on epic challenges to raise money and help improve the lives of other young people.
Another highlight will be a special welcome for Radio 2’s Owain Wyn Evans, who will join the studio following his gruelling 400-mile Four Nations cycling challenge in support of this year’s appeal.
Why is BBC Children in Need important?
While the evening promises plenty of entertainment and celebrity glamour, the heart of the programme remains its fundraising mission.
Throughout the broadcast, viewers will hear moving stories from children and young people across the UK, demonstrating how donations can help transform lives.
BBC Children in Need supports projects and organisations working with disadvantaged children and young people, helping provide vital opportunities, support and brighter futures.
From celebrity challenges to inspiring personal stories, the annual appeal brings communities together to make a positive difference.
How to watch BBC Children in Need tonight
Make sure you tune in from 7pm tonight (Friday 13 November) on BBC One or BBC iPlayer.
With a star-studded presenting team, spectacular performances, emotional stories and plenty of surprises, this year’s appeal promises a memorable evening celebrating the power of people coming together to help children and young people across the UK.
How to send money to Children in Need today
Full details of how to donate to this year’s BBC Children in Need appeal can be found, here.