Dermot O’Leary Replacing Sir Terry Wogan To Host Children In Need

Dermot O’Leary has been confirmed as Sir Terry Wogan’s replacement on Children In Need after the iconic fundraiser host was forced to pull out due to health reasons.

Get well soon, Sir Terry!

Copyright [Ian West/PA Archive/PA Images]

The BBC confirmed that Dermot would be stepping up the plate in a statement, in which a spokesperson said: “We are pleased to announce that fellow Irishman and Radio 2 presenter Dermot O'Leary will be stepping into Sir Terry Wogan’s shoes for tonight’s Children in Need from 7.30 to 10pm, hosting alongside Tess Daly and Fearne Cotton.

“The presenting baton will be picked up by Shane Richie on BBC Two at 10pm, then return to BBC One with Nick Grimshaw and Rochelle Humes from 10.30pm. We are incredibly grateful to Dermot for stepping in at such short notice but know he’ll do us and Sir Terry proud.”

Dermot himself added: “It’s a huge honour to be asked to step into Sir Terry’s shoes tonight; he is one of my broadcasting heroes and has been a source of support for me down the years.

Copyright [Twitter/Children In Need]

“I’d like to add my best wishes to Sir Terry for a speedy recovery, and I hope I do him justice and do my small part to make the night a success and make as much money as we can for disadvantaged children across the country.”

It’s the first time that the legendary Terry won’t be presenting the fundraiser since its launch in 1980.

The BBC reports that the 77-year-old is having a procedure on his back and is thought to have withdrawn in line with doctors’ advice.

He’s said: “So, here we are on the 36th edition of Children in Need, every one of which I’ve been proud to present since it started in 1980, and for the first time, I won’t be there, to cheer you on with word and gesture to another record-breaking year. The show will go on, bigger and better than ever, in the hands of my friends, Grimmy, Fearne, Rochelle and Tess.

Copyright [Twitter]

“The British public, as always, will dig deep in their pockets and purses to help the country’s disadvantaged children, knowing that every penny will go to those who need it most. I’m going to miss our wonderful, inspiring evening together, but I’ll be with you, watching, cheering and donating to a magnificent cause.”

A BBC spokesman added: “We are so sorry that Terry won’t be with us tomorrow night as we know how passionate he is about Children in Need. But we wish him a very speedy recovery and know he’ll be watching from home and enjoying the show.”