Sophie Ellis-Bextor to take part in Radio 2’s BBC Children in Need Challenge 2021

Zoe Ball announced on her Breakfast Show this morning Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s Kitchen Disco Danceathon will see Sophie attempting to dance for 24 hours for Radio 2’s BBC Children in Need Challenge 2021.

It launches at 9.25am on Tuesday 16 November, finishing the following day at 9.25am on Wednesday 17 November.

Sophie’s Kitchen Disco became a big hit during the lockdown of 2020. Since May last year, multiplatinum selling Sophie has hosted several Kitchen Disco shows on Radio 2 and BBC Sounds.

Sophie says: “I love to dance, I love to ‘Kitchen Disco’, but can I keep going for a whole 24 hours? I’m sure I can for BBC Children In Need… with the support of Radio 2’s fantastic listeners!”

During her danceathon, Sophie will be joined in person and via videolink by a host of celebrity guests – including Radio 2 presenters – throughout the 24 hours to lend their support.

The danceathon is taking place at the BBC Radio Theatre in London with regular updates on Radio 2 throughout the day and viewers can watch it live on the Red Button and BBC iPlayer across the 24 hours.

Helen Thomas, Head of BBC Radio 2, says: “Sophie’s Kitchen Disco has uplifted everyone and spread so much joy over these past 18 months, so what better way to keep the nation entertained than with an extended Kitchen Disco Danceathon for BBC Children In Need 2021. I’m so proud of Radio 2’s ongoing partnership with the charity, which has raised over £50.2 million across the past 10 years.”

Simon Antrobus, BBC Children in Need Chief Executive says: “The past 18 months have been incredibly difficult and have sadly made the lives of children and young people facing disadvantage that much harder.

“We want to ensure no child feels alone, and that every child is supported to thrive, so we are delighted that Sophie is taking on such a monumental challenge to help make a difference. It’s acts of kindness like this that help children and young people across the UK know that we are here for them, and that there is always hope. We will be cheering Sophie on every step of the way!”