This year’s Children In Need was packed with unforgettable moments — but none landed quite as powerfully as the emotional father-son duet from Tom Fletcher and his 11-year-old son, Buzz.

The young performer, proudly dubbed a “nepo baby” by fans, stepped onto the stage with remarkable confidence, joining his McFly star father for a moving performance of “Thread of Hope” alongside the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra. Within minutes, viewers across the country admitted they were “sobbing”.

The song, written by Tom especially for Pudsey and the brand-new 25-minute animated film Thread of Hope, will premiere on BBC One and BBC iPlayer this December.

⭐ Buzz Steals the Spotlight — And Melts the Nation’s Heart

After the performance, Buzz couldn’t hide his admiration for his dad. Beaming proudly, he said:

“It’s absolutely incredible. I’ve watched him on stage with McFly all my life and always wanted to follow in his footsteps — but to perform on Children In Need? That’s unbelievable.”

Fans rushed to X (formerly Twitter) to share their emotions:

“Sobbing over Tom Fletcher and his kid — this is too cute!”

“Tom and Buzz singing together… I’m in bits.”

Tom shares Buzz, Buddy (8) and Max (6) with his wife, author and podcast host Giovanna Fletcher. Earlier this year, Buzz secured a role in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Starlight Express, proving the young star is just getting started.

⭐ Sara Cox’s Record-Breaking Challenge Stuns the Studio

Another standout moment of the night belonged to Radio 2 presenter Sara Cox, who crossed the finish line of her brutal 135-mile “Children In Need Challenge” — the longest ever undertaken for the charity.

Struggling to walk but smiling through the exhaustion, Sara took to the stage as host Paddy McGuinness revealed the total she had raised:
an astonishing £9,523,028.

The audience erupted in cheers as Sara covered her mouth in disbelief.

“A massive thank you,” she said tearfully. “There’s so much bad in the world, but Children In Need reminds us there’s still more good.”

Prince William even recorded a heartfelt video message praising her determination and lifting her spirits as she reached the final stretch.

⭐ Lewis Capaldi Delivers a Brand New Hit

Adding to the night’s emotional high points, Lewis Capaldi performed his brand-new single “The Day That I Die”, released just hours earlier. His raw vocals earned thunderous applause from the live audience.

⭐ EastEnders Spoof Has Viewers Crying With Laughter

Lightening the mood, a hilarious EastEnders parody — cast entirely with children — quickly went viral.

A mini Kat Slater, complete with leopard print top and oversized earrings, stormed the Queen Vic shouting “Sling your hook!” while serving Billy Mitchell (also played by a child) a double orange squash.

Fans declared it:

“The best acting we’ve seen from kids — ever!”

“Mini Kat needs a permanent role!”

The sketch featured young versions of Phil Mitchell, Alfie Moon, and Lauren Branning, leaving viewers “laughing uncontrollably”.

⭐ Neil Jones Shows Strength Amid Personal Loss

In one of the night’s most poignant appearances, Strictly Come Dancing professional Neil Jones took part in a live fitness segment — just 24 hours after announcing the passing of his father, David.

Wearing his sparkly Strictly costume, paired with a green sweatband and rainbow leg warmers, Neil powered through sit-ups and press-ups for charity. His bravery and professionalism drew praise across social media.

⭐ Stars Shine on the Yellow Carpet

Before the live broadcast, a host of celebrities were photographed arriving in Salford:

Rochelle Humes, glowing in a burgundy strapless gown

Vernon Kay and Paddy McGuinness, looking sharp in black tie

Lenny Rush, Sam Ryder, and Joe Sugg, all bringing fun energy to the night

The telethon opened with a playful Simpsons-themed intro featuring the hosting team, kicking off hours of sketches, music, fundraising challenges and celebrity cameos.

⭐ Lord Alan Sugar Faces the “Junior Apprentices”

In a witty spin on The Apprentice, Lord Sugar found himself being grilled by a panel of child entrepreneurs — who demanded answers about his fortune, football loyalties, and even workplace regrets. Fans loved the playful twist on the iconic boardroom setting.

⭐ Children In Need 2025: A Record-Breaking Night

By the time the broadcast wrapped, the total had soared to £45 million, marking one of the most successful nights in Children In Need history.

Between heartwarming performances, emotional milestones, celebrity bravery and belly-laugh comedy, this year’s telethon delivered everything viewers hoped for — and more.