Tom Fletcher and Son Buzz Prepare Emotional Duet for Children in Need

Tom Fletcher and his 11-year-old son, Buzz, are getting ready to take the stage together on tonight’s BBC Children in Need, and many fans have already admitted they are tearing up before the performance even airs. This will mark the first time the father-son duo perform a duet live, debuting their touching new song, “A Thread of Hope.” Tom wrote the track specifically for this year’s appeal as part of a newly created BBC animated film that he also helped develop. The 25-minute story centres on Jai, a young boy trying to cope with the death of his father, and the narrative is also being released as a children’s book, with all profits supporting Children in Need (BBC News).

Fans Moved to Tears Ahead of the Broadcast

The song has already been previewed on BBC Radio 2 and uploaded to BBC Sounds, where early listeners responded with emotional messages. One parent commented on Tom’s Instagram that they were “wiping tears away while getting the kids ready for school.” Another listener praised young Buzz, saying he “smashed those vocals,” while others simply reacted with crying emojis. The soft, poignant melody and the song’s theme of finding hope in grief have deeply resonated with audiences (The Guardian).

Buzz himself shared how thrilled he is to perform alongside his dad for the first time on national television. He explained that he had watched Tom pour months of effort into the animation and book, and he feels proud to support a cause that means so much to their family. Tom also reflected on the moment, saying that being invited to perform with his son was an opportunity he immediately recognised as incredibly special. He added that honouring Pudsey’s 40-year legacy through music felt especially meaningful, as countless young people across the UK face challenges no child should face alone (Evening Standard).

Buzz Fletcher’s Rising Career in the Arts

Although still only 11, Buzz has already begun forging his own path in the world of performance. Earlier this year, he joined the cast of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Starlight Express in the West End, playing the role of Control. Tom described the experience of watching his son’s debut as overwhelming, saying he felt a mixture of pride and nerves as Buzz stepped onto the stage, delivered his lines and gave what Tom called “an unforgettable performance” (BBC Culture). Buzz also appeared in the CBeebies series Andy and the Band: Rockstar School, marking his first television role.

Children in Need 2025: What to Expect Tonight

This year’s Children in Need airs on Friday, November 14, 2025, starting at 7 p.m. on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. The three-hour broadcast will feature a mix of entertainment, celebrity appearances and emotional stories. Viewers can expect an Apprentice special, a Gladiators segment, a performance from Lewis Capaldi and an exclusive preview of the upcoming Celebrity Apprentice. The live show will be led by presenters Vernon Kay and Paddy McGuinness, along with a team of familiar BBC faces (BBC Entertainment).

Tom and Buzz’s performance of “A Thread of Hope” is already being described by early viewers and critics as one of the most moving highlights of the night. Their duet stands as a celebration of family, creativity and resilience, and aims to bring comfort and connection to children who need support the most.