Sir Terry Wogan To Miss "Children In Need" Due To Health Reasons

    UPDATE: Dermot O'Leary will replace the 77-year-old on the show, the BBC announced.

    Veteran broadcaster Sir Terry Wogan has pulled out of presenting Children in Need on Friday for health reasons, the BBC has reported.

    The 77-year-old had been due to present the annual charity appeal show alongside hosts such as Fearne Cotton and Tess Daly.

    Wogan, who has presented every Children in Need show since 1980, said in a statement: "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 [Nick Grimshaw], Fearne, Rochelle [Humes], and Tess.

    "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 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."

    The BBC announced on Friday morning that Dermot O'Leary will replace Wogan on the show.

    O'Leary said in a statement: "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.

    "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."