London, England – The streets of London are set to pulse with more than just the rhythm of thousands of runners this Sunday, April 26, 2026. A notable contingent of celebrities and public figures, drawn from the worlds of acting, music, sports, and television, are lacing up their trainers for the TCS London Marathon. This year's lineup features a mix of first-timers and seasoned participants, all undertaking the gruelling 26.2-mile challenge for various charitable causes.
The roster includes prominent actors such as Jack O'Connell, known for his roles in "Skins" and "'71," and James Norton of "Happy Valley" fame. Both are making their marathon debuts. O'Connell is running for Alzheimer's Research UK, while Norton is supporting Breakthrough T1D, a cause close to his heart as he was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at 22.
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Singer Alexandra Burke and drag performer Kitty Scott Claus are also set to tackle the course. Burke is raising funds for Parkinson UK, and Scott Claus is running for Alzheimer's Research UK.
Notable Participants and Their Causes
Several well-known personalities are returning to the London Marathon. Joe Wicks, the fitness coach also known as "The Body Coach," is participating for his third time, running to support his own The Body Coach Foundation.
"This year, if you're in the crowd or looking to spectate, keep an eye out for the other celebrities hoping to earn their medal on Sunday."
The field also boasts accomplished athletes. Sir Alastair Cook, the former England cricket captain, is running again for the Ruth Strauss Foundation, this time joined by his brother. Dame Laura Kenny, a decorated former professional track and road cyclist, is also among the participants.
Other familiar faces gracing the start line include:
Cynthia Erivo, the Oscar-nominated actor, running for Feeding Britain.
Tilly Ramsay, television presenter and chef, making her marathon debut for Feeding Britain.
Harry Judd, drummer for the band McFly, returning for his second London Marathon.
Daddy Pig, from the popular children's show, running to support deaf children and their families.
Former footballers including Aaron Ramsey and Jody Morris.
TV personalities and presenters like Ore Oduba and Jenni Falconer.
Various sports figures and media personalities, many dedicating their run to causes like Marie Curie, Mind, NSPCC, and Young Minds.
The event, scheduled for Sunday, April 26, has become a significant platform for both athletic achievement and charitable fundraising, drawing attention to a wide array of causes.
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A Familiar Footprint
The presence of celebrities in the London Marathon is hardly new. Last year's event saw figures like comedian Romesh Ranganathan and McFly's Harry Judd successfully complete the course. The marathon has consistently attracted public figures, transforming the event into a star-studded affair where the finish line offers a moment of shared accomplishment, irrespective of fame. The race itself continues to be a cornerstone of the London sporting calendar, providing a potent mix of elite competition and mass participation, all amplified by the spotlight on its well-known runners.
