The London Marathon is in full swing today, April 27, 2025, with a star-studded lineup of celebrity runners taking to the streets of London. Among the thousands participating, fitness coach Joe Wicks is back, raising funds for his new initiative, the Body Coach Foundation. He’s not alone, as a host of familiar faces from television, music, and sports join him in this iconic race.
Actor Adam Woodyatt, best known for his role as Ian Beale on EastEnders, is running alongside his son Samuel, proudly supporting Alzheimer’s Research UK. Their participation highlights the growing trend of celebrities using their platforms to raise awareness for important causes.
Comedian Romesh Ranganathan and radio personality Adele Roberts return for a second consecutive year, adding their flair to the event. Both are committed to supporting various charities, showcasing the marathon as not just a test of endurance but also a means to give back to the community.
In a powerful display of solidarity, singer and actress Alexandra Burke is running for Diabetes UK and the Melissa Bell Foundation, while presenter and comedian Joel Dommett will be raising funds for Brain Tumours Support. He is joined by Harry Judd from the band McFly, who is also running for the Children’s Trust.
The full list of celebrity runners includes a diverse mix of personalities such as Craig Parkinson from Line of Duty, Kelly Brook, and former footballers like John Terry and Jack Wilshere. With so many well-known faces participating, the atmosphere is electric, and the streets of London are buzzing with excitement.
Kelly Brook, 45, has been particularly vocal about her marathon journey. She recently opened up about the painful injuries she endured during her training. In an interview, she shared, "I have gone through pots of Vaseline and on Sunday I was away. I was tapering and had a quick 10k to do. I panicked because I left my Vaseline at home so I went without. Nothing prepares you for the chaffing! I was bleeding after 10k." Her candid remarks resonate with many first-time marathoners who often underestimate the physical toll of training.
Brook is set to run alongside her husband, Jeremy Parisi, whom she married in 2022. She humorously described their training sessions as challenging, noting, "In terms of training and doing things together on a physical level, that is a bit more challenging because he's super competitive and he's very fit and sometimes when he comes out on a run with me, it's like he's my carer!"
Despite the challenges, Brook emphasized the positive impact running has had on her mental health. "Running gave me clarity and there was a whole different approach to everything I would do, I was so much more in control," she explained. Her journey from a size 12 to 16 in 2018 after moving back from LA has been transformative, and she credits her recent weight management to her partnership with SlimFast.
The marathon, a grueling 42km test that begins in Greenwich and finishes at The Mall, is not just a physical challenge but a celebration of community and resilience. Participants include reality TV stars, radio DJs, musicians, and even Olympic athletes, all united in their quest to conquer the iconic race.
As the race unfolds, the camaraderie among the runners is palpable. Celebrities and everyday participants alike share training tips and motivate each other, creating an uplifting environment that goes beyond competition. This year’s marathon is particularly special as it marks a return to form after disruptions caused by the pandemic, with many runners eager to reclaim their spots on the starting line.
With so many celebrities running for various causes, the event is a reminder of the power of sport to bring people together for a common goal. As they pound the pavement, each step taken by these stars is a step toward raising awareness and funds for important issues.
As the race progresses, spectators line the streets, cheering on their favorites and celebrating the spirit of determination that the London Marathon embodies. The energy is infectious, and the stories of perseverance and dedication are what make this event truly special.
In the coming hours, we will see who among these determined runners will cross the finish line first, but for now, the focus is on the journey, the camaraderie, and the collective effort to support meaningful causes. The London Marathon is more than just a race; it’s a testament to the human spirit and the ability to overcome challenges, whether they be physical, emotional, or social.
As the sun sets on this thrilling day, the stories of triumph and tribulation will be shared, and the impact of this marathon will resonate long after the last runner crosses the finish line. For the participants, it’s not just about the medals or the times; it’s about the connections made and the lives touched along the way.
