Ryan Daniels: Chanel 7 sports presenter steps up to be ‘Mr Telethon’, hosting mega charity fundraiser
For Channel 7 Sports presenter Ryan Daniels, his job hosting this year’s mega fundraiser Telethon feels like a full circle moment.
Like many Western Australians, Daniels grew up watching the marathon broadcast on television and in person; along with her sister, who is an avid singer and dancer and often performs on the show.
And in 2007, as a college student, her first experience in the TV world was volunteering at a fundraiser.
Daniels admits that Telethon and the immense generosity it inspired was something he always took for granted growing up.
“Telethon has always been there. We think for most West Australians it’s a great thing that no one else is doing, but you don’t realize it when you grow up,” Daniels said.
“Then you get a little older and have a few kids and you realize how special and unique this is and how lucky we are.”
Throughout his career at Channel 7, the Telethon has been a highlight of Daniels’ calendar.
And this year, he will step into the role previously held by State Opposition Leader Basil Zempilas: Mr. Telethon.
This means he will be front and center during the event’s marathon broadcast, showing just how cool he can stay under pressure.
“It’s a huge, beautiful thing, it’s hectic and busy and there’s 26 hours of live TV, so everything changes on the run,” Daniels said.
The job also means she will have the important role of hosting the prestigious Telethon Ball, where millions of dollars are raised to support critical services and programs provided across the state for sick and vulnerable children and their families.
“These rooms are magical places to be in,” he said of the Telethon Ball. “You walk away feeling really good about the world.
“Because even though people and businesses have a lot of money to give away – or whatever – that doesn’t mean they should. Telethon brings out people’s passion for actually doing something with money. It’s a beautiful thing to watch.”
“Telethon is great. It ranges from kids selling lemonade in front of their house for 10 cents, to cupcakes at school, or free clothing days, and things like that. And it ranges from businesses donating money for every sale they make, to individuals donating millions of dollars, and most of them don’t want any credit for it — they just want to give.”
But Daniels said the highlight of all the Telethons he has attended over the years has been connecting with the Junior Telethon Stars.
“The telethon is amazing and draws everyone here,” Daniels said. But children are at the center of this.”
