Channel 4 to air 1966 World Cup Final In Colour

Channel 4 will air the 1966 World Cup Final in full and in colour on 6 June. 

The broadcast is in partnership with insurance company SunLife, and aims to raise awareness of dementia and Alzheimer’s Society. There will be on-screen calls-to-action at intervals to encourage viewers to donate to Alzheimer’s Society.

The partnership is delivered by Channel 4’s Partner Lab with Medialab, the lead media agency for both SunLife and Alzheimer’s Society. 

Comedian David Baddiel introduces the broadcast, with Sir Geoff Hurst, England’s hattrick hero on that famous day in ‘66, reflecting on the match and remembering his teammates who developed dementia. Contributions also come from current and former England stars including men’s captain, Harry Kane.

Whisper and Final Replay are producing the programme, which was commissioned by Joe Blake-Turner, Channel 4’s commissioning editor for sport. Anton Sensky is the producer/director for Whisper, and the executive producers are Colin Hopkins and Neil Canetty-Clarke for Final Replay and Harry Allen and Geoff Riding for Whisper.

Blake-Turner said: “As we approach a World Cup summer, there’s no better time to relive England’s one and only victory with this special broadcast that will also raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s Society. It’s a privilege to feature some of the charity’s ambassadors Sir Geoff Hurst and David Baddiel for such an important cause.”

Canetty-Clarke said: “60 years ago, 32 million people, the largest ever audience in UK history, watched England win the 1966 FIFA World Cup Final in black and white –  we hope millions more will watch it in colour on Channel 4 on June 6th to celebrate the anniversary and support Alzheimer’s Society.”

Sensky said: “This was a deeply personal mission. As primary carer for my mother, it was both emotional and cathartic to share this journey with David Baddiel, Sir Geoff Hurst and the Alzheimer’s Society. At Whisper, we tell stories that truly matter, and it was a privilege to partner with Channel 4 on such an important and historic project.”

Vicky Brunwin, head of brand at SunLife, said: “Many of our customers will be lucky enough to remember watching that momentous 1966 game with friends and family. Now, 60 years later, they have the chance to share that experience with their own children and grandchildren. We’re delighted to be working with Channel 4 alongside our existing charity partner, Alzheimer’s Society, and media agency, Medialab, on this extra special broadcast, giving a new generation of viewers the chance to witness a phenomenal game, and raise awareness for such an important cause. “

Michelle Dyson CB, CEO of Alzheimer’s Society, said: “We are so grateful to be part of this collaboration, which will allow people to experience the historic 1966 World Cup final in full colour, while also raising vital funds for Alzheimer’s Society. It’s heartbreaking that many former players - and indeed fans - of the legendary 1966 World Cup team have been affected by dementia. Their stories are a powerful reminder of why we must keep raising awareness and the funds needed to support people living with this devastating condition today while also working towards a better future.”