An interview with Olly Murs
Olly Murs on Soccer Aid, Pelé and becoming a dad
With his eighth Soccer Aid for UNICEF appearance just around the corner, Olly Murs needs no introduction when it comes to the world’s biggest celebrity football match. And this year he’s going above and beyond, after announcing his epic ‘Into the Unknown’ challenge, rowing, running and cycling all the way from Old Trafford to London Stadium to raise vital funds for UNICEF.
Ahead of the 20th anniversary match on Sunday 31 May, we sat down with the Soccer Aid icon to talk favourite memories, fatherhood, and one very surreal shower moment…
Q: Olly, tell us why Soccer Aid for UNICEF is so special to you?
It’s been a massive part of my career, and now feels like part of the furniture – every year it comes back, and it just seems to grow and grow. The fan base is growing, the donations are growing, and it’s amazing to be able to play in different stadiums in front of different people. I’m honoured to be back for the 20-year anniversary and to be in front of my people here in London. Can’t wait!
Q: And you’re a Dad, so you know what it means to do amazing things for kids?
Yeah, and being a dad myself (I’ve now got 2 kids) it really puts things into perspective. The amazing work that Soccer Aid for UNICEF does, the importance of this game, really hits home now, and I hope people get behind it, donate, and raise money for the children who need it.
Q: This is your eighth appearance, so you obviously love Soccer Aid. What’s been your favourite year or match so far?
I think my favourite year was 2018, because I was the captain for the very first time. I’d just gone over to Kenya to see the work that UNICEF has been doing. I had the opportunity of meeting Pele before the game, and I walked out with my nephew at Old Trafford.
To put all of that into perspective, as a childhood memory, I’ve always wanted to play at Old Trafford. Not only that, to captain England. Not only that, to walk out with my nephew. Not only that, to meet Pelé. And to do it all for Soccer Aid, raise loads of money- and we won!
Q: What’s been the funniest moment you’ve enjoyed as part of Soccer Aid?
My favourite amusing moment with Soccer Aid is sharing a shower, just me and Will Ferrell. For at least five minutes of awkward silence.
It was probably the maddest, most surreal moment of my life. But if you’re a Will Ferrell fan, you know how I was feeling in that moment!
Q: If you could pick one pro player to play in Soccer Aid, who would it be and why?
Cristiano Ronaldo. Selfishly because I’m a massive Man United fan. But let’s be honest, he’s a global megastar.
When would I ever get the opportunity to meet him again? So that would be pretty special.
Q: How does playing for a Soccer Aid crowd compare to performing live on stage?
It’s a lot louder. And, they’re incredibly generous and fun. The difference between a Soccer Aid crowd and my own crowd is that they’re not all here to see me! (laughs) They’re here to see everyone else!
So yeah, as a performer, you’ve got to accept that sometimes. You can’t always be the star. Soccer Aid isn’t about one person- it’s about everyone involved.
Join Olly and the rest of the Soccer Aid for UNICEF stars as they take to the pitch at London Stadium on Sunday, 31 May and with tickets selling fast, you won’t want to miss your chance to be part of the 20th anniversary celebrations.
Get yours now before they’re gone.
