The One Show marked its 20th anniversary with a segment revisiting a poignant story of organ donation. The program featured Scarlett, who as a five-year-old in 2016, received a life-saving heart transplant. The donor, a young girl named Evie, had died, and her parents made the decision to donate her organs.

Presenter Joe Crowley revisited Scarlett, now 15 years old, to discuss her experience as a transplant recipient. They returned to Freeman Hospital in Newcastle upon Tyne, where Scarlett's transplant took place. Standing outside ward 23, Scarlett shared her aspirations to become a pediatric nurse after completing her education, inspired by the compassionate staff at the hospital.

Reflecting on her life, Scarlett described the transplant as "the greatest gift" she has ever received and expressed gratitude for the opportunity, acknowledging the profound impact of Evie's donation. The original segment about Scarlett's story, which aired in 2016, reportedly led to a 70% increase in organ donations.

Organ Donation in England

Since May 2020, England operates under an opt-out system for organ donation. Under this system, all adults are considered to have agreed to be an organ donor upon their death unless they have explicitly recorded a decision not to donate or belong to specific excluded groups.

The young donor, named Evie, had died, and their parents made a decision that would transform another child's life (pictured Evie)

Anniversary Programming

The One Show's 20th-anniversary celebrations are set to continue. An extended hour-long special is scheduled for August 14, featuring hosts Alex Jones and Roman Kemp, alongside a broader group of presenters including Angellica Bell, Clara Amfo, JB Gill, Lauren Laverne, and Vernon Kay. The special is also expected to include a surprise musical guest and appearances from former presenters Matt Baker and Christine Lampard, who will reflect on their time on the show. BBC Commissioning Editor Alex McLeod highlighted the program's role in bringing the nation together and reflecting important stories. The One Show Editor, Joanne Vaughan-Jones, noted the ongoing celebrations and promised further content for viewers throughout the week.