As with previous Children in Need specials, it guest starred Pudsey Bear, David Mitchell and Ronni Ancona, however immediately following the contestant introductions, Terry Wogan appeared to dismiss Pudsey and take his place.
Stephen Fry admitted on Twitter that the special was recorded in May or June of this year.
On 30 October 2008 the BBC announced that the 2008 Children in Need official single would be a double A side of "Do Ya" and a cover of Faces "Stay With Me" by British pop band McFly.
The songs were released for download on 23 November and in stores the following day, with all profits raised going to the appeal.
As in previous years, the TV show Countryfile sold a calendar in aid of the appeal.