Maisie Adam, the comedian and Soccer Aid star, is almost unrecognisable in footage from her first TV appearance. Before her rise to fame, Adam appeared on an episode of The Chase in 2014. Now, twelve years later, she was back on the show this week for a Soccer Aid special.
The comedian will participate in the 2026 Soccer Aid charity match, joining celebrities like Tom Hiddleston, Lee Mack, Paddy McGuinness, and Usain Bolt. The event aims to raise millions for UNICEF’s humanitarian projects. Adam is also known for her stand-up and regular appearances on shows like 8 Out of 10 Cats, Mock the Week, Have I Got News for You and The Last Leg.
A Double-Take Transformation
ITV posted a clip of Adam’s original appearance on The Chase, and many fans were surprised by her appearance. Back then, as a student, she had long brown hair, a contrast to her current cropped blonde style.
Fans reacted with surprise. One follower posted: “Omg, didn’t even recognise her!” Another said: “Oh my gosh, that was her?!” A third replied: “I had to look twice!” Another pointed out: “What a glow up from student to today.” A fifth simply posted: “Wow!”
Soccer Aid and UNICEF
Adam fared better on her second appearance on The Chase, winning £23,000 for charity as part of the team. This year will mark her fourth Soccer Aid appearance.
Speaking about Soccer Aid, Adam said: “I love everything about Soccer Aid; the camaraderie between us all when we’re playing and the mad little scenarios you’ll find yourself in. I’ve been sitting next to Sir Mo Farah having my dinner, and then the next minute doing a drill with [Leonardo] Bonucci.
“It’s utterly bonkers, but a real joy to be part of. More than anything, we all love the important cause that we’re there for, to raise funds for UNICEF.
“That’s always at the forefront of our minds when we’re there – in training, we’re seeing these films, and we’re talking about the various things that UNICEF are ensuring people have safely. That’s my favourite thing – feeling like you’ve played some small part in helping Soccer Aid for UNICEF continue its work.”
Star-Studded Lineup
Maisie Adam and Lionesses legend Jill Scott will participate in Soccer Aid. Other celebrities involved in the match include GK Barry, Angry Ginge, Jordan North, Joe Marler, Tom Grennan, Richard Gadd and Nitro (Harry Leslie Aikines-Aryeetey).
Olly Murs will also play following his five-day Into The Unknown challenge, which involved him running, cycling and rowing for 249 miles between Manchester and London. Robbie Williams will perform at half-time to mark Soccer Aid’s 20th anniversary. Williams, a UK ambassador for UNICEF, co-founded the event, which has raised over £121m.
Soccer Aid continues to raise funds for UNICEF, with Maisie Adam playing a part.