There was magic in the air as much-loved presenter and magician Stephen Mulhern visits Shooting Star House

Families were treated to a morning of ‘unbelievable’ magic and fun as Shooting Star Children’s Hospices welcomed presenter, comedian and magician Stephen Mulhern to Shooting Star House in Hampton.

Known for many iconic shows including Ant & Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway, Catchphrase, Deal or No Deal, Dancing on Ice and In for a Penny, Stephen brought his trademark energy and mischief performing magic tricks for families supported by us.

Stephen also took time to chat to families, pose for photos and enjoy some versions of his classic games from Catchphrase, In for a Penny, as well as a very heated game of Top Trumps!

Stephen Mulhern said of his visit, “It was my first time visiting and I didn’t know what to expect. I think some people assume it’s going to be a bit morbid and soulless, let me say, it is anything but. This place is happy, the parents and kids I met are unreal and without Shooting Star, they wouldn’t have these days. I’ve had the honour of meeting many families today and it has taken my breath away, it’s something like you’ve never seen before, a place that allows parents the chance to spend those special days with their kids.”

Stephen also shared the importance of magic to him, “I’ve done magic since the age of 11-years-old, my dad actually taught me my first trick and the reason I’ve always done it throughout my entire career to the present day is because it brings joy to people’s faces no matter how old or young they are. And I feel that’s what Shooting Star does, every day they give a little magical moment – that’s what Shooting Star is all about.”

Karen Sugarman MBE, Executive Vice-President of Shooting Star Children’s Hospices said, “Stephen is simply magic. He brought so much love and joy to the children and families. He is much loved by the nation, and you can see why. He brings so much light and happiness and we cannot wait for him to return. He is ‘unbelievable’!!”