BT launches search for the UK’s Unbreakable lockdown heroes

BT has teamed-up with Sophie Ellis-Bextor, to find and celebrate the members of the public who have been the truly Unbreakable spirits of lockdown.

The past twelve months have seen people dealing with some exceptional challenges, and it was the true spirit of many everyday heroes that kept the nation going. BT is now urging Brits to share stories of those individuals who used the power of the internet to make a difference this lockdown, to mark the roll out of the UK’s first unbreakable home wi-fi service backed up by EE, the UK’s most reliable mobile network.

From today until 23:59 on 24th May, Brits can visit www.BTUnbreakables.co.uk to nominate individuals, as BT looks to showcase the countless inspirational stories of connection and selflessness within its Unbreakable virtual gallery - a dedicated online gallery space, featuring the nation’s nominations.

BT has partnered with Sophie Ellis-Bextor, whose own iconic live-streamed Kitchen Discos were a constant source of fun and escapism for millions during lockdown. She has been voted by Brits as one of 10 celebrity favourites, alongside Joe Wicks, Gary Barlow, Myleene Klass and Romesh Ranganathan - honorary Unbreakables, noted for their exceptional spirit in keeping the nation virtually entertained and motivated over the past 12 months.

The Top 10 list of the nation’s celebrity honorary Unbreakables (in alphabetical order):

Gary Barlow

Fearne Cotton

Sophie Ellis-Bextor

Dr Alex George

Myleene Klass

Chris Martin

Jamie Oliver

Gordon Ramsay

Romesh Ranganathan

Joe Wicks

BT’s Unbreakables roll call comes as over half of all Brits (56%) say these superheroes have helped boost spirits during a tough year – with Brits spending an average of three hours a week watching live streams.

Out of all the online live-streamed events launched during lockdown, virtual quizzes and music performances proved most popular (50%), followed by online fitness classes, with searches for online yoga classes up 500%.

To help commemorate the nation’s unsung heroes, Sophie will return to our virtual screens to perform in BT’s Unbreakable Disco on Thursday 3rd June 2021, in a one-off live-streamed performance, powered by BT’s Hybrid Broadband, the UK’s first unbreakable home wi-fi that’s backed up by EE’s award-winning mobile network. During the show, the Murder on the Dancefloor songstress will perform her favourite tunes, dedicated to the nation’s Unbreakables, as well as share special shout-outs to some of the nation’s nominated heroes.

Sharon Meadows, Director of Propositions, BT’s Consumer Division said: “Our search for the nation’s Unbreakables is to recognise the countless unsung heroes across communities who used the power of the internet to help others during this difficult time. Whether that was through online fundraising, keeping people entertained online or ensuring family members stayed connected during lockdown.

Access to a reliable broadband connection was a core part in making this happen, so we’re proud to be celebrating the nation’s Unbreakables as we roll out our new hybrid broadband service. It offers the UK’s first unbreakable home wi-fi, backed up by EE, and is perfect for keeping customers in touch with the people and experiences they love, whether that’s tuning into a work-out, live stream DJ set or virtual quiz.”

Sophie Ellis-Bextor said: “I’ve teamed up with BT to celebrate the unsung members of the public who used the power of the internet to help people stay connected and motivated, in their own unique way. BT’s Unbreakable Disco will be a special moment to recognise these everyday Unbreakables who kept us going during more difficult times, with a set-list dedicated to the heroes and some special shout-outs. I’m excited to dance the night away in honour of all the inspirational stories emerging from lockdown.”