CBBC's Angellica Bell breaks down in tears as she says she 'failed a generation'

Fans rush to pledge their support to the star

Angellica Bell was moved to tears in a heartfelt interview with Fleur East, expressing her feelings of having "failed" a generation of children. The beloved children's TV presenter, who became a familiar face on CBBC from 2000 to 2006, is known for hosting shows such as 50/50 and Short Change.

During a conversation on Hits Radio, Angellica and singer Fleur East discussed the significant impact she had, particularly on Black children who saw themselves represented on television during that era. However, Angellica revealed her emotional struggle, feeling that she hadn't done "enough", especially after Fleur expressed gratitude to her on "behalf of a generation".

Reflecting on her time at CBBC, Angellica, who has also hosted the Martin Lewis Money Show, said: "I didn't realise the impact of being on CBBC at that time."

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She recounted an encounter with a fan who told her, "Angellica, you were my childhood", which made her appreciate the experiences and challenges she faced, ultimately feeling that "it was worth it".

Fleur praised Angellica for her impact on the community, saying: "And like you said, you weren't comfortable to wear braids and things like that in the beginning and maybe if you did you maybe wouldn't be in the position you are now.

"You just being on TV, for all the young black kids just watching you on TV gave people hope. Maybe if you'd had more of an example before you got in that position, you'd could've stepped into who you are a lot sooner. Thank you, on behalf of a whole generation," reports the Mirror.

Overwhelmed with emotion, Angellica responded with tears: "Sometimes I think I failed. Sometimes I think that I haven't done enough," as she began to cry. Fleur comforted Angellica, affirming the significance of her influence on young viewers: "Never ever think that you haven't done enough. You've done more than enough."

On TikTok, fans have been voicing their support for Fleur's statements. One user commented: "Angellica and June Sarpong deserve all their flowers for young black girls we looked up to them so much."

Another added: "She did so much at a time where representations was limited!" A third shared: "I don't remember many presenters from my childhood to be honest but Angellica Bell is one that I do always always remember. Such a shame she feels like she failed when so many of us loved watching her."

An additional comment read: "Shout out, Angellica. you were 100% the best part about CBBC as a kid. thank you for making me feel visible on TV x." While another voiced: "Angellica being on TV was even important for me even as a South Asian female. Seeing any people of colour is so important for all people of colour."