Emma Willis Fights Back Tears as She Shares Emotional Message About Her Children: “I Want Them to Be Free to Be Themselves”

TV presenter Emma Willis delivered one of the most touching moments of the evening at the Attitude Pride Awards in London, becoming visibly emotional as she spoke about the future she hopes her children will grow up in.
Hosting the prestigious ceremony at The Chancery Rosewood on July 3, Emma reflected on equality, acceptance, and the importance of creating a world where everyone can live authentically—before an unexpected emotional moment brought the room to silence.
“What Kind of World Do We Want to Live In?”
While addressing the audience, Emma paused as she began speaking about her family.
Trying to compose herself, she asked:

“What kind of… What kind of world do we want to live in?”

Fighting back tears, she continued with a heartfelt message that resonated throughout the room.

“I’ve got three kids, and I want to live in a world where they are free to be themselves.”

The presenter, who shares Isabelle (17), Ace (14), and Trixie (10) with husband Matt Willis, explained that every child deserves the freedom to express themselves and love whoever they choose without fear.

“Where they feel safe to express themselves in whatever way they choose and that they are free to love whoever they choose, without fear.”

She then thanked everyone attending the awards for helping create a more accepting future.

“It’s because of all of you in this room that hopefully they’ll be able to grow up and do that.”

Celebrating Those Who Make a Difference
After regaining her composure, Emma praised the people being honored during the evening, calling the ceremony one of the most meaningful events of the year.

“This is, I think, the most important awards ceremony of the year. We are shining a light on the real people who make a real difference.”

Earlier in her speech, Emma also reflected on the symbolism of the venue itself, noting that the building—once home to the US Embassy in London’s Grosvenor Square—now celebrates individuality and diversity.
She described it as “ironic” that a place originally built for diplomats has become a space honoring people who have succeeded by embracing exactly who they are.
A Passion for Supporting Young People
Emma’s emotional words come just months after she and Matt fronted Channel 4’s Swiped, a documentary exploring the impact of smartphones on young people.
The programme followed secondary school students as they gave up their smartphones for 21 days, examining issues including online safety, anxiety, sleep, and mental wellbeing—topics that reflect Emma’s ongoing concern for the next generation.
A New Chapter in Emma’s Career
The emotional appearance also comes during an exciting new chapter in Emma’s television career.
Earlier this year, she admitted she “couldn’t find the words” after being announced as one of the new hosts of Strictly Come Dancing.
Joining Josh Widdicombe and former professional dancer Johannes Radebe, Emma will help lead the beloved BBC series following the departures of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
But despite the career milestone, it was her heartfelt message about love, acceptance, and her children that became the night’s most unforgettable moment—earning widespread praise from viewers and guests alike.