Over the past decade, Rick Astley has been more than just an ambassador for Maggie’s — he’s been a steady source of warmth, kindness, and hope. Through his support, he’s helped us stand beside people living with cancer, lifting them up during some of the most difficult moments of their lives.
For 10 years Rick has supported Maggie’s regularly coming to the centre to meet visitors as well as taking part in our fundraising events, helping us raise over £1M for Maggie’s Manchester.
In June 2016, our very first group of “Rick’s Chicks” stepped onto the catwalk to meet their hero.
As Rick Astley serenaded ten women living with cancer with “She Wants to Dance With Me,” the moment became something unforgettable — not just a performance, but a celebration.
For those few minutes, they weren’t defined by their diagnosis, but by joy, confidence, and the feeling of being truly seen.
More remarkable women followed in 2018, each stepping onto the catwalk with courage and grace.
As Rick Astley performed “Beautiful Life,” the moment couldn’t have been more fitting. It became more than a song — it was a statement.
And once again, Rick created something unforgettable, making every woman on that runway feel seen, celebrated, and truly extraordinary.
Rick also delivered a powerful performance of “Angels on My Side,” joined by more than 50 voices from the Rock Choir. Together, they created an emotional, uplifting tribute — a moment that carried the strength, solidarity, and spirit of everyone living with cancer.
Even when the pandemic was still causing major distruption in 2021 — and on the eve of a major tour — Rick turned up for us once again to serenade our ladies with “Giant.
It was a moment of generosity and heart that meant everything.
Rick, to all of us at Maggie’s — you truly are a giant.
In November 2023, Rick made a powerful return—standing with us once again. He met our incredible Maggie’s Rocks Choir, reigniting that special connection, before taking to the stage with his band to headline an unforgettable night of music and celebration.
On our third birthday, Rick and his band took a moment out of their busy schedule to stop by Maggie’s, just before heading to the AO Arena. They spent time chatting with visitors, sharing stories, and lifting spirits—turning an already special day into something truly memorable. The centre was overflowing with music, warmth, and a real sense of togetherness.
A few of our visitors—and some of our much-loved “Rick’s Chicks”—have shared, in their own heartfelt words, just how deeply Rick’s involvement with Maggie’s has touched their lives. Through moments of music, kindness, and connection, he’s brought comfort, strength, and hope—helping them navigate the emotional highs and lows of their cancer journeys with a little more light and a lot more courage.
