Sir Ian McKellen, Dame Joanna Lumley, and Donna Preston lead a lineup of celebrities, artists, and illustrators contributing original artwork for National Doodle Day 2026.
Now in its 22nd year, the annual fundraising campaign organized by national charity Epilepsy Action raises funds to support the estimated 630,000 people living with epilepsy across the UK.
The collection of original doodles will be auctioned online via eBay, with all proceeds going toward the charity’s support services, advice lines, and community outreach programmes.
Participating public figures this year include actors Laura Norton, Freema Agyeman, Juhaim Rasul Choudhury, Matilda Freeman, Leo Cole, Aisling Sharkey, Mark Jordon, Shakeel Kimotho, Charles Humphreys, Dominic Holmes, and Ed Jones.
Contributing to the campaign for his seventh year, Sir Ian McKellen submitted a sketch of his iconic character Gandalf.
Speaking on his involvement, McKellen expressed his pleasure at supporting Epilepsy Action once again, noting that the campaign raises vital funds for work that makes a tangible difference to people living with the condition across the country.
To mark the 2026 campaign, Epilepsy Action has also partnered with internationally renowned artist Mr Doodle for a live public art installation in Peckham, South London. The artist is creating a giant, hand-painted mural live on site, with members of the public invited to watch the artwork take shape. Comedian Jake Lambert, who lives with epilepsy, is scheduled to visit the installation alongside other campaign supporters.
National Doodle Day has raised significant funds for Epilepsy Action since its inception, utilizing public art auctions to increase awareness surrounding neurological conditions and fund essential support services.
The online eBay auction for this year's celebrity doodles is now live, with further information on the campaign, participating artists, and live mural creation available via the official Epilepsy Action website.
