Emmy-winning Mayo TV brothers supporting friend with MND taking on London Marathon
Emmy-winning Irish television producer brothers Simon and Warren Atkins, from Mayo, have launched a nationwide fundraising campaign in support of their close friend, Pride of Britain executive producer Matthew Cox, who is living with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) and is set to take on the London Marathon 2026 in an extraordinary act of determination.
Cox, a highly respected figure in the UK television industry and former ITV commissioner, was diagnosed with MND last year - a progressive and life-limiting neurological condition that affects movement and muscle function.
Rather than stepping back, he has chosen to take on one of the world’s most physically demanding challenges and will complete the 26.2-mile London Marathon in a wheelchair, pushed by his four siblings as part of 'Team Coxy', with the aim of raising £100,000 for MND charities.
For years, Coxy (as Simon and Warren call him) has been behind some of the UK’s most emotional and inspiring storytelling through the Pride of Britain Awards and NHS Heroes Awards, shining a light on extraordinary individuals across the country.
Now, those closest to him say it’s his turn.
Leading the campaign, Simon and Warren Atkins are calling on the public, the television industry, and the wider community to rally behind Cox and help him reach his fundraising goal.
Originally from Castlebar, the brothers have built an international reputation working across some of the biggest entertainment formats in the UK and the US.
They recently won an Emmy Award for their work on The Traitors (Season 2) for NBC / Peacock. The series became the No.1 unscripted show in the United States across all streaming platforms, further cementing their position as leading creatives in global television.
Their wider credits include Strictly Come Dancing, Married At First Sight, The Voice, First Dates, Celebs Go Dating, and The Bachelor, working with global talent including Jennifer Lopez, Kylie Minogue, Rita Ora, will.i.am and Jennifer Hudson.
Simon Atkins is also a presenter and executive producer, best known for creating and hosting Ready Set StartUP (Amazon Prime UK & US), while Warren Atkins is a highly regarded producer and casting specialist, currently working across major international formats including I Kissed A Boy.
Simon said: “Coxy has spent his entire career telling other people’s stories - often at the most important and emotional moments of their lives. Now it’s our turn to show up for him. What he’s doing is nothing short of extraordinary.”
Warren added: “When he told us he was taking on the London Marathon, we weren’t surprised - that’s who he is. Determined, selfless, and always thinking about others. We just want to get as many people as possible behind him.”
The campaign has already begun gaining traction online, with a video appeal released by the brothers calling on people to donate, share, and support #TeamCoxy.
Throughout his career, Matthew has helped tell the stories of some of the UK’s most inspiring individuals.
Now, his own story is bringing together friends, family, and the television industry in support of a cause that urgently needs attention.
HOW TO SUPPORT
Donations can be made on GoFundMe.
Supporters are encouraged to share the campaign using #TeamCoxy
Motor Neurone Disease is a progressive neurological condition that affects the brain and nerves, leading to muscle weakness and loss of movement. There is currently no cure.