What Happened to the "Child Fund" Guy?

Those of you who are insomniacs will know who I am referring to.

There has been a series of late-night TV charity spots featuring Child Fund, hosted by an avuncular older man with a white beard whom I call "Santa Claus." The last one was aired three or four years ago and it opens with an impoverished little boy who is fishing water from a filthy pond. Lately, I've noticed that a new spokesperson, recording artist Fernando Varela, has taken the old man's place; in effect, one talking head has been brought in to replace the other, more familiar one. However, the spot is exactly the same--it has not been updated. Usually when this occurs, it signals the death of the original spokesperson. Does anyone know if this is so?