Red Nose Day has arrived, and this year's celebrations mark a significant milestone as the BBC commemorates 40 years of the iconic charity event. Viewers can tune in on March 21, 2025, starting at 7:00 PM on BBC One and BBC Two for hours of live performances, sketches, and musical show-stoppers. The impressive lineup includes well-known presenters who are set to entertain while raising funds to help transform the lives of those in need.
Leading the charge on BBC One are industry veterans Jonathan Ross, Davina McCall, Joel Dommett, Alison Hammond, Rylan Clark, and Alesha Dixon. Each presenter brings their own vibrant personality to the broadcast, making the event a must-see for families and friends alike. "It's going to be a legendary night that raises some serious cash all while presenting alongside some of your favourite people," stated Joel Dommett, known for hosting The Masked Singer.
Jonathan Ross reflected on his early involvement with the event, saying, "I presented the first few years alongside Sir Lenny Henry and Griff Rhys Jones, and it was incredibly exciting to be involved. When they invited me back, it felt like a great way to commemorate the very first show." Davina McCall echoed this sentiment, expressing her excitement about hosting once again: "I've done a lot of Red Nose Days, but every single time I host, it is the best night ever. It's a feeling of everybody coming together for such a positive cause, but at the same time having such fun and a laugh."
After three hours of programming on BBC One, the event will switch to BBC Two at 10:00 PM, where the energetic duo of Tom Allen and AJ Odudu will take over hosting duties. Tom Allen, known as the host of The Apprentice: You’re Fired, shared his enthusiasm for the event: "I grew up loving Comic Relief and still feel really excited that a night of entertainment on telly can be used to do some good.” AJ Odudu, who hosted Comic Relief back in 2023, expressed similar excitement: "There’s nothing like being part of Red Nose Day and the way it brings people together while making a genuine difference. I've been looking forward to this celebration for a long time."
Since Comic Relief was co-founded in 1985, it has raised an incredible £1.5 billion, supporting over 10 million people worldwide. The funds generated through this annual event address critical issues like homelessness, access to education, and mental health. This year, the excitement continues with an array of specially curated sketches, exclusive performances, and the all-important appeal films showcasing the charity’s impact.
In a notable twist, this year marks the first time in Comic Relief's 40-year history that beloved co-founder Sir Lenny Henry will not take part in the hosting duties. His absence was felt by many fans who expressed their disappointment, with comments flooding social media asking, "Where’s Lenny Henry?" and pleading, "Come back Lenny, we need you!" Despite this, the event carries on, showcasing the legacy he helped build.
However, Lenny Henry did make a special appearance in a segment honoring his years of service, emphasizing that, although he has stepped back, he will always support the important causes the charity stands for. Fans were overjoyed to see him, with one enthusiastic viewer writing on X, "Welcome back, Lenny Henry!" while another noted, "Very touching piece from Lenny Henry there.” In his final hosting year, he poignantly stated, "It's not about me - it’s about the mirth and the money, the comedy and compassion."
Throughout the evening, various challenges and fundraising efforts will take center stage. Jamie Laing from BBC Radio 1 will be undertaking an ambitious 150+ mile run from London to Salford, bringing attention to the cause while putting his endurance to the test. He has captured the public’s support, who are eager to see his progress.
Similarly, Morning Live presenters Gethin Jones and Helen Skelton are putting on a 24-hour non-stop roller disco, complete with 80s, 90s, and noughties costumes, appealing to friends and families alike to join in the fun while raising funds for the charity. Further showcasing the spirit of the event, British racing driver Billy Monger completed the Ironman challenge in Kona, Hawai’i, which consisted of a grueling 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride, and a 26.2-mile run. Each of these ambitious endeavors further emphasizes the commitment to creating change and addressing vital issues across communities.
As Red Nose Day celebrates its 40th anniversary, it promises an evening full of laughter, heartfelt moments, and a collective commitment to social change. The show's captivating segments and surprises will be streamed live, ensuring that audiences can join in from the comfort of their homes. Comic Relief continues to offer people a platform to contribute to meaningful work and support vital causes, ensuring that the legacy of generosity and kindness remains strong.
So, viewers are encouraged to tune in and join the fun as this iconic charity marks a remarkable milestone, engaging in a night where entertainment meets compassion. With laughter, performing arts, and a genuine spirit of togetherness, Red Nose Day once again stands as a beacon of hope and positivity for those most in need.
Comic Relief: Even More Funny for Money will air on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at 4:30 PM on BBC One, promising not to disappoint audiences eager for more from this beloved charity.
