Lenny Henry has revealed he’s stepping down as host of the Comic Relief telethon after this year’s special.
The comic, 65, who co-founded the charity alongside Richard Curtis, has co-hosted every single incarnation of the Red Nose Day special since its inception in 1986, but has confirmed 2024 will be his last.
After 36 years at the helm, Lenny said that he’s decided it’s time for new names to take the presenter reins, while he continues to support Comic Relief and Red Nose Day on other projects throughout the year.
He said: ‘When we first started Comic Relief back in 1985, I never dreamed we’d still be here today. I thought we’d probably do three shows and that would be it, but fast-forward nearly 40 years, and that enthusiasm and determination to step up and help others has never wavered.
‘As Life President of Comic Relief, I’m excited to see some new and familiar faces come forward now to present the big night and lead us into the next chapter.’
Lenny Henry has revealed he’s stepping down as host of the Comic Relief telethon after this year’s special
The comic, 65, who co-founded the charity alongside Richard Curtis , has co-hosted every single incarnation of the Red Nose Day special since its inception in 1986 (pictured)
‘Right now, we know there is a cost-of-living crisis and people are struggling, a lot of people are struggling here and around the world.
‘But we also know that the British public are brilliant – you’re so kind and generous, if somebody has a problem, you always want to help out.
‘Without you, we couldn’t do what we do. I’d love nothing more than if you joined me in getting involved this year.
‘Let’s make it one to remember and show that having a laugh can actually make a world of difference.
‘Do something funny for money, join me at The London Palladium, wear your Red Nose with complete and utter pride – whatever you do, thank you! Let’s go!’
Charlotte Moore, BBC’s Chief Content Officer, said: ‘Sir Lenny Henry has been the face of Comic Relief for nearly four decades and I would like to personally thank him for his incredible contribution, the way in which he has entertained and inspired the nation on the BBC cannot be overstated.
‘Lenny’s commitment has been awe-inspiring, he has been instrumental to its enduring appeal and shone a light on so many worthwhile causes using the power of comedy and laughter to raise millions of pounds.
‘This year’s Red Nose Day will be his last on screen but it promises to be extra special as we take the opportunity to mark his remarkable achievements on the night.’
Ahead of this year’s telethon, which takes place on Friday, March 15, Lenny has already drafted in a slew of celebrity pals for an online sketch
In the exclusive online sketch, Comic Relief co-founder, Lenny, picks up the phone to some of his famous friends to find out how they are going to do their bit to raise money
To celebrate and say thank you to Sir Lenny, some of the nation’s favourite comedians will take to the stage for a wild and wonderful one-off evening of live comedy, Comic Relief – Live at The London Palladium, on Monday 26 February.
In homage to how Comic Relief began 39 years ago, the night of non-stop laughter will see Aisling Bea, Fatiha El-Ghorri, Joel Dommett, Mawaan Rizwan, Rosie Jones and Sara Pascoe unite with Sir Lenny to raise the roof and all-important money for Red Nose Day.
Lenny hosted the first ever Red Nose Day telethon back in 1986, which raised a staggering £15 million.
Over 30 million people tune in to watch Blackadder – the Cavalier Years and the Young Ones on University Challenge.
Ahead of this year’s telethon, which takes place on Friday, March 15, Lenny has already drafted in a slew of celebrity pals for an online sketch.
Davina McCall, Alison Hammond and Simon Cowell were among the stars Lenny had on speed dial to request their help for the annual comedy fundraiser.
Lenny is first seen brainstorming on a whiteboard as he lists ideas such as a bake sale, head shave, fancy dress and a One Direction reunion as potential options for this year’s event.
Roping in a little help from his friends, Lenny dials TV presenter Alison’s number, who declares that she is ready to be a ‘hun-ny for money’, and has loads of ideas because she is an ‘iconic hun’ – however it turns out she has made a gaffe.
Lenny corrects her that the brief is actually to do something ‘funny for money’, as Alison, 48, admits she must have missed the memo.
Meanwhile, Davina admits she ‘can’t keep snogging people on the show’ to raise money, but reveals she would make an exception for Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson.
During his chat with Simon, the music mogul says: ‘I’ve got it! I’m going to listen to Amanda Holden’s covers album for a week, non-stop.’
When Lenny queries: ‘What’s that got to do with raising money?’ , Simon quips: ‘Well, it is definitely something funny.’
Other stars willing to get involved include Bridgerton star Jonathan Bailey, who asked Lenny if he wanted to join his 24-hour singathon.
Meanwhile, radio presenter Nick Grimshaw floated the idea of a sponsored silence while hosting his podcast, which received crickets as a response.
When he rang Gemma Collins, she was more interested in finding out how he had received her number, before reluctantly offering to host a bake sale.
Acting royalty Dame Joan Collins is going to new heights for Red Nose Day by taking on a sponsored skydive.
The new sketch can be viewed on YouTube and hopes to inspire people across the country to do something funny for money this Red Nose Day and help spread joy.
Tickets for Comic Relief – Live at The London Palladium are available now from LW Theatres and Ticketmaster.
