Lenny Henry QUITS because the host of Comic Relief after 39 YEARS

Lenny Henry has revealed he is stepping down as host of the Comic Relief telethon after this yr’s particular.

The comedian, 65, who co-founded the charity alongside Richard Curtis, has co-hosted each single incarnation of the Red Nose Day particular since its inception as a charity in 1985, however has confirmed 2024 will probably be his final.

After 36 years on the helm, Lenny mentioned that he is determined it is time for brand new names to take the presenter reins, whereas he continues to assist Comic Relief and Red Nose Day on different initiatives all year long. 

He mentioned: ‘When we first began Comic Relief again in 1985, I by no means dreamed we would nonetheless be right here at present. I believed we would most likely do three exhibits and that will be it, however fast-forward almost 40 years, and that enthusiasm and willpower to step up and assist others has by no means wavered.

‘As Life President of Comic Relief, I’m excited to see some new and acquainted faces come ahead now to current the massive night time and lead us into the following chapter.’

‘Right now, we all know there’s a cost-of-living disaster and individuals are struggling, lots of people are struggling right here and all over the world.

‘But we additionally know that the British public are sensible – you are so form and beneficiant, if anyone has an issue, you all the time need to assist out. 

‘Without you, we could not do what we do. I’d love nothing greater than in the event you joined me in getting concerned this yr. 

‘Let’s make it one to recollect and present that having amusing can truly make a world of distinction. 

‘Do one thing humorous for cash, be a part of me at The London Palladium, put on your Red Nose with full and utter pleasure – no matter you do, thanks! Let’s go!’

Charlotte Moore, BBC’s Chief Content Officer, mentioned: ‘Sir Lenny Henry has been the face of Comic Relief for almost 4 many years and I want to personally thank him for his unimaginable contribution, the best way during which he has entertained and impressed the nation on the BBC can’t be overstated. 

‘Lenny’s dedication has been awe-inspiring, he has been instrumental to its enduring enchantment and shone a lightweight on so many worthwhile causes utilizing the facility of comedy and laughter to lift hundreds of thousands of kilos. 

‘This yr’s Red Nose Day will probably be his final on display screen nevertheless it guarantees to be additional particular as we take the chance to mark his exceptional achievements on the night time.’

To have fun and say thanks to Sir Lenny, a number of the nation’s favorite comedians will take to the stage for a wild and great one-off night of stay comedy, Comic Relief – Live at The London Palladium, on Monday 26 February.

In homage to how Comic Relief started 39 years in the past, the night time of continuous laughter will see Aisling Bea, Fatiha El-Ghorri, Joel Dommett, Mawaan Rizwan, Rosie Jones and Sara Pascoe unite with Sir Lenny to increase the roof and all-important cash for Red Nose Day. 

Lenny hosted the primary ever Red Nose Day telethon again in 1986, which raised a staggering £15 million.

Over 30 million folks tune in to look at Blackadder – the Cavalier Years and the Young Ones on University Challenge. 

Ahead of this yr’s telethon, which takes place on Friday, March 15, Lenny has already drafted in a slew of movie star friends for an internet sketch.

Davina McCall, Alison Hammond and Simon Cowell have been among the many stars Lenny had on velocity dial to request their assist for the annual comedy fundraiser.

Lenny is first seen brainstorming on a whiteboard as he lists concepts equivalent to a bake sale, head shave, fancy costume and a One Direction reunion as potential choices for this yr’s occasion. 

Roping in a little bit assist from his mates, Lenny dials TV presenter Alison’s quantity, who declares that she is able to be a ‘hun-ny for cash’, and has a great deal of concepts as a result of she is an ‘iconic hun’ – nevertheless it seems she has made a gaffe.

Lenny corrects her that the temporary is definitely to do one thing ‘humorous for cash’, as Alison, 48, admits she will need to have missed the memo.

Meanwhile, Davina admits she ‘cannot maintain snogging folks on the present’ to lift cash, however reveals she would make an exception for Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson.

During his chat with Simon, the music mogul says: ‘I’ve obtained it! I’m going to take heed to Amanda Holden’s covers album for per week, continuous.’

When Lenny queries: ‘What’s that obtained to do with elevating cash?’ , Simon quips: ‘Well, it’s undoubtedly one thing humorous.’

Other stars keen to become involved embrace Bridgerton star Jonathan Bailey, who requested Lenny if he needed to affix his 24-hour singathon.

Meanwhile, radio presenter Nick Grimshaw floated the concept of a sponsored silence whereas internet hosting his podcast, which acquired crickets as a response.

When he rang Gemma Collins, she was extra desirous about discovering out how he had acquired her quantity, earlier than reluctantly providing to host a bake sale.

Acting royalty Dame Joan Collins goes to new heights for Red Nose Day by taking over a sponsored skydive. 

The new sketch may be considered on YouTube and hopes to encourage folks throughout the nation to do one thing humorous for cash this Red Nose Day and assist unfold pleasure.

Tickets for Comic Relief – Live at The London Palladium can be found now from LW Theatres and Ticketmaster.