During the 40th anniversary special of Red Nose Day, host Davina McCall tearfully recounted her experience of having a brain tumor removed, calling it "the hardest thing I've ever been through." She reflected on this period, expressing her complex emotions.
Read Also...:
Top US officials shift blame for Signal chat leak to Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth
03-26, 2025
Trump says national security advisor doesn't need to apologise after journalist was added into group text discussing war plans
03-26, 2025
FBI launches task force targeting anti-Tesla 'domestic terrorism'
03-26, 2025
Papua New Guinea shuts down Facebook in test to stop 'pornography, misinformation, hate speech'
03-26, 2025The television presenter underwent surgery last November. During the program, she emotionally spoke about the support she received from her family and partner, Michael Douglas, expressing immense gratitude. Her sincere outpouring touched many viewers profoundly.
McCall made the remarks during "Comic Relief: Funny for Money," a program that featured performances by the Sugababes and numerous 80s stars, as well as skits involving Gladiators and Strictly Come Dancing professionals. The charity had raised over £32 million by 10:00 PM GMT, demonstrating the public's generous support.
McCall, who previously hosted "Big Brother," said of her experience: "I had a very mad year this year. I had, completely out of the blue, found out that I had a benign brain tumour, and so I had it removed." She continued, "That's probably the hardest thing I've ever been through. Weighing up the risks and the positives of having it removed made me deeply contemplate the meaning of life and what truly matters during challenging times."
To mark the 40th anniversary of fundraising for charity, some of the BBC's most popular shows were adapted into skits, including "Strictly Come Dancing," "Gladiators," "Outnumbered," and "Beyond Paradise." McCall co-hosted the show in Salford alongside Rylan Clark, Alison Hammond, Joel Dommett, Alesha Dixon, Jonathan Ross, Tom Allen, and AJ Odudu, creating a vibrant and engaging atmosphere.
To bring the show back to the 80s, where Comic Relief began, the evening opened with an 80s pop music medley, with Limahl of the British band Kajagoogoo singing their hit "Too Shy," followed by Carol Decker of T'Pau singing "China In Your Hand." Sir Lenny Henry, co-founder of Comic Relief, reflected on the charity's 40th anniversary: "I can't believe Comic Relief is 40. In some ways, 1985 feels like yesterday." He said in a pre-recorded message during Friday's show, expressing a mix of nostalgia and pride.
Kurrupt FM's self-proclaimed manager, Chabuddy G, then entered the Gladiators arena for an exclusive Red Nose Day showdown. Comic Relief has consistently worked to provide food, healthcare, and shelter to the communities that need it most, showcasing its dedication to impactful change.
Celebrities have been taking on challenges for Red Nose Day. Previously, BBC Radio 1 host Jamie Laing completed a 150-mile journey from London to Salford, raising over £2 million. He limped onto the stage during the show to thank people for their donations. He said: "It was a long way, but it was an incredible journey. The people were amazing, the donations were amazing, and you people here are amazing," highlighting the collective effort.
Reality stars Pete Wicks and Vicky Pattison changed their daily routines to become Amazon delivery drivers, raising money for the charity. Comedians Russell Kane and Rachel Parris starred as the first amateur professional dancers on "Strictly Come Dancing," due to the BBC One show's "inclusive rules stating that a percentage of professionals must be amateurs." They showcased their antics in a segment narrated by Miranda Hart, seemingly impressing the "Strictly" professionals.
James Buckley and Joe Thomas reprised their roles as Liam and Noel Gallagher in a "The Inbetweeners" reunion, depicting their journey from Manchester lads to global rock stars in a spoof. The BBC's "EastEnders" partnered with Comic Relief for a five-minute episode focusing on Phil Mitchell's mental health and the importance of therapy. Comedian Munya Chawawa headed to the West End to become actor Brian Cox's new understudy in his critically acclaimed play, "The Score," adding a touch of humor to the serious fundraising efforts.
You can watch all the Red Nose Day highlights on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
