Comedian Jason Manford has taken to social media to defend his performance after hosting the prestigious Royal Variety Performance for the very first time. The 44-year-old watched the pre-recorded show from home on Sunday night after it was filmed in November at London's Royal Albert Hall in front of an audience that included the Prince and Princess of Wales.
Social Media Backlash and Cheeky Comebacks
While many enjoyed the show, some viewers expressed their disappointment online, leading to a series of direct responses from Manford. On the platform X, one critic claimed the host was 'rehashing old material' about his brother and class, commenting he had been doing the same jokes for years.
Manford replied frankly, stating: 'Tough gig, I pulled out the gags that were going to see me through!' Another user attempted an insult by comparing him to a 's*** copy of Jimmy Tarbuck'. Unfazed, Manford turned it into a compliment, responding: 'I love Tarby! What a complement'.
When a third person wrote they would have preferred a different host, Manford cheekily hit back: 'I can't think of anyone better tbh, just my opinion sorry'. He even wished a Merry Christmas to someone who declared they were switching off because he was 'dull'.
A Royal and Star-Studded Evening
The evening was a significant one for the royal family, marking a public appearance for the Princess of Wales, 43. Having announced she was in remission from cancer in January, Kate looked radiant on the red carpet in a stunning dark green velvet gown, paired with matching Manolo Blahnik pumps and Cartier diamonds.
Prince William, looking dapper in evening dress, was seen enthusiastically joining in, belting out the national anthem to kick off the event. The show featured a packed line-up of entertainment, including:
- A sneak peek of Paddington: The Musical, introduced by McFly's Tom Fletcher.
- A deeply emotional new song, 'I'll Never Know Why', performed by Jessie J as a tribute to her late bodyguard.
- A spectacular celebration of the 40th anniversary of Les Misérables, featuring 400 performers on stage.
- Stephen Fry in character as Lady Bracknell, who humorously teased Prince William about his football club, Aston Villa.
- Performances from Westlife, magician Harry Moulding, and Britain's Got Talent winners.
Broadcast and Aftermath
The Royal Variety Performance, recorded in November 2024, is scheduled to air on ITV at 7pm as part of the Christmas programming. Despite the mixed reaction from some quarters online, many other viewers praised Manford's hosting, and the comedian was quick to thank his supporters on social media.
The event provided a moment of glamour and celebration for the Royal Family, following a difficult week marked by the release of documents related to the Epstein case, which referenced the Duke of York.
