Lenny Henry is stepping down as host of Comic Relief after 36 years, with this year's Red Nose Day telethon marking his final appearance in the role. The 65-year-old comedian, who co-founded the charity in 1985, described the upcoming show as 'probably the best night of my life'. He will remain as life president and continue working behind the scenes.
Henry's early Comic Relief highlights include a 1986 sketch at the Shaftesbury Theatre, where he impersonated boxer Frank Bruno in a balcony scene from Romeo and Juliet, with the real Bruno playing Juliet. The pantomime silliness was a precursor to the first televised fundraiser two years later.
In a Sport Relief sketch, Henry played multiple siblings of Idris Elba's character John Luther, accusing him of murder after he bought a supermarket chicken. The skit featured sports stars Ian Wright and Denise Lewis, with Henry delivering a spot-on replica of Elba's costume and mannerisms.
One of the most memorable moments came in 1995 when Henry was kissed by supermodel Elle Macpherson, a sequel to Dawn French's famous snog with Hugh Grant. The segment also featured Cilla Black, who mounted Henry with impeccable comic timing.
Henry's character Theophilus P Wildebeeste, a hapless soul singer, performed alongside Tom Jones in a sketch where both wore leather and sequins. Jones's over-the-top sexiness caused Theophilus to slip a disc, with Henry breaking character to glance off-camera.
Henry also shone in serious moments, such as a live BBC Breakfast segment from a medical facility in Iyolwa, Uganda, built with Comic Relief funds. His visible joy and pride highlighted the tangible impact of public donations, contrasting with the previous desperate conditions.
