Jason Manford for Starstruck / ITV
Comedian Jason Manford as been named as the host of this year’s Royal Variety Performance.
The event – staged to raise funds for charity – is attended by senior members of the Royal Family and features performances from across the arts, including musicians, comedians and dancers.
Manford will compere the show for the second time, having previously hosted in 2020, while he has previously performed in 2009, 2011 and 2017.
“The Royal Variety Performance is always such a spectacular night, so I’m genuinely chuffed to be asked back as host,” he said.
“The last time I did it was in 2020 – which, if you remember, was during the pandemic. I had a virtual audience… was like doing a gig in front of a Curry’s window! Nothing says showbiz quite like getting heckled by someone who’s accidentally left their mic on while eating crisps.
“So I’m very excited to see some actual real-life human faces in the audience this time!”
This year’s Performance will take place at the Royal Albert Hall on Wednesday, November 19 and is expected to air on ITV in December.
