Sir Lenny Henry concluded his final Red Nose Day appearance last night with a performance of his cover of Barbie’s ‘I’m Just Ken’. The comedian and co-founder of Comic Relief announced last year that it was time to hand over the reins to the next generation and pass on hosting duties. In his final appearance, he donned Ryan Gosling’s memorable outfit and referenced several classic sketches from the 40 years he hosted the annual event.
The sketch showed Henry pondering about his future ambitions, which included starring in a Marvel movie with Beyoncé, contesting for Prime Minister (“You know I’ll win”), and converting Number 10 into “a great big dope ass Premier Inn” but passing on I’m A Celeb.
Henry founded Comic Relief with screenwriter Richard Curtis in 1985 as a response to the Ethiopian famine. Since 1986, Red Nose Day has been held as a yearly fundraiser. The event features comedians, musicians, and actors participating in sketches and performances.
Henryreceived several tributes on his final night, including a speech from the man himself and co-host David Tennant thanking him for “an amazing tour of duty.” Davina McCall called him “one hundred percent totally and utterly irreplaceable.” The charity raised over £40 million this year.
It has been an honor and a joy to be the face of the annual Red Nose Day show, said Henry. However, it is not about the individual but about the mirth and the money, the comedy and the compassion. Each year, they make these films, you watch them, and every single time you come through, Henry told viewers. There are so many people living difficult lives in difficult situations here in the UK and beyond, and for the previous 40 years, they have made films, and you have watched them and helped financially
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