Comic Relief 2021 raises staggering £45million in star-studded special

A staggering £45million has been raised for Comic Relief 2021.

Following an incredibly tough year, generous viewers put their hands in their pocket to stump up millions for charity.

At the very end of a star-studded show on BBC, it was down to hosts Sir Lenny Henry, Alesha Dixon and David Tennant to announce the total.

‘The money raised tonight will go to making life easier for those who need it the most,’ David said.

Sir Lenny continued: ‘This is my favourite part of the night, and like Simon Cowell’s face, it never gets old.

‘The amount raised tonight so far for Comic Relief 2021 is £45,938,942.’

‘An amazing amount but… BUT the donations are still flooding in so Jason and Amanda will update the figure after the news in the Great Comic Relief Prize-A-Thon,’ David added.

Earlier in the evening, Sir Lenny was on hand to reveal the tally at the halfway point of the show, confirming that more than £25million had been raised.

UK Aid has pledged to double £6million of the final total, to empower local organisations in Ghana, Zambia and Malawi.

The last Comic Relief fundraiser, in 2019, raised over £63.4million to help those in need around the world.

It was a different fundraiser this time around, due to lockdown restrictions – with bosses stating they were hoping to raise money through humour.

Speaking ahead of the episode, Sir Lenny Henry, said: ‘We all need cheering up, so this year Red Nose Day will be a bit different.

‘Of course we want to raise as much money as possible for people who really need it in the UK and around the world.

‘But we also want to make you smile and bring you some laughter over the coming weeks.’

There were some A-List guest appearances and performances on the night, with Justin Bieber making his first UK TV stint in five years to join in the fundraising.

As well as this, viewers were treated to an iconic Staged reunion and Catherine Tate’s Nan taking on James Bond star Daniel Craig.

Yes, seriously.

The gang were also joined by a virtual audience, as a live crowd wasn’t allowed.

Comic Relief 2021 is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.

Got a story?

If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.

MORE : Comic Relief 2021: David Tennant chokes up during emotional Sunshine On Leith cover

MORE : Justin Bieber wows fans with first UK TV performance in five years on Comic Relief