15:30, 21 March 2025
Words by Cheyanne Bryan, Editorial and Campaign Marketing Executive, London
For four decades, Comic Relief has been at the heart of British charity fundraising, using comedy and entertainment to drive real change. Founded in 1985 by comedian Lenny Henry and screenwriter Richard Curtis, in response to the 1983–1985 famine in Ethiopia.
Since then, the charity is known across the world for their belief that laughter could be a force for good. In 2022, it was reported that Comic Relief has raised more than £1.5 billion – a number we can only expect to have increased over the last 3 years – transforming lives both in the UK and around the world.
In a quote to Smiley News, Samir Patel, CEO of Comic Relief, said: “As Comic Relief enters this exciting, milestone year, it’s a great opportunity to reflect on the work that has been achieved in the UK and around the world over the last four decades, while also looking ahead and exploring how Comic Relief can continue to support those in need in the challenges we face now and in the future.”
“[This] Red Nose Day will be a journey through Comic Relief’s history, with a blend of comedy, music and entertainment fronted by the UK’s brightest talent. And we are so grateful to the public, and our partners for their incredible fundraising efforts over 40 years, doing what they can to help others.”
From its very first Red Nose Day in 1988, Comic Relief captured the nation’s imagination. That debut event raised an astonishing £15 million and was watched by over 30 million people. Over the years, the fundraising extravaganza has delivered countless unforgettable moments. Who could forget Mr Bean meeting the Queen, James Corden’s Carpool Karaoke with George Michael, or the legendary 2015 sketch where Daniel Craig’s James Bond was given a brutal dressing down by Dame Judi Dench?
The charity has also produced some of the most ambitious fundraising challenges ever seen, bringing some of Britain’s most recognisable faces onto our television screens every year.
A memory that definitely stands out is the 2006 feat completed by Comedian David Walliams, who swam the English Channel, raising over £1 million, as a part of Sports Relief, a biennial charity event organised by Comic Relief in association with BBC Sport.
While in 2009, a team including Gary Barlow and Cheryl Cole trekked Mount Kilimanjaro, bringing in £3.5 million.
More recently, some of the cast of Traitors series 3 has reunited for the ultimate game of laughter in a brand-new Red Nose Day sketch. You can see some familiar faces and watch it here.
As part of its 40th anniversary celebrations, Comic Relief is bringing back some of its most popular Red Nose designs from past years. These quirky, collectible noses have been a staple of the campaign since its inception, encouraging millions to take part in the fun and raise money for important causes.
From classic character designs to the more recent eco-friendly paper noses, this year’s campaign pays tribute to Comic Relief’s rich history while continuing to fund life-changing projects. Red Nose Day has become a symbol of unity and generosity, proving that even the smallest act—buying and wearing a red nose—can help support those in need.
The money raised by Comic Relief has had a profound global impact, funding thousands of projects across Africa, Asia, and the UK. From tackling homelessness to supporting mental health initiatives, the charity has played a crucial role in reducing poverty and improving lives.
In Africa, Comic Relief has helped to provide millions of people with access to safe water, vaccines, and education. In the UK, it has supported organisations helping victims of domestic abuse, mental health charities, and youth services.
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
Comic Relief. The charity behind Red Nose Day that raises funds through comedy and entertainment to tackle poverty and social injustice worldwide. Find out more.
Oxfam. This international charity is dedicated to tackling poverty and inequality. It works in numerous countries, providing aid, education, and healthcare, particularly in crisis zones. Learn more here.
Children in Need. Organised and hosted by the BBC, Children in Need is a well-known annual charity appeal that raises funds for projects supporting disadvantaged children and young people in the UK. Support them here.
This article aligns with the UN No Poverty, Reduced Inequalities, PartnershipsForTheGoals.
