Lenny Henry, Paddy McGuinness and others to host lockdown extravaganza

Matt Baker, Zoe Ball, Lenny Henry, Davina McCall and Paddy McGuinness are to host BBC One’s Big Night In extravaganza, the corporation has announced.

The three-hour show – which will be made while sticking to social isolating protocols –  will air live on the night of Thursday April 23 and aims to ‘celebrate the acts of kindness, humour and the spirit of hope and resilience that is keeping the nation going’.

Celebrities already confirmed to be taking part from the safety of their homes  are Peter Kay, making his first TV appearance in two years, Catherine Tate and Gary Barlow,

The Big Night In will also be raising money for Comic Relief and Children in Need.

Chancellor Rishi Sunak last week announced at the government’s daily press briefing that the Treasury would match pound for pound any contributions the public make.

Sir Lenny said: ‘We want to shine a light on the amazing things communities are doing and keep you entertained while you can't leave your homes. Both charities will be supporting a huge number of smaller charities and projects that will be protecting the most vulnerable people in society, so it’s going to be a brilliant night for a great cause.’

 Davina McCall added: ‘The Big Night In is an amazing way for us all to come together and show how much of an impact we can make on the lives of those who need our support. We all get to celebrate our friends, families and neighbours who are doing such incredible work in the community.

Published: 14 Apr 2020