Jason Manford found himself defending his debut as host of the Royal Variety Performance after the broadcast on Sunday evening prompted a wave of criticism from viewers at home.
The 44-year-old Salford comedian took to social media to respond to those who branded him “unfunny” and even accused him of recycling material he had used for years.
Several audience members watching from home took issue with his jokes about social class, particularly observations about his children’s middle-class upbringing compared to his own working-class roots.
His opening gag saw him declare “I’ve created monsters” before joking that his offspring had rejected warm “smashed avocado” — which he quipped was merely mushy peas from the chippy.
ITV Royal Variety: Jason Manford’s hosting stint divided viewers
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ITV
On social media, one user took aim at Mr Manford’s quips about class, specifically, accusing the comedian of reusing old material for the one-off event.
They argued, according to the Daily Mail: “Can’t believe Manford is rehashing all this stuff about his brother and class. Been doing this for years.”
Mr Manford defended the material used, however, pointing out that the Royal Variety Performance was a gig like none other. “Tough gig, I pulled out the gags that were going to see me through!” he explained.
Elsewhere, when one viewer attempted to insult him by likening him to a “s*** copy of Jimmy Tarbuck,” the comedian took it in his stride, responding: “I love Tarby! What a compliment.”
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Another critic simply stated they preferred a different host, to which Mr Manford cheekily replied: “I can’t think of anyone better tbh, just my opinion sorry.”
One viewer announced they were switching off, prompting the comedian to respond: “Hahaa thanks for letting me know, Merry Christmas big fella.”
The exchanges grew increasingly pointed as the evening progressed. When one anonymous user complained that he shouted too much, Mr Manford shot back: “It’s a big room sweetie.”
When another viewer failed to recognise the humour in one of Mr Manford’s jokes and claimed that “no one will either,” the former One Show host responded bluntly: “That was the joke f*** face.”
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Not all feedback was negative, however, with numerous viewers expressing admiration for Mr Manford’s hosting abilities.
The former 8 Out of 10 Cats star proceeded to repost a series of supportive messages from his fans to combat any negativity.
“@JasonManford You are doing a brilliant job hosting The Royal Variety Show tonight. You are brilliant! xxx,” one X user reached out.
A second echoed: “@JasonManford you’re doing an amazing job of hosting @RoyalVariety Jason.”
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Elsewhere, a third weighed in: “Ignore the d******s @JasonManford Saw ya at Corby few years back, when we stood in bus stops at The Golden Arches when fire alarm went off!! Great stand up, great host, keep doing what ya do pal.”
And a fourth concurred: “@JasonManford You are doing a brilliant job hosting The Royal Variety Show tonight but you are brilliant at everything you do though xxx.” (sic)
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While his material divided opinion at home, the comedian’s jokes appeared to land well with the royal guests, with Prince William spotted laughing during the performance.
The event, filmed at the Royal Albert Hall in November with the Prince and Princess of Wales in attendance, raises money for the Royal Variety Charity, which supports entertainers and their families experiencing hardship.
