The 2024 Royal Variety Performance has been the talk of the nation, with audiences voicing a unanimous opinion just moments into the revered show.
This year’s extravaganza, filmed last month and presented by comedic treasure Alan Carr alongside , graced television screens across the UK on the night of December 15.
The regal assembly at the Royal Albert Hall, including King Charles III, was serenaded by luminaries such as Sophie Ellis-Bexter, theatre stars from The Devil Wears Prada, and the inspiring Change and Check Choir orchestrated by Marti Pellow, featuring renowned broadcaster Lorraine Kelly.
Yet, mere minutes after the programme began, chatter among ITV viewers watching from their homes converged into a singular narrative as they took to social media platforms to express their views.
On X, previously known as Twitter, one audience member lamented: “, no thanks #RoyalVarietyPerformance.”, reports .
Don’t miss…
Alan Carr and Amanda Holden left Royal Variety Performance viewers divided (Image: ITV/REX/Shutterstock)
Another chimed in with: “Dreadful presenters #RoyalVarietyPerformance.” “Well, Alan Carr and are absolutely dreadful. This opening is so awkward. #RoyalVarietyPerformance.” echoed a third critic.
Conversely, not everyone shared this sentiment; some celebratory comments emerged lauding the hosts: “Alan Carr is hilarious. and isn’t looking too bad either.” With another spectator expressing their fondness, posting: “Love Amanda and Alan together.”
While the Royal Variety Performance is familiar territory for Alan who steered the show back in 2021, this year marks a debut hosting partnership with his good friend Amanda, who enthusiastically remarked on her first-time experience: “It truly is such an honour to be hosting the Royal Variety Performance this year.”
Don’t miss…
Alan was joined by pal Amanda to host the 2024 show (Image: ITV/REX/Shutterstock)
The exuberance was palpable as one half of the dynamic duo exclaimed: “I’m still pinching myself! This is a dream job and Alan is a ‘true’ friend, we are already bursting with ideas and excitement, it’s going to be such a fun night!”
Reflecting on a history with Britain’s Got Talent spanning 18 years, they voiced their pride: “I’ve worked on Britain’s Got Talent for 18 years and have been so proud watching all our winners perform for the Royal Family. This year will be no different, so in the words of Sydnie Christmas, let’s av it! “.
Alan shared the thrill, commenting: “I am completely thrilled to be asked back to host the Royal Variety Performance so soon, what a compliment and an honour! To be able to host this magical evening with my best friend and tv wife is the icing on the cake for me. If we have half as much fun as we did three years ago, well we are all in for a real treat.”
Royal Variety Performance is available to watch on ITVX