Royal Variety hosts Amanda Holden and Alan Carr axed and replaced by comedian

Amanda Holden and Alan Carr have been replaced as hosts of the Royal Variety Performance after just one year at the helm.

Comedian Jason Manford will present this year's star-studded spectacle at the Royal Albert Hall in front of members of the Royal Family.

Jason said: “The Royal Variety Performance is always such a spectacular night, so I’m genuinely chuffed to be asked back as host. The last time I did it was in 2020 - which, if you remember, was during the pandemic. I had a virtual audience… was like doing a gig in front of a Curry’s window! Nothing says showbiz quite like getting heckled by someone who’s accidentally left their mic on while eating crisps. So I’m very excited to see some actual real-life human faces in the audience this time!”

Pals Amanda and Alan were called on to front the 2024 ceremony, taking over from Bradley Walsh. King Charles was in attendance but Queen Camila was a no-show due to illness.

Alan kicked off the show by joking about Amanda's choice of dress and her numerous run-ins with Ofcom complainers.

"You look fabulous, just on the right side of an Ofcom complaint," he told her.

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He went on: "I feel a great sense of comfort and security sharing a stage with you, well it’s a high profile event and if Just Stop Oil come at the stage, I can use you as my human shield."

They were joined by Sir Elton John, BGT winner Sydnie Christmas and Brit Award winner James Bay. Eurovision champ Nemo and popstar Sophie Ellis-Bextor were also called upon to perform.

The Royal Variety Performance will air on ITV1 and ITVX later this year.