The Big Night In: What time is the BBC fundraiser and how can I watch live?

The BBC’s charity event will star Lenny Henry, Catherine Tate and many more famous faces

Since the coronavirus lockdown began and TV production ground to a halt, broadcasters have been looking for inventive ways of filling the schedules – and cheering us all up.

First, there was the One World: Together at Home concert, organised by Lady Gaga and bringing together music figures from all over the world to raise money for the coronavirus relief effort. Now, the BBC has its own offering: The Big Night In.

The fundraiser will see Comic Relief and Children in Need join forces for a night of live entertainment, starring many famous faces from Lenny Henry to Catherine Tate.

The Big Night In will comply with the government’s social distancing guidelines, with many of the celebrities appearing via video links from their homes. According to the BBC, there will be chances to win “money can’t buy prizes”, live music performances and “big surprises”.

Here’s everything you need to know about The Big Night In, from when it’s on TV to who is taking part…

The presenters

Lenny Henry, Davina McCall, Matt Baker, Zoe Ball and Paddy McGuinness will be hosting the show live.

Henry said: “I’ve been part of the Comic Relief family for years, and at times like these it’s so important we all come together to support one another, which is why we’ve joined forces with BBC Children in Need for The Big Night In.

“We want to shine a light on the amazing things communities are doing and keep you entertained whilst 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.”

The entertainment

Peter Kay in 2016 (Rex)

Peter Kay will unveil the new version of his “(Is This The Way To) Amarillo” music video, 15 years after the original hit. The new video features members of the public who have filmed themselves marching and dancing along.

Matt Lucas and David Walliams will bring Little Britain back to TV for the first time in a decade. They have not yet revealed which characters they will play in the new sketch.

Catherine Tate will reprise her role as schoolgirl Lauren, who is now struggling as she is remotely educated by her teacher, played by David Tennant.

Dawn French is also making a one-off comeback as the Vicar Of Dibley, Gary Barlow will be performing and the Strictly cast will be sharing tips.

When it’s on TV

Dawn French in The Vicar of Dibley (BBC)

The Big Night In will air on BBC1 on Thursday 23 April from 7pm to 10pm. It will be available to watch on iPlayer shortly after broadcast.

Follow along here with our live blog on the night.

How to donate

Viewers can donate to the fundraiser to support vulnerable people of all ages and backgrounds across the UK who will be significantly impacted by the crisis.

Donations will be split evenly between BBC Children in Need and Comic Relief.

The chancellor of the exchequer, Rishi Sunak, recently announced UK treasury would match pound for pound any contributions made by the public.

You can donate to Children in Need and Comic Relief at this link.