Comic Relief returns for its 19th telethon event tonight (Friday, March 18) since it began in 1988 as it raises money for good causes in the UK and around the world.

For Comic Relief 2022, the annual fundraising show will be hosted by Sir Lenny Henry, David Tennant, Paddy McGuinness, Zoe Ball and Vernon Kay.

Sir Lenny, who founded the Comic Relief charity with Richard Curtis back in 1985, said of the event: “The spirit of Red Nose Day is for everyone to get involved and to get the vibe of helping someone else that they don’t know, it’s always been that, and what could be better?”

“I’ve been inspired by so many people and it's usually members of the public who do extraordinary things.

“I’m always amazed by how dedicated and passionate the people that run the projects are – both in the developing world and in this country – to help better the lives of so many.

“So, to anybody who has fundraised to support these life-changing projects, I personally thank you because we wouldn’t be able to do this stuff without you guys. You are the people that inspire me.”

READ MORE - When is Red Nose Day 2022? What we know so far about Comic Relief

What channel is Comic Relief on tonight?

Comic Relief begins its telethon at 7pm on BBC One, the first stretch of which will last for three hours.

From there it will switch over to BBC Two at 10pm whilst BBC News is broadcast at the same time over on BBC One.

After that it will switch back over to BBC One at 10.35pm before concluding at 11.40pm.