Comedian Jason Manford has hit back at online trolls who accused him of “repeating material” during his hosting duties at the Royal Variety Performance.

The funnyman took to X to address the criticism regarding his jokes made at the event.

Jason Manford hosting the Royal Variety Performance.Jason Manford has responded after facing trolling over his hosting role at the Royal Variety Performance 2025Credit: Shutterstock Editorial Jason Manford on stage at the Royal Variety Show, with Paddington Bear and cast members.He was accused of ‘rehashing’ material on stage at the Royal Albert HallCredit: ITV Kate and William beam and applaud during the Royal Variety Show.Princess Kate and Prince William beamed before singing the National AnthemCredit: ITV Jason Manford and Michael Ball with all the acts from the evening onstage at The Royal Variety Performance 2025.Jason was compared to a ‘poor imitation of Jimmy Tarbuck’Credit: Shutterstock Editorial

The 2025 event, filmed in November, featured Princess Kate joining her husband Prince William to kick off the occasion by leading the National Anthem.

Manford, 44, then took over the proceedings, five years after hosting the show in 2020 for the lockdown edition.

He shared some humorous anecdotes about his children, whom he described as having turned into “monsters,” which elicited laughter.

However, the northern comedian faced a more challenging audience at home, with one user on X commenting: “I can’t believe Manford is rehashing all this stuff about his brother and class. He’s been doing this for years.”

Another remarked: “I preferred a different person for this role; I think they would have done a better job, just my opinion, sorry.”

A third user called him a “poor copy of Jimmy Tarbuck.”

One more said: “Jason Manford is an abysmal host and not funny at all.”

Despite the backlash, Jason did not take it lightly.

He responded on social media, writing: “I love Tarby! What a compliment.”

He also replied to another critic regarding his so-called recycled jokes, stating: “Tough gig; I pulled out the gags that were going to see me through!”

Nevertheless, many supporters quickly came to Jason's defense, as he is currently involved in a pantomime.

One supporter commented: “He was fantastic. He got it just right. No silly, irrelevant, outdated jokes—just enjoyable fun with the spotlight on the acts and entertainment.”

Another added: “That was by far the best Royal Variety Performance ever. No weak points; everything was top quality. What a finale!!!!”

“The best ever, and you ran the show! Top Class xx”

The One Show Hosts Past and Present

The One Show has had numerous presenters since its launch in 2006 - but who are they?

Current
  • – Alex has been the longest-serving current host, as she’s been a regular fixture on the green sofa since 2011.
  • – After stints on The Voice: Australia and other shows, Boyzone star Ronan shifted from singing to hosting, joining The One Show in 2021.
  • – Roman initially joined as a guest presenter in 2022 but made the move permanent the following year, ending his time on Capital Breakfast.
  • – DJ, singer, and Desert Island Discs host Lauren became a regular on the chat show simultaneously with Roman.
Guest

The One Show also features a variety of relief and guest presenters, including:

  • Retired gymnast (2009–2010, 2013—present)
  • Former Welsh rugby union player (2009, 2020—present)
  • Celebrity chef (2010—present)

Related to this topic: