Benedict Cumberbatch & Judi Dench Ham It Up For Red Nose Day Campaign Film

Benedict Cumberbatch and Dame Judi Dench joined other celebrities and comedians in this year’s Red Nose Day, Funny is Power campaign film. Each person discussed the power of laughter and why humor is especially important through tough times.

The video is to promote Comic Relief’s upcoming live telethon, Red Nose Day, which will happen on March 19 this year.

“Times are tough right now and as the impact of COVID19 continues to affect people all over the world, there’s never been a better time to make a difference, no matter how big or small,” read the video description. “So whether you’re getting ready to unleash your secret superpower as a fundraising hero, supporting some of the nation’s favorite faces as they take on epic challenges, or getting ready for a night of unmissable TV, you can help create change across the UK and around the world.”

This year will be the 35th annual charity event and will raise money to battle homelessness, domestic abuse, mental health stigma and issues created by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Money raised will support some of the most vulnerable people and communities in society who have been hardest hit by the coronavirus crisis, including those now reliant on food banks, and provide vital funding to under resourced front line charities as they adapt and navigate through these difficult uncertain times,” said Comic Relief in a statement.

The day of the fundraiser, events will be broadcast throughout the day on CBeebies and CBBC. In the evening, there will be a live special featuring live performances, sketches and one-off comedy specials.

Comic Relief was founded by comic Sir Lenny Henry and director Richard Curtis. The last Red Nose Day telethon in 2019 lasted almost six hours.