Royal Variety Performance 2025: Full Line-up, Broadcast Time & Highlights
It is the crown jewel of the festive TV calendar, a night of black ties, diamonds, and the very best of British entertainment. But with a runtime stretching over two and a half hours, you need to know exactly when to tune in and when to boil the kettle.
Recorded live at the Royal Albert Hall on 19th November in the presence of the Prince and Princess of Wales, tonight’s show (Sunday, 21 December) marks a historic return for host Jason Manford. Whether you are waiting for the West End spectaculars or just want to see if the Royal Box laughs at the risky jokes, this guide covers the confirmed running order, the viral “must-watch” moments, and the exclusive backstage details you won’t see on the ITV edit.
What Time is the Royal Variety Performance on Tonight?
For UK viewers, the Royal Variety Performance 2025 broadcasts tonight on ITV1 and ITVX.
| Feature | Details |
| Channel | ITV1 & ITVX (Streaming Live) |
| Start Time | 19:05 (7:05 PM) |
| End Time | 22:00 (10:00 PM) |
| Duration | 2 Hours 55 Minutes (approx) |
| Catch Up | Available on ITVX immediately after broadcast |
Pro-Tip for Streamers: If you are watching on ITVX, the “Live” stream often buffers during high-demand starts (like the opening monologue). I recommend tuning in 5 minutes early (19:00) to secure your connection. If you miss the start, the full replay is usually uploaded by 11:00 PM.
The Full Royal Variety 2025 Line-up (Confirmed)
The 2025 bill is heavier on musical theatre than previous years, likely to celebrate the major West End anniversaries. Here is the confirmed list of performers you will see tonight.
The Musical Headliners
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Westlife: The Irish legends are celebrating their 25th anniversary. They perform a medley of their greatest hits backed by the full Royal Variety Orchestra, expect a massive singalong moment in the Hall.
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Jessie J: Returning to the Royal Variety stage, she performs a stripped-back ballad followed by a high-energy medley.
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Madness: Bringing the “Nutty Boys” energy to the Albert Hall, likely closing a segment with “Our House.”
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Laufey: The Grammy-winning jazz artist brings a modern, sophisticated vibe to the proceedings.
Comedy & Variety
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Jason Manford (Host): This is Manford’s first time hosting the main show since the pandemic restrictions of 2020. His opening monologue is expected to be “safe but cheeky,” poking fun at the Prime Minister and the cost of living.
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Dead Ringers: The impressions team provides the political satire. Insider Note: Reports from the live recording suggest one joke about the US election result received a mix of gasps and laughs, watch closely to see if it made the final ITV edit.
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Stephen Fry: Appearing in character as Lady Bracknell from The Importance of Being Earnest.
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Airfootworks: The Japanese acrobatic troupe and Britain’s Got Talent alumni provide the visual spectacle of the night.
Theatre Exclusives
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Les Misérables (40th Anniversary): This is the centerpiece of the night. A massive cast featuring current West End stars and past legends performs the “One Day More” finale.
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Paddington The Musical: An exclusive first look at the newly launched West End show. Yes, Paddington Bear is on stage!
“Must-Watch” Moments: The Critics’ Verdict
Having reviewed the reports from the live recording on 19th November, here is my “Quality Forecast” for the night. These are the moments you should stop scrolling on your phone for.
1. The Emotional Peak: Les Misérables
The Les Mis 40th Anniversary tribute is being described by industry insiders as “spine-tingling.” When the red flag waves for “Do You Hear the People Sing?”, it reportedly brought the entire Royal Albert Hall to a standing ovation. This is the segment that will likely go viral on Facebook tomorrow morning.
2. Fashion Watch: The Emerald Green Gown
Royal watchers will be tuning in specifically to see the Princess of Wales. She wore a stunning emerald green velvet gown by Talbot Runhof, paired with the Cambridge Lover’s Knot Tiara. The colour choice is being interpreted by fashion critics as a nod to “renewal and nature” for 2026.
3. The “Risky” Joke
Jason Manford is a safe pair of hands, but Dead Ringers took a few risks. During the recording, a sketch involving a caricature of a senior politician garnered a mixed reaction. It will be interesting to see how ITV edits the audience response, specifically the reaction shots from the Royal Box.
Why Does the Royal Variety Happen? (The Charity Context)
It’s easy to get distracted by the glitter, but the event serves a serious purpose. The show is the primary fundraiser for the Royal Variety Charity (formerly the Entertainment Artistes’ Benevolent Fund).
Where does the money go?
The funds raised from ticket sales and tonight’s donations go directly to supporting people who have worked professionally in the entertainment industry but are now experiencing hardship, illness, or old age.
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Brinsworth House: This is the charity’s residential care home in Twickenham. It is known as the “Old Pro’s Paradise,” providing round-the-clock care for elderly actors, dancers, and circus performers.
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Nationwide Grants: The charity also provides financial grants to younger entertainers struggling with health issues or mental health crises, a vital lifeline in an industry with no sick pay or pension plans.
Did You Know? The tradition began in 1912 with King George V. He agreed to attend a “Royal Command Performance” to aid the fund, and the Monarch (or a senior Royal) has attended every year since to demonstrate their support for the arts.
FAQs
Is the Royal Variety Performance live tonight?
No. The show was recorded on Wednesday, 19th November 2025. Tonight’s broadcast is an edited version of that night, removing the scene changes and technical pauses to fit the 3-hour TV slot.
Who won Britain’s Got Talent 2025?
The winner of BGT 2025 was the magician Harry Moulding. As part of his prize, he secured a spot on tonight’s bill, look out for his illusion act in the second half.
Did King Charles attend the Royal Variety 2025?
No. The Royal guests of honour this year were the Prince and Princess of Wales (William and Catherine). The senior royals rotate attendance; King Charles attended in 2024.
Can I watch the Royal Variety Performance in the USA?
Not live on cable. However, the performance typically arrives on BritBox US shortly after the UK broadcast. You can also use a VPN to access ITVX if you have a valid UK TV license.
How can I get tickets for the Royal Variety Performance 2026?
Tickets usually go on sale in June or July. They are sold via the Royal Variety Charity website. Be warned: they sell out in minutes, and priority is often given to charity supporters.
Why is Elton John not performing?
Despite rumours of a surprise appearance, Sir Elton John is not on the 2025 bill. He headlined the 2024 show. This year’s “Legend” slot belongs to Westlife.
Conclusion
The Royal Variety Performance 2025 remains a comforting, nostalgic slice of British culture. While the format rarely changes, the energy of the 2025 show feels particularly special thanks to the return of Jason Manford and the sheer emotional weight of the Les Misérables anniversary.
My Verdict: Don’t skip the first hour. The opening musical number and Manford’s monologue set a fantastic tone that carries the whole evening.
What act are you most excited for? Will you be singing along to Westlife or waiting for Paddington? Enjoy the show, and if you can, please consider donating to the Royal Variety Charity to support the entertainers who keep us smiling all year round.
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Mohammed
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