Comic Relief has officially kicked off the countdown to Red Nose Day 2026 with a hilariously bold public spectacle, projecting some of the UK’s most beloved celebrities’ “Best Worst Photos” onto the iconic riverside façade of Battersea Power Station.
The playful installation marks the launch of Comic Relief’s new Take Yourself Funny For Money campaign — a nationwide call to embrace self-deprecating British humour in aid of serious social good. By encouraging people to laugh at themselves, Comic Relief aims to raise vital funds to help people access the basics many still struggle with: food, safe shelter and security.
A Landmark Moment for Red Nose Day 2026
Set against one of London’s most recognisable landmarks, the projection transformed Battersea Power Station into a celebration of awkward school photos, questionable haircuts and peak cringe — all in the name of charity. The campaign sets the tone for turning laughter into impact ahead of Red Nose Day on Friday 20 March 2026.
Celebrities whose “Best Worst Photos” were featured include Miranda Hart, Claudia Winkleman, Davina McCall, Jamie Oliver, Joel Dommett, Rosie Jones, Rosie Ramsey, Big Zuu, Asim Chaudhry, GK Barry, JB Gill, Eddie Kadi and La Voix, among others.
The event follows Comic Relief’s long tradition of blending entertainment and activism, something the charity has become synonymous with since its launch in 1985. For more culture-led charity moments, see Verge’s coverage of UK entertainment and pop culture here.
Miranda Hart Leads the Charge in Public Embarrassment
Actress and comedian Miranda Hart was more than happy to lead by example, submitting a particularly memorable photo from her primary school days.
“When Comic Relief asked me to submit my ‘Best Worst Photo’ to be projected onto Battersea Power Station, I knew instantly what I had to do,” Hart said. “To see me looking half choir boy, half ageing monk with a fantastic ’70s bowl cut is EXACTLY what the nation needs.”
She added that embracing embarrassment is a powerful way to free others to do the same — especially when it contributes to Comic Relief’s wider mission.
“I am always happy to take the lead in public embarrassment if it garners a giggle — even more so when it’s part of Comic Relief’s mission to help people who are struggling with the most basic things.”
How the Public Can Get Involved
The campaign isn’t just for celebrities. Comic Relief is inviting the public to join in by sharing their own awkward, nostalgic or downright cringey snaps on social media using #BestWorstPhoto and #TakeYourselfFunnyForMoney, tagging @comicrelief.
Whether it’s a dodgy fringe, an unfortunate fashion phase or a school portrait best left forgotten, every post helps amplify the message — and the fundraising.
This year’s Red Nose Day encourages everyone to take life a little less seriously, turning silliness into solidarity. From marathon runs in mankinis to baking your mate’s face into a cake, Comic Relief is once again proving that laughter can be a powerful force for change.
Why Red Nose Day Still Matters
The money raised through Red Nose Day 2026 will support people facing poverty both in the UK and around the world, helping to provide access to essential needs such as food, shelter and safety. It’s a reminder that while the campaign is light-hearted on the surface, its impact is deeply meaningful.
There are plenty of ways to take part this March — whether that’s sharing a photo, donning a Red Nose or getting involved in fundraising events. You can find out more at the official Comic Relief Red Nose Day website here or by following @comicrelief across social platforms.
About Comic Relief
Comic Relief is a UK charity that uses the power of entertainment and popular culture to work towards a vision of a just world free from poverty. Since launching in 1985, the charity has raised over £1.6 billion, supporting organisations tackling poverty, injustice, conflict and climate change in the UK and globally.
For more information, visit the official Comic Relief website here
