Royal Variety Performance viewers slam 2024 show as they 'feel sorry' for King Charles

ITV viewers tuning into The Royal Variety Performance expressed sympathy for King Charles, criticising this year's show as "rubbish".

The annual charity programme, which benefits The Royal Variety Charity and counts King Charles III as a life patron, aired another star-studded show on Sunday night (December 15).

Hosted by Amanda Holden and Alan Carr, the duo kept audiences amused with their witty stories and engaging presentation style. This year's line-up included Britain's Got Talent winner Sydnie Christmas, Elton John, and the cast of Starlight Express, among others.

However, despite the acclaimed acts, viewers were unimpressed and expressed pity for King Charles. Fans took to social media to voice their opinions on the show.

One viewer lamented: "The ONE time I have ever felt sorry for King Charlie... Imagine having to sit through this dross and pretend to laugh. I have seen two minutes and am turning over. Dire! " Another commented: "How can the Royal family sit through this rubbish, I would have pulled a sicky."

A third added: "You really have to feel sorry for those members of the royal family who pick the short straw when deciding whose turn it is to go to the #RoyalVarietyPerformance," reports the Mirror.

Among the audience, one viewer shared a candid reflection on Twitter: "#RoyalVarietyPerformance is the only time that I ever feel sorry for the Royal Family?" That said, emotions did run high during the show as viewers were touched by a poignant moment with a brief homage to the late Liam Payne.

Before their big moment, hosts Alan Carr and Amanda Holden discussed their feelings about leading The Royal Variety Performance. Alan enthused: "I am completely thrilled to be asked back to host the Royal Variety Performance so soon, what a compliment and an honour! To be able to host this magical evening with my best friend and TV wife, Amanda Holden, is the icing on the cake for me."

Amanda Holden echoed his sentiment, expressing her excitement: "It truly is such an honour to be hosting the Royal Variety Performance this year. I'm still pinching myself! This is a dream job and Alan is a 'true' friend, we are already bursting with ideas and excitement, it's going to be such a fun night!"

Also, Holden revealed her strong connection to the performers from her work: "I've worked on Britain's Got Talent for 18 years and have been so proud watching all our winners perform for the Royal Family," she declared.

The Royal Variety Performance is available to watch on ITVX.