A Night of Laughter, Legends, and Making a Difference!

Comic Relief US CEO Alison Moore kicked things off with a heartfelt nod to Comic Relief’s legacy and reflections on the power of laughter.

"There's real power in laughter - it can create understanding, bridge divides, and open doors that can catalyze lasting impact," said Moore. "Tonight is a beautiful reminder that while the work to end childhood poverty is no laughing matter, bringing people together with comedy and entertainment can spark real change that builds brighter futures for millions of children and young people around the world."

The room at New York’s Jazz at Lincoln Center was buzzing with energy all night long. From laugh-out-loud sets by Amy Schumer, Amber Ruffin, Michael Ian Black, Phoebe Robinson, Matt Friend, Tim Meadows, Alex Edelman, and “Weird Al” Yankovic to the crowd-pleasing tunes of the Middle-Aged Dad Jam Band.

Comedy legends Billy Crystal, Whoopi Goldberg, and Robin Williams (in memoriam) were celebrated with the first-ever Comic Relief US Icon Award. Billy and Whoopi were there to accept the award, joined by Zelda Williams, who gave a touching tribute to her dad’s lasting legacy. "Using the power of comedy to tackle life's problems has been a huge part of my life," said Crystal. "My partnership with Whoopi and Robin and all who made our shows successful is a highlight of my career and it's truly special for us to be honored by Comic Relief US. After all these years, it's incredible to see the enduring impact the organization has made and will continue to make. We shed light on one of America's tragedies and through the laughs we and our brotherhood of comedians delivered, we revealed the perfect punch line. Comic Relief….it's no joke."

CNN Worldwide CEO Sir Mark Thompson was presented with the Visionary Award for his long-time support of Comic Relief on both sides of the Atlantic. Powerful stories of impact were featured throughout the night, including the inspiring words of youth ambassador Liam Lunkamba, who shared about the transformative role Comic Relief US grantee partner Covenant House NY had played in his life.

For Whoopi Goldberg, that’s what Comic Relief has always been about. "When Billy, Robin, and I started our comedy shows, we wanted to make people laugh, but more importantly, we wanted to make a difference for the families and communities that were hurting, particularly those experiencing homelessness," she said. "The funds we raised created safe spaces for families, women, and children that are still going to this day – this is what Comic Relief was and is still magnificent at."

And we’re not stopping anytime soon. Every ticket sold for Comic Relief Live helps support our work in the U.S. and around the world, ensuring kids and families get the help they need.

We can’t wait to continue to bring communities together around shared moments of laughter, joy, and impact. Stay tuned for more ways to laugh, connect, and make a difference!

Check out the beautiful pictures from the night below.
_{Photos by Craig Barritt Photo/Getty Images for Comic Relief US, Noam Galai/Getty Images for Comic Relief US and Lucas Kurzweil}

See more incredible images from the event.

Don't forget to share the magic with your friends on social media, and feel free to tag us: @ComicReliefUS on all channels!

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Relive the laughter, energy, and impact of this incredible event through the highlights!