ALAN CARR: ‘I’ve got tears in my eyes hosting SU2C’
Comic Alan Carr, 42, co-hosts the main show for C4’s annual emotional Stand Up To Cancer fundraiser...
What can we expect on the night? An emotional roller coaster really, I always end up struggling to read the autocue because I have a lump in my throat and tears in my eyes. It’s getting that balance right – we want a night of entertainment, but we don’t want to lose the message that we are there to raise as much money as we possibly can.
What kind of preparation will you do beforehand?
Research is important. Last time, I went to the UCL Cancer Institute (in London) to meet with the doctors who are coming up with innovative ways to fight cancer. I’ll be honest, some of it does go over my head, but you get an idea of the amazing things that can be achieved. Obviously, I donate, too. When I’m asking the cashstrapped public to put their hands in their pockets, I want the personal satisfaction that I’m doing my bit, too.
You’ve done every SU2C. Why is the event so important to you?
I don’t know if it’s me getting older, but I’m always hearing about someone being diagnosed. It can happen to anyone.
Do you get nervous before a huge live event like this?
I always get nervous. You just want to do a good job and raise lots of money, obviously. Doing stand-up (comedy) helps, and thinking on your feet definitely comes in handy when it’s live. The autocue went down midshow last time, so I had to ad lib – but no one seemed to notice, so I must have done alright. Live TV is always a bit crazy, but I love it, and I think people like it if things go wrong.
Is there a moment in the evening where you feel you can relax?
Never! The shows are always jam-packed, plus it’s an emotional roller coaster – you’re either laughing your head off or sobbing with a massive snot bubble.
You’ve got your co-hosts Maya Jama and Adam Hills...
I love Adam, and Maya is great. We all need to support each other and keep our peckers up. What advice have I given Maya? Fasten your seatbelt, it’s going to be a bumpy night!
Do you have a stand-out SU2C memory?
Noel Gallagher singing Half The World Away (on the telethon in 2016). It was performed as a tribute to Caroline Aherne, who had sadly passed away earlier in the year, and it was proper goosebumps stuff. Personally, I like it when random celebrities just come down to help out. It feels nice that people want to muck in and try to raise some money. I also loved it (in 2012) when Bradley Cooper popped up to share his story. Even Hollywood stars have to deal with this awful disease…
How has your own life been affected by cancer?
As you get older and hit your 40s, cancer becomes more and more prevalent. Friends and family members start getting diagnosed with it, and all of a sudden, it seems to be stalking your nearest and dearest – and sometimes, even yourself. But on a positive note, you do hear about people surviving it more, thanks to the fantastic work done by the Stand Up To Cancer campaign.
Is there an educational message?
We tell people about how to look for symptoms. Overall, the best way to fight cancer is to get there early.