During the star-studded evening, The Royal Variety viewers were introduced to comedian Matt Forde. Walking onto the stage with a crutch, he was quick to address the matter. He said: "Thank you. Before I start, I'd like to explain why I need a walking stick.
"Just over a year ago, I had terrible nerve pain in my left leg, I went to get an MRI scan thinking the pain was caused by a slipped or a swollen disc. I got the results of that scan back, I was diagnosed with cancer.". The comedian revealed he had no idea how much longer he had left to live after being given his diagnosis. Matt added: "I'm telling you this, mainly just to get you on side! Because I'm going to impersonate a few politicians now and if I insult one you like, just remember, I've been very brave.".
Before going into his impressions, Matt gave viewers an update on his health. He said: "I'm now cancer-free and alive! I'm so glad I lived to see the wonderful, global, political events of the last few months.". Matt's act featured the likes of Keir Starmer and Donald Trump. Although ITV viewers weren't thrilled with his jibe about cancer infront of King Charles, who was diagnosed with a form of cancer earlier this year and has since undergone treatment.
One person said: "Is a joke about cancer really the way to start a comedy routine? It certainly did not get me on side.". Another commented: "As a cancer survivor, I'm amazed Matt Forde thought it appropriate to use his diagnosis/treatment as the basis of jokes, given the year our Royal Family has had with this disease. Surely someone should have pulled that in the dress rehearsal?Tastless.".
