After Royal Variety Performance viewers questioned one comedian’s joke in front of the King last night, it’s fair to say another gag certainly made the sovereign smile

Giggling King Charles was left floored by a joke about the joys of tents and camping at the Royal Variety Performance.

On Sunday night, ITV fans were treated to a star-studded show with the likes of Elton John, James Bay and Sophie Ellis-Bextor, taking to the stage for the annual event – and there was of course some regal representation. The monarch attended alone as Queen Camilla was at the time experiencing lingering symptoms of pneumonia but still found plenty to smile about.

Comedian Scott Bennett tickled the King when he took to the stage with his stand-up, joking about a range of topics from smart meters, to the winter fuel payment, and even to camping. When discussing a recent camping holiday he had been on, Scott joked that rather than stay at home, he had opted to sleep in a tent, something he called “an emergency”.

The funnyman then went on to joke about how loud the zips on tents are as he recreating the noise multiple times. It was this that sent His Highness into hysterics in the royal box, with the camera showing the monarch smiling as the comedian continued to receive applause.

The King had a great time at the event, which took place on November 22 ( 
Image:
ITV)

He also seemed delighted as he waved to the crowds at the start of the evening following the national anthem and made time to meet hosts Amanda Holden and Alan Carr after the show. Queen Camilla was set to attend the November 22 event but had being advised to rest as a result of lingering symptoms of a chest infection.

However, one comedian also felt the wrath of viewers with what they deemed to be an insensitive joke. Walking onto the stage with a crutch, Matt Forde was quick to comment on the matter.

He met Penn Jillette and Teller after the Royal Variety Performance ( 
Image:
Pool)
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.”

Admitting his uncertainty following the diagnosis, he quipped: “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.”

But fans weren’t impressed by his decision to poke fun at his diagnosis in front of the King, who was diagnosed with a form of cancer earlier this year and has since undergone treatment.