The Duke of Cambridge has joined in a national fundraising effort with a surprise appearance in a comedy sketch. Prince William starred opposite Stephen Fry in a spoof that saw the second in line to the throne confess he’d lost his trousers – all in a good cause.
The pair came together for the BBC’s Big Night In, a three hour special programme which raised funds for vulnerable people around the UK who have been affected by the coronavirus pandemic. A total of £27.4 million was pledged on the night with the government saying it will double the final total.
The Duke of Cambridge featured in a sketch in which Stephen Fry took up his famous role of Lord Melchett in Blackadder one more time. This incarnation saw Melchett as the Head of the Royal Household, talking to the future king from his book lined study. Prince William joined him for a Zoom call. But while the fictional Melchett told the Duke that he’d been joined by Blackadder and Baldrick for quarantine, it was William who took on the role of the clueless sidekick.
During the sketch, the prince spoofed his home schooling efforts while Melchett offered waspish asides about the royal’s inability to operate technology or understand French. The piece ended with William being told to get ready for a big event and saying he would be ready once he’d found his shoes, his socks – and his trousers.
Stephen Fry then stepped outside to begin the Clap for Carers with the Cambridges following suit as the Duchess, along with Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, joined William for the weekly salute to NHS workers, key workers and all those who are keeping the UK going during the pandemic. The televised coverage of the clap ended with the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall joining in.
You can see the full sketch below.
You can find out more about the BBC’s Big Night In on its official page here.
