Stephen Mulhern breaks down on stage remembering his late father

On December 15, 2024, the Royal Variety Performance was held in London, attended by His Majesty King Charles III, who is a life patron of the Royal Variety Charity. The annual event which raises money for the charity this year saw mixed reactions from viewers, many of whom took to social media to express their disdain for the show's content, deeming it lackluster, with some viewers even feeling pity for the King as he watched. Despite the negative feedback from the audience at home, there were poignant moments during the show, including tributes to celebrities who passed away throughout the year, including a heartfelt montage dedicated to late stars. A notable highlight was Stephen Mulhern's performance where he emotionally dedicated his act to his late father, Christopher, who died earlier in 2024. During his magic act, he shared his feelings of loss, not only honoring his father but also paying tribute to his grandfather. This performance captured the audience's attention and highlighted the emotional weight behind the show, contrasting sharply with the critiques surrounding its entertainment value. The hosts, Amanda Holden and Alan Carr, expressed their joy and honor at being part of such a prestigious event, aiming to bring excitement to the occasion. Though the show faced backlash, the emotional moments provided a depth to the evening, reminding viewers of the impact of loss in the entertainment industry.