Comic Relief was set up in 1985 by comedians who wanted to do something to help others. The idea was simple - use comedy and laughter to raise money and change lives - while making sure that everyone had great fun at the same time. This idea is still integral to what we do but we've come a long way since those early days.
Over the years, more than two thousand celebrities have given their time and talent to Comic Relief - from Ali G, Billy Connolly, Catherine Tate, Davina McCall, Jerry Springer and John Cleese to Jonny Depp, Lenny Henry, Peter Kay, Ricky Gervais, Robbie Williams and Woody Allen.
When the city is in trouble, humble and lovable Shoeshine Boy turns into his alter ego Underdog to stop a series of villains, including the evil Simon Bar Sinister and Riff Raff.
