Jason Manford sparks huge debate on BBC Big Night of Musicals over '£10 theatre tickets' claim

Comedy star Jason Manford was lavished with praise for his hosting duties on the BBC Big Night of Musicals show aired on Saturday night. But he also found himself embroiled in a huge debate after one of his comments about the prices of theatre tickets on the night.

The Big Night of Musicals by the National Lottery show was all filmed at Manchester's AO Arena last week in front of a live audience. It was then broadcast on the BBC on Saturday night to a TV audience of millions.

Towards the end of the show, Jason led hearty thanks to everyone who had taken part in the Big Night of Musicals event, and praised the impact of musical theatre. It included huge musical numbers from the likes of Hamilton, Guys & Dolls, Wizard of Oz and Les Miserables.

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Jason said: "We've seen so much talent on this stage tonight and you know when I was growing up a few minutes from here in Manchester I always felt that theatre was for other people. But do you know what it really is for everyone.

"It's always worth checking at the West End, your local theatres, there's loads of deals to be had for tickets for as little as £10. And it's worth it, to immerse yourself into the magic of theatre and to be swept away into a world of imagination."

But viewers were quick to express surprise at the suggestion of "£10 theatre tickets" and took to social media to moan about it.

Paul Brownbill wrote on X: "Not too sure about £10 tickets @JasonManford but i have often seen £200+ tickets. #BigNightOfMusicals Even amateur theatre shows are about £20."

But Jason replied to say: "I’ve literally been in 3 shows in the past 12 months that offered tickets from £10/£13. Yeah you gotta be quick, you