When it comes to raising money for Comic Relief, celebrities are always at their most passionate – and creative. No-one, however, has gone quite as far as singer Jessie J's proposal for the British famine charity, founded by comics Richard Curtis and Lenny Henry. The star will raise eyebrows – and funds – when she shaves her head live on television on Friday March 15. She said: "Shaving my head for charity is something I've promised to do for a long time and Comic Relief has given me the opportunity to try and raise as much money as possible for good causes by doing it.
"I've loved watching Red Nose Day since I was a kid and I'm so excited to join this year's team of celebrity fundraisers and help support the campaign. So this Red Nose Day I'll be shaving my head live on the night of TV." Despite her brave gesture, it won't all be plain shaving for Jessie. "I won't deny that I'm nervous," she added. "But I am also honoured to be part of this year's campaign. "Together with help from the UK public, we are on a mission to raise more money than ever before for Red Nose Day. So come on, let's do it!"
This year's fundraising efforts will also be boosted by Brit pop phenomenon One Direction, who have revamped the Blondie classic One Way Or Another and will release it as the official Red Nose Day single. The quintet – who soared to fame on the X Factor – will unveil the song for the first time at the Brit Awards next month. Band member Niall Horan said he and the boys were "really excited" about the altruistic venture, and added they "really want the song to raise lots of money and for people to show their support by going out and buying themselves a copy. "Elsewhere, efforts to raise money are already underway. Former Spice Girl Melanie Chisholm is currently tackling crocodiles, mosquitoes and the world's largest waterfall as part of a Red Nose Day challenge.
The singer is joined by Radio One DJ Greg James, comedians Dara O'Briain and Jack Dee, Olympian Phillips Idowu and Waterloo Road actress Chelsee Healey as they sail 100 km up the Zambian River to raise money for Comic Relief.
