Richard E Grant reacts after being gifted thong by Dame Imelda Staunton in Christmas charity advert
Richard E Grant reacts after being gifted thong by Dame Imelda Staunton in Christmas charity advert
Sean O'Grady (PA)Tue, November 10, 2026 at 12:01 AM UTC
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Richard E Grant has received a red thong from Dame Imelda Staunton in a light-hearted new charity video for ShelterBox.
The short film shows Grant examining a present bag and saying: "How wonderful. A gift for me. Love, Imelda," while noting Dame Judi Dench’s name crossed out on the card.
He opens up the bag to reveal a red thong, laughing before attempting to wave away the camera.
On the phone, he says: "Imelda darling. You’re so thoughtful, it’s just it’s incredibly tight. Imelda? Are you still there?"
ShelterBox is a disaster relief organisation that provides shelter to people following conflict or disaster.
For the past two years, the charity has launched a Christmas film to encourage a more meaningful approach to present-giving.
The initial production in 2024 featured Dame Judi, whereas the 2025 release starred Dame Imelda.
Grant said: “The thong may be getting all the attention, but there’s a serious message behind the laughs.
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Richard E Grant with his new thong (ShelterBox)
“So many things in this world can feel out of our control, but giving a gift that will make a real difference to families who’ve lost so much, is something we can all feel positive about.
“Millions of families around the world have been forced from their homes due to conflict or disaster in places like Nepal, Gaza and Sudan.
“The aid ShelterBox provides is designed to help people to continue the activities that many of us take for granted, like cooking and eating together as a family or keeping warm as temperatures drop.
“Things like tents, solar lights, blankets and kitchen sets, all life-changing items that will make an immeasurable difference to families who’ve lost almost everything.”
Emily Mullen, head of supporter engagement at ShelterBox, said: “At this time of year, many of us come together at home with friends and family.
“A ShelterBox virtual gift such as a family tent could give people around the world displaced by disaster a sense of home too.
“Plus, it helps to spread the spirit of meaningful, thoughtful giving.
“We’re incredibly lucky that Richard E. Grant has chosen to support ShelterBox and was such a good sport in helping us to combine humour with a heartfelt message.”
To make a virtual gift, visit shelterbox.org.
Source: “AOL Entertainment”
