Peter Kay makes first public statement since tour cancellation

The comedian announced a screening of new Car Share episode

Peter Kay has made a public statement for the first time since cancelling his long-awaited UK and Ireland tour late last year.

“Exciting news: A charity screening of new Peter Kay’s Car Share episodes will be held at Blackpool Opera House on Saturday 7th April,” a message posted to social media reads.

The special screening will raise money for The Lily Foundation who are dedicated to fighting mitochondrial disease.

Kay also issued a statement on the charity: “The Lily Foundation is an inspiring charity that helps to improve the lives of children with Mitochondrial Disease.

“I’ve had first-hand experience of the Foundation’s work and I’m proud to raise both awareness and much-needed funds to help with the inspiring work they provide to children and their families.”

The special screening of Car Share will see four episodes of the BBC series screened, including two brand new episodes, Car Share: Unscripted and the series finale.

Kay previously cancelled all upcoming projects “due to unforeseen family circumstances”.

“My sincerest apologies,” the Bolton comedian said at the time. “This decision has not been taken lightly and I’m sure you’ll understand my family must always come first.

“I’ve always endeavoured to protect my family’s privacy from the media. I hope that the media and public will continue to respect our privacy at this time. Once again I’m very sorry.”

The 44-year-old’s last tour – which started in 2010 – quickly became the highest selling comedy tour of all time, playing to over 1.2 million people.

Since then, Kay starred in and directed the BAFTA-winning sitcom Car Share, played a character in ITV’s Cradle to Grave, and cameoed in Inside No 9.