Following mounting speculation and wild conspiracy theories about her health after having abdominal surgery, the Princess of Wales (formerly known as Kate Middleton) revealed to the world in a video message her cancer diagnosis and that she has begun preventative chemotherapy.
Now, someone who used to work for the royal couple is weighing in on how the prince and princess are likely coping with the situation now that it’s all finally out in the open.
Kate says she is ‘going to be Ok’ and getting ‘stronger’ every day
On March 22, Kate’s video message was released. The princess was dressed in a striped sweater and seated on a bench while she spoke for just over two minutes and explained that doctors told her “cancer was present” in her body.
Kate Middleton shown on a TV screen while announcing she has cancer | Leon Neal/Getty Images
“This of course came as a huge shock,...
Now, someone who used to work for the royal couple is weighing in on how the prince and princess are likely coping with the situation now that it’s all finally out in the open.
Kate says she is ‘going to be Ok’ and getting ‘stronger’ every day
On March 22, Kate’s video message was released. The princess was dressed in a striped sweater and seated on a bench while she spoke for just over two minutes and explained that doctors told her “cancer was present” in her body.
Kate Middleton shown on a TV screen while announcing she has cancer | Leon Neal/Getty Images
“This of course came as a huge shock,...
- 3/25/2024
- by Michelle Kapusta
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Are audiences too soft these days? Ralph Fiennes thinks so, at least when it comes to needing trigger warnings in the theater. Fiennes is currently starring in a modern-day retelling of Macbeth, which, as every high-school student knows, contains a few gruesome murders. Some theaters have reportedly been offering trigger warnings in advance of the production, and Fiennes isn’t a fan.
When asked by BBC’s Laura Kuenssberg if audiences have gone too soft, Fiennes said, “I think they have. I think we didn’t used to have trigger warnings. I mean, there are very disturbing scenes in Macbeth, terrible murders and things. But I think the impact of theater should be that you’re shocked and you should be disturbed.“
Fiennes added, “I don’t think you should be prepared for these things, and when I was young, we never had trigger warnings for shows. Shakespeare’s plays are full of murders,...
When asked by BBC’s Laura Kuenssberg if audiences have gone too soft, Fiennes said, “I think they have. I think we didn’t used to have trigger warnings. I mean, there are very disturbing scenes in Macbeth, terrible murders and things. But I think the impact of theater should be that you’re shocked and you should be disturbed.“
Fiennes added, “I don’t think you should be prepared for these things, and when I was young, we never had trigger warnings for shows. Shakespeare’s plays are full of murders,...
- 2/12/2024
- by Kevin Fraser
- JoBlo.com
“Succession” star Sarah Snook is worried about how AI might end up being used, and is calling for regulations to protect not just actors but all workers.
While speaking to the BBC’s Laura Kuenssberg about the SAG-AFTRA strike and negotiations, Snook said, “The main thing of it, for me, really, that I find terrifying is the AI of it all. It’s just such uncharted landscape.”
The actress continued, “We need pretty stringent rules in place in order to protect not just the acting industry across the… if we could set a precedent for other industries in regards to how AI is utilized, then that’ll be huge.”
“I think, you know, all the deep fake stuff that’s already readily available is terrifying,” she added. “That guy who does the Tom Cruise videos… it’s uncanny. Uncanny. And so imagine, then, having a company who owns your image,...
While speaking to the BBC’s Laura Kuenssberg about the SAG-AFTRA strike and negotiations, Snook said, “The main thing of it, for me, really, that I find terrifying is the AI of it all. It’s just such uncharted landscape.”
The actress continued, “We need pretty stringent rules in place in order to protect not just the acting industry across the… if we could set a precedent for other industries in regards to how AI is utilized, then that’ll be huge.”
“I think, you know, all the deep fake stuff that’s already readily available is terrifying,” she added. “That guy who does the Tom Cruise videos… it’s uncanny. Uncanny. And so imagine, then, having a company who owns your image,...
- 11/4/2023
- by Stephanie Kaloi
- The Wrap
Exclusive: The BBC is actively weighing whether it should replace Huw Edwards as the anchor of its flagship election night show amid continued uncertainty over the presenter’s future.
Edwards has been suspended since July as the BBC investigates his conduct following allegations in The Sun newspaper that he paid a young person for sexually explicit images.
Deadline understands that the BBC is in the early stages of planning for a significant UK general election, which could usher in a new government after 13 years of Conservative rule.
The election is expected to take place next year, though Prime Minister Rishi Sunak could call an early vote, meaning senior BBC executives are giving thought to who should anchor its output.
Edwards, who earns up to £440,000, presented 2019’s election night coverage and signed a new deal with the BBC earlier this year which would have guaranteed his place as master of ceremony...
Edwards has been suspended since July as the BBC investigates his conduct following allegations in The Sun newspaper that he paid a young person for sexually explicit images.
Deadline understands that the BBC is in the early stages of planning for a significant UK general election, which could usher in a new government after 13 years of Conservative rule.
The election is expected to take place next year, though Prime Minister Rishi Sunak could call an early vote, meaning senior BBC executives are giving thought to who should anchor its output.
Edwards, who earns up to £440,000, presented 2019’s election night coverage and signed a new deal with the BBC earlier this year which would have guaranteed his place as master of ceremony...
- 9/6/2023
- by Jake Kanter
- Deadline Film + TV
The BBC’s Newscast podcast is going seven days a week, with Laura Kuenssberg and Paddy O’Connell the hosts of the new weekend episodes. Laura and Paddy will head straight to Newscast HQ, from the TV and radio studio, bringing together TV, radio and podcasting for the first time, talking about what it was really like on air, and in the green room.
- 8/30/2023
- by PodcastingToday
- Podcastingtoday
Joe Lycett has sent former prime minister Liz Truss a personal (tongue-in-cheek) invitation to “speak her mind” on his new talk show.
In a full-page advertisement printed in the MP’s regional newspaper of South West Norfolk, the Eastern Daily Press, the comedian asked for Truss “to join” his forthcoming Channel 4 talk series Late Night Lycett.
Posting the open letter on Twitter, Lycett’s advert begins: “Babe!!! I hope you’re not too surprised to see my popping my head out from between the sheets (of your local regional newspaper tehe)!!.”
Jokingly identifying himself as “rightwing comedian and passionate Lizz Truss supporter Joe Lycett,” the comedian continued: “You’ll remember me from when we met last year on the TV show of our mutual friend Laura Kuenssberg.”
Lycett famously mocked Truss live in the studio during her September 2022 appearance on Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg.
“Now I know you haven...
In a full-page advertisement printed in the MP’s regional newspaper of South West Norfolk, the Eastern Daily Press, the comedian asked for Truss “to join” his forthcoming Channel 4 talk series Late Night Lycett.
Posting the open letter on Twitter, Lycett’s advert begins: “Babe!!! I hope you’re not too surprised to see my popping my head out from between the sheets (of your local regional newspaper tehe)!!.”
Jokingly identifying himself as “rightwing comedian and passionate Lizz Truss supporter Joe Lycett,” the comedian continued: “You’ll remember me from when we met last year on the TV show of our mutual friend Laura Kuenssberg.”
Lycett famously mocked Truss live in the studio during her September 2022 appearance on Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg.
“Now I know you haven...
- 3/31/2023
- by Inga Parkel
- The Independent - TV
Joe Lycett has sent former prime minister Liz Truss a personal (tongue-in-cheek) invitation to “speak her mind” on his new talk show.
In a full-page advertisement printed in the MP’s regional newspaper of South West Norfolk, the Eastern Daily Press, the comedian asked for Truss “to join” his forthcoming Channel 4 talk series Late Night Lycett.
Posting the open letter on Twitter, Lycett’s advert begins: “Babe!!! I hope you’re not too surprised to see my popping my head out from between the sheets (of your local regional newspaper tehe)!!.”
Jokingly identifying himself as “rightwing comedian and passionate Lizz Truss supporter Joe Lycett,” the comedian continued: “You’ll remember me from when we met last year on the TV show of our mutual friend Laura Kuenssberg.”
Lycett famously mocked Truss live in the studio during her September 2022 appearance on Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg.
“Now I know you haven...
In a full-page advertisement printed in the MP’s regional newspaper of South West Norfolk, the Eastern Daily Press, the comedian asked for Truss “to join” his forthcoming Channel 4 talk series Late Night Lycett.
Posting the open letter on Twitter, Lycett’s advert begins: “Babe!!! I hope you’re not too surprised to see my popping my head out from between the sheets (of your local regional newspaper tehe)!!.”
Jokingly identifying himself as “rightwing comedian and passionate Lizz Truss supporter Joe Lycett,” the comedian continued: “You’ll remember me from when we met last year on the TV show of our mutual friend Laura Kuenssberg.”
Lycett famously mocked Truss live in the studio during her September 2022 appearance on Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg.
“Now I know you haven...
- 3/30/2023
- by Inga Parkel
- The Independent - TV
Joe Lycett has opened up about his penchant for high-profile PR stunts, explaining that he feels “pressure” from his mental health to stop doing them.
In recent years, the comedian has built a reputation for orchestrating news-worthy stunts.
The most notorious of these was his ultimatum to David Beckham last year in which he threatened to shred £10,000 in cash unless the ex-footballer renounced his World Cup ambassador contract with Qatar over the country’s LGBT+ human rights abuses.
After Beckham neglected to respond, Lycett posted a video of himself shredding what appeared to be the cash – only to later reveal that he had in fact donated the money to LGBT+ charities.
Speaking to Radio Times in a new interview, Lycett said: “It’s much easier for me, actually, if I’m not trending and I’m not in the paper because I live a much happier, quieter life. And so if anything,...
In recent years, the comedian has built a reputation for orchestrating news-worthy stunts.
The most notorious of these was his ultimatum to David Beckham last year in which he threatened to shred £10,000 in cash unless the ex-footballer renounced his World Cup ambassador contract with Qatar over the country’s LGBT+ human rights abuses.
After Beckham neglected to respond, Lycett posted a video of himself shredding what appeared to be the cash – only to later reveal that he had in fact donated the money to LGBT+ charities.
Speaking to Radio Times in a new interview, Lycett said: “It’s much easier for me, actually, if I’m not trending and I’m not in the paper because I live a much happier, quieter life. And so if anything,...
- 3/19/2023
- by Louis Chilton
- The Independent - TV
Gary Lineker is currently at the centre of a BBC impartiality row that’s led to his Match of the Day co-hosts standing down from Saturday (11 March) night’s show.
The former England footballer – who is the highest paid presenter at the BBC – tweeted a comparison of the language used to launch the Conservative government’s new asylum policy with Germany in the 1930s
Shortly after, on Friday (10 March), the BBC announced that Lineker would take a break from presenting the football highlights programme until an “agreed and clear position” on his social media use had been reached.
Lineker’s Motd co-hosts Alan Shearer and Ian Wright then pulled out of presenting the show on Saturday in “solidarity”, while Micah Richards, Jermaine Jenas and Alex Scott also ruled themselves out of appearing on the show. Scott also said that she would not present Football Focus on Saturday.
You can follow...
The former England footballer – who is the highest paid presenter at the BBC – tweeted a comparison of the language used to launch the Conservative government’s new asylum policy with Germany in the 1930s
Shortly after, on Friday (10 March), the BBC announced that Lineker would take a break from presenting the football highlights programme until an “agreed and clear position” on his social media use had been reached.
Lineker’s Motd co-hosts Alan Shearer and Ian Wright then pulled out of presenting the show on Saturday in “solidarity”, while Micah Richards, Jermaine Jenas and Alex Scott also ruled themselves out of appearing on the show. Scott also said that she would not present Football Focus on Saturday.
You can follow...
- 3/11/2023
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
Joe Lycett has joked that he is “very much available” to step in for Match of the Day presenter Gary Lineker amid his “impartiality” row at the BBC.
The Match of the Day host became emroiled in controversy after comparing the language used to launch a new government asylum policy with 1930s Germany.
On Friday (10 March), the BBC announced it had decided Lineker would take a break from presenting the sports highlights programme. Later that day, his co-hosts Ian Wright and Alan Shearer pulled out of football show in “solidarity” with Lineker.
You can follow The Independent’s live blog for updates here.
Reacting to the news on Friday night, Lycett shared a tweet reading: “I have informed the BBC that I am very much available for tomorrow’s #Motd.”
He attached a screenshot from his viral BBC politics interview on Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, in which he claimed to...
The Match of the Day host became emroiled in controversy after comparing the language used to launch a new government asylum policy with 1930s Germany.
On Friday (10 March), the BBC announced it had decided Lineker would take a break from presenting the sports highlights programme. Later that day, his co-hosts Ian Wright and Alan Shearer pulled out of football show in “solidarity” with Lineker.
You can follow The Independent’s live blog for updates here.
Reacting to the news on Friday night, Lycett shared a tweet reading: “I have informed the BBC that I am very much available for tomorrow’s #Motd.”
He attached a screenshot from his viral BBC politics interview on Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, in which he claimed to...
- 3/11/2023
- by Inga Parkel
- The Independent - TV
Comedian Joe Lycett has said he is “very much available” to step in for Match of the Day presenter Gary Lineker.
On Friday (10 March), the BBC announced it had “decided” Lineker would take a break from presenting the sports highlights programme.
The move comes after the presenter became embroiled in a row over impartiality after comparing the language used to launch a new government asylum policy with 1930s Germany.
That same day, Lineker’s co-hosts Ian Wright and Alan Shearer pulled out of the weekend show in “solidarity” with the former English striker.
Alex Scott, Micah Richards and Jermaine Jenas have also joined the list of pundits who have ruled out an appearance.
Follow along here for real-time updates about the Match of the Day controversy.
The BBC has since confirmed there will be no presenter or pundits for this weekend’s show, prompting Lycett to respond to the news on Twitter,...
On Friday (10 March), the BBC announced it had “decided” Lineker would take a break from presenting the sports highlights programme.
The move comes after the presenter became embroiled in a row over impartiality after comparing the language used to launch a new government asylum policy with 1930s Germany.
That same day, Lineker’s co-hosts Ian Wright and Alan Shearer pulled out of the weekend show in “solidarity” with the former English striker.
Alex Scott, Micah Richards and Jermaine Jenas have also joined the list of pundits who have ruled out an appearance.
Follow along here for real-time updates about the Match of the Day controversy.
The BBC has since confirmed there will be no presenter or pundits for this weekend’s show, prompting Lycett to respond to the news on Twitter,...
- 3/10/2023
- by Inga Parkel
- The Independent - TV
Hugh Jackman has stated his belief that it is “inevitable” Australia will become a republic in the future.
The actor shared his views while appearing on the BBC One politics programme Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg.
“I think Australia will become Republican at some point. It feels natural,” he explained in the interview, set for broadcast on Sunday (19 February).
He continued: “It feels like something that is, I would guess inevitable, and I guess would be a natural part of an evolution of a country. You know?”
Jackman told Kuenssberg that he has both British and Australian citizenship and grew up in a household that revered the royal family.
“I’m a British citizen as I am an Australian citizen – I don’t know if people know that but I am,” he stated.
“My father made us stop doing whatever we could to watch, in 1981, the wedding of Lady Di and Prince Charles.
The actor shared his views while appearing on the BBC One politics programme Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg.
“I think Australia will become Republican at some point. It feels natural,” he explained in the interview, set for broadcast on Sunday (19 February).
He continued: “It feels like something that is, I would guess inevitable, and I guess would be a natural part of an evolution of a country. You know?”
Jackman told Kuenssberg that he has both British and Australian citizenship and grew up in a household that revered the royal family.
“I’m a British citizen as I am an Australian citizen – I don’t know if people know that but I am,” he stated.
“My father made us stop doing whatever we could to watch, in 1981, the wedding of Lady Di and Prince Charles.
- 2/18/2023
- by Nicole Vassell
- The Independent - Film
Succession star Brian Cox has doubled down on his support for J.K. Rowling despite repeated anti-transgender comments the Harry Potter author has made on social media over the past few years. Over the weekend, Cox was a guest on the BBC talk show Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg, where he was asked about the Scottish Parliament’s recent approval of legislation allowing transgender people to legally change their gender without requiring any medical diagnosis. The Scottish actor praised the decision, saying he was “very proud” of his home country for introducing the law, adding that it was “long-needed” and “a debate that has to happen.” However, when asked about Rowling, who has publicly argued against the Scottish legislation, the Emmy-winning actor defended her right to free speech. “I don’t like the way she’s been treated, actually,” Cox said. “I think she’s entitled to her opinion; she’s entitled to say what she feels.
- 1/18/2023
- TV Insider
Brian Cox is offering his support for J.K. Rowling amid ongoing debate surrounding the Harry Potter author’s previous comments that have been criticized as transphobic.
Cox, who plays patriarch Logan Roy on HBO’s Succession, recently appeared on the BBC talk program Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg. During the interview, the Scottish actor described himself as “very proud” that the country’s Parliament last month voted to approve legislation allowing transgender people to change their legal gender without requiring any medical diagnosis. (The British government said Monday that it would block the new law.)
After calling the law “long-needed,” Cox was asked how he felt about the discourse surrounding Rowling, who has publicly backed opposition to the Scottish legislation.
“I don’t like the way she’s been treated, actually,” Cox said. “I think she’s entitled to her opinion; she’s entitled to say what she feels. As a woman,...
Cox, who plays patriarch Logan Roy on HBO’s Succession, recently appeared on the BBC talk program Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg. During the interview, the Scottish actor described himself as “very proud” that the country’s Parliament last month voted to approve legislation allowing transgender people to change their legal gender without requiring any medical diagnosis. (The British government said Monday that it would block the new law.)
After calling the law “long-needed,” Cox was asked how he felt about the discourse surrounding Rowling, who has publicly backed opposition to the Scottish legislation.
“I don’t like the way she’s been treated, actually,” Cox said. “I think she’s entitled to her opinion; she’s entitled to say what she feels. As a woman,...
- 1/18/2023
- by Ryan Gajewski
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Sam Mendes has discussed the topic of gender-neutral awards, saying he thinks it is “inevitable” that the Oscars will go in that direction.
During a new interview with the BBC’s Laura Kuenssberg, the Empire of Light director was asked about Emma Corrin’s call to eliminate gender from awards shows.
“I have total sympathy with it, yeah, and I think it might well be inevitable in the end,” he said. “I think that’s the way it’s moving and I think that it’s perfectly reasonable.”
He added: “For me, people forget with awards, I think this happens all the time, they use it as a bellwether for the industry but the truth is awards are a TV show. You know, awards are there to promote films.
“If that film wins an award, I’m more likely to go and see it and that’s what you’re doing there.
During a new interview with the BBC’s Laura Kuenssberg, the Empire of Light director was asked about Emma Corrin’s call to eliminate gender from awards shows.
“I have total sympathy with it, yeah, and I think it might well be inevitable in the end,” he said. “I think that’s the way it’s moving and I think that it’s perfectly reasonable.”
He added: “For me, people forget with awards, I think this happens all the time, they use it as a bellwether for the industry but the truth is awards are a TV show. You know, awards are there to promote films.
“If that film wins an award, I’m more likely to go and see it and that’s what you’re doing there.
- 1/8/2023
- by Ellie Harrison
- The Independent - Film
Comedian Joe Lycett has spoken out about his recent stunt targeting David Beckham over his promotion of Qatar for the 2022 World Cup.
Lycett condemned Beckham for his lucrative deal with Qatar, threatening to shred £10,000 in cash if the former England footballer didn’t renounce his support of the country over its stance on gay rights. (It is illegal to be gay in Qatar.)
After Beckham, whom Lycett described as a “gay icon”, failed to respond, Lycett appeared to shred the money in a video shared to social media. However, he later revealed that he had in fact only pretended to shred money, and had donated £10,000 instead to LGBT+ charaties.
During an appearance on Lorraine on Friday morning (9 December), Lycett reflected on the stunt.
“This is the thing, I’m open for countries to be diverse and to have their own beliefs and all of these things,” he said. “The world’s an interesting place,...
Lycett condemned Beckham for his lucrative deal with Qatar, threatening to shred £10,000 in cash if the former England footballer didn’t renounce his support of the country over its stance on gay rights. (It is illegal to be gay in Qatar.)
After Beckham, whom Lycett described as a “gay icon”, failed to respond, Lycett appeared to shred the money in a video shared to social media. However, he later revealed that he had in fact only pretended to shred money, and had donated £10,000 instead to LGBT+ charaties.
During an appearance on Lorraine on Friday morning (9 December), Lycett reflected on the stunt.
“This is the thing, I’m open for countries to be diverse and to have their own beliefs and all of these things,” he said. “The world’s an interesting place,...
- 12/9/2022
- by Louis Chilton
- The Independent - TV
Joe Lycett has ruled himself out of replacing Matt Lucas on the next series of The Great British Bake Off.
The comedian had been a popular choice among viewers of the hit Channel 4 baking series, after Lucas announced his departure earlier this week.
Some bookmakers even listed Lycett as the favourite to take up the vacant role alongside Noel Fielding.
During an interview with The News Agents podcast, however, Lycett shut down speculation that a Bake Off role could be on the cards.
“No, thank you,” he said. “I’m taking myself out the race.”
On the same podcast, Lycett addressed his sarcastic appearance on Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg back in September.
According to Lycett, his mocking manner during the interview, which saw him claim to be “extremely right wing” and effusively praise Liz Truss, stemmed from his very real anger over the government’s “consistent lying” over the Partygate scandal.
The comedian had been a popular choice among viewers of the hit Channel 4 baking series, after Lucas announced his departure earlier this week.
Some bookmakers even listed Lycett as the favourite to take up the vacant role alongside Noel Fielding.
During an interview with The News Agents podcast, however, Lycett shut down speculation that a Bake Off role could be on the cards.
“No, thank you,” he said. “I’m taking myself out the race.”
On the same podcast, Lycett addressed his sarcastic appearance on Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg back in September.
According to Lycett, his mocking manner during the interview, which saw him claim to be “extremely right wing” and effusively praise Liz Truss, stemmed from his very real anger over the government’s “consistent lying” over the Partygate scandal.
- 12/9/2022
- by Louis Chilton
- The Independent - TV
Joe Lycett has explained why he made Liz Truss look “silly” during a controversial BBC interview.
The comedian appeared on the first episode of Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg on 4 September alongside Labour’s Emily Thornberry and former No 10 staffer Cleo Watson.
After watching Kuenssberg interview then-prime ministerial candidate Truss live in the studio, Lycett could be heard shouting off-screen: “You smashed it, Liz!”
Lycett then sarcastically shared his thoughts about Truss and the Tory government, while joking that he is “extremely right-wing”.
During the interview, Lycett said of Truss: “I know there’s been criticism in the The Mail on Sunday today about leftie liberal wokie comedians on the BBC. I’m actually very right wing and I love it. I thought she gave great clear answers. I know exactly what she’s up to.”
Reflecting on the viral interview, Lycett told The News Agents that his sarcasm stemmed from...
The comedian appeared on the first episode of Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg on 4 September alongside Labour’s Emily Thornberry and former No 10 staffer Cleo Watson.
After watching Kuenssberg interview then-prime ministerial candidate Truss live in the studio, Lycett could be heard shouting off-screen: “You smashed it, Liz!”
Lycett then sarcastically shared his thoughts about Truss and the Tory government, while joking that he is “extremely right-wing”.
During the interview, Lycett said of Truss: “I know there’s been criticism in the The Mail on Sunday today about leftie liberal wokie comedians on the BBC. I’m actually very right wing and I love it. I thought she gave great clear answers. I know exactly what she’s up to.”
Reflecting on the viral interview, Lycett told The News Agents that his sarcasm stemmed from...
- 12/9/2022
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - TV
Joe Lycett says anger over friend’s funeral led to him being ‘very silly’ in notorious BBC interview
Joe Lycett has explained why he made Liz Truss look “silly” during a controversial BBC interview.
The comedian appeared on the first episode of Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg on 4 September alongside Labour’s Emily Thornberry and former No 10 staffer Cleo Watson.
After watching Kuenssberg interview then-prime ministerial candidate Truss live in the studio, Lycett could be heard shouting off-screen: “You smashed it, Liz!”
Lycett then sarcastically shared his thoughts about Truss and the Tory government, while joking that he is “extremely right-wing”.
During the interview, Lycett said of Truss: “I know there’s been criticism in the The Mail on Sunday today about leftie liberal wokie comedians on the BBC. I’m actually very right wing and I love it. I thought she gave great clear answers. I know exactly what she’s up to.”
Reflecting on the viral interview, Lycett told The News Agents that his sarcasm stemmed from...
The comedian appeared on the first episode of Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg on 4 September alongside Labour’s Emily Thornberry and former No 10 staffer Cleo Watson.
After watching Kuenssberg interview then-prime ministerial candidate Truss live in the studio, Lycett could be heard shouting off-screen: “You smashed it, Liz!”
Lycett then sarcastically shared his thoughts about Truss and the Tory government, while joking that he is “extremely right-wing”.
During the interview, Lycett said of Truss: “I know there’s been criticism in the The Mail on Sunday today about leftie liberal wokie comedians on the BBC. I’m actually very right wing and I love it. I thought she gave great clear answers. I know exactly what she’s up to.”
Reflecting on the viral interview, Lycett told The News Agents that his sarcasm stemmed from...
- 12/9/2022
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - TV
Joe Lycett has joked that Liz Truss should run in next week’s leadership election, after she stood down as prime minister following just six weeks in office.
In a speech outside Downing Street on Thursday 20 October, Truss announced she was resigning, making her the shortest-serving prime minister in UK history.
The politician’s resignation came after 15 Tory MPs publicly called for her to step down, following a chaotic six weeks that included a disastrous mini-budget, the firing of former chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng and the resignation of former home secretary Suella Braverman.
In her speech, Truss announced that there would be a leadership election in the next week.
Reacting to the news on Twitter, Lycett posted: “@trussliz Omg just heard there’s a leadership election nxt week????? u shud run babe youd be perfect!!!”
Read reactions from other comedians and stars here.
Lycett has been making headlines in recent weeks...
In a speech outside Downing Street on Thursday 20 October, Truss announced she was resigning, making her the shortest-serving prime minister in UK history.
The politician’s resignation came after 15 Tory MPs publicly called for her to step down, following a chaotic six weeks that included a disastrous mini-budget, the firing of former chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng and the resignation of former home secretary Suella Braverman.
In her speech, Truss announced that there would be a leadership election in the next week.
Reacting to the news on Twitter, Lycett posted: “@trussliz Omg just heard there’s a leadership election nxt week????? u shud run babe youd be perfect!!!”
Read reactions from other comedians and stars here.
Lycett has been making headlines in recent weeks...
- 10/20/2022
- by Ellie Harrison
- The Independent - TV
Joe Lycett has revealed just how proud he is of the front page coverage he received for “mocking” Liz Truss during a BBC interview.
The comedian appeared on the first episode of Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg on 4 September alongside Labour’s Emily Thornberry and former No 10 staffer Cleo Watson.
After watching Kuenssberg interview then-prime ministerial candidate Truss live in the studio, Lycett could be heard shouting off-screen: “You smashed it, Liz!”
Lycett then sarcastically shared his thoughts about Truss and the Tory government, while joking that he is “extremely right-wing”.
During the interview, Lycett said of Truss: “I know there’s been criticism in the The Mail on Sunday today about leftie liberal wokie comedians on the BBC. I’m actually very right wing and I love it. I thought she gave great clear answers. I know exactly what she’s up to.”
That same evening, the comedian shared the...
The comedian appeared on the first episode of Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg on 4 September alongside Labour’s Emily Thornberry and former No 10 staffer Cleo Watson.
After watching Kuenssberg interview then-prime ministerial candidate Truss live in the studio, Lycett could be heard shouting off-screen: “You smashed it, Liz!”
Lycett then sarcastically shared his thoughts about Truss and the Tory government, while joking that he is “extremely right-wing”.
During the interview, Lycett said of Truss: “I know there’s been criticism in the The Mail on Sunday today about leftie liberal wokie comedians on the BBC. I’m actually very right wing and I love it. I thought she gave great clear answers. I know exactly what she’s up to.”
That same evening, the comedian shared the...
- 10/18/2022
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - TV
Joe Lycett has unveiled his latest artwork – a portrait of Liz Truss.
Last month, the comedian claimed to be a “very right-wing” Tory supporter who loved Truss, while appearing on the first episode of Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg.
Lycett later said that he’d been told Truss, who was named as prime minister the following day, had “a face like a slapped arse” during his segment.
On Tuesday (4 October) night, the comedian hosted an event at The Wilderness restaurant in Birmingham, which he streamed on Instagram Live.
The event was a fundraiser for local charity Sifa Fireside, which supports people experiencing homelessness in the area.
During the session, Lycett – who often shares his paintings on social media – created a number of artworks including a portrait of Truss.
The finished product was shared on Wednesday (5 October) morning, as Lycett posted the portrait, which is emblazoned with the words: “F***ing hell.
Last month, the comedian claimed to be a “very right-wing” Tory supporter who loved Truss, while appearing on the first episode of Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg.
Lycett later said that he’d been told Truss, who was named as prime minister the following day, had “a face like a slapped arse” during his segment.
On Tuesday (4 October) night, the comedian hosted an event at The Wilderness restaurant in Birmingham, which he streamed on Instagram Live.
The event was a fundraiser for local charity Sifa Fireside, which supports people experiencing homelessness in the area.
During the session, Lycett – who often shares his paintings on social media – created a number of artworks including a portrait of Truss.
The finished product was shared on Wednesday (5 October) morning, as Lycett posted the portrait, which is emblazoned with the words: “F***ing hell.
- 10/5/2022
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
Roger Waters has claimed he’s on Ukraine’s “kill list” in a recent interview.
The Pink Floyd co-founder was discussing his recent statements regarding the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia when he made the remark.
Recently, Waters wrote an open letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin and the first lady of Ukraine, Olena Zelenska, asking them for their commitment to help bring the war to an end.
Now, Waters claims he himself is under threat from Ukraine. “Don’t forget, I’m on a kill list that is supported by the Ukrainian government,” Waters said in an interview with Rolling Stone.
“I’m on the f***ing list, and they’ve killed people recently... But when they kill you, they write ‘liquidated’ across your picture. Well, I’m one of those f***ing pictures,” he claimed.
According to Rolling Stone, Waters is referring to a list that is...
The Pink Floyd co-founder was discussing his recent statements regarding the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia when he made the remark.
Recently, Waters wrote an open letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin and the first lady of Ukraine, Olena Zelenska, asking them for their commitment to help bring the war to an end.
Now, Waters claims he himself is under threat from Ukraine. “Don’t forget, I’m on a kill list that is supported by the Ukrainian government,” Waters said in an interview with Rolling Stone.
“I’m on the f***ing list, and they’ve killed people recently... But when they kill you, they write ‘liquidated’ across your picture. Well, I’m one of those f***ing pictures,” he claimed.
According to Rolling Stone, Waters is referring to a list that is...
- 10/4/2022
- by Megan Graye
- The Independent - Music
Mark Hamill has said Volodymyr Zelensky compared Russia to the “evil empire” in Star Wars.
The sci-fi star spoke with the Ukrainian president in September.
Hamill, 71, was asked about their meeting during an appearance on BBC’s Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg.
The actor recalled: “He did reference the movies and it’s not hard to understand why. Star Wars was always a fairytale for children and fairytales are morality tales of good versus evil, where good is clearly defined, evil is clearly defined.
“It’s not hard to extrapolate an evil Empire with Russia invading a sovereign nation. So it’s not surprising, and that’s probably what appealed to him about me.”
He said that their conversation “obviously” did not “dwell” on the subject of Star Wars.
“I mean, I was surprised he had the time in his schedule to even talk to me,” said Hamill.
He laughed: “When...
The sci-fi star spoke with the Ukrainian president in September.
Hamill, 71, was asked about their meeting during an appearance on BBC’s Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg.
The actor recalled: “He did reference the movies and it’s not hard to understand why. Star Wars was always a fairytale for children and fairytales are morality tales of good versus evil, where good is clearly defined, evil is clearly defined.
“It’s not hard to extrapolate an evil Empire with Russia invading a sovereign nation. So it’s not surprising, and that’s probably what appealed to him about me.”
He said that their conversation “obviously” did not “dwell” on the subject of Star Wars.
“I mean, I was surprised he had the time in his schedule to even talk to me,” said Hamill.
He laughed: “When...
- 10/2/2022
- by Annabel Nugent
- The Independent - Film
Roger Waters has written an open letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin, asking him to end the Ukraine war.
“Would you (Putin) like to see an end to this war?” the 79-year-old musician wrote in a letter on Sunday (25 August). “If you were to reply and say, ‘Yes please.’ That would immediately make things a lot easier.
“If you were to come out and say, ‘Also the Russian Federation has no further territorial interest beyond the security of the Russian-speaking populations of The Crimea, Donetsk, and Lubansk [sic].’ That would help too.”
The Pink Floyd co-founder, who recently announced his farewell tour, urged the Russian president to issue a message of assurance to the western areas of Ukraine and Europe, as he “[has] kids and grandkids, and so do most of my brothers and sisters all over the world and none of us would relish that outcome”.
“If I’ve read your previous speeches correctly,...
“Would you (Putin) like to see an end to this war?” the 79-year-old musician wrote in a letter on Sunday (25 August). “If you were to reply and say, ‘Yes please.’ That would immediately make things a lot easier.
“If you were to come out and say, ‘Also the Russian Federation has no further territorial interest beyond the security of the Russian-speaking populations of The Crimea, Donetsk, and Lubansk [sic].’ That would help too.”
The Pink Floyd co-founder, who recently announced his farewell tour, urged the Russian president to issue a message of assurance to the western areas of Ukraine and Europe, as he “[has] kids and grandkids, and so do most of my brothers and sisters all over the world and none of us would relish that outcome”.
“If I’ve read your previous speeches correctly,...
- 9/27/2022
- by Peony Hirwani
- The Independent - Music
Spin the wheel and win some heating. This was the premise of a segment on ITV’s This Morning earlier this week. Hosts Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby stood beside a spinwheel contraption, upon which were marked various monetary values and, on some spaces, the promise of four months’ energy bills, paid for by the programme.
The segment was using the impending energy crisis as a topical hook to spice up a routine prize giveaway, but there was something discomfortingly crass about it – made all the worse by the desperation in the phone-in contestant’s voice, his audible relief when the dial landed on “bills”. The clip was rightly condemned; words like “dystopian” have been thrown around without hyperbole. On Wednesday, the “household bills” prizes were removed from the Spin to Win competition. But while This Morning’s cost of living crisis carnival game may indeed have been a low-rent display of socio-political tone-deafness,...
The segment was using the impending energy crisis as a topical hook to spice up a routine prize giveaway, but there was something discomfortingly crass about it – made all the worse by the desperation in the phone-in contestant’s voice, his audible relief when the dial landed on “bills”. The clip was rightly condemned; words like “dystopian” have been thrown around without hyperbole. On Wednesday, the “household bills” prizes were removed from the Spin to Win competition. But while This Morning’s cost of living crisis carnival game may indeed have been a low-rent display of socio-political tone-deafness,...
- 9/8/2022
- by Louis Chilton
- The Independent - TV
Spin the wheel and win some heating. This was the premise of a segment on ITV’s This Morning earlier this week. Hosts Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby stood astride a spinwheel contraption, upon which were marked various monetary values and, on some spaces, the promise of four months’ energy bills, paid for by the programme.
The segment was using the impending energy crisis as a topical hook to spice up a routine prize giveaway, but there was something discomfortingly crass about it – made all the worse by the desperation in the phone-in contestant’s voice, his audible relief when the dial landed on “bills”. The clip was rightly condemned; words like “dystopian” have been thrown around without hyperbole. On Wednesday, the “household bills” prizes were removed from the Spin to Win competition. But while This Morning’s cost-of-living-crisis carnival game may indeed have been a low-rent display of socio-political tone-deafness,...
The segment was using the impending energy crisis as a topical hook to spice up a routine prize giveaway, but there was something discomfortingly crass about it – made all the worse by the desperation in the phone-in contestant’s voice, his audible relief when the dial landed on “bills”. The clip was rightly condemned; words like “dystopian” have been thrown around without hyperbole. On Wednesday, the “household bills” prizes were removed from the Spin to Win competition. But while This Morning’s cost-of-living-crisis carnival game may indeed have been a low-rent display of socio-political tone-deafness,...
- 9/7/2022
- by Louis Chilton
- The Independent - TV
Joe Lycett has been criticised by a Tory MP in parliament following an interview in which the comedian claimed to be “extremely right wing”.
On Sunday (4 September), the comedian appeared on the first episode of Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, during which he cheered and shouted: “You smashed it, Liz,” following an interview with Liz Truss.
He then said: “I know there’s been criticism in The Mail on Sunday today about leftie liberal wokie comedians on the BBC. I’m actually very right wing and I love it. I thought she gave great clear answers. I know exactly what she’s up to.”
During Tuesday morning’s (6 September) digital, culture, media and support committee meeting in parliament, BBC director general Tim Davie was criticised by Conservative MP Steve Brine over the interview.
The politician, who represents Winchester, began by praising Kuenssberg and calling her “a fantastic journalist”.
“But I would...
On Sunday (4 September), the comedian appeared on the first episode of Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, during which he cheered and shouted: “You smashed it, Liz,” following an interview with Liz Truss.
He then said: “I know there’s been criticism in The Mail on Sunday today about leftie liberal wokie comedians on the BBC. I’m actually very right wing and I love it. I thought she gave great clear answers. I know exactly what she’s up to.”
During Tuesday morning’s (6 September) digital, culture, media and support committee meeting in parliament, BBC director general Tim Davie was criticised by Conservative MP Steve Brine over the interview.
The politician, who represents Winchester, began by praising Kuenssberg and calling her “a fantastic journalist”.
“But I would...
- 9/6/2022
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
Roger Waters has written an open letter to the first lady of Ukraine, Olena Zelenska, seeking her support in persuading her husband to “stop the slaughter” by pursuing a ceasefire at the expense of control over two eastern Ukrainian regions.
The 79-year-old English musician started off his letter by writing: “My heart bleeds for you and all the Ukrainian and Russian families, devastated by the terrible war in Ukraine.”
Referring to Zelenska’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg interview that aired on BBC News this week, Waters pointed out a statement where she said: “If support for Ukraine is strong, the crisis will be shorter.”
The Pink Floyd co-founder questioned her statement, writing: “Hmmm? I guess that might depend on what you mean by ‘support for Ukraine’?
“If by ‘support for Ukraine’ you mean the west continuing to supply arms to the Kyiv government’s armies, I fear you may be tragically mistaken.
The 79-year-old English musician started off his letter by writing: “My heart bleeds for you and all the Ukrainian and Russian families, devastated by the terrible war in Ukraine.”
Referring to Zelenska’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg interview that aired on BBC News this week, Waters pointed out a statement where she said: “If support for Ukraine is strong, the crisis will be shorter.”
The Pink Floyd co-founder questioned her statement, writing: “Hmmm? I guess that might depend on what you mean by ‘support for Ukraine’?
“If by ‘support for Ukraine’ you mean the west continuing to supply arms to the Kyiv government’s armies, I fear you may be tragically mistaken.
- 9/6/2022
- by Peony Hirwani
- The Independent - Music
Joe Lycett has jokingly congratulated Liz Truss after the Tory MP was named the new prime minister.
On Monday (5 September), Sir Graham Brady announced that Truss won the Conservative leadership race with 81,326 votes to Rishi Sunak’s 60,399.
Lycett, who joked in an interview with Laura Kuenssberg on Sunday (4 September) that he was now “very right wing”, tweeted minutes after the announcement: “Yes @trussliz absolutely smashed it babe!!!”
It comes hours after Lycett said in an interview that he had been told Truss had “a face like a slapped arse” after he cheered and pretended to be a fan of hers on Kuenssberg’s new BBC politics programme.
In the interview, Lycett said of Truss: “I think the haters will say we’ve had 12 years of the Tories, and that we’re sort of at the dregs of what they’ve got available, and that Liz Truss is sort of like...
On Monday (5 September), Sir Graham Brady announced that Truss won the Conservative leadership race with 81,326 votes to Rishi Sunak’s 60,399.
Lycett, who joked in an interview with Laura Kuenssberg on Sunday (4 September) that he was now “very right wing”, tweeted minutes after the announcement: “Yes @trussliz absolutely smashed it babe!!!”
It comes hours after Lycett said in an interview that he had been told Truss had “a face like a slapped arse” after he cheered and pretended to be a fan of hers on Kuenssberg’s new BBC politics programme.
In the interview, Lycett said of Truss: “I think the haters will say we’ve had 12 years of the Tories, and that we’re sort of at the dregs of what they’ve got available, and that Liz Truss is sort of like...
- 9/5/2022
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
Joe Lycett was apparently told that Liz Truss was unimpressed by his stunt in which he pretended to be a “very right wing” fan of the Tory MP.
The comedian appeared on the first episode of Laura Kuenssberg’s new BBC politics programme on Sunday (4 September) ahead of the winner of the Conservative leadership contest being announced.
During the interview, Lycett cheered for Truss before explaining that he was now “extremely right wing”.
“I know there’s been criticism in the The Mail on Sunday today about leftie liberal wokie comedians on the BBC,” he said. “I’m actually very right wing and I love it. I thought she gave great clear answers. I know exactly what she’s up to.”
On Monday (5 September), Lycett appeared on Times Radio, where he told presenter Matt Chorley that he’d heard Truss was not pleased with the interview.
“Apparently she got up...
The comedian appeared on the first episode of Laura Kuenssberg’s new BBC politics programme on Sunday (4 September) ahead of the winner of the Conservative leadership contest being announced.
During the interview, Lycett cheered for Truss before explaining that he was now “extremely right wing”.
“I know there’s been criticism in the The Mail on Sunday today about leftie liberal wokie comedians on the BBC,” he said. “I’m actually very right wing and I love it. I thought she gave great clear answers. I know exactly what she’s up to.”
On Monday (5 September), Lycett appeared on Times Radio, where he told presenter Matt Chorley that he’d heard Truss was not pleased with the interview.
“Apparently she got up...
- 9/5/2022
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
Countdown star Susie Dent has shared an “exceptionally appropriate” word of the day ahead of the announcement of the UK’s new prime minister.
On Monday (5 September), Liz Truss is expected to be announced as the new prime minister after a six-week Tory leadership campaign.
Voting among the estimated 200,000 Tory members tasked with choosing Boris Johnson’s successor closed on Friday (2 September), and either the foreign secretary or Rishi Sunak will be declared the victor at 12.30pm by 1922 Committee chair Sir Graham Brady.
Ahead of the announcement, Countdown lexicographer Dent shared a “hilarious” choice for her word of the day.
“Word of the day is Zugwang [tzoog-tzwung],” wrote Dent on Twitter. “A situation in chess (and life) in which a move must be made, but each possible one will make the situation worse.”
It did not take long for fans to pick up on the apparent subtext of the tweet, which...
On Monday (5 September), Liz Truss is expected to be announced as the new prime minister after a six-week Tory leadership campaign.
Voting among the estimated 200,000 Tory members tasked with choosing Boris Johnson’s successor closed on Friday (2 September), and either the foreign secretary or Rishi Sunak will be declared the victor at 12.30pm by 1922 Committee chair Sir Graham Brady.
Ahead of the announcement, Countdown lexicographer Dent shared a “hilarious” choice for her word of the day.
“Word of the day is Zugwang [tzoog-tzwung],” wrote Dent on Twitter. “A situation in chess (and life) in which a move must be made, but each possible one will make the situation worse.”
It did not take long for fans to pick up on the apparent subtext of the tweet, which...
- 9/5/2022
- by Annabel Nugent
- The Independent - TV
Joe Lycett may insist that he’s not a political comedian, but the stand-up has often used his work to make a political statement.
While the comedian is best known for his large-scale, high-profile routines (such as changing his name to Hugo Boss), as seen on his consumer affairs programme Joe Lycett’s Got Your Back, he has also played tricks within in the world of politics.
From panicking parliament with his own fake Sue Gray report to claiming to be “very right wing” on Laura Kuenssburg’s new politics show, here are some of Lycett’s biggest political pranks.
Fake Sue Gray report
In January, as the nation awaited Sue Gray’s report into the parties that took place at Downing Street during lockdown, Lycett released his own comedy version of the report.
It contained a mock summary of seven main findings about the “culture of Covid-19 regulation rule...
While the comedian is best known for his large-scale, high-profile routines (such as changing his name to Hugo Boss), as seen on his consumer affairs programme Joe Lycett’s Got Your Back, he has also played tricks within in the world of politics.
From panicking parliament with his own fake Sue Gray report to claiming to be “very right wing” on Laura Kuenssburg’s new politics show, here are some of Lycett’s biggest political pranks.
Fake Sue Gray report
In January, as the nation awaited Sue Gray’s report into the parties that took place at Downing Street during lockdown, Lycett released his own comedy version of the report.
It contained a mock summary of seven main findings about the “culture of Covid-19 regulation rule...
- 9/5/2022
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
Joe Lycett has been left delighted after making the newspaper front pages for his BBC interview mocking Liz Truss.
The comedian appeared on the first episode of Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg this weekend (4 September) alongside Labour’s Emily Thornberry and former No 10 staffer Cleo Watson.
After watching Kuenssberg interview prime ministerial candidate Liz Truss live in the studio, Lycett could be heard shouting off-screen: “You smashed it, Liz!”
Lycett then sarcastically shared his thoughts about Truss and the Tory government, while joking that he is “extremely right wing”.
During the interview, Lycett said of Truss: “I know there’s been criticism in the The Mail on Sunday today about leftie liberal wokie comedians on the BBC. I’m actually very right wing and I love it. I thought she gave great clear answers. I know exactly what she’s up to.”
On Sunday night, the comic shared Monday (4 September) morning’s Daily Mail front page,...
The comedian appeared on the first episode of Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg this weekend (4 September) alongside Labour’s Emily Thornberry and former No 10 staffer Cleo Watson.
After watching Kuenssberg interview prime ministerial candidate Liz Truss live in the studio, Lycett could be heard shouting off-screen: “You smashed it, Liz!”
Lycett then sarcastically shared his thoughts about Truss and the Tory government, while joking that he is “extremely right wing”.
During the interview, Lycett said of Truss: “I know there’s been criticism in the The Mail on Sunday today about leftie liberal wokie comedians on the BBC. I’m actually very right wing and I love it. I thought she gave great clear answers. I know exactly what she’s up to.”
On Sunday night, the comic shared Monday (4 September) morning’s Daily Mail front page,...
- 9/5/2022
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
Joe Lycett has left TV viewers in hysterics by claiming to be a “right-wing” Tory supporter while discussing politics on Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg.
The comedian was on the latest episode of the BBC series (4 September) alongside former No 10 staffer Cleo Watson and Labour’s Emily Thornberry, and watched on as Kuenssberg interviewed Boris Johnson’s potential prime minister replacement, Liz Truss, live in the studio.
After Kuenssberg’s interview with Truss came to an end, Lycett could be heard cheering off-screen, shouting: “You smashed it, Liz!”
Lycett then proceeded to sarcastically share his candid thoughts about Truss and the Tory government, but joked they were not his own sentiments as he is “extremely right-wing”.
When asked what his “honest” thoughts were on Truss’s interview, he replied: “You said earlier I’m not left or right. I know there’s been criticism in the The Mail on Sunday today...
The comedian was on the latest episode of the BBC series (4 September) alongside former No 10 staffer Cleo Watson and Labour’s Emily Thornberry, and watched on as Kuenssberg interviewed Boris Johnson’s potential prime minister replacement, Liz Truss, live in the studio.
After Kuenssberg’s interview with Truss came to an end, Lycett could be heard cheering off-screen, shouting: “You smashed it, Liz!”
Lycett then proceeded to sarcastically share his candid thoughts about Truss and the Tory government, but joked they were not his own sentiments as he is “extremely right-wing”.
When asked what his “honest” thoughts were on Truss’s interview, he replied: “You said earlier I’m not left or right. I know there’s been criticism in the The Mail on Sunday today...
- 9/4/2022
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - TV
Dino Sofos might not be a household name in the same vein as Edinburgh TV Festival MacTaggart lecturer Emily Maitlis or former BBC North America Editor Jon Sopel, but he has had a mighty impact on the British broadcasting news landscape of late.
The creator of the hugely-popular Brexitcast, Americast and Newscast BBC Sounds podcast franchise exited the BBC after 15 years last November to set up his own production outfit, Persephonica, with Tom O’Hara, and has since had a hand in tempting BBC lifers Maitlis and Sopel away from the corporation, amidst a wider talent exodus that has left Broadcasting House bosses nervous.
Along with another ex-bbc heavyweight, Policy Editor Lewis Goodall, Persephonica is gearing up for the launch of Global podcast The News Agents, a daily audio show “holding power to account without fear or favor,” according to Sofos, who speaks to Deadline in the weeks before the launch.
The creator of the hugely-popular Brexitcast, Americast and Newscast BBC Sounds podcast franchise exited the BBC after 15 years last November to set up his own production outfit, Persephonica, with Tom O’Hara, and has since had a hand in tempting BBC lifers Maitlis and Sopel away from the corporation, amidst a wider talent exodus that has left Broadcasting House bosses nervous.
Along with another ex-bbc heavyweight, Policy Editor Lewis Goodall, Persephonica is gearing up for the launch of Global podcast The News Agents, a daily audio show “holding power to account without fear or favor,” according to Sofos, who speaks to Deadline in the weeks before the launch.
- 8/23/2022
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Netflix was one of the key sponsors of UK magazine The Spectator‘s summer party last week.
The well-timed and buzzy London event — which came amid the stormy unseating of Boris Johnson as Pm — was attended by a number of leading figures in the UK political and media landscape.
Netflix co-ceo Ted Sarandos was at the event, which formed part of a UK charm offensive. That offensive included an event at BAFTA to celebrate the charity’s Bafta Breakthrough program, also sponsored by the streamer. The studio is celebrating 10 years in the UK.
Among politicians to have attended The Spectator‘s bash were former Chancellor Rishi Sunak, the frontrunner to replace Johnson as UK leader, current Chancellor and another Pm hopeful Nadhim Zahawi, former Cabinet minister Michael Gove, Tory MP Tom Tugendhat (yet another contender to be the next Pm) and former Health Secretary Matt Hancock.
Also among attendees were...
The well-timed and buzzy London event — which came amid the stormy unseating of Boris Johnson as Pm — was attended by a number of leading figures in the UK political and media landscape.
Netflix co-ceo Ted Sarandos was at the event, which formed part of a UK charm offensive. That offensive included an event at BAFTA to celebrate the charity’s Bafta Breakthrough program, also sponsored by the streamer. The studio is celebrating 10 years in the UK.
Among politicians to have attended The Spectator‘s bash were former Chancellor Rishi Sunak, the frontrunner to replace Johnson as UK leader, current Chancellor and another Pm hopeful Nadhim Zahawi, former Cabinet minister Michael Gove, Tory MP Tom Tugendhat (yet another contender to be the next Pm) and former Health Secretary Matt Hancock.
Also among attendees were...
- 7/11/2022
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
BBC political correspondent Chris Mason will replace Laura Kuenssberg as political editor, the top news job in the corporation.
Kuenssberg will be the new permanent presenter of the BBC’s Sunday morning politics show and will start her role when the show relaunches this September. Mason will start in his role once Kuenssberg stands down after the May 5 U.K. local elections.
Mason has been political correspondent for BBC News for over 10 years, reporting on everything from Brexit to the Coronavirus pandemic, taking in three general elections along the way. He has presented BBC Radio 4’s “Any Questions?” since 2019, and will continue in this role until the summer.
Mason started his career as an ITN trainee and has been a daily broadcast news reporter for nearly 20 years, including a stint as BBC Radio 5 Live’s political reporter, and co-presented the network’s “Question Time Extra Time.” He also...
Kuenssberg will be the new permanent presenter of the BBC’s Sunday morning politics show and will start her role when the show relaunches this September. Mason will start in his role once Kuenssberg stands down after the May 5 U.K. local elections.
Mason has been political correspondent for BBC News for over 10 years, reporting on everything from Brexit to the Coronavirus pandemic, taking in three general elections along the way. He has presented BBC Radio 4’s “Any Questions?” since 2019, and will continue in this role until the summer.
Mason started his career as an ITN trainee and has been a daily broadcast news reporter for nearly 20 years, including a stint as BBC Radio 5 Live’s political reporter, and co-presented the network’s “Question Time Extra Time.” He also...
- 4/13/2022
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Brexitcast co-host Chris Mason, who has been a BBC News Political Correspondent for the past decade, has been promoted to become Laura Kuenssberg’s replacement as BBC News Political Editor.
The role is arguably the most important and challenging across the British news landscape and Kuenssberg is stepping down after five years to replace Andrew Marr by hosting a Sunday morning talk show. BBC News heavyweights Emily Maitlis and Jon Sopel are also leaving.
The highly-regarded Mason, who was always positioned as one of the frontrunners for the role, has been reporting from UK parliament during the last 10 years as BBC News Political Correspondent.
He has presented BBC Radio 4’s Any Questions? for three years, was co-host of popular BBC Sounds podcast Brexitcast and regularly appears on its successor Newscast.
“Chris has been an exceptional correspondent at an extraordinary time in British politics,” said BBC News Interim Director Jonathan Munro.
The role is arguably the most important and challenging across the British news landscape and Kuenssberg is stepping down after five years to replace Andrew Marr by hosting a Sunday morning talk show. BBC News heavyweights Emily Maitlis and Jon Sopel are also leaving.
The highly-regarded Mason, who was always positioned as one of the frontrunners for the role, has been reporting from UK parliament during the last 10 years as BBC News Political Correspondent.
He has presented BBC Radio 4’s Any Questions? for three years, was co-host of popular BBC Sounds podcast Brexitcast and regularly appears on its successor Newscast.
“Chris has been an exceptional correspondent at an extraordinary time in British politics,” said BBC News Interim Director Jonathan Munro.
- 4/13/2022
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Partnership
Vice Distribution has struck a content partnership deal with French media group M6 to bring over 100 hours of premium Vice content to the TV network’s AVOD platform, 6play.
The lineup of Vice shows set to roll on 6play comprises the fourth season of the hit psycho-analytical documentary franchise “Thérapie,” the acclaimed documentary “Real par Soul Sisters” and the street food series “Au Camion.” Some Vice franchises are also part of the deal, notably “Dark Side of the 90s,” “Rise Up” and “The Story Of,” as well as award-winning content such as “Gaycation,” “The Trixie” and “Katya Show” and “What Would Diplo Do?”
“Vice produces and distributes premium content that resonates with young audiences around the world,” said Bea Hegedus, Vice global head of distribution. Vice Distribution launched in 2020 with a catalogue of over 1,000 of programming.
Vice recently inked a content deal with Viaplay across eight countries, and launched...
Vice Distribution has struck a content partnership deal with French media group M6 to bring over 100 hours of premium Vice content to the TV network’s AVOD platform, 6play.
The lineup of Vice shows set to roll on 6play comprises the fourth season of the hit psycho-analytical documentary franchise “Thérapie,” the acclaimed documentary “Real par Soul Sisters” and the street food series “Au Camion.” Some Vice franchises are also part of the deal, notably “Dark Side of the 90s,” “Rise Up” and “The Story Of,” as well as award-winning content such as “Gaycation,” “The Trixie” and “Katya Show” and “What Would Diplo Do?”
“Vice produces and distributes premium content that resonates with young audiences around the world,” said Bea Hegedus, Vice global head of distribution. Vice Distribution launched in 2020 with a catalogue of over 1,000 of programming.
Vice recently inked a content deal with Viaplay across eight countries, and launched...
- 3/28/2022
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
BBC News’ veteran heavyweights Emily Maitlis and Jon Sopel are leaving the corporation to launch a podcast for Global.
The pair, who have around 60 years of BBC experience between them and have combined recently on BBC Sounds podcast Americast, said little about the new audio venture but Sopel described it as an “innovative project” and it will be exec produced by the BBC’s Dino Sofos.
Both made the announcement on Twitter in the past hour.
Maitlis said it will be a “wrench to leave the BBC after 20 phenomenal years”. She has most recently been hosting Newsnight, for which she gained global acclaim for her notorious interview with Prince Andrew in the wake of the Virginia Giuffre accusations. She has also presented elections coverage for the BBC and reported for various shows.
Sopel joined the BBC in 1983 and has held senior roles including North America Editor, during which time he...
The pair, who have around 60 years of BBC experience between them and have combined recently on BBC Sounds podcast Americast, said little about the new audio venture but Sopel described it as an “innovative project” and it will be exec produced by the BBC’s Dino Sofos.
Both made the announcement on Twitter in the past hour.
Maitlis said it will be a “wrench to leave the BBC after 20 phenomenal years”. She has most recently been hosting Newsnight, for which she gained global acclaim for her notorious interview with Prince Andrew in the wake of the Virginia Giuffre accusations. She has also presented elections coverage for the BBC and reported for various shows.
Sopel joined the BBC in 1983 and has held senior roles including North America Editor, during which time he...
- 2/22/2022
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
One of the BBC’s most prominent journalists, Laura Kuenssberg, will step down from her role as political editor in spring 2022, the broadcaster has confirmed.
Kuenssberg will stay with the Beeb, however, moving into a presenting and reporting role across TV, radio and online. She will stay within the news and current affairs beat.
The BBC will begin a “competitive recruitment process” to searching for her replacement.
Laura began her career as a political correspondent at the BBC in 2003 before moving to ITV News in 2011. She rejoined the BBC in 2015 as political editor, becoming the first woman in the post.
During her time in the role she has covered two elections, the 2016 Brexit referendum and the Covid-19 pandemic. As well as her regular reporting, she has also produced two documentaries about Brexit and a podcast about the government’s response to the pandemic, written for the BBC’s website and...
Kuenssberg will stay with the Beeb, however, moving into a presenting and reporting role across TV, radio and online. She will stay within the news and current affairs beat.
The BBC will begin a “competitive recruitment process” to searching for her replacement.
Laura began her career as a political correspondent at the BBC in 2003 before moving to ITV News in 2011. She rejoined the BBC in 2015 as political editor, becoming the first woman in the post.
During her time in the role she has covered two elections, the 2016 Brexit referendum and the Covid-19 pandemic. As well as her regular reporting, she has also produced two documentaries about Brexit and a podcast about the government’s response to the pandemic, written for the BBC’s website and...
- 12/20/2021
- by K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
BBC Political Editor Laura Kuenssberg is to step down next Easter after seven years.
Kuenssberg will stay with the BBC to take up a senior presenting and reporting role. Sunday morning TV host Andrew Marr stepped down this week and the move opens up the opportunity for Kuenssberg to move into this role.
Kuenssberg has been in the esteemed Political Editor role for seven years, during which time she has overseen a highly toxic era in UK politics that has included the Brexit vote, three general elections and the pandemic period.
“Laura has been an outstanding BBC Political Editor throughout the most turbulent political times in living memory,” said Director General Tim Davie. “Her incisive commentary, tough questioning and astute insight has guided our audiences through the last seven years.”
The BBC will begin a competitive recruitment process for her replacement shortly. North America editor Jon Sopel, who recently returned from the States,...
Kuenssberg will stay with the BBC to take up a senior presenting and reporting role. Sunday morning TV host Andrew Marr stepped down this week and the move opens up the opportunity for Kuenssberg to move into this role.
Kuenssberg has been in the esteemed Political Editor role for seven years, during which time she has overseen a highly toxic era in UK politics that has included the Brexit vote, three general elections and the pandemic period.
“Laura has been an outstanding BBC Political Editor throughout the most turbulent political times in living memory,” said Director General Tim Davie. “Her incisive commentary, tough questioning and astute insight has guided our audiences through the last seven years.”
The BBC will begin a competitive recruitment process for her replacement shortly. North America editor Jon Sopel, who recently returned from the States,...
- 12/20/2021
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
One of the BBC’s veteran presenters, Andrew Marr, is leaving after more than 20 years amid a corporation-wide crackdown on impartiality.
The host of the “Andrew Marr Show” on BBC One, a mainstay political program on Sunday mornings, revealed on Friday that he is joining media org Global, where he will continue to present and write for various programs as well as newspapers.
“After 21 years, I have decided to move on from the BBC,” said Marr in a statement posted to Twitter. “l leave behind many happy memories and wonderful colleagues. But from the New Year I am moving to Global to write and present political and cultural shows, and to write for newspapers.
“I think British politics and public life are going to go through an even more turbulent decade, and as I’ve said, I am keen to get my own voice back. I have been doing the...
The host of the “Andrew Marr Show” on BBC One, a mainstay political program on Sunday mornings, revealed on Friday that he is joining media org Global, where he will continue to present and write for various programs as well as newspapers.
“After 21 years, I have decided to move on from the BBC,” said Marr in a statement posted to Twitter. “l leave behind many happy memories and wonderful colleagues. But from the New Year I am moving to Global to write and present political and cultural shows, and to write for newspapers.
“I think British politics and public life are going to go through an even more turbulent decade, and as I’ve said, I am keen to get my own voice back. I have been doing the...
- 11/19/2021
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
Piers Morgan is under fire again, this time after making U.S. gymnast Simone Biles the target of his ire. The people of the internet are having none of it, though, turning the British broadcaster’s own history and criticism back on him.
After Biles dropped out of the gymnastics team finals at the Tokyo Games on Tuesday to focus on her mental health, Morgan tweeted his disgust, saying that Biles should just “admit you did badly, made mistakes, and will strive to do better next time.” On Wednesday morning, Morgan doubled down on his comments in a new column about Biles.
“Sorry Simone Biles, but there’s nothing heroic or brave about quitting because you’re not having ‘fun’ – you let down your team-mates, your fans and your country,” Morgan tweeted.
And just about immediately after, Morgan found himself in the crosshairs online. Many pointed out the irony of...
After Biles dropped out of the gymnastics team finals at the Tokyo Games on Tuesday to focus on her mental health, Morgan tweeted his disgust, saying that Biles should just “admit you did badly, made mistakes, and will strive to do better next time.” On Wednesday morning, Morgan doubled down on his comments in a new column about Biles.
“Sorry Simone Biles, but there’s nothing heroic or brave about quitting because you’re not having ‘fun’ – you let down your team-mates, your fans and your country,” Morgan tweeted.
And just about immediately after, Morgan found himself in the crosshairs online. Many pointed out the irony of...
- 7/28/2021
- by Andi Ortiz
- The Wrap
Bruno Dumont takes aim at 24-news culture but his tale of a star reporter features its fair share of ill-conceived plot points
France de Meurs is the most famous TV news journalist in la République. She’s a Gallic mash-up of Laura Kuenssberg, Kirsty Wark and Marie Colvin, as poised in the studio as she is in a war zone. Played by Léa Seydoux, France strides into battle with her platinum hair bouncing and her tight professional smile fixed with pink lipstick. But her success is a fiction, her career built out of spinning lies. The second she starts taking notes on herself, that big TV soundstage risks turning into a pumpkin.
Writer-director Bruno Dumont forged his reputation with small, anguished films about life on the margins, nosing in tight to his subjects to show them warts and all. The fitfully fascinating France has the same ominous air, but it has been freeze-dried and air-conned,...
France de Meurs is the most famous TV news journalist in la République. She’s a Gallic mash-up of Laura Kuenssberg, Kirsty Wark and Marie Colvin, as poised in the studio as she is in a war zone. Played by Léa Seydoux, France strides into battle with her platinum hair bouncing and her tight professional smile fixed with pink lipstick. But her success is a fiction, her career built out of spinning lies. The second she starts taking notes on herself, that big TV soundstage risks turning into a pumpkin.
Writer-director Bruno Dumont forged his reputation with small, anguished films about life on the margins, nosing in tight to his subjects to show them warts and all. The fitfully fascinating France has the same ominous air, but it has been freeze-dried and air-conned,...
- 7/16/2021
- by Xan Brooks
- The Guardian - Film News
Chernobyl and The Virtues were the big winners at the Broadcasting Press Guild Awards in London on Friday.
Chernobyl, the Sister Pictures series for Sky and HBO on the Soviet nuclear disaster, won Best Drama Series, while writer Craig Mazin took home Best Writer, beating Fleabag scribe Phoebe Waller-Bridge.
More from Deadline'Stranger Things' Season 4: 'Fleabag's Brett Gelman Upped To Series Regular'Fleabag' & 'Chernobyl' Battle For Broadcasting Press Guild Awards'Sex Education': Netflix Renews British Comedy For Third Season
Shane Meadows’ Channel 4 show The Virtues claimed the prize for Best Single Drama/Mini-Series, while Stephen Graham won Best Actor for his performance as an alcoholic man haunted by his past. The award was also recognition of Graham’s work in Line Of Duty and A Christmas Carol.
Other winners included Fleabag for Best Comedy and For Sama for Best Single Documentary/Mini-Series, while two-time Oscar-winner Glenda Jackson was...
Chernobyl, the Sister Pictures series for Sky and HBO on the Soviet nuclear disaster, won Best Drama Series, while writer Craig Mazin took home Best Writer, beating Fleabag scribe Phoebe Waller-Bridge.
More from Deadline'Stranger Things' Season 4: 'Fleabag's Brett Gelman Upped To Series Regular'Fleabag' & 'Chernobyl' Battle For Broadcasting Press Guild Awards'Sex Education': Netflix Renews British Comedy For Third Season
Shane Meadows’ Channel 4 show The Virtues claimed the prize for Best Single Drama/Mini-Series, while Stephen Graham won Best Actor for his performance as an alcoholic man haunted by his past. The award was also recognition of Graham’s work in Line Of Duty and A Christmas Carol.
Other winners included Fleabag for Best Comedy and For Sama for Best Single Documentary/Mini-Series, while two-time Oscar-winner Glenda Jackson was...
- 3/13/2020
- by Jake Kanter
- Deadline Film + TV
Fleabag and Chernobyl, two of the breakout Brit hits of 2019, will be competing for prizes at the 46th annual Broadcasting Press Guild Awards in London on March 13.
Sky and HBO’s Chernobyl scooped more nominations than any other show, and will compete in four categories including Best Drama Series at the awards, which are voted on by the UK’s best television, radio and media journalists.
Craig Mazin is up for Best Writer for his gripping retelling of the Soviet nuclear disaster, while Jared Harris and Emily Watson are competing for Best Actor and Best Actress respectively.
Mazin will go up against Fleabag creator Phoebe Waller-Bridge in the writing category, while the second season of her BBC Three/Amazon series is also nominated for Best Comedy. Fleabag‘s third nomination is for ‘Hot Priest’ Andrew Scott in the Best Actor category.
Both shows have been hot tickets during awards season,...
Sky and HBO’s Chernobyl scooped more nominations than any other show, and will compete in four categories including Best Drama Series at the awards, which are voted on by the UK’s best television, radio and media journalists.
Craig Mazin is up for Best Writer for his gripping retelling of the Soviet nuclear disaster, while Jared Harris and Emily Watson are competing for Best Actor and Best Actress respectively.
Mazin will go up against Fleabag creator Phoebe Waller-Bridge in the writing category, while the second season of her BBC Three/Amazon series is also nominated for Best Comedy. Fleabag‘s third nomination is for ‘Hot Priest’ Andrew Scott in the Best Actor category.
Both shows have been hot tickets during awards season,...
- 2/13/2020
- by Jake Kanter
- Deadline Film + TV
Vice Studios has scored a Brexit documentary for the BBC – the latest third party commission for the youth-skewing media company’s fledgling production arm.
The British public broadcaster has ordered Inside The Brexit Storm (w/t) from Vice Studios. The one-hour film will go behind-the-scenes following BBC political editor Laura Kuenssberg as she reports on Britain’s exit from the European Union.
The doc will follow Kuenssberg as she travels to Brussels alongside British Prime Minister Theresa May as she navigates her way through attempting to strike a deal with the EU. It will also look at Kuenssberg off camera.
The BBC Two doc is directed by Toby Paton and edited by Fraser Gibb. Commissioned by BBC Two controller Patrick Holland and commissioning editor Gian Quaglieni, the doc is exec produced by Neil Breakwell and Yonni Usiskin.
It is Vice Studios latest commission for the BBC following The Satanic Verses:...
The British public broadcaster has ordered Inside The Brexit Storm (w/t) from Vice Studios. The one-hour film will go behind-the-scenes following BBC political editor Laura Kuenssberg as she reports on Britain’s exit from the European Union.
The doc will follow Kuenssberg as she travels to Brussels alongside British Prime Minister Theresa May as she navigates her way through attempting to strike a deal with the EU. It will also look at Kuenssberg off camera.
The BBC Two doc is directed by Toby Paton and edited by Fraser Gibb. Commissioned by BBC Two controller Patrick Holland and commissioning editor Gian Quaglieni, the doc is exec produced by Neil Breakwell and Yonni Usiskin.
It is Vice Studios latest commission for the BBC following The Satanic Verses:...
- 2/6/2019
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Just 11% of top talent from diverse background.
Just one-tenth of the BBC’s top on-screen talent is from a black, ethnic, minority background (Bame), the corporation’s Annual Report has revealed (reports Broadcast).
Bame stars make up 11% of the corporation’s top earners, with the likes of BBC Radio DJ Trevor Nelson and newsreader George Alagiah among the highest paid, with salaries of between £250,000 and £300,000.
Radio 4 Today programme presenter Mishal Husain earns between £200,000 and £250,000, less than half than her colleague John Humphrys’ £600,000-£650,000 salary.
Across the BBC, some 14% of its workforce is from a Bame background, in line with the national average.
Bame stars’ salaries pale in comparison with some of the corporation’s biggest earners, which include Radio 2 presenter and former Top Gear host Chris Evans, who topped the payroll with a salary of around £2.2m.
Strictly Come Dancing host Claudia Winkleman, who also hosted a Michael Buble special at Christmas and Film 2016, was the highest...
Just one-tenth of the BBC’s top on-screen talent is from a black, ethnic, minority background (Bame), the corporation’s Annual Report has revealed (reports Broadcast).
Bame stars make up 11% of the corporation’s top earners, with the likes of BBC Radio DJ Trevor Nelson and newsreader George Alagiah among the highest paid, with salaries of between £250,000 and £300,000.
Radio 4 Today programme presenter Mishal Husain earns between £200,000 and £250,000, less than half than her colleague John Humphrys’ £600,000-£650,000 salary.
Across the BBC, some 14% of its workforce is from a Bame background, in line with the national average.
Bame stars’ salaries pale in comparison with some of the corporation’s biggest earners, which include Radio 2 presenter and former Top Gear host Chris Evans, who topped the payroll with a salary of around £2.2m.
Strictly Come Dancing host Claudia Winkleman, who also hosted a Michael Buble special at Christmas and Film 2016, was the highest...
- 7/19/2017
- ScreenDaily
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