Radio 4's weekly obituary programme, telling the life stories of those who have died recently
Peter Jay, Ed Johnson, Dame Elizabeth Esteve-Coll, Deborah Roberts
Matthew Bannister onPeter Jay, who was economics editor at the Times and the BBC and also Britain’s Ambassador to the United States.Ed Johnson, the CIA agent who played a key role in the Argo operation to smuggle US diplomats out of Iran – but kept his involvement secret until his death. His wife tells us she had no idea what his work involved.Dame Elizabeth Esteve-Coll, who made controversial changes aimed at bringing more visitors to the Victoria and Albert MuseumDeborah Roberts, the acclaimed soprano who co-founded the Brighton Early Music Festival. Producer: Ed PrendevilleArchive
Norman Acgroyd, BBC, Artists in Print, 09/03/1981; Argo, Declassified Trailer, Warner Bros Entertainment, YouTube Upload 09/02/2013; BBC News, 09/1/1979; BBC News, 04/11/1979; BBC Desert Island Discs 20/10/1991; BBC Newsnight, 13/12/94; TV-am First Broadcast – Good Morning Britain (1983), Uploaded to Youtube “Things”, 9/02/19; That’s Life, BBC 1, 25/01/1981
9/27/2024 • 27 minutes, 53 seconds
Dr George Berci, Olga Craig, Michaela Mabinty DePrince, Tony Strong
Matthew Bannister on Dr George Berci, the surgeon who pioneered the use of miniature cameras in operations to minimise cutting and accelerate patients’ recovery times. Olga Craig, the respected journalist from Northern Ireland who reported from war zones and covered the aftermath of the bombing in Omagh.Michaela Mabinty DePrince, the orphan from war-torn Sierra Leone who realised her dreams of becoming a ballerina.Tony Strong, the scenic artist who worked with film directors like Stanley Kubrick, Ken Russell and Sir Ridley Scott.Interviewee: Dr L Michael Brunt
Interviewee: Sian James
Interviewee: David Harrison
Interviewee: Graham StrongProducer: Gareth Nelson-DaviesArchive used:Holocaust Survivor Talk: Dr. George Berci, Holocaust Museum LA, YouTube, uploaded 13/01/2022; 1956 Hungary Revolution news report, BBC Radio, World of Sound documentary, 13/11/1962; Omagh Bombing news report, BBC News, 15/08/1998; Michaela Mabinty DePrince, Outlook, BBC News, 29/08/2012; Tito Jackson of The Jackson 5 (Unreleased Full Interview); DJ Vlad TV, YouTube, uploaded, 26/01/2024; Tony Strong interview, ‘Smoke & Mirrors’ documentary, (2020) Coda Films, Director: Jonathan Blagrove , courtesy Graham Strong; The Boyfriend, Official film Promo, 1971, Director: Ken Russell; Live and Let Die, Official Film Promo, 1973 Director: Guy Hamilton; Legend, Official Film Promo, 1985, Director Ridley Scott;
9/20/2024 • 27 minutes, 51 seconds
James Earl Jones, Dr Helen Fisher, Sergio Mendes, Maureen Nicol
Matthew Bannister on
James Earl Jones, the versatile actor whose roles ranged from the voice of Darth Vader to Tennessee Williams and Shakespeare. Adrian Lester pays tribute.
Dr. Helen Fisher, the biological anthropologist who researched the science behind romantic love.
Sergio Mendes, who introduced the world to his unique style of Brazilian music. His friend Herb Alpert shares memories of creating classic albums together.
Maureen Nicol who founded the National Housewives’ Register to bring together homemaking women for stimulating conversation.Interviewee:- Adrian Lester
Interviewee:- Dr Justin Garcia
Interviewee:- Herb Alpert
Interviewee:-Simon Nicols
Interviewee:- Gill WignallProducer: Ed PrendevilleArchive used:Hardtalk 06/12/11; The Lion King, 1994, Directors Roger Allers & Rob Minkoff, Walt Disney Feature Animation; Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back, 1980, Director Irvin Kirshner, LucasFilm Ltd; BBC Woman’s Hour, BBC Radio 4, 18/03/2009; Episode 118: Helen Fisher - Understanding Why We Love, Keep Talking Podcast, YouTube upload 30/08/2024; The brain in Love – Helen Fisher, Ted Talk, YouTube Upload, 15/07/2008 ; The Jazz Show with Jamie Cullum , BBC Radio 2, 27/07/2010; BBC, SERGIO MENDES AND BRASIL '77 12/03/1974; J to Z , BBCRadio 3, 16/07/2022; Maureen Nicol 60th Anniversary, NWR, 21/02/2020; Woman’s Hour, 19/08/1985
9/13/2024 • 27 minutes, 50 seconds
Claire Lomas, Phil Swern, Countess of Airlie, Geoff Mumford
Matthew Bannister onClaire Lomas MBE, who was paralysed from the chest down after a riding accident and went on to complete the London Marathon wearing a bionic suit.Phil Swern, the music producer known as “The Collector” because he owned millions of records. Ken Bruce pays tribute.Countess of Airlie, the American heiress who married into the aristocracy and became a Lady of the Bedchamber to Queen Elizabeth II.Geoff Mumford, a pioneer of the craft beer movement who co-founded the Burton Bridge Brewery.Interviewee: Natalie Hill
Interviewee: Ken Bruce
Interviewee: David Ogilvy
Interviewee: Bruce Wilkinson
Interviewee: Catherine BrownProducer: Gareth Nelson-DaviesArchive used:Claire Lomas interview, Lynette Fay Show, BBC Radio Ulster, 08/02/2023; Claire Lomas, London Marathon 2012, BBC News; Claire Lomas ‘Best of British’, Tonight, ITN, 2012, Producer: Natalie Hill; 'Bionic' woman Claire Lomas completes London Marathon, BBC News, 08/05/2012; Phil Swern: Capital, Radio 1 and 2 producer, Radio Moments – Conversations, David Lloyd Radio, Episode 72, audioboom.com/posts/7228726-phil-swern-capital-radio-1-and-2-producer, Published 09/04/2019; Great Lives, BBC Radio 4, 23/01/2024; New York in the 1920s (1961 documentary) , 20C History Project, Uploaded to YouTube 24/01/2013; Virginia Ogilvy interview, Countess of Airlie, Lordly Ladies, BBC Radio, 10/04/1969; Queen Mother attends Ogilvy-Ryan Wedding (1952), British Pathe, British Pathe YouTube, uploaded 13/04/2014; White House State Dinner, Honouring Her Majesty, C-Span, 07/05/2007; Geoff Mumford interview, Great British Railway Journeys, BBC Four, 16/01/2023; BBC Midlands Today, BBC News 25/06/1992; Geoff Mumford interview, BBC Midlands Today, BBC News, 24/03/1997;
9/6/2024 • 27 minutes, 50 seconds
Mike Lynch, Nell McCafferty, Ruth Colvin, Sven-Göran Eriksson
Matthew Bannister on Mike Lynch, who was one of the UK’s most successful tech entrepreneurs.Nell McCafferty, the Irish journalist and feminist campaigner who took part in the “contraceptive train” protest in 1971.Ruth Colvin, who founded the American “Literacy Volunteers” organisation to help adults who couldn’t read or writeSven-Göran Eriksson, the Swedish born football manager who became the first non-British coach of the England football team.Interviewee: Suranga Chandratillake
Interviewee: David Davis
Interviewee: Susan McKay
Interviewee: Judy Cheatham
Interviewee: Henry WinterProducers: Ben Mitchell and Ed PrendevilleArchive:
Contraceptives From Belfast, RTE, 1971; Witness, BBC News, 03/12/2016; Ruth Colvin, All things considered, NPR, 10/12/2006; Ruth Colvin, Onondaga Historical Association, YouTube Upload, 07/07/2020; Ruth Colvin, Onondaga Historical Association, YouTube Upload, 01/12/2016; The Real Sven-Goran Eriksson, BBC Radio 5Live; Kammy & Ben's Proper Football Podcast, BBC, 18/11/2022; BBC News at Ten; 20/11/2012; PM, BBC Radio 4, 01/08/24; The Report, BBC Radio 4, 27/12/12
8/30/2024 • 27 minutes, 32 seconds
Phil Donahue, Countess Diana Phipps Sternberg, Mary Gibby, Toumani Diabaté
Matthew Bannister on American TV host Phil Donahue – pioneer of the daytime talk show.Countess Diana Phipps Sternberg, the Czech born interior designer who was at the centre of a vibrant social scene in London during the swinging 60s.Professor Mary Gibby OBE, the botanist who specialised in the study and classification of ferns.Toumani Diabaté, the Malian musician known around the world for his virtuoso kora playing.Interviewee: Bill Brioux
Interviewee: Michael Žantovský
Interviewee: Jess Barrett
Interviewee: Suntou SussoProducer: Gareth Nelson-DaviesArchive used:
The Phil Donahue show, Radio Ident, WLWD, Dayton Ohio, 1968; Phil Donahue interview, Television Academy Interviews YouTube, uploaded 06/06/2011; Phil Donahue interview on his career and becoming a dad, Today, NBC, 23/10/2024; Phil Donahue on literacy and education, ABC News, Uploaded 20/09/2024; The Phil Donahue Show, Marlo Thomas, 1977, Marlo Thomas YouTube Channel, uploaded, 21/09/2012; The Czech Republic, 1989's Velvet Revolution, BBC World Service, 07/12/1999; Czechoslovakia (1948), YouTube uploaded 13/04/2014; Gardner 4VT in narrowboat Swan, Myk Askin YouTube channel, uploaded 19/04/2010;Toumani Diabaté interview, Front Row, BBC Radio 4, 05/06/2014; Toumani Diabaté interview, BBC Radio 3, 29/05/2021;
8/23/2024 • 27 minutes, 38 seconds
Susan Wojcicki, Lord Colwyn, Sir Ernest Hall, Mísia
Kirsty Lang onSusan Wojcicki, the first woman to lead a major company in Silicon Valley.Lord Colwyn, a jazz loving politician who cared passionately about improving the nation’s teeth.Sir Ernest Hall, a piano playing entrepreneur, who oversaw the regeneration of a former textile mill in Halifax.Mísia, the musician who found international acclaim by bringing a modern twist to traditional Portuguese Fado music. Interviewee: Mike Isaac
Interviewee: Lady Colwyn
Interviewee: Lord Hunt of Kings Heath
Interviewee: Jeremy Hall
Interviewee: Carmo CruzProducer: Gareth Nelson-DaviesArchive used:Susan Wojcicki on Studio 1.0, Bloomberg Technology, YouTube upload 15/11/2016; Susan Wojcicki, Leadership Live with David Rubenstein, YouTube uploaded 28/05/2020; Susan Wojcicki, Washington Post, YouTube uploaded 18/06/2020; Susan Wojcicki, CNN Business, YouTube uploaded 04/05/2017; The Secret Life of The Third Baron Colwyn, BBC Radio 4, 24/05/1979; Lord Colwyn, House Of Lords Dental Care debate, Parliament TV 01/02/2018; Lord Hall speech, Live Music, House of Lords, Parliament TV, 27/01/2012; Westminster Special: The Ballot for the Last Hereditaries, BBC Radio 4, 05/11/1999; Sir Ernest Hall, Desert Island Discs, BBC Radio 4, 26/04/1998; Sir Ernest Hall, Private Passions, BBC Radio 3, 18/09/2005; Sir Ernest Hall – Busoni Piano Concerto op.39 – Prologo e Introito, Sir Ernest Hall YouTube channel, Sheffield Symphony Orchestra - Halifax Choral Society - John Langstaff, uploaded 30/10/2022; Mísia interview, Showcase: Misia - Exploring emotions with Fado, TRT World, YouTube uploaded 09/06/2016;
8/16/2024 • 27 minutes, 51 seconds
Lord Fellowes, Professor Helen Whitwell, David Power, Irène Schweizer
Matthew Bannister onLord Fellowes, who was private secretary to Queen Elizabeth during the 1990s.Professor Helen Whitwell, the forensic pathologist who inspired the central character in the TV series “Silent Witness”.David Power, the Irish businessman who co-founded one of the world’s biggest gambling companies – Paddy Power.Irène Schweizer, the pianist and feminist who made a big impact in the male-dominated world of jazz.Interviewee: Hugo Vickers
Interviewee: Katy Thorne KC
Interviewee: Nigel McCrery
Interviewee: Paddy Power
Interviewee: Kevin Le Gendre
Interviewee: Maggie Nicols Producer: Gareth Nelson-DaviesArchive used:
Queen Elizabeth speech, PM, BBC Radio 4, 24/11/1992; Windsor Castle news report, BBC News 20/11/1992; Prime Minister John Major, House of Commons, Separation of Prince and Princess of Wales, 09/12/1992; Death of Diana, Princess of Wales, News Bulletin, BBC Radio, 31/08/1997; Silent Witness Theme (Silencium), Silent Witness, BBC ONE, John Harle; Paddy Power advert, YouTube upload 05/05/2013; Camden Jazz Festival, London Jazz Composers Orchestra, Directed by Barry Guy, 01/07/1991; Irène Schweizer, Schaffhauser Jazz festival, uploaded to YouTube 18/July/2016;
8/9/2024 • 27 minutes, 44 seconds
Edna O’Brien, Sir Kenneth Grange, Ewy Rosqvist, John Mayall
John Wilson onEdna O’Brien, one of Ireland’s greatest writers. In a career spanning over 60 years she wrote 17 novels and many short stories, plays and essays.Sir Kenneth Grange, the prolific designer whose works included the Kenwood Chef, the parking meter and the Intercity 125 train. Groundbreaking Swedish rally driver Ewy Rosqvist. The British blues musician John Mayall, the man who nurtured the young talents of Eric Clapton, Peter Green, Mick Fleetwood and many more. Producer: Ed PrendevilleArchive used:
Ewy Rosqvist: An Unexpected Champion, uploaded to Youtube/28 04/2019; Sound Effect of Ewy Driving at the 1964 Grand Prix, ” TOUGH MILES TO VICTORY ” 1964 ARGENTINA GRAND PRIX AUTO RACE BUENOS AIRES MERCEDES XD8687; Rhythm and Blues: John Mayall Father of the British Blues, Radio 2, 25/09/1986; John Mayall, Nicky Campbell Show, BBC Radio 1, 10/07/1990; John Mayall: 40 Years of the Blues, BBC Four, 03/09/2009; The Archers Omnibus, BBC Radio 4, 24/09/1955; Woman’s Hour, BBC Radio 4, 11/09/2015; Free Thinking, BBC Radio 3; 04/11/2015; Edna O'Brien: Fearful... and Fearless, BBC Two HD, 01/08/2019; Country Girls, BBC Radio 4, 2015; Desert Island Discs, BBC Radio 4, 01/01/2017; Front Row 2011 interview with Kenneth Grange, 18/17/2011; The Age of the Train, BBC Four, 15/09/2012;
8/2/2024 • 27 minutes, 51 seconds
Dr Mildred Stahlman, Ray Reardon, Val McIver, Eddie Spence
Matthew Bannister on Dr Mildred Stahlman, the American paediatrician whose discovery helped to improve the outcomes of premature babies around the world.Ray Reardon, the former miner and police officer who was a World Snooker Champion six times. Val McIver, the Scottish local councillor who campaigned to set up the University of the Highlands and Islands.Eddie Spence, who decorated elaborate wedding cakes for members of the royal family for decades.Interviewee: Dr Meg Rush
Interviewee: Martha Lott
Interviewee: Ken Doherty
Interviewee: Jen Mackenzie
Interviewee: Dawn PenningtonProducer: Catherine PowellArchive used:
Great Welsh Sporting Moments, BBC 2 Wales 17/12/2008; Ray Reardon: The Welsh Master, BBC 1 Wales 01/03/2022; Ray Reardon at 80, BBC 1 Wales,29/04/2012; Ray Reardon, BBC Two 19/04/1984; Highland University, Reporting Scotland, 19/04/1996; Insiders Inverness, BBC One Scotland, 18/10/1991; Radio Scotland News, 09/09/92; Installation of the first Chancellor of the University of the Highlands and Islands, music by students of the university and members of the Highland Youth Orchestra, via YouTube uploaded 27 /6/2012; The Royal Wedding, BBC Television, 20/11/1947; On the Eve of the Royal Wedding, BBC, Richard Dimbleby Thu 05 May 1960; Wedding of HRH The Prince of Wales & Lady Diana Spencer, BBC 29/07/1981; Silver Jubilee: A day of Celebration, BBC 2, 07/06/1977; Vic Minett BBC Radio CWR 23/02/2018
7/26/2024 • 27 minutes, 48 seconds
Dr Ruth Westheimer, Mike Corfield, Shelley Duvall, Veronica Smith
Matthew Bannister on Dr Ruth Westheimer who offered frank advice about sex on TV and radio.Mike Corfield, the conservator who developed new methods of preserving archaeological artefacts in the places where they were discovered.Shelley Duvall, the actor who worked closely with Robert Altman, played Wendy in The Shining and Michal Palin’s star-crossed lover in Time Bandits. Michael shares his memories. Veronica Smith, who, as a young woman, was forced to give up her baby for adoption. She later founded the “Movement for an Adoption Apology”.Producer: Ed Prendeville Archive used
Barry Normal on Shelley Duvall. Film 80, BBC1, 29/09/1980; The Shining, Official trailer, 1980; Director Stanley Kubrik; Based on a novel by Stephen King; Warner Bros; Time Bandits, 1980; Original Trailer, Handmade Films; "Late Night" with David Letterman, 27/09/1984; Popeye, 1980, Trailer; Director: Robert Altman; Writers: Jules Feiffer (screenplay), E.C. Segar (based on characters by); Stars: Robin Williams, Shelley Duvall, Ray Walston; From 1981: Shelley Duvall talks working on 'The Shining', Interview with Gene Shalit on TODAY, 10/11/1981; BBC Radio 4 Woman’s Hour, 10/08/2022; BBC Radio London: Forced adoption, Peabody and Tim Arthur, 26/02/2014
7/19/2024 • 27 minutes, 51 seconds
Dr Richard Taylor, Jack Rowell, Claudia Williams, Christophe Deloire
Matthew Bannister onDr Richard Taylor, the retired hospital consultant who became the independent MP for Wyre Forest.Jack Rowell, the rugby coach who transformed the fortunes of Bath and took England to the World Cup semi-finals.The artist Claudia Williams, who painted large scale canvases including images of women and children who lost their homes in the Welsh village of Tryweryn. Christophe Deloire, the French journalist who became director general of the organisation Reporters Without Borders.Producer: Ed PrendevilleArchive used
PILKINGTON CUP FINAL:BATH V LEICESTER, BBC2, 30/04/1989: England Vs NZ, BBC Sport, 1995; Hospital closure report, BBC News, 24/05/1995; Julian Assange, BBC Breakfast, 26.06.24; BBC Election coverage 2001; Fighting censorship with journalism: Christophe Deloire at TEDxLecce, Youtube, uploaded 03/06/2014; The World Tonight : The Russian journalist who protested on live TV, Radio 4, 06/10/2023; BBC News at One, BBC News, 17/03/2022; BBC Radio 5 live, 16/07/2016; Shipping Forecast, 27/11/2015; BBC Wales Today, 26/09/2013; Radio Wales Arts Show, 20/02/2010
7/12/2024 • 27 minutes, 49 seconds
Frank Duckworth, Leah Levin, Professor Mary-Lou Pardue, Joss Naylor
Matthew Bannister onFrank Duckworth, the statistician whose name will forever be associated with the Duckworth-Lewis method of calculating scores for rain affected cricket matches. Leah Levin, who campaigned to overturn miscarriages of justice and gain reparations for victims of torture. Professor Mary-Lou Pardue, the eminent biologist who fought against sexism at the American University, M.I.T.Joss Naylor, the fell runner who broke the Lake District 24-hour record three times and ran the fastest known times on the Three Peaks and the Pennine Way.Interviewee: Rob Eastaway
Interviewee: Hans Thoolen
Interviewee: Professor Susan Gerbi
Interviewee: Professor Nancy Hopkins
Interviewee: David Powell-ThompsonProducer: Gareth Nelson-DaviesArchive used:Frank Duckworth interview, Broadcasting House, BBC Radio 4, 21/06/2021; England Test Match Special, West Indies v England, BBC ONE, 16/03/1968; England Cricket Sport Report, BBC Sport, 30/01/2005; Leah Levin keynote speech, Kingston University graduation ceremony, 2019; Leah Levin interview, London Plus News, BBC ONE South East, 11/10/1984; Leah Levin , BBC Breakfast Time, BBC ONE, 04/10/1985; A Conversation with Mary Lou Pardue, MIT Department of Biology, YouTube Upload, 24/08/2020; Joss Naylor profile, Countryfile, BBC ONE 30/07/2018; Joss Naylor interview, Farming Today, BBC Radio 4, 19/06/2021; Joss Naylor interview, Nationwide, BBC ONE, 1973; Joss Naylor interview Cherry Pit Spitting , BBC News, 02/07/1981;
7/5/2024 • 27 minutes, 44 seconds
Sir Howard Bernstein, Joan Brady, Gene Nora Jessen, Arthur “Gaps” Hendrickson
Matthew Bannister onSir Howard Bernstein, the Chief Executive of Manchester City Council credited with transforming the city after the IRA bomb of 1996.Joan Brady, the author and former ballet dancer who won the Whitbread Prize for her novel “The Theory of War”.Gene Nora Jessen, the American pilot who was part of a group of women known as the Mercury 13 – who were subjected to tests to see if they were fit to become astronauts.Arthur “Gaps” Hendrickson, the vocalist with the two- tone group The Selecter. His bandmate Pauline Black OBE pays tribute.Interviewee: Paul Horrocks
Interviewee: Alexander Masters
Interviewee: Marth Ackmann
Interviewee: Pauline Black OBEProducer: Gareth Nelson-DaviesArchive used:
Sir Howard Bernstein interview, BBC News, North West Tonight, 21/03/2017; News Report, Manchester Bombing, BBC Radio 4, 15/06/1996; Howard Bernstein interview with Harvard Professor Ed Glaeser, Public Transportation in Manchester, City X, YouTube uploaded , 31/01/2018; News report - Commonwealth Games - Manchester, , BBC News, North West Tonight 25/07/2002; Howard Bernstein interview, BBC News, Midlands Today, 26/07/2022; Howard Bernstein interview, BBC News, North West Tonight, 31/03/2017; Joan Brady interview, The Forum, BBC World Service, 09/05/2010; Joan Brady, The Theory of War, The Late Show, BBC Two, 09/11/1993; Joan Brady interview, Woman’s Hour, BBC Radio 4, 15/03/2003; Mercury 13 , Official Trailer, Netflix, YouTube uploaded, 09/04/2018; Gene Nora Jessen presentation, Women’s Air Races, Aviation Business, and Astronaut Tests: A Pathbreaking Career, Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum YouTube Channel, uploaded 05/06/2019; Pioneer aviator Gene Nora Jessen, Fox * News, Cleveland , YouTube channel, 20/08/2018.
6/28/2024 • 27 minutes, 44 seconds
Sir Oliver Popplewell, Lynn Conway, Tony Bramwell, Francoise Hardy
Kirsty Lang on the Judge and cricketer Sir Oliver Popplewell. His godson Stephen Fry pays tribute.The computer pioneer and transgender advocate Lynn Conway.The music mogul and friend to the Fab Four Tony Bramwell. One of France’s best loved singer song-writers Francoise Hardy.Interviewee: Stephen Fry
Interviewee: Charles Rogers
Interviewee: Roag Best
Interviewee: Laura BartonProducer: Catherine PowellArchive used:
Get Carman: The Trials of George Carman QC BBC 2 5th April 2002; The Today Programme BBC 15th May 1985; Michigan Engineering, University of Michigan 8 Oct 2014 uploaded from Youtube; Trans Activism Oral History Project, Chair in Transgender Studies, University of Victoria, Canada Feb 4th 2020; Radio Newsreel BBC World Service 31st October 1963; Dermot O’Leary show BBC Radio 2 17th August 2013; Sunny South Kensington – Donovan Epic 22nd October 1966; Songbird – Eva Cassidy Didgeridoo Records/ Hot Record 1998; My Generation – The Who Bruinswick Records/ Decca (US) 1965/6; Falling for Francoise, Producer: Alan Hall A Falling Tree Production for BBC Radio 4, BBC Radio 4 2011.
6/21/2024 • 27 minutes, 49 seconds
Nora Cortiñas, Belinda Belville, John Burnside, Roger Corman
Matthew Bannister on Nora Cortiñas, a founding member of Argentina’s “Mothers of the Disappeared” campaign group. Her son Gustavo was 24 when he was arrested by the country’s right-wing dictatorship. He was never seen again. Belinda Bellville, the fashion designer who dressed every female member of the royal family apart from Queen Elizabeth. Her business partner David Sassoon shares his memories.The poet John Burnside whose acclaimed work reflected his troubled childhood in Cowdenbeath and Corby.Roger Corman, the American film director and producer known for his prolific output of low budget pictures.Producer: Ed PrendevilleArchive used:
Exhibition of Belinda Bellville dresses at Holkham Hall, BBC Norfolk, 17/04/2013; Princess Goes To Washington (1965). Pathe News, 21/11/1965; Wild Music, Radio 4, 29/12/2019; Belief: John Burnside, BBC Radio 3; 04/04/2012; The Little Shop Of Horrors (1960) Official Trailer; Masque Of The Red Death (1964) Trailer; Attack of the Crab Monsters Official Trailer; Viking Women and the Sea Serpent (1957) Trailer; It Conquered the World (1956) Theatrical Trailer; Horror Café, BBC 2, 15/09/1990; The Film Programme, BBC Radio 4, 30/05/2008;
6/7/2024 • 26 minutes, 52 seconds
Richard M Sherman, Professor Wendy James CBE , Morgan Spurlock, June Mendoza OBE
Matthew Bannister onRichard M Sherman who teamed up with his brother Robert to write some of Disney’s best loved songs.Professor Wendy James CBE, the anthropologist who studied the Uduk tribes of Sudan.June Mendoza OBE, the portrait painter whose subjects included members of the Royal Family, Prime Ministers and celebrities.Morgan Spurlock, the film maker best known for his Oscar nominated documentary about the fast food industry “Supersize Me”.Interviewee: Brian Sibley
Interviewee: Dr Douglas Johnson
Interviewee: Anna Smith
Interviewee: Kim MackrellProducer: Gareth Nelson-DaviesArchive used:
Richard Sherman, Outlook, BBC Radio 4, 29 Aug 2016; Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Trailer, Dir: Ken Hughes, MGM, 1968; Mary Poppins trailer, Director: Robert Stevenson, Disney, 1964; Julie Andrews, Feed The Birds, Composer Sherman; Richard Sherman, The Film Programme, BBC Radio 4, 30 May 2008; Richard Sherman, Front Row, BBC Radio 4, 26 Oct 2007; Richard Sherman, Soul Music, BBC Radio 4, 03 May 2016; It's A Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow, Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman, Walt Disney; Richard Sherman interview, Empire Magazine, YouTube, uploaded 12 Aug 2013; Interview with Professor Wendy James, Apollo, University of Cambridge Repository, Dir: Alan Macfarlane, Edit: Sarah Harrison, dspace.cam.ac.uk/handle/1810/223956, 15 May 2009; Super Size Me, 2004, Writer/Director: Morgan Spurlock, Samuel Goldwyn Film, You Tube, uploaded 17 May 2024; Super Size Me, Official Movie Trailer, Samuel Goldwyn Films, 2004;
Super Size Me 2, Official Trailer, Samuel Goldwyn Films, 2019; Morgan Spurlock interview, ABC News, YouTube uploaded, 19 Sept 2019; June Mendoza, Desert Island Discs, BBC Radio 4, 08 Sept 1979; June Mendoza, Midweek, BBC Radio 4, 25 May 1988;
5/31/2024 • 27 minutes, 50 seconds
Sir Tony O'Reilly, President Ebrahim Raisi, Penny Simkin, Professor Alasdair Geddes
Matthew Bannister onThe Irish rugby star and businessman Sir Tony O’Reilly. He made billions but ended up bankrupt.The hardline President of Iran, Ebrahim Raisi.Penny Simkin, who championed the role of birth doulas to help mothers during and after labour.Professor Alasdair Geddes, the infectious diseases expert who diagnosed the world’s last ever case of smallpox – in Birmingham.Producer: Ed PrendevilleArchive used:
Penny Simkin, YouTube upload, PSfromPenny, 27/10/2009; Penny Simkin, YouTube upload, PSfromPenny, 22/03/2011; Today Programme, Radio 4, BBC, 20/05/2024; Newshour, BBC World Service, 20/05/2024; News report by Philip Hayton, Sound Archive, BBC Radio 4, 11/02/1979; Ebrahim Raisi interviewed by Lesley Stahl, CBS Interactive Inc., YouTube upload, 60 Minutes, 19/05/2024; BBC profile on Tony O’Reilly, 24/01/1975; Conversation Piece, Radio 4, 02/12/1985; People in profile, Radio Ulster, 06/09/1980; The Last Case of Smallpox in the UK, BBC News, 31/08/2016
5/24/2024 • 27 minutes, 50 seconds
Dame Shirley Conran, Doreen Massey, Beverley LaHaye, Steve Albini
Matthew Bannister onDame Shirley Conran, the journalist and author best known for her books “Superwoman” and “Lace”.Baroness Doreen Massey, the educator and former director of the Family Planning AssociationBeverly LaHaye the founder of Concerned Women of America who campaigned to stop the Equal Rights Amendment.Steve Albini, the controversial musician who worked many influential albums including Nirvava’s “In Utero”.Producer: Ed PrendevilleArchive used:
National Women’s Coalition for Life, National Cable Satellite Corporation, C-Span, 03/04/1992; Former President Trump Speaks at Concerned Women for America Summit, National Cable Satellite Corporation, C-Span, 15/09/2023; Beverly LaHaye, Concernedwomen.org, 23/02/2017; President Reagan's Remarks at Convention of Concerned Women for America, Reagan Library, YouTube upload, 28/11/2017; The PTL Club, The PTL Club – Heritage USA, YouTube upload, 12/08/2022; Woman's Hour, 07/11/2014; Woman's Hour, 02/08/2012; Graham Norton, BBC Radio 2, 14/07/2012; The Stephen McCauley Show, BBC Radio Ulster, 29/08/2022; House of Lords, parliament.tv, 24/04/2019; Baroness Massey Stories of Democracy, House of Lords, YouTube upload, 22/11/2012
5/17/2024 • 27 minutes, 48 seconds
Anne Dagg, Ross Anderson, Cecil Murray, Kris Hallenga
Matthew Bannister on Anne Dagg, the Canadian biologist known as The Woman Who Loves Giraffes for her lifelong study of the animals.Professor Ross Anderson, the computer scientist who was a leading expert on data protection and online security.Reverend Cecil Murray, the pastor of the First African Methodist Episcopal Church in Los Angeles who played a pivotal role during the riots of 1992.Kris Hellenga, who was diagnosed with breast cancer aged 23 and set up the charity Coppafeel to encourage other young women to check their breasts.Producer: Ed PrendevilleArchive used:
Archive of Anne Dagg, The Woman who loves Giraffes, Pursuing Giraffe Adventures Inc, 2018; Newsnight, BBC Two, 01/07/1992; Newsnight, BBC Two, 11/02/2010; Ross Anderson Interviewed by Elisabetta Mori, Archives of IT, YouTube Upload, 20/03/2024; Digitalize in Stockholm ’22, DigitalFuturesHub, YouTube Upload, 28/10/22; USC Center for Religion and Civic Culture, YouTube Upload 22/02/2021; BBC Radio Cornwall, 12/10/2021;
5/10/2024 • 27 minutes, 45 seconds
C.J.Sansom, Olga Fikotová-Connolly, Dr Jenny Vaughan OBE, Sir Andrew Davies
Matthew Bannister on an author, a campaigner, an Olympic medallist, a conductor
5/3/2024 • 27 minutes, 49 seconds
Terry Anderson, Trina Robbins, Lord Field, Ann Trevenen Jenkin
Matthew Bannister onThe American journalist Terry Anderson who was held captive in Lebanon for almost seven years. In an emotional interview, his daughter Sulome tells us how she followed in his footsteps as she tried to connect with a father she met for the first time when she was seven years old. Lord Field who, the Labour MP Frank Field who campaigned tirelessly for welfare reform.Trina Robbins the feminist cartoonist and writer who was the first woman to illustrate the Wonder Woman comics.Ann Trevenen Jenkin the first woman Grand Bard of Cornwall and a founding member of the Cornish nationalist party Mebyon Kernow.Interviewee: Sulome Anderson
Interviewee: Ellin Stein
Interviewee: Liam Halligan
Interviewee: Loveday Jenkin Producer: Gareth Nelson-DaviesArchive Used:Sulome Anderson writes a letter to her father on his birthday, BBC News, 07/10/1991; Terry Anderson release, Live press conference, BBC News, 04/12/1991; Terry Anderson interview, BBC Radio 1, 01/01/2000; Terry Anderson on What It’s Like to Live as a Hezbollah Hostage, Slate. YouTube Channel uploaded, 17/11/2014; Trina Robbins, Meet Trina Robbins, the first woman to draw Wonder Woman for D.C. Comics, KTVU FOX 2 San Francisco, YouTube uploaded 30/03/2023; Frank Field MP interview, Straight Talk, BBC News, 19/06/2010; Frank Field, Profile, BBC Radio 4, 13/12/2014; Frank Field, Lent Talks, BBC Radio 4, 01/04/2009; Ann Trevenen Jenkin interviewed by Carmen Talbot for Dreadnought South West’s Rebellious Sounds Archive, 2019; Ann Trevenen Jenkin interview, Cornish March, BBC News, 21/06/1997;
4/26/2024 • 27 minutes, 50 seconds
“I was born while my father was a hostage”
Sulome Anderson first met her father – journalist Terry Anderson – at the American Embassy in Damascus. She was seven years old and he had just been released from nearly seven years as a hostage in Lebanon. She desperately wanted to build a relationship with him, even going so far as to become a war correspondent herself and tracking down and meeting one of his captors. But Terry’s traumatic experiences made the task very challenging. When she was nearly kidnapped in the Middle East herself, she became determined to break out of the “cycle of fascination with war” that had bedevilled the family. In this moving interview recorded shortly after Terry’s death she speaks candidly about the pressures they faced.
Presented by Matthew Banister
Produced by Gareth Nelson-Davies and Eirian Jones
4/26/2024 • 23 minutes, 21 seconds
Sir Paul Fox, Lynne Reid Banks, Joan Hills, Amnon Weinstein
Matthew Bannister on:Sir Paul Fox, the respected TV executive who commissioned some of the best loved programmes of the 1960s and 70s. We have a tribute from his former colleague Sir David Attenborough. Lynne Reid Banks, the author best known for her novel “The L Shaped Room.”Joan Hills, the artist who played a key role in the art world of the 1960s and, with her husband and two children, was part of the Boyle Family quartet.Amnon Weinstein, the luthier who collected and restored violins which had been played in concentration camps during the Second World War.Interviewee: Sir David Attenborough
Interviewee: Gillon Stephenson
Interviewee: Georgia Boyle
Interviewee: Avshalom Weinstein
Interviewee: Jaap HamburgerProducer: Gareth Nelson-DaviesArchive Used:
Sportsview, BBC Television, 27/01/1955; Roger Bannister 4 minute mile news report, BBC Archive Newsreel, 07/05/1954; Interview with Paul Fox, The Oral History of the BBC, connectedhistoriesofthebbc.org, 30/11/1984; Lynne Reid Banks interview with Rita Hayworth1956, On This Day, ITN Archive Facebook channel, uploaded 13/07/2022; L-Shaped Room, Official Trailer, 20th Century Fox, 1962, Dir: Bryan Forbes; Lynne Reid Banks interview, With Great Pleasure, BBC Radio 4, 24/09/1999; Reading extract, The Indian in the Cupboard, Episode 1, BBC Radio 4, 02/10/1986; Official Film Promo, Paramount Pictures, Dir: Frank Oz, 1995; Lynne Reid Banks talks about how her life would be different if she couldn't write, gconversations YouTube Channel, uploaded 25/10/2012; Joan Hills interview, The Boyle Family, BBC Four, 27/08/2003; Amnon Weinstein 2018, Alabama Holocaust Education Center, YouTube uploaded 02/06/2022; Violins of Hope, CBS Sunday Morning, YouTube uploaded 22/03/2024;
4/19/2024 • 27 minutes, 49 seconds
Peter Higgs, Trevor Griffiths, Hella Pick, Margaret Tynes
Matthew Bannister on
Professor Peter Higgs, the physicist who won the Nobel prize for explaining why the building blocks of the universe have mass.
Trevor Griffiths, the playwright whose stage and TV dramas focused on left wing politics and social issues. We have a tribute from the actor Jack Shepherd.
Hella Pick, the long serving Guardian foreign correspondent who enjoyed the company of many world leaders.
Margaret Tynes, the African-American soprano who sang leading operatic roles and worked with Duke Ellington.Interviewee: Roland Pease
Interviewee: Dr Alan Walker
Interviewee: Jack Shepherd
Interviewee: Paul Allen
Interviewee: Linda Christmas
Interviewee: Michael HarperProducer: Catherine PowellArchive used:
BBC News at Six : 04/07/2012; BBC The Life Scientific 18/02/2014; Nobel Prize Announcement in Physics 2013, Youtube, 08/10/2013; All Good Men, Play for Today, BBC 1, 31/01/1974; Trevor Griffiths, BFI, YouTube Upload, 02/06/2017; Through the Night, Play for Today, BBC 1, 04/08/1977; Trevor Griffiths interviewed by Sir Tony Robinson, Showreel 88, BBC2, 26/12/1988; Hardtalk, BBC, 1997; Desert Island Discs, BBC Radio 4, 16/11/2018; Aida - 'Ritorna vincitor' az I. felvonásból, 08/09/1962; Macbeth - 'Una macchia e qui tuttora' a IV. felvonásból (Gran Scena del Sonnambulismo / Alvajáró jelenet) 08/09/1962; A Drum Is a Woman, Pt. 1 by Duke Ellington, Margaret Tynes, Duke Ellington & His Orchestra; "Salome" excerpt, Spoleto, 1961
4/12/2024 • 27 minutes, 40 seconds
Joe Lieberman, Diana Baring, Lynn Kinnear, Kay Benbow
Matthew Bannister on
Joe Lieberman, the US Democrat politician who fell out with his party over the Iraq War.
Diana Baring, the respected literary agent. We have a tribute from her client Frederick Forsyth.
Lynn Kinnear, who was one of the most influential landscape architects of her generation.
Kay Benbow, who commissioned and made many acclaimed TV shows for children.
Interviewee: Matt Lieberman
Interviewee: Frederick Forsyth
Interviewee: Caroline Dawnay
Interviewee: Sean Griffiths
Interviewee: Kim TserkezieProducer: Catherine Powell
Archive used:
Joe Lieberman addresses the Senate floor, 04/09/1998, AP Archive, YouTube upload, 21/07/2015; Joe Lieberman interview, The Mehdi Hasan Show, MSNBC, YouTube Upload, 27/10/2021; Joe Lieberman interview, HardTalk, BBC News, 29/06/2017; Joe Lieberman interview, All things considered, NPR, 12/10/2015; Late Night with Conan O'Brien 15/01/2003 Show Executive Producers Lorne Michaels Jeff Ross; The Day of the Jackal trailer, Universal City Studios LLC, IMDb, 1973; Walthamstow Wetlands, London Wildlife Trust, YouTube upload 04/2021; Lynn Kinnear interviewed by Hattie Hartman, 01/07/2022; Balamory Theme Song – BBC Foster Paterson; Woman's Hour : Children's Television; 12/09/2014; Nina and the Neurons BBC Series 2 “Nina’s Cake Bakes” 02/04/2008; The Clangers, Smallfilms for the BBC, 31/10/08
4/5/2024 • 27 minutes, 43 seconds
Richard Taylor, Lisa Lane, Rose Dugdale, Ian Green
John Wilson onRichard Taylor, who became a tireless campaigner against knife crime and supported disadvantaged young people. Lisa Lane, the chess champion who was the first player to feature on the cover of Sports Illustrated. Rose Dugdale, the English heiress and debutante who went onto join the IRA. Ian Green, the Scottish folk music champion who started the record label Greentrax. Producer: Ed PrendevilleArchive used:
Rose Dugdale – Mná an IRA, Sé Merry Doyle Loopline Film, 2012; Rose Dugdale charges, BBC News, 06/05/1974; Anti-war march 1967,BBC,26/03/1967; Alfred Beit – Russborough House interview, Midweek, BBC, 03/07/1974; What’s my Line, Freemantle – May 1961, YouTube upload 26/04/2014; BBC Archive – News report Rose sentencing, BBC, 27/11/1974; BBC News – report on murder of Damilola; BBC News – Hardtalk; BBC News interview with Richard Taylor; Ian McCalman – Farewell to the haven; Shian Road sung by Isla St Clair. Written by Ian McCalman; The Pearl Aly Bain, Phil Cunningham and Violet Tulloch; Take the Floor – 19/02/11 Programme number: 10L33047/01; Dateline East Asia Presented By Kathryn Davies;
3/29/2024 • 27 minutes, 31 seconds
John Boyega on campaigner Richard Taylor, father of Damilola Taylor
In this special edition of Last Word, John Boyega pays tribute to campaigner Richard Taylor, the father of Damilola Taylor who was killed 24 years ago.Richard Taylor - a Nigerian civil servant - dedicated years to improving the lives of disadvantaged children in the wake of his son's death via the Damilola Taylor Trust. Mr Taylor said he wanted his son to be remembered as a boy of hope and for his legacy to be a better life and opportunities for underprivileged young people.Boyega - best known for his roles in Star Wars sequel movies – was schoolfriends with Damilola Taylor in South London, as well as being a beneficiary of the Trust set up in his friend’s name.John was one of the last people to see him alive. Until now he had never spoken about that night, or the impact the death of Damilola has had on him.Presented by John Wilson
Produced by Ed Prendeville
3/29/2024 • 18 minutes, 19 seconds
Vince Power CBE, Olga Murray, Akira Toriyama, Cecilia Eckelmann-Battistello
Matthew Bannister on
Vince Power, the live music promoter whose Mean Fiddler group operated a string of London venues and built up the Reading and Leeds festivals.
Olga Murray, the American lawyer who devoted her later life to helping the children of Nepal.
Cecilia Eckelmann-Battistello, the Italian businesswoman who ran a major container shipping company.
Akira Toriyama, the Japanese manga artist who created the Dragon Ball series which has millions of fans around the world.Interviewee: Melvin Benn
Interviewee: Shaun Clarkson
Interviewee: Gina Parker
Interviewee: Som Paneru
Interviewee: Janet Porter
Interviewee: Chris Gray
Interviewee: Shao Dow Producer: Gareth Nelson-DaviesArchive used;
Reading Festival 2023 Aftermovie promo, Reading and Leeds Festival, YouTube uploaded 27/10/2023; Vince Power interview , BBC 6Music, 27/03/2008; Vince Power interview, BBC Radio London, 04/12/2022; The Pogues appearance at the Mean Fiddler, 26/01/201986; New Order appearance at the Reading Festival, Reading Festival,1989; Olga Murray interview, Nepal Youth Foundation, YouTube uploaded, 17/09/2012; Olga Murray presentation, TEDx Talks, YouTube uploaded 18/11/2015; Cecilia Eckelmann-Battistello acceptance speech, Lloyds Group, YouTube uploaded 28/10/2015; ShaDow Clone, Shao Dow, YouTube uploaded 26/01/2024;
3/22/2024 • 27 minutes, 31 seconds
Audrey Adams, Nicola Trahan, Edward Bond, Eric Carmen
Matthew Bannister onAudrey Adams who became a tireless campaigner for the rights of black people after her son was stabbed to death in a racist attack.Nicola Trahan, who joined the French Resistance as a teenager and was later awarded the Croix de Guerre. Edward Bond, the controversial playwright who played a key role in the abolition of censorship in British theatre.The singer and songwriter Eric Carmen whose biggest hit “All By Myself” was based on a Rachmaninov piano concerto.Interviewee: Lord Simon Woolley
Interviewee: Reverend Eleanor Rance
Interviewee: Simon Callow and Sean Holmes
Interviewee: Debbie Wiseman Producer: Ed PrendevilleArchive used:
French Wartime Service: Musical Items, Sound Archive, BBC; D-Day Announcement - Communique No. 1, Sound Archive, BBC; The Reverend Al Sharpton, Kilroy BBC 1, BBC; Audrey Adams interviewed by C4 news in 2021, C4 News, YouTube upload, 19/03/2021; Edward Bond interview - TX Date: 12.10.2011; Eric Carmen - Never Gonna fall in love again; Eric Carmen - All by myself; The Raspberries – Go all the way
3/15/2024 • 27 minutes, 26 seconds
Iris Apfel, Colin Murray Parkes, Baroness Henig, Jim Lawrence
Matthew Bannister onIris Apfel the colourful fashion and interior designer whose own dress sense made an impact until her death aged 102.Dr Colin Murray Parkes, the psychiatrist once described as “the David Attenborough of the bereavement world.”Baroness Henig, the deputy House of Lords Speaker who was a historian and expert on the security industry.Jim Lawrence who became skipper of a Thames sailing barge aged eighteen and went on to set up a successful sail making business in Essex. Interviewee: Dame Zandra Rhodes
Interviewee: Laura Higginson
Interviewee: Debbie Kerslake
Interviewee: David Henig
Interviewee: Baroness McIntosh of Pickering
Interviewee: Simon Devonshire KCProducer: Catherine PowellArchive used:
Iris Apfel on BBC Radio 4 “Woman's Hour” 31/07/2015; Colin Murray Parkes on BBC Radio 4 “Word of Mouth - The Language of Bereavement and Grief” 14/01/23; BBC Wales “Aberfan 2 days after the disaster” 24/10/1966; BBC News 20/09/2001; St Thomas Church Memorial Service, BBC New Special, BBC, 20/09/2001; Colin Murray Parkes courtesy: Cruse Bereavement Support, YouTube 23/09/2019; Baroness Henig on Woman's Hour - 20/10/2011; House of Lords 08/11/23; Parliamentlive.tv. BBC Parliament “Levelling up and Regeneration” 6/9/24; Jim Lawrence: Jim Lawrence singing, “The Singing Bargee”, Paul Desmond, YouTube 14/11/2012; Jim Lawrence Recalls His Early Days, Paul Desmond, YouTube uploaded 14 Nov 2012
3/8/2024 • 27 minutes, 43 seconds
Nicholas Dimbleby, Lord Patrick Cormack, Wendy Mitchell, Eleanor Fazan
John Wilson on the celebrated sculptor Nicholas Dimbleby, responsible for numerous well known commissions around the country. Lord Patrick Cormack the politician, historian and prolific author.Wendy Mitchell, the author and blogger who was diagnosed with young onset dementia and worked tirelessly to help improve the understanding of the condition. Eleanor Fazan, the theatre director, choreographer and actor. Her career spanned almost 70 years and saw her working with some of the biggest names in the business.Archive Details Archive used:. “Wogan” BBC 1 10/12/1986. BBC Midlands Today News 13/7/2011. BBC News West 09/09/1999.
“The Bright Side of Life” BBC Radio 4 21/11/2023 & 28/11/2023
Parliamentlive.tv 21/02/23 & 05/09/19.
The Michael Ball Show, BBC Radio 2, BBC, 16/01/2022
Wendy Mitchell reads from “Somebody I used to know”. Bloomsbury publishing, uploaded to Youtube 29 Jan 2018.
"The Complete Beyond The Fringe" Label - Parlophone Records Ltd, a Warner Music Group Company. Oh! It's a Lovely War, Title Oh! It's a Lovely War Performer - Courtland and Jeffries Album - Oh! It's A Lovely War (Volume 1) Label - CD41 Recordings. Stage to Screen BBC
3/1/2024 • 27 minutes, 42 seconds
Alexei Navalny, Dr Brooke Ellison, Gertrude Wright, Steve Brown
John Wilson onAlexei Navalny, the anti-corruption campaigner and leading opponent of President Vladimir Putin, who has died in a Russian state prison. Dr Brooke Ellison, an American academic and disabilities rights advocate who drew on her own experience of living with quadriplegia.Gertrude Wright, who survived the bombing of her German home city during World War Two and went on to become a translator for Field Marshall Montgomery.And Steve Brown, the music composer who worked on comedy productions such as Alan Partridge, Spitting Image, Dead Ringers and many more productions. Steve Coogan and Harry Hill pay tribute.Interviewee: Nikolai Petrov
Interviewee: Jean Ellison
Interviewee: Professor Stephen Post
Interviewee: James Holland
Interviewee: Steve Coogan
Interviewee: Harry HillProducer: Gareth Nelson-DaviesArchive used:
Alexei Navalny, Profile, BBC Radio 4, 27/10/2012; BBC News, 05/12/2011; Alexei Navalny, HardTalk, BBC News, 19/01/2017; Navalny, Cable Network News, Dogwool, BBC Storyville, Director: Daniel Roher; 2022; Brooke Ellison, Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, 21/09/2010; Brooke Ellison, Tedx Talks, YouTube uploaded 14/07/2015; Brooke Ellison interview, Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education, YouTube upload 28/09/2023; Brooke Ellison Harvard Commencement Speech, June 2000; Magdeburg Blitzed, Pathe Gazettes/Pathe, 1944; Steve Brown, The Mitch Benn Music Show, BBC Radio 4 Extra, 12/04/2009 (original TX 2006); Steve Brown/Glen Ponder, Knowing Me, Knowing You with Alan Partridge, BBC Two, 05/08/2002; Spend, Spend Spend promo, Barbara Dickson/Steve Brown/Justin Green, Chariot Records, Released 06/05/2016; I Can't Sing! The X Factor Musical, YouTube 04/11/2013; Steve Brown singing on Newsnight, BBC TWO, 20/03/1992
2/23/2024 • 27 minutes, 51 seconds
Steve Wright, Baroness Flather, Alan Mills, Angela Peberdy
Matthew Bannister onThe much-loved Radio 1 and 2 DJ Steve Wright. We have a tribute from his former colleague Simon Mayo.Baroness Flather, who was the first Asian woman to sit in the House of Lords.Alan Mills, the Wimbledon tennis referee who had to deal with tantrums on court.Angela Peberdy, the train announcer known as “the golden voice of British Rail”.Producer: Ed PrendevilleArchive Used
The Six o’clock News, BBC 1, 25/06/1985; Network East: Big Talk, Asia 2 BBC 2, 14/11/1998; Daily Politics, BBC2, 17/01/2012; Three Bridges - Platform 4 for the Victoria train - 27/01/1989; Lewisham - Platform 4 for the Bexleheath line service to Dartford - 26/07/1990; Angela Peberdy On London Plus, 27/11/1986; Newsnight, BBC Two, 17/06/1983; BBC Breakfast Time, BBC 1, 19/06/1986; Steve Wright's Sunday Love Songs Extra, BBC Radio 2, 08/02/24; Steve Writght in the Afternoon, BBC Radio 2, 09/03/2010; Steve Wright in the Afternoon, BBC Radio 2, 22/02/2008; Steve Wright in the Afternoon, BBC Radio 2, 28/09/22; Steve Wright in the Afternoon, BBC Radio 2, 27/09/22; Steve Wright, BBC Radio 1, 10/01/94; Steve Wright, BBC Radio 1, 24/12/93; Steve Wright, BBC Radio 2, 29/09/22; Steve Wright, BBC Radio 2, 25/09/22; Steve Wright, BBC Radio 2, 14/09/22; Steve Wright - Sunday Love Songs, BBC Radio 1, 04/02/2010; Steve Wright in the Afternoon, BBC Radio 2, 29/09/2022; Steve Wright, BBC Radio 1, 01/01/1988
2/16/2024 • 27 minutes, 49 seconds
Dr Lowitja O’Donoghue, Ian Lavender, Robie Harris, Barry John
Matthew Bannister onDr Lowitja O’Donoghue who overcame a traumatic childhood to become one of Australia’s leading campaigners for the rights of indigenous people.Ian Lavender, the actor best known for playing Private Pike in Dad’s Army.Robie Harris, whose book explaining sex to children made her one of America’s most banned authors.Barry John, the Welsh and British and Irish Lions fly-half known simply as “The King”. Interviewee: Stuart Rintoul
Interviewee: Paul Abbandonato
Interviewee: Hilary Gagan
Interviewee: Rick Wakeman
Interviewee: Michael EmberleyProducer: Gareth Nelson-DaviesArchive used:Dr O’Donoghue speaking at the Indigenous Health and Wellbeing Conference 2016, Lowitja Institute International, YouTube upload 07/09/2023; Dr Lowitja O'Donoghue, Australian Biography Series 3, Film Australia Collection 1994, Director & Producer Frank Heimans, YouTube upload 01/06/2021; Native Title Act News Report, BBC News, BBC One, 22/12/1993 Barry John: The King, BBC One Wales, 08/032013; Barry John, Scotland v Wales, Five Nations, BBC One, 1971; Barry John, Cardiff v Wales, BBC One Wales, 1969; Barry John playing for Lions v New Zealand, BBC One Wales, 22/03/2013; Barry John, Desert Island Discs, BBC Radio 4, 12/12/1978; Robie Harris On Kids' Right To Read, National Coalition Against Censorship, YouTube, 01/02/2014; Robie Harris on KidLit TV, 07/11/2014; Ian Lavender, Celebrity MasterMind, BBC One, 01/01/2009; , Dad's Army: Series 5, Asleep in the Deep, BBC One, 04/01/1977; Dads Army, Battle of the Giants!, BBC One, 26/08/1972; Dads Army, The Deadly Attachment, 31/10/1973; Ian Lavender interview, Today, BBC Radio 4, 14/11/2022; Ian Lavender interview, 5’s Company, 1997, Freemantle, YouTube upload 24/08/2018
2/9/2024 • 27 minutes, 42 seconds
Frank Farian, Caroline Richmond, Phil Baines, Norma Izard
Matthew Bannister onFrank Farian, the German music producer behind the hugely successful group Boney M, who caused controversy when it was revealed that his duo Milli Vanilli had been miming at all their live shows. We hear from Boney M singer Liz Mitchell.Medical journalist Caroline Richmond who founded the Campaign Against Health Fraud, now known as HealthSense.Professor Phil Baines, the respected typographer who designed many book covers and public signs as well as the memorial to the victims of the 7/7 2005 bombings in London.Norma Izard, who managed the England Women’s Cricket team, leading them to win the World Cup and creating the trophy for the women’s Ashes series.Producer: Ed PrendevilleArchive used:
London Plus, BBC 1 South East, 09/10/1985; Sixty Minutes, BBC 1, 07/06/1984; BBC Breakfast Time, BBC, 25/03/1986; Caroline Richmond’s interviewed on Woman’s Hour, BBC Radio Four, 27/04/2000; England v New Zealand - Women's World Cup Final, 5 Live, 01.08.1993; Phil Baines - Form and content: reflections on the practice and responsibilities of book design, Real Smart Media, 25/04/2012; From Priesthood to Art and Design, Central Saint Martins
2/2/2024 • 27 minutes, 46 seconds
Norma Barzman, Lord Saye and Sele, Jim Hobson, Susan Campbell
Matthew Bannister onNorma Barzman, the screenwriter from the Golden Age of Hollywood who fled to Europe after facing being blacklisted from the House Un-American Activities Committee for her Communist views. Lord Saye and Sele, the aristocrat who served in the army during the Second World War, then worked to restore the historic family seat Broughton Castle.James 'Jim' Hobson, the Assistant Chief Constable of West Yorkshire who was in charge of the Yorkshire Ripper enquiry when Peter Sutcliffe was arrested.Susan Campbell, the illustrator who co-founded the Walled Kitchen Garden Network.Interviewee: Larry Ceplair
Interviewee: John Barzman
Interviewee: Martin Fiennes
Interviewee: Franco Pardini
Interviewee: Jim Buckland
Interviewee: Caroline ConranProducer: Gareth Nelson-DaviesArchive used:CSULB Human Rights Forum - Norma Barzman, the Advanced Media Production Center, California State University Long Beach, Beach TV CSULB, YouTube, uploaded 06/04/2009; The Locket (1946), RKO Radio Pictures; Norma Barzman, Hollywood Exiles, Podcast, BBC World Service, 15/01/2024; The House Committee of Un-American Activities Actuality, Omnibus, Hollywood on Trial, BBC Two, 04/11/1973; Give us This Day (1949) Dir, Edward Dmytryk; IMDB; Lord Saye and Seye interview, From D-Day to Bergen-Belsen: Lord Saye & Sele, Dir/Prod Nathan Portlock-Allan, YouTube uploaded 26/01/2021; Lord Seye and Sele, SignPost, BBC, 25/04/1962; News Conference, Newsbeat, BBC Radio, 04/09/1979; The Yorkshire Ripper Files: A Very British Crime Story, BBC Four, 11/04/2019; Susan Campbell "Trained Fruit in Historic Kitchen Gardens", Garden Conservation YouTube uploaded 30/09/2022; Susan Campbell makes her first visit to Althorp, Episode 8, Walled Garden Historian, spencer1508.com;
1/26/2024 • 27 minutes, 50 seconds
Annie Nightingale, Isca Salzberger-Wittenberg, Bryan Ansell, Charlie Allan
Matthew Bannister onAnnie Nightingale who was Radio 1’s first female presenter and its longest serving DJ. Her son remembers meeting Jimi Hendrix over breakfast in her kitchen and the 72-hour-party at her home featuring some of the biggest names of the dance music scene.Isca Salzberger-Wittenberg, the psychoanalyst who changed the approach to treating young people’s mental health.Bryan Ansell, the games designer who co-created Warhammer and helped lead the growth of the Games Workshop company.And Charlie Allan who was a Scottish farmer, an economist, a broadcaster and a caber tossing champion.Interviewee: Alex Nightingale
Interviewee: Rabbi Jonathan Wittenberg OBE
Interviewee: Dr Valerie Sinason
Interviewee: Sir Ian Livingstone CBE
Interviewee: Susie Malcolm
Interviewee: Frieda MorrisonProducer: Gareth Nelson-DaviesArchive used:
Annie Nightingale 1940-2024, BBC Radio 1, 14/01/2024; Annie Nightingale, Desert Island Discs, BBC Radio 4, 24/07/2020; Interview with Annie Nightingale, Sussex-BBC Centenary Interview part of the Connected Histories of the BBC project. You can hear the interview in full by going to the Connected Histories of the BBC website at www.connectedhistoriesofthebbc.org ; Annie Nightingale interview about her Request Show, BBC Radio 1, Vintage, 22/12/2018; Old Grey Whistle Test, 100 Voices, BBC Four, 23/02/2018; Dungeons and Dragons News report, BBC News South East, 06/10/1983; Fantasy Board Games report, BBC Breakfast, BBC News 20/08/1984; Warhammer 40000, Darktide, Soundtrack, Fatshark Youtube channel, uploaded 18/11/2022; Charlie Allan sings, Blue Grey Coo and Other Bothy Ballads, Ardo Pedigree Cattle, published 1979; Charlie Allan - A Tribute to a North East Man O' Pairts, BBC Radio Scotland, 03/01/2024;
1/19/2024 • 27 minutes, 56 seconds
Camila Batmanghelidjh, Sir Roy Calne, Glynis Johns, J.P.R. Williams
Matthew Bannister onCamila Batmanghelidjh who founded the charity Kids Company to help disadvantaged children. The charity collapsed amidst controversy, although she was later cleared of any wrongdoing.Sir Roy Calne, the surgeon who carried out the UK’s first successful liver transplant operation. He was also a talented artist. Glynis Johns, the actor best known for playing the suffragette Winifred Banks in the film of Mary Poppins.JPR Williams, one of the greatest full backs in rugby history, who made many appearances for Wales and the British & Irish Lions. Sir Ian McGeechan pays tribute. Interviewee: Steve Chalke
Interviewee: Tim Rayment
Interviewee: Professor John Wallwork
Interviewee: Peter Jackson
Interviewee: Sir Ian McGeechanProducer: Gareth Nelson-DaviesArchive used: Camila Batmanghelidjh interview, Desert Island Discs, BBC Radio 4, 27/10/2006; Camila Batmanghelidjh interview, Woman's Hour, BBC Radio 4, 12 Feb 2016; Camila Batmanghelidjh interview, Listed Londoner, BBC Radio London, recorded 01/2013; Camila Batmanghelidjh interview, Woman's Hour, BBC Radio 4, Podcast, 25/02/2021; Sir Roy Calne interview, Desert Island Discs, BBC Radio 4, 01/03/1996; Sir Roy Calne interview, History of transplantation, ISN Video Legacy Project, 2003; Glynis Johns interview, Desert Island Discs, BBC Radio 4, 24.04.1976; Glynis Johns interview, Maybe Next Year, BBC Two, 20/02/2003; Glynis Johns interview, Parkinson, BBC One, 26/10/1974; JPR Williams try, Wales v England 1976, 5 Nations championship, Guinness Six Nations YouTube channel, uploaded 06/03/2020; JPR Williams drop goal 1971, British & Irish Lions, uploaded 13/03/2017; JPR Williams needed stiches during match, Bridgend v New Zealand, 1978;
1/12/2024 • 27 minutes, 56 seconds
John Pilger, KM Peyton, Paula Murphy, Michael Blakemore
Matthew Bannister onJohn Pilger, the campaigning journalist who made award winning films about human rights abuses and was an outspoken critic of British and US foreign policy.K.M. Peyton, the author of many “pony” books for children and adolescents, including the “Flambards” trilogy.Paula Murphy, the American racing driver once described as “the fastest woman on wheels”.Michael Blakemore, the versatile theatre director who was the only person to win Tony Awards for Best Play and Best Musical in the same year.Interviewee: Sam Pilger
Interviewee: Anthony Hayward
Interviewee: Meg Rosoff
Interviewee: Hilary Peyton
Interviewee: Pam Miller
Interviewee: Conrad Blakemore
Interviewee: Greta ScacchiProducer: Gareth Nelson-DaviesArchive used:
John Pilger, Desert Island Discs, BBC Radio 4, 18/02/1990; Year Zero: The Silent Death of Cambodia, (ATV) ITV, 1979 p/d David Munro; Cambodia: Year One, (ATV), ITV, 10 September 1980, p/d David Munro; John Pilger interview with Kim Hill, TVNZ's 1News, 1 News, YouTube uploaded, 24/11/2023; KM Peyton interview, Front Row, BBC Radio 4, 27/04/2009; KM Peyton interview, Womans Hour, BBC Radio 4, 20/02/2016; Flambards TV Series, TV Theme and scene extract, ITV, 02/02/1979; Paula Murphy interview/clips, Paula Murphy: Undaunted, Documentary, Fox Sports, Director Pam Miller, released 2023, Michael Blakemore interview, Theatre Talk, YouTube uploaded 04/08/2013; John Lahr talks with director Michael Blakemore, Conversations, The New Yorker, YouTube uploaded 23/07/2014;
1/5/2024 • 27 minutes, 48 seconds
Jacques Delors, Nancy Pearce, Elinor Otto, Tony Allen
Kirsty Lang on Jacques Delors, the politician and architect of the modern EU.
Nancy Pearce, the founder of a charity to help people with eating disorders.
Elinor Otto, the American factory worker who was one of the original 'Rosie the Riveters'.
Tony Allen, one of the pioneers of the alternative comedy scene. Producer: Ed Prendeville
12/29/2023 • 27 minutes, 52 seconds
Maureen Sweeney, Sir Tim Brighouse, Shirley Anne Field, Juanita Castro
Matthew Bannister onMaureen Sweeney, the postmistress from the west of Ireland whose weather forecast postponed D-Day by 24 hours.Sir Tim Brighouse, the educationalist credited with transforming the performance of London’s schools.Shirley Anne Field, the actor who appeared in classic 1960s films like The Entertainer, Saturday Night and Sunday Morning and Alfie.Juanita Castro, younger sister of the Cuban leader Fidel Castro, who became a CIA informer.Interviewee: Fergus Sweeney
Interviewee: Harry Brighouse
Interviewee: Lord Blunkett
Interviewee: Brian Latell
Interviewee: Nicola Gill
Interviewee: Anita Harris Producer: Gareth Nelson-DaviesArchive used:D-Day Greatest Combined Operation In World's History (1944), British Pathe News, British Pathe News YouTube channel, uploaded 13/04/2014; Maureen Sweeney interview, RTE News, 2005; Maureen (née Flavin) Sweeney interview, Blacksod Lighthouse, Facebook, uploaded 17/12/2023; Tim Brighouse talks to Estelle Morris about his 45-year career in education, Alexander Street Video, uploaded 2006; Tim Brighouse on purpose of education, RM Education, YouTube uploaded 19/12/2023; Tim Brighouse news report, BBC News; Juanita Castro press conference, ABC News, 1964; Juanita Castro interview, AP Archive, 21/07/2015; Juanita Castro speaks out, New York Times, 28/11/2016; Castro Announces Take Over Of Us Owned Property (1960), British Pathe News, YouTube, uploaded 13/04/2014; Shirley Anne Field, Desert Island Discs, BBC Radio 4, 29/07/1994; Scene extract from the film The Entertainer, 1960; Scene extract from the film Saturday Night Sunday Morning, 1960;
12/22/2023 • 27 minutes, 51 seconds
15/12/2023
Matthew Bannister on The dub poet Benjamin Zephaniah who overcame childhood trauma to become an acclaimed performer and writer.Laura Lean, who volunteered for the First Aid Nursing Yeomanry, helping to support distressed families after The Grenfell Tower fire and greeting Afghan evacuees.Stacy Marking, one of the first women directors in documentary television whose work focused on social issues.Eric Freeman, the Gloucestershire farmer who played a key role in saving the county’s rare breeds of cattle, sheep and pigs.Interviewee: Qian Zephaniah
Interviewee: Neil Astley
Interviewee: Dot Newman
Interviewee: Adam Henson
Interviewee: Clifford Freeman
Interviewee: Havana MarkingProducer: Gareth Nelson-DaviesArchive Used:Benjamin Zephaniah performance of Dis Poetry, BBC Radio 1, 05/06/1984; Benjamin Zephaniah, To Do Wild Me (trailer), Blood Axe Books, director: Pamela Robertson-Pearce, Uploaded 17/02/2013; Benjamin Zephaniah interview, Desert Island Discs, BBC Radio 4, 13/06/1997; Benjamin Zephaniah, I Luv Me Mudder, Benjamin Zephaniah Orchard Enterprises, YouTube uploaded 08/11/2014; Benjamin Zephaniah - What has Stephen Lawrence Taught Us?, AKL Concepts, YouTube, Uploaded 16/02/2012; Laura Lean interview, First Aid Nursing Yeomanry; fany.org.uk; 2022; Princess Alice inspects First Aid Nursing Yoemanry Unit and donated ambulances (1940), British Pathe, British Pathe YouTube channel, uploaded 11/11/2020; Eric Freeman interviews courtesy of Vernon Harwood, Eric Freeman, Auction Memories. Farming Today, BBC Radio 4, 17/04/2017; Eric Freeman Future of Rare Breeds. On Your Farm, BBC Radio 4 03/03/2013; Gloucester Cattle. Country Matters, BBC Radio Gloucestershire 19/05/2013; Wassail. Country Matters, BBC Radio Gloucestershire 14/01/2007;
12/15/2023 • 27 minutes, 55 seconds
Shane MacGowan, Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, Lord Darling, Joan Jara
Matthew Bannister onShane MacGowan the lead singer of The Pogues who was famous for his song writing but also his abuse of drugs and alcohol. His sister joins us to discuss the roots of his talent and his excesses. Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, the first woman to be appointed to the US Supreme Court.Lord Darling, the Labour politician who was Chancellor during the financial crash of 2008.Joan Jara, whose husband, the singer Victor Jara was killed by the Pinochet regime in Chile. She campaigned for justice on behalf of thousands whose relatives died or disappeared.Interviewee: Siobhan MacGowan
Interviewee: James Fearnley
Interviewee: Justice Ruth McGregor
Interviewee: Alan Day
Interviewee: Catherine MacLeod
Interviewee: Almudena BernabeuProducer: Gareth Nelson-DaviesArchive used:
Shane MacGowan interview, BBC Two, Crock of Gold: A Few Rounds with Shane MacGowan, BBC iPlayer, First broadcast 16/03/2021; Sandra Day O’Connor , 60 Minutes, YouTube uploaded, 01/12/2023; Sandra Day O'Connor nomination to the Supreme Court by President Reagan, CBS, 19/08/1981; Sandra Day O’Connor interview, PBS Newshour, 04/04/2013. Supreme Court Ruling Bush v Gore, BBC Newsnight, 08/12/2000; Alistair Darling interview ,10 Years After the Financial Crash with Alistair Darling, RBS Events, YouTube uploaded, 25/09/2017; Chile News report. The World at One, BBC Radio 4, 19/09/1973; Joan Jara interview, Woman’s Hour, BBC Radio 4, 04/09/1988; Joan Jara interview, Weekend Woman’s Hour, BBC Radio 4, 20/09/2003; Sandra Day O'Connor Retires, BBC News, BBC Radio 4, 01/07/2005;
12/8/2023 • 27 minutes, 50 seconds
Henry Kissinger, Terry Venables, Paul Watson, Rachel Heller
Matthew Bannister onHenry Kissinger, a towering figure in international diplomacy, who won the Nobel Peace Prize but was condemned by some as a war criminal. Also, Terry Venables, the colourful manager who took the England Football team to the semi-finals of Euro 96.Paul Watson, the pioneer of reality TV whose “fly on the wall” techniques caused controversy. Sir Peter Bazalgette pays tribute.And Rachel Heller the artist who was born with Down’s Syndrome and whose work was collected by fellow artists including David Hockney, Sir Peter Blake and Maggi Hambling.
12/1/2023 • 27 minutes, 45 seconds
Captain Don Walsh, Dame A.S. Byatt, Rosalynn Carter, Dr Finlay Macleod
Matthew Bannister on
Captain Don Walsh, the American submariner who made the first descent to the deepest place in the ocean – the Mariana Trench. His friend and fellow deep sea explorer Victor Vescovo relives the experience for us.
Dame A.S. Byatt, the author best known for her Booker Prize winning novel “Possession”.
Rosalynn Carter, the former First Lady of the USA.
Dr Finlay Macleod, the historian from the Isle of Lewis who fought to preserve the Gaelic language. Robert Macfarlane pays tribute.
Interviewee: Rebecca Morelle
Interviewee: Victor Vescovo
Interviewee: Neil La Bute
Interviewee: Sam Leith
Interviewee: Kate Andersen Brower
Interviewee: Robert Macfarlane
Interviewee: Agnes Rennie
Producer: Gareth Nelson-Davies
Archive used:
Rebecca Morelle interviews Don Walsh, BBC News, 23/02/2012, They Dived 7 Miles, British Pathe News Reels, 08/02/1960; Witness History : The world's deepest dive 11km down, BBC World Service, 01/03/2021; Don Walsh interview, Short CUts 18, The Descent, BBC Radio 4, 05/03/2019;
11/24/2023 • 27 minutes, 50 seconds
Peter Betts, Audrey Salkeld, Heather Rogers KC, Louise Meriwether
Matthew Bannister on Peter Betts, who was the UK’s lead negotiator at international climate change summits.
Audrey Salkeld, the mountaineering historian best known for her work on the ill-fated Mallory and Irvine expedition.
Heather Rogers KC, the lawyer who championed freedom of speech in many high profile cases
Louise Meriwether, the author and journalist whose acclaimed novel “Daddy was a Number Runner” told the story of her childhood during the depression in Harlem.
Interviewee: Fiona MacGregor
Interviewee: Caoilfhionn Gallagher KC
Interviewee: Geoffrey Robertson KC
Interviewee: Adam Salkeld
Interviewee: Ed Douglas
Interviewee: Cheryl Hill
Reading extract by: Susan Abebe
Producer: Gareth Nelson-Davies
Archive used:
News report following 2009 United Nations Climate Change Conference, Copenhagen, BBC News, 12/19/2009; News report, The Paris Agreement, UN Climate Change Conference (COP21), BBC News, 13/12/2015; Pete Betts interview, 194: Making a Difference, Outrage + Optimism podcast, Outrage + Optimism Ltd, uploaded 30/03/2023; Spycatcher ruling, Newsnight, BBC Two, 13/10/1988; David Irving, HardTalk, BBC News, 28/04/2000; Denial - official movie promo, IMDB, uploaded 2016; Louise Meriwether Lecture, Lectures to the Black Experience in the Arts course, University of Connecticut 14/03/1972;
11/17/2023 • 27 minutes, 47 seconds
Ken Mattingly, Anne Wright, Mary Gallacher, David Kirke
Matthew Bannister on
Ken Mattingly, the astronaut who missed flying into space on the ill-fated Apollo 13 mission because he had been exposed to German measles. We have a tribute from Fred Haise who did take part in that hazardous flight.
Anne Wright, who devoted her life to conserving the wild animals of India.
Mary “Tiny” Gallacher who worked behind the scenes at Rangers Football Club in Glasgow for over 50 years.
David Kirke, the co-founder of the Dangerous Sports Club who took part in the first modern bungee jump wearing top hat and tails and carrying a bottle of champagne.
Interviewee: Fred Haise
Interviewee: Belinda Wright
Interviewee: Raza Kazmi
Interviewee: John Gallacher
Interviewee: David Mason
Interviewee: Chris Baker
Producer: Gareth Nelson-Davies
Apollo 13 official movie trailer , Universal Pictures, Universal Pictures All-Access YouTube channel, uploaded 12/04/2011; Ken Mattingly interview, NASA Johnson Space Center Oral History Project, Thomas K. Mattingly II, interviewed by Rebecca Wright, Costa Mesa, California, 06/11/2001; NASA’s Look at 50 Years of Apollo, NASA, YouTube channel uploaded 13/04/2020; Apollo 13, CBS News Coverage of Apollo 13, 17/04/1970; Apollo 13 re-entry, BBC One, Cliff Michelmore, James Burke, Geoffery Pardoe and Patrick Moore, BBC, 17/04/1970; Anne Wright interview, Witness History, The End of British Rule in India 22/07/2014; Mary Tiny Gallacher interview, Rangers Retro , Tiny's Team, Rangers Football Club Official YouTube Channel, uploaded 25/10/2023;
11/10/2023 • 27 minutes, 50 seconds
Matthew Perry, Benedict Birnberg, Field Marshall Muthoni Wa Kirima, Professor Jose Harris
Matthew Bannister on
Benedict Birnberg, the radical lawyer who fought the cases of the far-left Angry Brigade and the Mangrove Nine and got the murder conviction of Derek Bentley quashed.
Professor Jose Harris, the historian best known for her acclaimed biography of William Beveridge.
Field Marshall Muthoni Wa Kirima, the last Mau Mau fighter to lay down her arms after the rebellion against British rule in Kenya.
Matthew Perry, the actor best known for playing Chandler Bing in the TV sitcom “Friends”.
Interviewee: Ariadne Birnberg
Interviewee: Gareth Peirce
Interviewee: Dr Beth Rebisz
Interviewee: Professor Stuart Jones
Interviewee: Natalie Jamieson
Producer: Gareth Nelson-Davies
Archive used:
Ben Birnberg appearance on Newsnight, Derek Bentley news report, BBC Two, 30/07/1998; Mangrove Nine, The Reunion, BBC Radio 4, 05/09/2021; King Charles speech, State Visit to Kenya, BBC News, 01/11/2023; Mau Mau Disorders, British Pathe News, British Pathe YouTube Channel, uploaded 13/014/2013; Interview with Muthoni Wa Kirima, MauMau Chronicles, Youtube uploaded, 09/09/2023; Muthoni Wa Kirima singing, Museum of British Colonialism, uploaded 11/01/2020; Jose Harris appearance on Thinking Aloud, BBC Two, 28/10/1984; Sir William Beveridge talks to Pathe Gazette (1942), British Pathe YouTube Channel uploaded 13/04/2014; Jose Harris interview, Analysis : The Deserving and the Undeserving Poor, BBC Radio 4, 21/11/2010; Friends TV Promo, IMBD; Matthew Perry interview, Q with Tom Palmer, YouTube, uploaded 22/11/2022; Matthew Perry appearance in panel discussion on Alcoholism, NewsNight, BBC Two, 16/12/2013; Matthew Perry interview, uploaded CNN, 31/05/2013;
11/3/2023 • 27 minutes, 51 seconds
Sir Bobby Charlton, Dr Evelyn Fox Keller, Julian Bahula, Haydn Gwynne
Matthew Bannister on
Sir Bobby Charlton, who is hailed as England’s greatest ever footballer.
Dr. Evelyn Fox Keller, who explored the effects of gender on the study of science.
Julian Bahula, the South African musician and anti- apartheid activist
And Haydn Gwynne, the versatile actor known for her roles in Billy Elliott and The Audience on stage and The Windsors and Drop the Dead Donkey on screen. Andy Hamilton pays tribute.
10/27/2023 • 27 minutes, 58 seconds
Charles ‘Chuck’ Feeney, Phyllis ‘Pippa’ Latour, Florence Fisher, Dr Nicholas Arnold
Kirsty Lang on
Charles ‘Chuck’ Feeney, the secret billionaire who gave most of his money away to good causes.
Phyllis ‘Pippa’ Latour, the fearless secret agent who was parachuted into Nazi occupied Normandy a month before D-Day.
Florence Fisher, who was adopted as a child and later led a movement to help millions of others find their birth parents.
Dr Nicholas Arnold, one of the world’s leading experts on reptiles.
Interviewee: Conor O'Clery
Interviewee: Clare Mulley
Interviewee: Lorraine Dusky
Interviewee: Andie Markoe-Byrne
Interviewee: Chris Arnold
Interviewee: Dr Colin McCarthy
Producer: Gareth Nelson-Davies
Archive used:
Secret Billionaire: The Chuck Feeney Story, RTE Factual, YouTube, Atlantic Phil, Uploaded 05/06/2010; Chuck Feeney, Founding Chairman of The Atlantic Philanthropies, on Empathy, YouTube, Atlantic Phil, Uploaded 13/04/2011; Discovery with Jill Neville, BBC World Service, 01/06/1988; Adoption – The Right To Know, interview with Florence Fisher, Harvard University, 01/06/1990; Adoption records unsealed, News 8, News report, Wish-TV Indiana, YouTube uploaded 05/07/2018;
10/20/2023 • 27 minutes, 44 seconds
13/10/2023
Kirsty Lang on
The talented young scientist Kirsty Smitten who did pioneering work developing a new generation of antibiotics.
Singer Kat Anderson who made pop history with Motown’s first Number One hit: Please Mr Postman.
The architect Beverly Willis who devoted much of her career to promoting her female peers.
Tony Wade who helped built Britain’s first black owned multi-million-pound business selling hair and beauty products to Afro Caribbean women.
Producer: Ed Prendeville
10/13/2023 • 27 minutes, 55 seconds
Michael Gambon, Pat Arrowsmith, Treleven Haysom, Dianne Feinstein
Matthew Bannister on the acclaimed actor Sir Michael Gambon. His son Fergus reveals his love of cars, antique firearms – and lying to journalists.
The peace campaigner Pat Arrowsmith, who went to prison a number of times for direct action protests.
Treleven Haysom, the stone mason who devoted his life to working, quarrying and telling the history of Purbeck stone.
Dianne Feinstein, the US Senator who campaigned for women’s rights and gun control and revealed the CIA’s use of torture.
Producer: Ed Prendeville
10/6/2023 • 27 minutes, 58 seconds
Gita Mehta, Matteo Messina Denaro, Irma Brenman Pick, John Stevenson
Matthew Bannister on
Gita Mehta, the author who set out to reveal the truth about India to the West. Her friend the theatre director Sir Richard Eyre pays tribute.
Matteo Messina Denaro, the Italian mafia boss who boasted he could “fill a cemetery” with his murder victims.
Irma Brenman Pick, the psychoanalyst who investigated the emotional reactions between patient and therapist.
John Stevenson, who wrote some of the best loved episodes of Coronation Street. Sally Wainwright shares her memories of working with him.
Interviewee: Sir Richard Eyre
Interviewee: Barbie Latza Nadeau
Interviewee: Daniel Pick
Interviewee: Margaret Rustin
Interviewee: Sally Wainwright
Producer: Gareth Nelson-Davies
Archive used:
Gita Mehta interview with Charlie Rose: The complexity and diversity of India, Charlie Rose website, 12/05/1997; Paperbacks: Gita Mehta interview about her book Karma Cola, BBC One, 29/04/1981; Gita Mehta documentary, Dateline Bangladesh, 18/12/2014; Gita Mehta interview, Woman’s Hour, BBC Radio 4, 02/07/1990; News report: Falcone killed in bomb explosion, BBC News, 23/05/1992; News report: Anti-Mafia Judge murdered, BBC News, 19/07/1992; Matteo Messina Denaro arrested, The World Tonight, Radio 4, 16/01/2023; Ken Barlow Finds Out About Deidre’s Affair, Coronation Street YouTube channel, uploaded 21/01/2015; Hilda Ogden unveils her new "muriel " , Coronation Street, 1976; Rovers Return scene, Coronation Street, 11/09/1978; Reg’s Waterbed Floods His Apartment, Coronation Street YouTube Channel, uploaded 30 May 2017; Brass opening scene, ITV, 21/02/1983; Ken gives Raquel French Lessons , Coronation Street Facebook page, uploaded 19/08/2020;
9/29/2023 • 27 minutes, 44 seconds
Sir Horace Ové, Su Gorman, Roger Whittaker, Jean Combes
Matthew Bannister on
Sir Horace Ové, the director whose films told stories of the experiences of black people in Britain.
Su Gorman, who campaigned for justice for the victims of the contaminated blood scandal, after her own husband was infected with hepatitis C.
Roger Whittaker, the singer best known for his hits Durham Town and The Last Farewell, and his skill at whistling.
Jean Combes, the naturalist whose meticulous records of the moment when trees came into leaf in the spring cast light on the effects of climate change.
Interviewee: Zak Ové
Interviewee: Jan Smith
Interviewee: Caroline Wheeler
Interviewee: Siobhan Grogan
Interviewee: Sue Stout
Interviewee: Professor Tim Sparks
Producer: Gareth Nelson-Davies
Archive used:
Horace Ové interview Galeforce Television, YouTube uploaded 04/10/2010; Horace Ové interview, Caribbean Links, BBC Radio 4, 03/02/1984; Reggae, Review, BBC Two, 26/03/1971; Horace Ové interview, Newsnight, BBC Two, 02/02/1982; Pressure: Discussion Panel, The Derek Jarman Lab, uploaded 21/05/2021; Play for Today: A Hole in Babylon, BBC One, 29/11/1979; Contaminated Blood Inquiry, Today, Radio 4, 24/09/2018; Contaminated Blood Scandal, BBC News, 17/08/2022; Roger Whittaker interview, BBC Radio 2, 01/01/2000.
9/22/2023 • 27 minutes, 41 seconds
Mike Yarwood, Ada Deer, Sir Ian Wilmut, Dorothy Purdew
Matthew Bannister on Mike Yarwood, whose impressions of famous people made him one of TV’s biggest stars in the 1970s and 80s.
Ada Deer, the Native American campaigner who became head of the Bureau of Indian Affairs under President Clinton.
Professor Sir Ian Wilmut, the embryologist who led the team that created Dolly the Sheep – the first mammal to be cloned from an adult cell.
Dorothy Purdew, who left school at fourteen but went on to build up the Champneys chain of health farms and spa resorts.
Interviewee: Emma Freud
Interviewee: Gyles Brandreth
Interviewee: Ben Wikler
Interviewee: Dr Bill Ritchie
Interviewee: Stephen Purdew
Producer: Gareth Nelson-Davies
Archive used:
Mike Yarwood sketch as Prime Minister Ted Heath, Christmas with the Stars, BBC One, 25/12/1972; Denis Healy sketch, Look – Mike Yarwood, BBC one, 07/02/1976; Harold Wilson sketch, The Best of Mike Yarwood, BBC One, 23/04/1976; Mike Yarwood interview, On the Ropes, BBC Radio 4, 01/12/1995; Mike Yarwood impressions Nixon/Cooper/Moore, Listen – Mike Yarwood, BBC Radio 2, 08/12/1973; Emma Freud as Princess Diana, Mike Yarwood’s Royal Variety Show, Thames Production, 30/09/1986; Ada Deer interview, NPR Radio, uploaded 17/08/2023; Ada Deer interview, YouTube, uploaded 04/01/2013; Native American Experience, Ada Deer, Communications for Change, 01/01/1976; Professor Sir Ian Wilmut interview, Life Scientific, BBC Radio 4, 11/10/2016; Dolly The Sheep – BBC News, BBC Archive; Dorothy Perdue , Champneys, ITV, YouTube uploaded 04/07/2014;
9/15/2023 • 27 minutes, 54 seconds
Mohamed Al-Fayed, Dorothy Goodman, Professor Anthony Bryceson, Denyse Plummer
Matthew Bannister on
Mohamed Al-Fayed, the controversial businessman who owned Harrods department store and Fulham Football Club. His son Dodi died in the car crash that killed Princess Diana.
Dorothy Goodman, the educationalist who helped to found the consumer affairs magazine that became known as “Which?”.
Professor Anthony Bryceson, the tropical medicine expert who was kidnapped by guerrilla forces in Laos.
Denyse Plummer, the singer who overcame prejudice to be crowned Calypso Monarch in her home islands of Trinidad and Tobago
Interviewee: Tom Bower
Interviewee: Harriet Goodman
Interviewee: Professor Sir David Warrell
Interviewee: Carl 'Beaver' Henderson
Producer: Gareth Nelson-Davies
Archive Used:
Mohamed AL Fayed, Press Interview, BBC News, 01/03/1990; Mohamed Al Fayed refused British Passport, BBC News, 06/05/1999; The death of Princess Dianna and Dodi Al Fayed, BBC Radio, 31/08/1997; Mohamed Al Fayed interview, Tabloid Tales: Mohamed Al Fayed, BBC ONE, 31/03/2004; Inquest into the death of Princess Diana, BBC News, 04/2008; Dorothy Goodman interview, Which? 60 Years of Which, Source: which.co.uk, 08/07/2022; Kitchen Gadget (1950), Pathe News, 16/10/1950 ; Denyse Plummer interview, Woman Making A Difference, TT Online, YouTube uploaded 17 /05/2020
Matthew Bannister on:
Julian Haviland who was political editor at ITN and then the Times, covering key events at Westminster in the 1970s and 80s.
Johaar Mosaval, the South African dancer who overcame racial prejudice to fulfil his dream of becoming a ballet star.
Tricia Tyler, who edited the Nursing Times.
Matyelok Gibbs, the actor and director who secured the future of London’s famous Unicorn Children’s Theatre.
Interviewee: Philip Webster
Interviewee: Sharon Paulson
Interviewee: Janet Snell
Interviewee: Ursula Jones
Producer: Gareth Nelson-Davies
Archive used:
Julian Haviland interview with Prime Minister Ted Heath, Associated Press, 22/01/1974; Julian Haviland interview with Margaret Thatcher, ITN Archive YouTube Channel, 04/10/1976, uploaded to YouTube 17/08/2023; Julian Haviland interview with Matt Chorley, Red Box podcast, The Political Editors: Julian Haviland, The Times, 23/08/2023; Julian Haviland Interview with Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, ITN archive, 23/07/1980; Johaar Mosaval interview, University of Cape Town South Africa, Uploaded on YouTube 17/04/2020; Johaar Mosaval interview, Al Jazeera English, Uploaded on YouTube 12/03/2023; Jewel in The Crown, promo, Granada TV, 1984; Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1, Promo, Warner Bros. Pictures, 2010;
9/1/2023 • 27 minutes, 55 seconds
Michael Parkinson, Renata Scotto, John Brierly, Isobel Crook
John Wilson on:
The journalist and broadcaster who became synonymous with the British chat show, Sir Michael Parkinson.
Italian soprano Renata Scotto, one of the biggest stars of opera in the 1960s and 70s
John Brierly, the author of bestselling guidebooks to the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route
The teacher, anthropologist and communist Isobel Crook who lived and worked in China for most of her life.
Producer: Ed Prendeville
8/25/2023 • 27 minutes, 56 seconds
SPECIAL EDITION: Michael Parkinson
Sir Michael Parkinson was a journalist, broadcaster, and arguably Britain’s greatest television chat show host. During a TV career than spanned six decades, Parky interviewed hundreds of the world's most famous stars.
Sir Michael died on 16th August 2023.
For Last Word, John Wilson talks to Sir Michael's son Mike about his father's life and career. Starting with his upbringing in a council house in Cudworth, near Barnsley, discussing his relationship with his parents, and later with his wife Mary.
In this revealing special edition, Mike says his father was "constantly questioning himself" after joining the mainstream media and "didn't have as much self-confidence as he appears". He also tells of how despite going on to success at both Granada Television and ITV, Sir Michael harboured "an innate distrust of the establishment.
Presented by John Wilson
Produced by Ed Prendeville
8/24/2023 • 40 minutes, 57 seconds
Nick Kaiser, Angela Flowers, Robbie Shepherd, Doreen Mantle.
Kirsty Lang on:
Nick Kaiser, an internationally renowned British scientist who reached not just for the stars but the entire cosmos....
A gallerist who championed British contemporary art: Angela Flowers opened her first exhibition space in a Soho attic in 1970
A fixture of Scottish cultural life, the legendary broadcaster Robbie Shepherd, who presented BBC Scotland’s Dance music programme, Take the Floor, for 35 years
The actress, Doreen Mantle - best remembered for her role in the popular 1990s sitcom, One Foot in the Grave
Producer: Ed Prendeville
Archive used:
Robbie Shepherd, Braemar Gathering commentary, BBC Scotland; Take the Floor - Robbie Shepherd Intro, June 2015; Music of Spey–poem, BBC Scotland; Robbie Shepherd interview, BBC Scotland 2016; Wonders of the Solar System (Ep: Dead or Alive), BBCHD, 28/Mar/2010; Midweek, BBC Radio 4, 04/05/2011; One Foot in the Grave: The Futility of the Fly, BBC1, 30/10/2000; One Foot in the Grave: The Beast in the Cage, BBC1, 23/02/1992
8/18/2023 • 27 minutes, 41 seconds
Sir Michael Boyd, Jess Search, Warren Ford, Leny Andrade
Kirsty Lang on:
Sir Michael Boyd, the former Artistic Director of the Royal Shakespeare Company.
Jess Search, the fearless documentary producer who backed award winning but controversial films others feared to touch.
Warren Ford, the tea consultant and buyer who devised the well-known Yorkshire blend.
Leny Andrade, the Brazilian bossa nova and jazz singer.
8/11/2023 • 27 minutes, 50 seconds
04/08/2023
Kirsty Lang on: Richard Barancik, the last known surviving member of a World War II allied unit - The Monuments, Fine Arts, and Archives section - known as the Monuments Men and Women.
Yvonne Littlewood MBE, the first woman to become a television producer and director in the BBC Light Entertainment unit.
Edward Sexton, the Saville Row master tailor.
And Dr Christian Carritt who set up her own GP practice in 1950s London.
Interviewee: Robert Edsel
Interviewee: Cathy Graham
Interviewee: Liz McLoughlin
Interviewee: Dominic Sebag-Montefiore
Interviewee: William Cohen
Producer: Gareth Nelson-Davies
8/4/2023 • 27 minutes, 57 seconds
George Alagiah, Sinead O'Connor, Ann Clwyd, Tony Bennett, and Trevor Francis
John Wilson on
George Alagiah, the BBC Journalist and Presenter is remembered by his colleagues Sophie Raworth and John Simpson.
Sinead O’Connor, the Irish singer who won worldwide fame with Nothing Compares 2 U.
Ann Clwyd, the former Labour Member of Parliament who held frontbench posts in opposition, and campaigned on behalf of Welsh miners and Iraqi Kurds.
Tony Bennett, the consummate crooner who sold 50 million records with hits including I Left My Heart In San Francisco. His son and manager Danny Bennett pays tribute.
Trevor Francis, the former England footballer who became Britain’s first £1million player when he joined Brian Clough’s Nottingham Forest.
Interviewee: Sophie Raworth
Interviewee: John Simpson
Interviewee: Danny Bennett
Interviewee: Jo Stevens MP
Interviewee: Linda Christmas
Interviewee: Tony Woodcock
Producer: Gareth Nelson-Davies
Archive used:
George Alagiah report on the World Bank, Breakfast Time, BBC One, 27/04/1989; George Alagiah report on 40th Anniversary of Ghana independence, BBC News, 22/11/1997; George Alagiah interview, BBC Radio 5 Live, 27/08/2019; Sinead O Connor interview, MasterTapes (Side A), BBC Radio 4, 15/12/2014; Sinead O’Connor interview, MasterTapes (Side B), BBC Radio 4, 16/12/2014; Ann Clwyd question in House of Commons, PMQ’s, BBC One, 24/01/08; Ann Clwyd interview at Tower Colliery Protest, BBC News Wales, 15/04/94; Ann Clwyd interview, Iraq War 10 Years On, BBC News Wales, 26/03/13; Tony Bennett interview, Front Row, BBC Radio 4, 02/07/2011; Trevor Francis interviews, BBC News, 02/10/1972; Trevor Francis goal, Nottingham Forest v Malmo, BBC Sport, 30/05/1979; Brian Clough interview, BBC News, 30/05/1979.
7/28/2023 • 27 minutes, 51 seconds
Lady Williams of Elvel, Professor John Goodenough, Christine Baker, Lord Palmer
Matthew Bannister on
Lady Williams of Elvel, who, as Jane Portal, was personal secretary to Winston Churchill and the mother of the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby.
Professor John Goodenough, the American materials chemist who won the Nobel prize for his work on developing the rechargeable lithium battery.
Christine Baker, the publisher who specialised in making British children’s books available in France. Sir Michael Morpurgo pays tribute.
Lord Palmer, the aristocrat who worked in the family biscuit making firm Huntley and Palmer before inheriting the 109 room Manderston House and estate in the Scottish borders.
Interviewee: Allen Packwood OBE
Interviewee: Marnie Chesterton
Interviewee: Sir Michael Morpurgo
Interviewee: Robin Baker
Interviewee: Hugo Palmer
Producer: Gareth Nelson-Davies
Archive used:
Interviews with Lady Williams, all courtesy of the Churchill Archives Centre; An Interview with Lady Williams, HTB at Home, HTB.org, YouTube uploaded 18/04/2021; Winston Churchill speech, The Commonwealth Mourns Its King, BBC Radio, 14/04/1952; Warhorse (2011) Trailer, YouTube uploaded 04/10/2011; Huntley and Palmers Factory, Reading in the 1930s, Wessex Film and Sound Archive YouTube channel, uploaded 25/08/2011; Lord Palmer Interview, Front Row, BBC 13/02/2004; Lord Palmer interview, BBC Antiques Roadshow Series 28 Manderston, BBC One, 30/10/2005; Lord Palmer Interview, Posh people: Inside Tatler, BBC Two, 18/12/2014; Lord Palmer speech in House of Lords, Today at Parliament, BBC Radio 4, 24/03/2021;
7/21/2023 • 27 minutes, 55 seconds
Malcolm Mowbray, Victoria Amelina, Roger Lovegrove, Mavis Cheek
Matthew Bannister on
Malcolm Mowbray, the British film director best known for making “A Private Function” - the comedy about wartime rationing starring Michael Palin and Maggie Smith. The film’s writer Alan Bennett pays tribute.
Victoria Amelina, the Ukrainian novelist and war crimes researcher who was killed in a missile strike in Kramatorsk.
Roger Lovegrove, the ornithologist who played a leading role in re-introducing red kites to the UK.
Mavis Cheek, who wrote humorous novels about middle class marriage and relationships. We’re joined by her friend Helen Lederer.
Interviewee: Olha Mukha
Interviewee: Alan Bennett
Interviewee: Joe Mowbray
Interviewee: Roy Dennis
Interviewee: Helen Lederer
Producer: Gareth Nelson-Davies
Archive used:
Kramatorsk: Russian missile strike hits restaurants in Ukrainian city, Verified Live, BBC World News, 28/06/2023; Victoria Amelina interview recorded 15/05/2023, Copyright Clearance Centre, YouTube uploaded 03/07/2023; Playhouse: Days at the Beach, Director: Malcolm Mowbray, BBC Two, 13/02/1981; Our Winnie, BBC Four, repeated broadcast 10/12/2009; Malcolm Mowbray, London Standard Film Awards, BBC One, 26/01/1986; A Private Function (1984) film promotion, Hand Made Films, YoutTube uploaded 24/05/2019; A Private Function (1984), Hand Made Films, 1984; Roger Lovegrove: Red Kite, The Great British Birdwatch BBC One, 19/06/1989 ; Red Kite sound effects, RSPB, recordist Jens Kirkeby, recorded 17/08/2005; Mavis Cheek interview, Woman’s Hour, BBC Radio 4, 04/03/2002; Mavis Cheek reading The Sex Life of My Aunt, Faber and Faber, Arts Archive, Woman’s Hour arts book archive website, BBC Radio 4, uploaded 04/03/2002; Mavis Cheek interview and extract reading, Sixty Minutes, BBC One, 26/10/1983.
7/14/2023 • 27 minutes, 56 seconds
Lord Kerslake, Dame Ann Leslie, Diane Rowe, Tim Blackmore
Matthew Bannister on
Dame Ann Leslie, the journalist who reported on some of the most significant events of recent times.
Lord Kerslake, who was Head of the Civil Service under the coalition government.
Diane Rowe, the table tennis champion who won the world doubles title with her twin sister Rosalind.
Tim Blackmore, the radio executive who produced the first Radio 1 breakfast show and pioneered independent production in the industry.
Interviewee: Lindsey Hilsum
Interviewee: Lord O’Donnell
Interviewee: Mary Wright
Interviewee: Tony Blackburn
Interviewee: Simon Cole
Producer: Gareth Nelson-Davies
Archive used:
Dame Ann Leslie, Desert Island Discs, BBC Radio 4, 12/11/2004; Dame Ann Leslie, Woman’s Hour, BBC Radio 4, 07/08/2011; Lord Kerslake interview, BBC Newsnight, 21/02/2020; Bob Kerslake interview Affordable Housing, You and Yours, BBC Radio 4, 09/04/2008; Bob Kerslake interview, How to run a city, BBC Radio 4, 21/10/2009; Sir Gus O' Donnell and Sir Bob Kerslake talk about the Civil Service, Civil Service Mailbox, YouTube uploaded 31/07/2012; Lord Bob Kerslake, National Housing Federation , YouTube uploaded 01/02/2023; Diane Rowe, Table Tennis champions return home (1951), Pathe, uploaded 10/11/2020; Rowe Twins Triumph (London 1954), World Champs Top 10 Moments, World Table Tennis YouTube Channel, uploaded 30/03/2017; A Conversation with Tim Blackmore, Radio Academy, 06/07/2022; Tim Blackmore, Established 1973: 40 years of commercial radio, BBC Radio 4, 27/08/14; Tim Blackmore, Radio Moments - Conversations, David Lloyd Radio, 09/04/2019; The Story of Pop, BBC Radio 1, 26/01/1974;
Matthew Bannister on
Baroness McDonagh
Margaret McDonagh was the youngest person and the first woman to become General Secretary of the Labour Party. She was a key player in the New Labour project that helped the party win a landslide in 1997 and two subsequent terms in office. Margaret McDonagh was born in Mitcham in South London where her mother worked as a psychiatric nurse and her father was a building worker.
Born: 26 June 1961. Died: 24 June 2023. Age: 61
Craig Brown
Scotland’s longest serving football manager – taking the national team to the Euro 96 finals and the World Cup in 1998. He started his career as a player for Dunkirk and Falkirk before turning to coaching in 1977.
Born: 1 July 1940. Died: 26 June 2023. Age: 82
Godfrey Merlen
Conservationist and author who devoted much of his life to studying the Galapagos Islands. He lived on the archipelago in the Eastern Pacific for fifty years. The area is noted for its large numbers of unique species which were studied by Chares Darwin and gave rise to his theory of evolution by natural selection. Godfrey Merlen was born in the Cotswolds. After leaving university he worked in the fishing industry and first became concerned about the damage humans were doing to nature.
Died: May 10th, 2022
Winnie Ewing
One of most high-profile pioneers of the Scottish Independence movement. In the 1960s, the Glasgow criminal lawyer won an unexpected by-election victory which made her the first Scottish National Party MP at Westminster.
Born: 10 July 1929 Aged: 21 June 2023. Age 93
Producer: Ed Prendeville
Interviewee: Sir Tony Blair
Interviewee: Pat Nevin
Interviewee: Noemi d’Ozouville
Interviewee: Christine Grahame
Archive used:
Kinnock takes on Militant - Labour Conference speech 1985 – YouTube 30 October 2020; Winnie Ewing reconvenes Scottish Parliament in 1999, YouTube 12 May 2019. Winnie Ewing interview after winning the Hamilton By-Election 1967 THE HAMILTON BY-ELECTION 1967, TRIUMPHS AND DISASTERS, Radio 4 05 June 2002. World at One, Radio 4 03 November 1967. Winnie Ewing didn’t think they’d win, Before you go 19 December 2001. Madame Ecosse, Scottish Digital Library First Broadcast Mon 13 April 2009; Craig Brown talking about the kilts worn by the Scottish Tartans in 1998, Mr Brown's Boys, BBC Scotland, First Broadcast Sat 11 Feb 2023. Brown talking about the team, Craig Brown's 1998 World Cup Diary | Full Behind The Scenes Documentary Film Posted on YouTube 16 March 2020. Brown on his football career, published 2 Sept 2019, YouTube Channel Open Goal; Margaret on Clause 4, Tx 19.09.2014 ; Radio 4. Margaret on hearing Kinnock's speech, Tx 19 September 2014, Radio 4. Margaret on New Labour's achievement, Tx 19.09.2014 ; Radio 4; Dr. Godfrey Merlen on Scientific Whaling Versus Cultural Whaling. YouTube published: 9 Aug 2013. Galapagos Islands of Change, Natural World, BBC 2 NI, first Broadcast Sun 21 May 2017. In memory of Godfrey Merlen, YouTube, published: 26 May 2023 ; Galapagos Conservation Trust, Galapagos Islands of Change, Natural World, BBC 2 NI, First Broadcast Sun 21 May 2017
6/30/2023 • 27 minutes, 47 seconds
Daniel Ellsberg, Glenda Jackson, Melanie Phillips, Sir Ben Helfgott
Matthew Bannister on
Daniel Ellsberg, the whistleblower who leaked the Pentagon Papers, revealing the US government’s secret approach to the Vietnam War.
Glenda Jackson, the Oscar winning actor and Labour MP
Melanie Phillips, who helped to change embedded racial prejudice in the social work system
Sir Ben Helfgott, who survived the horrors of the Nazi concentration camps and went on to become captain of Britain’s Olympic weightlifting team
Producer: Ed Prendeville
Interviewee: Robert Ellsberg
Interviewee: Maurice Helfgott
Interviewee: Ratna Dutt & Jabeer Butt
Archive used:
SIX FIFTY-FIVE SPECIAL. BBC2 Tue 17 Aug 1982; This Cultural Life. Thu 15 Jun 2023; Clip from Marat Sade published on Youtube on 10 Jun 2010; Clip from Women in Love published on YouTube 7th July 2021; Glenda Jackson winning Best Actress for "Women in Love" published on Youtube 30 Mar 2011; Glenda talking about the news she had won ITN Archive 16 April 1971; Glenda Jackson Remembers... Elizabeth R; Clip from Elizabeth. Broadcast Wed 24 Mar 1971; Glenda winning Hampstead and Highgate constituency. BBC 1 First Broadcast Fri 10 Apr 1992; Glenda talking about her maiden speech. BBC2. First Broadcast Tue 28 May 1996; Glenda Jackson: Housing benefit debate, House of Commons. Glenda Jackson MP speaks in the debate on housing benefit, 9/11/10; Clip from Elizabeth is missing. BBC1, Sun 08 Dec 2019; Conversations with History: Daniel Ellsberg From: University of California Television. Uploaded 08.02.08
John Wilson on
Silvio Berlusconi, Italy's flamboyant and controversial media mogul and four-time Prime Minister.
Kathryn Harries, The soprano sang in more than 60 major operatic roles and raised millions of pounds by doing sponsored charity walks.
Francoise Gilot, A celebrated painter and printmaker whose career spanned 8 decades. She was also known for a turbulent relationship with Pablo Picasso, with whom she had two children, Claude and Paloma.
Cormac McCarthy, Author who wrote 12 novels including The Road and No Country for Old Men, both of which were adapted as successful films.
Interviewee: Alastair Campbell & Nathalie Tocci
Interviewee: Robert MacFarlane
Interviewee: Mary McCabe
Interviewee: Markus Muller
Producer: Ed Prendeville
Archive used:
Cormac McCarthy on Oprah Winfrey. You Tube 2007, The Road - beginning scene, you tube 2012, Youtube: Italy bids farewell to Silvio Berlusconi with state funeral – source NBC news. Uploaded 14.06.23, Youtube: Compilation of Silvio Berlusconi's funniest blunders. Source The Telegraph. Uploaded 09.11.11, Youtube: Thank goodness for Silvio (Meno male che Silvio c'è) Source: Chickensh1t. Uploaded 12.04.08, Youtube: Françoise Gilot on Henri Matisse | Artist Interview | TateShots. Source Tate. Uploaded 06.06.14, Françoise Gilot – 'You Put Your Energy Into the Painting' | TateShots. Source Tate Uploaded 19.12.13, Francoise Gilot - Meet The Artist – Source: Arts Editor Doug MacCash of "The Times-Picayune". Uploaded 14.06.10. EXMOOR:KATHRYN HARRIES| VCS Take ID: ECEB5F7B | Prog: Ramblings Tx’ed 26.05.2006, KH Music Time Archive Christmas | Prog: Music Time | Tx’ed 28 Nov 1977
6/16/2023 • 27 minutes, 45 seconds
Mel Parry, Professor Alice Coleman, Hugh Callaghan, Cynthia Weil
Matthew Bannister on
Mel Parry, the SAS veteran who was part of the team that stormed the Iranian embassy in London in 1980.
Professor Alice Coleman, the geographer whose modifications to modernist high rise estates won the support of Margaret Thatcher.
Hugh Callaghan, the labourer who was one of six men arrested after the Birmingham pub bombings of 1974. He served 16 years in prison for a crime he didn’t commit.
Cynthia Weil, the American songwriter behind hits like The Righteous Brothers’ “You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling”, The Animals’ “We Gotta Get Out Of This Place” and Dolly Parton’s “Here You Come Again”.
Interviewee: Bob Shepherd
Interviewee: Jo Kendall
Interviewee: Professor Loretta Lees
Interviewee: Chris Mullin
Producer: Gareth Nelson-Davies
Archive used:
Iranian Embassy Siege, News bulletin, BBC Radio 4, 30/04/1980; Iranian Embassy Siege, Reports and interviews, BBC Radio 4, 01/05/1980; Iranian Embassy Siege, Reports and interviews, BBC Radio 4, 03/05/1980; Iranian Embassy Siege in London, News report, BBC Radio 4, 05/05/1980; Cynthia Weil interview: writing songs for male performers, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, YouTube uploaded 14/03/2016; Cynthia Weil and Barry Mann interview, Sunday Morning, CBS, 08/02/2015; Alice Coleman interview, The Friday Report: A Design for Living, BBC Two, 05/02/1988; 1974 Birmingham Pub Bombings report, BBC News, 15/08/1975; Birmingham bombings, 21 Dead And 182 Injured In Birmingham, RTE News Archive, 21/11/1974; Hugh Callaghan interview, World In Action, Granada Television, 18/03/1991; Hugh Callaghan interview, BBC Radio Ulster, 08/12/1996; Birmingham Six freed, News reports, BBC Newsnight, 11/03/1991; Hugh Callaghan singing, Songs of Love and Emigration: Two, The Irish Pensioners Choir, 2023;
6/9/2023 • 27 minutes, 50 seconds
Jeremy Clarke, Dr Moira Woods, Iain Johnstone, Rita Lee
Matthew Bannister on
Jeremy Clarke, who chronicled his experiences of living a “low life” in the Spectator magazine for more than 20 years. We have a tribute from Eric Idle.
The women’s rights campaigner Dr. Moira Woods, who set up the Irish Republic’s first dedicated sexual assault treatment unit.
Iain Johnstone, the film critic and documentary maker who told the stories of stars like Dustin Hoffman, Barbra Streisand and John Wayne.
Rita Lee, the singer known as Brazil’s “Queen of Rock”
Interviewee: Eric Idle
Interviewee: David Goodhart
Interviewee: Rosita Sweetman
Interviewee: Oliver Johnstone
Interviewee: Camilo Rocha
Producer: Gareth Nelson-Davies
Archive used:
Jeremy Clarke's Low Life: Dead cool, Jeremy has bitten the bullet and taken up yoga, The Spectator, uploaded Facebook 03/09/2023; Jeremy Clarke’s Low Life - Sharon has ditched Jeremy and is getting a dog, her mum has set him up on a blind date, The Spectator, uploaded Facebook 09/07/2023; Jeremy Clarke, Off the Page, BBC Radio 4, 09/07/2009; Dr Moira Wood appearance on Irish Television from 1994, YouTube, uploaded 10/02/2016; President Nixon visits Dublin 1966, RTE Archives, RTE website uploaded in 2016; Iain Johnstone appearance, Film 82: E.T. Review, BBC Archive, Facebook, uploaded 06/12/2017; Iain Johnstone, Jaws - from the Set 1974, YouTube, uploaded 09/01/2012; 1976: Tonight, BBC Archive, Facebook uploaded 20/02/2020; A Fish Called Wanda (1988), Official Trailer, MGM Studios, YouTube uploaded 09/08/2021; Harold Wilson appearance, Friday Night, Saturday Morning, BBC Two, 19/10/1979; Rita Lee, Lança Perfume, Live concert, MTV Brazil, YouTube uploaded 02/09/2015; Rita Lee – Agora So Fata Voce, Live Universal Music Group, YouTube uploaded 26/01/2017;
6/2/2023 • 27 minutes, 36 seconds
Tina Turner, Martin Amis, Leroy Cooper, Rolf Harris, Marlene Bauer Hagge
Matthew Bannister on
Tina Turner, the singer who overcame an abusive relationship to become an international superstar
Martin Amis, one of the literary giants of his generation
Leroy Cooper, the photographer who captured the social history of his area of Liverpool
Rolf Harris, the entertainer who was imprisoned for sexually assaulting young girls
Marlene Bauer Hagge, the last surviving founding member of the US Ladies Professional Golf Association
5/26/2023 • 28 minutes
19/05/2023
Matthew Bannister on
Newton Minow, who was just 35 when he was appointed chairman of the US Federal Communications Commission by President John F. Kennedy. He gave a famous speech describing TV as a “vast wasteland” and helped to set up the Public Broadcasting Service.
Vicky Neale, the mathematician who responded to her diagnosis with cancer by launching a podcast discussing the role of maths in cancer research.
Lois Keith, who campaigned for equal rights for disabled people.
Gerald Rose, the children’s book illustrator who won the Kate Greenaway Medal for his work on “Old Winkle and the Seagulls”
Interviewee: Nell Minow
Interviewee: Professor Hannah Fry
Interviewee: Charlie Gilderdale
Interviewee: Richard Rose
Interviewee: Joanna Owen
Interviewee: Dea Birkett
Producer: Gareth Nelson-Davies
Archive used:
Newt Minow interview, Talk of the Nation, NPR, 06/09/2006; Newton Minow's interview, PBS News Hour, YouTube, uploaded 08/05/2021; Newton Minow on his 1961 "Vast Wasteland" speech, Emmy TV Legends, 04/05/2011; President Obama Awards the Presidential Medal of Freedom 2016, The Obama White House, YouTube, uploaded 22/11/2016; Vicky Neale, Maths+Cancer podcast, University of Oxford, date unknown - source: oxford.shorthandstories.com/maths-plus-cancer/ ; Vicky Neale appearance on The Infinity Monkey Cage, BBC Radio 4, 07/07/2014; Vicky Neale, Oxford Mathematics, YouTube uploaded 27/05/2022;
5/19/2023 • 27 minutes, 26 seconds
Grace Bumbry, Don Short, Dame Rosemary Cramp, Wee Willie Harris
Matthew Bannister on
The opera singer Grace Bumbry who broke down barriers by becoming the first black performer at the Bayreuth Festival.
Don Short, the showbusiness journalist who coined the term “Beatlemania” and became good friends with the Fab Four.
Dame Rosemary Cramp, the archaeologist who deepened our understanding of the Anglo Saxon period.
And Wee Willie Harris, the flamboyant rock’n’roller name checked in Ian Dury’s song “Reasons To Be Cheerful”
Interviewee: David Brewer
Interviewee: Daisy Dunn
Interviewee: Professor Joanna Story
Interviewee: Jonathan Wingate
Interviewee: Tony Thorpe
Producer: Gareth Nelson-Davies
Archive used:
Royal Visit to Kenya - First Stage of the Commonwealth Tour, British Pathe, 1952; A taste of Beatlemania in the 1960s, CBS News, CBS YouTube channel, uploaded 21/01/2014; Don Short interview about the writing of his memoir 'The Beatles and Beyond', The Surrey Edit, YouTube uploaded 24/03/2020; Rosemary Cramp interview, On Site, BBC Radio, 03/09/1967; Professor Rosemary Cramp interview, PM, BBC Radio 4, 29/05/1979; Rosemary Cramp, Professor of Archaeology at Durham University, talks to Sue Macgregor about her life and work, BBC Radio 4, 08/12/1988; Meet The Archaeologist: Rosemary Cramp, YouTube uploaded 04/07/2014; Wee Willie Harris – Still Rocking, Celluloid Tapestry, YouTube uploaded 29/06/2023.
5/12/2023 • 27 minutes, 51 seconds
Harry Belafonte, Jerry Springer, Valerie Winn, Kate Saunders
Matthew Bannister on
Harry Belafonte, the singer and actor who was also a leading civil rights campaigner.
Jerry Springer, whose TV talk show was once voted the worst in history – but was watched by millions around the world.
Valerie Winn, the runner who became the face of a campaign to allow women to compete in top level middle distance races.
Kate Saunders, the novelist, journalist and critic who won the Costa Prize for Children’s Literature for her book Five Children on the Western Front.
Interviewee: Michael Shnayerson
Interviewee: Amanda Craig
Interviewee: Wendy Sly
Interviewee: Jene Galvin
Producer: Gareth Nelson-Davies
Archive used:
Harry Belafonte, Desert Island Discs, BBC Home Service, 06/10/1958; "Sing Your Song": Remembering Harry Belafonte, Who Used His Fame to Help Civil Rights Movement, Democracy Now, YouTube uploaded 26/04/2023; Harry Belafonte interview, Film Night, BBC Archive originally broadcast 15/04/1972; Civil Rights, British Pathe, uploaded YouTube 25/11/2016; Harry Belafonte interview, PBS Newshour, PBC, YouTube uploaded 15/11/2011; Kate Saunders introduction on Have I Got News For You, BBC ONE, 28/09/1990; Jerry Springer , Desert Island Discs, BBC Radio 4, 06/11/2009; Jerry Springer resigns from Cincinnati city council in 1974, WCPO, YouTube uploaded 28/04/2016; Jerry’s Final Thought Brings Him To Tears, Jerry Springer Show, YouTube uploaded 21/09/2015; When Paxman met Springer, BBC Newsnight, 26/02/2014;
5/5/2023 • 27 minutes, 45 seconds
Barry Humphries, Len Goodman, Professor Elizabeth Murray, Jah Shaka
Matthew Bannister on
Barry Humphries, best known for his comic creations Dame Edna Everage and Sir Les Patterson. We have tributes from Rob Brydon and John Humphrys.
Len Goodman, who went from working as a welder to international fame as head judge of Strictly Come Dancing.
Professor Elizabeth Murray, a pioneer in the use of digital technology in health care.
And Jah Shaka, dub reggae star, producer and sound system king.
Interviewee: Rob Brydon
Interviewee: John Humphrys
Interviewee: Mary Richardson
Interviewee: Anne Pender
Interviewee: Professor Fiona Stevenson
Interviewee: Neil Fraser (also known as music producer Mad Professor)
Interviewee: Bryan Gee
Producer: Paul Martin
Archive used:
Dame Edna Everage on Parkinson, BBC One, 1998, uploaded to YouTube 01/07/2017; One More Audience with Dame Edna Everage, ITV, 1988, uploaded to YouTube 22/04/2023; Another Audience With Dame Edna Everage, ITV, 1984, uploaded to YouTube, 01/09/2022; Barry Humphries on Parkinson, BBC One, 1982, uploaded to YouTube. 23/04/2023; Barry Humphries, Desert Island Discs, BBC Radio 4, 29/05/2009
Dame Edna Everage on the Today Programme, BBC Radio 4, 18/09/2019; Len Goodman, Desert Island Discs, BBC Radio 4, 24/06/2011; Jah Shaka, Junior Brown, Warriors, Reggae Records Archives, YouTube uploaded 26/09/2022; Jah Shaka sound system live London, (Tape Edit)YouTube uploaded 15/10/2022;
4/28/2023 • 27 minutes, 51 seconds
Anne Perry, Dame Mary Quant, Jean Argles, Ahmad Jamal
Matthew Bannister on
Anne Perry, the best-selling crime novelist who committed a murder when she was a teenager.
Dame Mary Quant, the influential fashion designer at the heart of the swinging 60s. Pattie Boyd recalls the coat Mary designed for her wedding to George Harrison.
Jean Argles, who – with her sister - served as a codebreaker during the second world war.
Ahmad Jamal, the jazz pianist and composer whose restrained but intense style inspired Miles Davis. Joe Stilgoe pays tribute.
Producer: Gareth Nelson-Davies
Interviewee: Joanne Drayton
Interviewee: Jenny Lister
Interviewee: Pattie Boyd
Interviewee: Tessa Dunlop
Interviewee: Joe Stilgoe
Archive used:
Carnaby Street, British Pathe News, 1969; Mary Quant interview with ITN about the ideas that guided her innovative designs, ITN Archive, YouTube uploaded 13/04/2023; Mary Quant interview, Woman’s Hour, BBC Radio 4 , 16/02/2012; Anne Perry: The Making of a Writer, Open Road Media, YouTube uploaded 21/03/2010; Ian Rankin interview with Anne Perry, YouTube uploaded 18/08/2007; Heavenly Creatures film promo, YouTube uploaded 22/07/2014; Jean Argles interview, Legasee, The Veterans Video Archive, recording date unknown, source: legasee.org.uk;
4/21/2023 • 27 minutes, 51 seconds
Ben Ferencz, Seymour Fortescue, Valerie Elliott, Rachel Pollack
Matthew Bannister on Ben Ferencz, the last surviving prosecutor at the Nuremberg War Crimes Trials. He devoted his life to campaigning for an international system of justice for the victims of such crimes.
Seymour Fortescue, the banker who pioneered the credit and debit card revolution.
Valerie Elliott, the respected journalist who reported on politics and then rural affairs.
Rachel Pollack, the author and trans activist best known for her award-winning novel Unquenchable Fire and for creating the first mainstream transgender superhero. Her friend Neil Gaiman pays tribute.
Producer: Gareth Nelson-Davies
Interviewee: Don Ferencz
Interviewee: Neil Gaiman
Interviewee: Andrea Gittleman
Interviewee: Alisa Kwitney
Interviewee: Rick Kelsey
Interviewee: Jennie Fortescue
Interviewee: Tony Harrop-Griffiths
Archive used:
British Pathe, The Nuremberg Trials (1945), VS Court Assembling, YouTube, uploaded 13/04/2014; Ben Ferencz interview, BBC News, HardTalk, 22/07/2017; Rachel Pollack interview on The Tarot of Perfection, YouTube uploaded 14/07/2010; Rachel Pollack discussing her inspirations, Fortress Comics, YouTube uploaded 04/05/2022; Valerie Elliott, Genethod Gwent, Come Down to Earth Boy, YouTube, uploaded 18/12/2018;
4/14/2023 • 27 minutes, 41 seconds
Nigel Lawson, Emahoy Tsegué-Maryam Guèbrou, Ken Buchanan, Mary Rayner
Matthew Bannister on
Nigel Lawson – Baron Lawson of Blaby, the reforming Chancellor of the Exchequer under Margaret Thatcher. He cut income tax, led the campaign of privatisation and paved the way for the Big Bang in the City of London.
Emahoy Tsegué-Maryam Guèbrou, the Ethiopian-born nun acclaimed for her unique musical compositions.
Ken Buchanan, the Scottish boxer who became World Lightweight Champion.
Mary Rayner, the children’s author and illustrator best known for her books about Mr and Mrs Pig and their ten piglets.
Producer: Gareth Nelson-Davies
Interviewee: Jim Black
Interviewee: Ilan Volkov
Interviewee: Kate Molleson
Interviewee: Sarah Rayner
Archive used:
Nigel Lawson - Chancellor of Exchequer, Budget statement, House of Commons, BBC News, 13/03/1984; Lord Baker interview, Today, BBC Radio 4, 04/04/2023; Nigel Lawson, Desert Island Discs, BBC Radio 4, 03/12/1989; Nigel Lawson interview, In The Psychiatrist Chair, BBC Radio 4, 01/09/1998; Nigel Lawson interview on Government’s White Paper on Public Expenditure, The World Tonight, BBC Radio 4, 01/11/1979; Margaret Thatcher speech to Conservative Party Conference, BBC News, 14/10/1983; Nigel Lawson comments on his resignation in the House of Commons, BBC News, 31/10/1989; Lord Moore interview, Today, BBC Radio 4, 04/04/2023; Emahoy Tsegué-Maryam Guèbrou interview, The Honky Tonk Nun documentary, BBC Radio 4, 18/04/2017; Ken Buchanan interview, Scotland Today, BBC Scotland, 18/09/1971; Ken Buchanan interview, Scottish Sporting Legends, BBC Scotland, 18/10/2002; This Sporting Life – Ken Buchanan, BBC Scotland, 03/04/2023 ; Undisputed: The Life and Times of Ken Buchanan, BBC Scotland, 14/09/2021; Babe, Universal Studios promo, IMDB uploaded 1995.
4/7/2023 • 27 minutes, 42 seconds
Paul O'Grady, Gordon Moore, Vera Selby, Simon Emmerson
Matthew Bannister on
Paul O’Grady, who made his name as the drag queen Lily Savage, and went on to become a much-loved TV and radio star.
Gordon Moore, the tech entrepreneur who founded the chip maker Intel and came up with Moore’s law which says that computer processing power doubles every two years.
Vera Selby who challenged sexist prejudice to become the women’s world snooker champion – twice.
And Simon Emmerson who put together two hugely influential bands – the Afro Celt Sound System and the Imagined Village. Eliza Carthy pays tribute.
Producer: Gareth Nelson-Davies
Interviewee: Zoe Kleinman
Interviewee: Harvey Fineberg
Interviewee: Eliza Carthy
Interviewee: Johnny Kalsi
Interviewee: Hector Nunns
Interviewee: Keith Green
Archive clips used:
Paul O’Grady show, BBC Radio 2 03/06/2018; YouTube, uploaded; Lily Savage at the Filth concert in aid of the Terence Higgins Trust, Youtube uploaded 23/09/2014 ; Parkinson, BBC ONE, 28/02/2004; Paul O’Grady on Royal Vauxhall Tavern Raid, Peter Tatchell Foundation, YouTube, uploaded 29/03/2023; Desert Island Discs, BBC Radio 4, 28/12/2003; Inheritance Tracks, BBC Radio 4, 04/01/2020; Vera Selby on Ladies Day, World Snooker Tour, Youtube uploaded 26/04/2016; Vera Selby: How to play snooker, Youtube uploaded 26/03/2009; Gordon Moore, Frontiers, BBC Radio 4, 01/10/2010; Oral History of Gordon Moore, Computer History magazine, Youtube, uploaded 24/03/2008; A Discussion with Gordon Moore and Harvey Fineberg, Moore Foundation, Youtube uploaded 24/08/2016
Matthew Bannister on
Jacqueline Gold CBE – the businesswoman who turned Ann Summers from a couple of seedy sex shops into a multi-million pound high street success.
Lance Reddick, the American actor best known for playing Cedric Daniels in The Wire.
Traute Lafrenz, the last known survivor of the White Rose Group that actively resisted the Nazis in Germany during the second world war.
Lynn Seymour, one of the greatest dramatic ballerinas of the twentieth century.
Producer: Gareth Nelson-Davies
Interviewed guest: Kevin O’Hare
Interviewed guest: Charlotte Hardie
Interviewed guest: Dr. Renee Meyer
Interviewed guest: Helen O’Hara
Archive clips used:
Desert Island Discs, Jacqueline Gold, BBC Radio 4, 02/11/2018; Woman’s Hour, BBC Radio 4, 18/04/2017; Off Camera Show, Sam Jones interviews Lance Reddick, YouTube, uploaded 04/11/2019; In Town Today, Michael Smee interviews Lynn Seymour, BBC Television 27/02/1975; The Wire _Season 1, HBO Films, uploaded to YouTube 25/02/2011;
3/24/2023 • 27 minutes, 35 seconds
Chaim Topol, Zandra Flemister, Bill Tidy MBE, Avis Fawcitt
Matthew Bannister on
The actor and singer Chaim Topol (pictured), best known for his performances in the musical Fiddler on the Roof.
Zandra Flemister, the first African American woman to work as a Secret Service special agent.
The prolific cartoonist Bill Tidy MBE who created the Cloggies and The Fosdyke Saga.
Avis Fawcitt, the Leicestershire music teacher who devoted her life to the Orphean Youth and Concert Orchestra.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: John Collinge
Interviewed guest: Sylvia Tidy-Harris
Interviewed guest: Sir Tim Rice
Interviewed guest: Ian Stewart
Archive clips used: BBC Radio 4, Desert Island Discs – Chaim Topol 15/10/1983; BBC Radio 4, In The Public Eye 28/12/1967; Batjack Productions/ The Llenroc Productions/ The Mirisch Corporation, Cast A Giant Shadow (1966) film clip; Eon Productions, For Your Eyes Only (1981) film clip; Starling Films/ Famous Films (II)/ Dino De Laurentis Company, Flash Gordon (1980) film clip; The Mirisch Production Company/ Cartier Productions, Fiddler On The Roof (1971); BBC Radio 4, The World This Weekend, South Asian Earthquake 09/10/2005; BBC Radio 4 Extra, The Fosdyke Saga – Tripe War 21/07/2018; BBC Two, One Man’s Week – Bill Tidy 16/04/1975; BBC Radio 4, I’m Sorry I Haven’t a Clue 21/01/1989; Jeremy Oakley personal archive, Avis Fawcitt actuality and music.
3/17/2023 • 28 minutes, 7 seconds
Judith Heumann, Brian Tufano, Sir David Elliott KCMG, Elizabeth Foulkes
Matthew Bannister on
Judith Heumann (pictured), the American disability rights campaigner who led the longest non-violent occupation of a Federal building in US history.
Brian Tufano, the cinematographer who shot films like Quadrophenia, Trainspotting and Billy Elliot.
Sir David Elliott, a key figure in the negotiations that created the European single market.
Elizabeth Foulkes, who helped to define common standards for architects in the UK.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Thomas Shakespeare
Interviewed guest: Stuart Harris
Interviewed guest: Franc Roddam
Interviewed guest: Tony Pierce-Roberts
Interviewed guest: Simon Pugsley
Interviewed guest: Lord Hannay GCMG
Interviewed guest: Nick Foulkes
Archive clips used: TEDx talks, Judith Heumann - Our fight for disability rights and why we're not done yet 24/04/2018; BBC Radio 4, Woman's Hour 06/08/2021; Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund, The Power of 504 (1977); StudioCanal/ Working Title Films/ BBC Films, Billy Elliott (2000) trailer; BBC Two Rogue Male 22/09/1976; BBC TV Archive, All in a Day - The Fight 12/11/1973; The Who Films/ Polytel, Quadrophenia (1979) trailer; Channel Four Films/ Figment Films/ The Noel Gay Motion Picture Company, Trainspotting (1996) trailer; Future Films/ MBP (Germany)/ Scala Productions, Last Orders (2001) trailer; BBC TV Archive, The Evacuees 05/03/1975; Screen and Film School, In memory of cinematographer Brian Tufano (February 2023); BBC Sound Archive, Margaret Thatcher speaks on the future of the European community 20/09/1988; DTI, Europe's Open for Business - UK TV advert (1991-92); Nick Foulkes, personal archive interview with Elizabeth Foulkes (2014); British Pathé, New housing to replace demolished village inspected by Nye Bevan (1946).
3/10/2023 • 28 minutes, 5 seconds
Lady Betty Boothroyd, Marianne Mantell, John Motson OBE, Sulamita Aronovsky
Kirsty Lang on
The extraordinary Lady Betty Boothroyd (pictured) who went from humble beginnings in a Yorkshire mill town to becoming Westminster’s first female Speaker.
John Motson OBE - the BBC’s voice of football for half a century,
The pioneering New York publisher Marianne Mantell who paved the way for audio books...
And Lithuanian pianist Sulamita Aronovsky who founded London’s International Piano competition.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Julia Langdon
Interviewed guest: Matthew Rubery
Interviewed guest: Ricky George
Interviewed guest: Jonathan Powell
Archive clips used: YouTube/ The Independent, Baroness Betty Boothroyd’s best moments uploaded on 27/02/2023; BBC One, Parkinson 04/11/2000; Central Cinema Company Film, …und abends in die Scala (1958) film clip; BBC News Archive, Betty Boothroyd obituary – clips from speech at House of Commons; Caedmon Recordings, A Child’s Christmas in Wales, A Story and Five Poems – Dylan Thomas TC 1002; Caedmon Recordings, Ezra Pound Reading His Poetry TC 1122; Caedmon Recordings, JRR Tolkein Reads and Sings his The Lord of the Rings TC 1478; Caedmon Recordings, Ernest Hemingway Reading TC 1185; BBC Two, Victoria Derbyshire Show – John Motson interview 06/09/2017; BBC One, Grandstand 07/07/1990; BBC Two, Sunday Grandstand 24/06/1984; ITV News – Bernard Ingham item 24/02/2023; BBC Radio 3, Music Matters 17/06/2019; London International Piano Competition, promotional video from YouTube.
3/3/2023 • 27 minutes, 48 seconds
Dorothy Pitman Hughes, Ralph Hooper OBE, Raquel Welch, Dickie Davies
Kirsty Lang on
Dorothy Pitman Hughes who brought black women into the 70s Feminist movement and inspired Gloria Steinem.
Raquel Welch (pictured), the Hollywood actor who became a Sixties sex symbol after playing a cavewoman in the film 'One Million Years BC'.
The aeronautical engineer Ralph Hooper OBE who designed the revolutionary Harrier jump jet.
And Dickie Davies, the sports presenter best known for anchoring ITV Saturday afternoons in the 70s and 80s.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Laura L Lovett
Interviewed guest: Professor John Fielding
Interviewed guest: Sir Colin Chandler
Interviewed guest: Jim Rosenthal
Archive clips used: ITV Sport, World of Sport 1985/1973/1981; CBS Mornings/ YouTube Channel, Life and Legacy of Activist and Feminist Leader Dorothy Pitman Hughes uploaded on 24/07/2021; Artemis Rising Foundation/ Saks Picture Company/ The Glorias, The Glorias – movie clip (2020); Associated British Pathé/ Hammer Films/ Seven Arts Productions, One Million Years BC – trailer (1966); BBC Radio 2, Gloria Hunniford Show 01/01/1989; BBC One, Parkinson 11/11/1972; Twentieth Century Fox, Myra Breckinridge – movie clip (1970); HIT Entertainment/ Henson Associates (HA)/ Incorporated Television Company (ITC), The Muppet Show S03E11 17/11/1978; Film at Lincoln Center/ YouTube Channel, Q&A with Raquel Welch uploaded on 23/02/2012; BBC Two, Designing the ‘60s 15/03/2003; British Pathé, Harrier Plane (1968); BBC One, Red Arrows Flyover Centenary of RAF 10/07/2018; Thames Television, The Benny Hill Show 18/02/1976; ITV Studios, The Best of ITV Wrestling (DVD) 2006.
2/24/2023 • 28 minutes, 4 seconds
David Vaughan OBE, Burt Bacharach, Janet Anderson, Eileen Sheridan
Matthew Bannister on
Professor David Vaughan OBE, who was a leading expert on the effects of climate change on glaciers in the Antarctic.
Burt Bacharach (pictured), who wrote scores of hit songs including 'I Say A Little Prayer', 'Do You Know The Way To San José' and 'Raindrops Keep Fallin’ On My Head'.
Janet Anderson, the Labour MP who wrote entertaining reports of proceedings in parliament for Queen Elizabeth.
Eileen Sheridan – one of Britain’s greatest cyclists, she held the speed record for the journey from Land’s End to John O’Groats for 36 years.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Justin Rowlatt
Interviewed guest: Professor Dame Jane Francis
Interviewed guest: Professor Andrew Shepherd
Interviewed guest: Julia Langdon
Interviewed guest: Paul Jones
Archive clips used: BBC World News, Our World - Journey to Doomsday Glacier 07/02/2020; BBC News, Scientists at NASA say East Antarctica is showing signs of significant melting 11/12/2018; The Christmas TV & Film Company/ BBC Four, Burt Bacharach... This Is Now 30/04/2012; BBC Radio Wales, Eye on Wales 16/06/1996; BBC Radio 4, With Humble Duty Reports... 05/10/2014; British Pathé, Sporting Britons - Eileen Sheridan's Record 1954; British Pathé, Housewife Cyclist 1956, Testimony Films/ BBC Four, Pedalling Dreams - The Raleigh Story 20/07/2017.
2/17/2023 • 28 minutes, 6 seconds
Frene Ginwala, Lady Martha Bruce OBE, Pervez Musharraf, Paco Rabanne
Matthew Bannister on
Frene Ginwala (pictured), one of the leading figures in the anti-apartheid struggle in South Africa, who became Speaker of the country’s first democratically elected parliament.
Lady Martha Bruce OBE, governor of Scotland’s first purpose built prison for women.
General Pervez Musharraf, who took power as President of Pakistan in a military coup and supported George Bush’s War on Terror.
Paco Rabanne, the designer who created clothes from metal, plastics and wood.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: John Battersby
Interviewed guest: Tessa Dunlop
Interviewed guest: Umer Farooq
Interviewed guest: Suzy Menkes OBE
Archive clips used: C-Span, South African State of the National Address, introduction 24/05/1994; The Freedom Collection, Frene Ginwala – We had more offices than the South African Government had Embassies 06/07/2015; British Pathé, Come On Girls Join The Ats 1944; British Movietone, ATS Training Centre 07/07/1941; BBC Radio 4, Now – In Scotland 30/06/1971; BBC One, Nationwide 09/12/1975; ABC Australia, Profile of a General 2000; BBC Two, Newsnight 13/10/1999; BBC World News, HARDtalk – Pervez Musharraf 10/01/2001; NDTV – News (YouTube Channel), Pervez Musharraf interview uploaded on 17/11/2011; BBC News, Assassination Attempt On Musharraf 25/12/2003; FRANCE24 (YouTube Channel), EN – Culture – Paco Rabanne interview uploaded on 04/07/2007; British Pathé, Cinetic Fashions aka Paco Rabanne Way-Out Fashions 1967; British Pathé, Metal Fashions 1969; Paco Rabanne, UK television advert 1986.
2/10/2023 • 28 minutes, 9 seconds
Ralph Ehrmann, Sylvia Syms, Rabbi Dr Abraham Levy, Jo Sandilands
Matthew Bannister on
Ralph Ehrmann, the German-born businessman behind the success of the Airfix model kits that delighted a generation of young boys in the 1960s and 70s.
Sylvia Syms (pictured), the actor whose roles ranged from beautiful heroines in the 1950s and 60s to Margaret Thatcher and The Queen Mother later in life.
Rabbi Dr Abraham Levy, the leader of the UK’s oldest Jewish community who was awarded the OBE for services to interfaith relations.
Jo Sandilands, who edited the magazines Honey and Woman and became Programme Controller of Capital Radio in London.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Melanie Williams
Interviewed guest: Jenny Agutter
Interviewed guest: Jonathan Sacerdoti
Interviewed guest: Alexandra Ehrmann
Interviewed guest: Jeremy Brook
Interviewed guest: Gay Search
Archive clips used:
East of Sudan (clip), YouTube: MorningsideMovies channel, uploaded 28/11/2021; In Town Today, BBC Radio TX 21/08/1965; My Teenage Daughter (clip), YouTube: Network Distributing channel, uploaded 01/09/2014; Ice Cold in Alex (clip), YouTube: Coolmacatrain channel, uploaded 09/02/2019; Clip from ITV news item about Intermission Youth Theatre School, YouTube: Ricardo P Lloyd channel, uploaded 04/11/2019;Excerpt of Les Barker reading his poem ‘Déjà Vu’, YouTube: Les Barker channel, uploaded 03/03/2020; Relighting the Candle, BBC 1 TX 14/10/1993; Mazeltov Israel, BBC 1 TX 30/04/1998; Woman Magazine advertisement, YouTube: Nina Perez channel, uploaded 18/01/2015; Chris Tarrant jingle, YouTube: MayDay51 channel, uploaded 22/12/2017; Airfix advertisement, YouTube: British Nostalgia channel, uploaded 06/03/2015
2/6/2023 • 27 minutes, 50 seconds
Howard Baderman, David Crosby, Milly Thompson, Brenda Heywood
Matthew Bannister on
Howard Baderman, the hospital consultant who transformed the discipline of emergency medicine and treated casualties from high profile events like the Kings Cross Tube Fire and the sinking of the Thames river boat The Marchioness.
David Crosby (pictured), the singer and songwriter with the Byrds and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young whose life went through periods of chaos through drug addiction.
Milly Thompson, the artist who, as a member of the BANK collective, satirised the pretentiousness of the art world.
Brenda Heywood, the archaeologist who was fascinated by the stories behind the building of Hadrian’s Wall.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: James Baderman
Interviewed guest: Simon Bedwell
Interviewed guest: Sacha Craddock
Interviewed guest: Suzanne Heywood
Archive clips used: BBC Radio 4, The World Tonight – King’s Cross fire 18/11/1987; BBC One, Breakfast Time – King’s Cross fire 19/11/1987; BBC One, The Nine O’Clock News 20/08/1989; BBC One, BBC Breakfast News 03/06/1991; WNYC, Here’s The Thing – David Crosby 24/04/2018; BBC Radio 4, Mastertapes – David Crosby (The B-Side) 19/11/2013; BBC Radio 4, Mastertapes – David Crosby (The A-Side) 18/11/2013; Channel 5 News (US) – Today 12/12/1985; AXS TV, The Big Interview with Dan Rather – Crosby, Stills & Nash 07/02/2020.
1/27/2023 • 28 minutes, 13 seconds
Jeff Beck, Alice Mahon, Tom Karen OBE, Gina Lollobrigida
Matthew Bannister on
Jeff Beck (pictured), who was acclaimed as one of the most influential and innovative rock guitarists of all time.
Alice Mahon, the left wing Labour MP who often rebelled against her own party.
Tom Karen OBE, the designer who came up with the Raleigh Chopper Bike, the Bond Bug, the Reliant Robin and the Popemobile.
Gina Lollobrigida, the first post war Italian actress to gain an international reputation as a sex symbol. She was known for her rivalry with Sophia Loren.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Martin Power
Interviewed guest: Jeremy Corbyn
Interviewed guest: Julia Langdon
Interviewed guest: Eugenie Karen
Interviewed guest: Josephine Bahns
Interviewed guest: Angie Errigo
Archive clips used: BrianMay.Com, Thoughts on sad loss of Jeff Beck 12/01/2023; UK Parliament, Margaret Thatcher's last Prime Minister's Questions 27/11/1990; Raleigh, Noel Edmonds' Raleigh bike advert 1978; Discovery Real Time, Wheeler Dealers S07E06 Bond Bug 12/10/2010; krc/ YouTube, sound effect Landspeeder - Star Wars 18/01/2017; BBC Sound Archive, The Pope in Liverpool 30/05/1982; BBC Sound Archive, The Morning Show - African Service 07/01/1970; Excelsa Film/ Omnium International du Film/ Ponti-De Laurentiis Cinematografica, Women of Rome - clip (1954); Hecht-Lancaster Productions/ Joanna Productions/ Susan Productions, Trapeze - trailer (1956); 7 Pictures/ Raoul Walsh Enterprises, Come September - trailer (1961); BBC One, Parkinson 28/09/1974; Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer/ Canterbury Production, Never So Few - trailer (1959).
1/20/2023 • 28 minutes, 4 seconds
Gianluca Vialli, Fay Weldon, Michael Dower, Anita Pointer
Matthew Bannister on
Gianluca Vialli (pictured), the Italian footballer who won many major trophies with Sampdoria and Juventus before moving to Chelsea as a player and then manager.
Fay Weldon, the author who told stories of women taking control of their own destinies, including ‘The Life and Loves of A She Devil’.
Michael Dower, the former Director General of the Countryside Commission who devoted his life to conserving and developing the British countryside.
Anita Pointer, one of three Pointer Sisters who recorded hits like ‘Jump (For My Love)’ and ‘I’m So Excited’.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: John Foot
Interviewed guest: Fiona Reynolds
Interviewed guest: Katrina Leskanich
Archive clips used: BBC One, The FA Cup: 2022/23: Third Round 08/01/2023; BBC 5Live, Football Daily – Remembering Gianluca Vialli 06/01/2023; Sky Sports Retro, Gianluca Vialli looks back on his career 06/01/2023; Everything FOOTBALL/ YouTube Channel, Barcelona 2 – 0 Sampdoria 1989 European Cup Winners’ Cup Final 1989; RAI, Roberto Mancini e Gianluca Vialli – Che Tempo Che Fa 27/11/2022; BBC 5Live, Headliners (Gianluca Vialli interview) 14/05/2020; Sky Sports News, Graeme Souness pays tribute to his friend and former teammate – 06/01/2023; Chelsea Fan Clips/ YouTube, Chelsea fans pay respects to Gianluca Vialli 08/01/2023; BBC Two, Frank Delaney – Men and Women Writers 26/11/1984; AP/ British Movietone, Go To Work On An Egg advert 21/04/1966; BBC Radio 4, Desert Island Discs Fay Weldon 23/02/1980; Thames TV, Afternoon Plus – interview with Fay Weldon 26/10/982; BBC Newsnight YouTube Channel, Fay Weldon interview 06/04/2017; BBC TV/ Arts & Entertainment Network/ Seven Network Australia, The Life and Loves of a She-Devil 08/10/1986; arc2020eu, Michael Dower’s speech on behalf of ARC2020 at the ‘CAP’ post ‘2013’ 20/07/2010; Thomas Müller/ YouTube Channel, Michael Dower 14/11/2022; ABC News, Barbara Walters interview with Syria’s President Bashar al-Assad 07/12/2011; YouTube, Anita Pointer interview at her Beverly Hills home for German TV 2009.
1/13/2023 • 28 minutes, 11 seconds
Pope Benedict XVI, Dame Vivienne Westwood, James Caan, Georgia Holt
Matthew Bannister on
Pope Benedict XVI, the religious conservative who was the first Pontiff to resign from the job in almost 600 years.
Dame Vivienne Westwood (pictured), punk pioneer, high fashion designer and eco warrior.
James Caan, the American actor best known for playing Sonny Corleone in The Godfather.
Georgia Holt, the singer who enjoyed success late in life thanks to her daughter Cher.
Producer: Tim Bano
Interviewed guest: Catherine Pepinster
Interviewed guest: Ian Kelly
Interviewed guest: Laird Borelli-Persson
Interviewed guest: David Thomson
Interviewed guest: P David Ebersole
Archive clips used: YouTube/ Rome Reports.com, Habemus Papam - Uploaded 2012; BBC Radio 4 News 19/04/2005; YouTube, The Regensburg Speech 12/09/2006; BBC Radio 4, Thought for the Day 24/12/2010; BBC News Archive, Pope Benedict XVI announces resignation 11/02/2013; Netflix/ Rideback, The Two Popes (2019); BBC One, The British Fashion Awards 15/10/1991; BBC Radio 4, Desert Island Discs - Vivienne Westwood 28/06/1992; BBC Four, Vivenne Westwood Talks To Kirsty Wark 13/04/2004; BBC One, Wogan with Sue Lawley 11/03/1988; Finished Films, Westwood - Punk, Icon, Activist (2018); BBC One, Wogan In Hollywood - James Caan interview 02/01/1991; Paramount Pictures/ Albert S. Ruddy Productions/ Alfran Productions, The Godfather (1972); Castle Rock Entertainment/ Nelson Entertainment, Misery (1990); Broadway Video/ Conaco/ NBC Studios, Late Night with Conan O'Brien 31/10/2003; New Line Cinema/ Guy Walks into A Bar Productions/ Gold/Miller Productions, Elf (2003); Mann/Caan Productions, Thief (1981); WJZ-TV13 Baltimore 1979; Westinghouse Broadcasting Company/ Mike Douglas Entertainments, Mike Douglas Show 1979; Paramount Domestic TV, Entertainment Tonight 1988.
1/6/2023 • 28 minutes, 16 seconds
Terry Hall, Dame Beryl Grey, Heather Iandolo, Eric Allison
Matthew Bannister on
Terry Hall (pictured), the singer who captured the disillusionment of a generation with The Specials’ biggest hit “Ghost Town”.
Heather Iandolo, the daughter of the notorious Nazi propaganda broadcaster known as Lord Haw Haw.
Eric Allison, who turned his back on a life of crime to become the Guardian’s prisons correspondent.
Dame Beryl Grey, the acclaimed ballerina who went on to run the London Festival Ballet.
Producer: Tim Bano
Interviewed Guests: Professor Colin Holmes, Simon Hattenstone and Alastair Macaulay
12/30/2022 • 28 minutes, 20 seconds
Victor Lewis-Smith, Maureen Doherty, Pablo Milanés, Ailsa Irving
Matthew Bannister on
The columnist, broadcaster, producer, musician and outrageous hoaxer Victor Lewis-Smith (pictured).
Maureen Doherty, the designer who worked with Issey Miyake and founded the influential fashion brand Egg. Edmund de Waal pays tribute.
Pablo Milanés, the Cuban musician who was one of the founders of the nueva trova singer/songwriter movement.
Ailsa Irving, who started and ran the UK Endometriosis Society after a long battle to get her own symptoms diagnosed.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Graham Pass
Interviewed guest: Edmund de Waal
Interviewed guest: Robin Denselow
Interviewed guest: Rob Irving
Interviewed guest: Emma Cox
Archive clips used: BBC Two, Inside Victor Lewis-Smith 06/12/1993; YouTube, Opera Spoof by Victor Lewis-Smith; BBC Radio 4, You and Yours - the revival of Brylcreem 02/12/1985; BBC Radio 4, Midweek 21/05/1986; BBC Radio 4 Extra, Victor Lewis-Smith s1e08, 05/10/2017; Associated Rediffusion Productions Ltd/ Victor Lewis-Smith, Mary Whitehouse Sketch; YouTube, Victor Lewis-Smith - BBC Reception General Pinochet Prank Call; BBC Radio 4, Loose Ends - Victor Lewis-Smith 01/01/1987; BBC Radio 1, Victor Lewis-Smith Christmas Message, 26/12/1989; YouTube/ CriticalPast channel, Fidel Castro and his army fight against Batista's forces 12/06/2014; Juan Pil Vila, Pablo Milanés documentary (2017).
12/23/2022 • 28 minutes, 5 seconds
Joyce Bryant, George 'Johnny' Johnson MBE, Dame Clare Marx, Joseph Kittinger
Matthew Bannister on
Joyce Bryant (pictured), the American singer who was named by Ebony magazine as one of the five most beautiful black women in the world.
Squadron Leader George 'Johnny' Johnson MBE, the last surviving airman who took part in the Dambuster raids.
Dame Clare Marx, the first woman to be elected President of the Royal College of Surgeons.
Joseph Kittinger, who held the record for the world’s highest skydive for over 50 years. He jumped from 19.5 miles above sea level.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Jim Byers
Interviewed guest: Andrew Reed
Interviewed guest: John McDonald
Archive clips used: Metromedia Television, WNEW-TV interview with Joyce Bryant; Benedict Bogeaus Production, Mr Ace (1946) film clip; BBC News 24, HARDtalk- George ‘Johnny’ Johnson interview 05/01/2018; Associated British Picture Corporation, The Dam Busters (1955) film clip; BBC Radio 3, Private Passions 24/04/2022; BBC One, Hi-De-Hi! 26/02/1981; BBC Radio 4, The Men Who Fell to Earth 31/03/2009; 1895 Films, Apollo – Missions to the Moon (2019) documentary clip.
12/16/2022 • 28 minutes, 8 seconds
Christine McVie, Jiang Zemin, Derek Granger
Matthew Bannister on
Christine McVie who wrote some of Fleetwood Mac’s biggest hits and was a key player in the turbulent history of the band.
Jiang Zemin, who became Chinese President after the 1989 protests in Tiananmen Square and presided over the opening up of the country’s economy.
Derek Granger, the TV and film producer best known for the acclaimed adaptation of Brideshead Revisited.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Tim Sullivan
Interviewed guest: Isabel Hilton
Interviewed guest: Matt O’Casey
Interviewed guest: Anthony Andrews
12/9/2022 • 28 minutes, 4 seconds
Doddie Weir, Hebe de Bonafini, Irene Cara, Cornelia Schroeder
Matthew Bannister on
Doddie Weir (pictured), the leading Scottish rugby player who spent the last few years of his life raising funds for research into the causes of Motor Neurone Disease.
Hebe de Bonafini, the human rights activist from Argentina who led the Mothers of Plaza de Mayo in campaigning to trace victims of the country’s so-called “Dirty War”.
Irene Cara, the singer and actor best known for her role in the film “Fame” and for co-writing the hit song “Flashdance”.
Cornelia Schroeder, the virologist from East Germany who made a significant contribution to the treatment of herpes and influenza.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Prof Kai Simons
Interviewed guest: Jill Douglas
Interviewed guest: James Grainger
Interviewed guest: Paul Schroeder
Archive clips used: Dr Ludwig/YouTube channel, ‘Der heimliche Aufmarsch‘ 22/08/2021; British Pathe/YouTube channel, Soviets close off East Germany 1952 10/11/2020; British Pathe/YouTube channel, Berlin riots in 1953 13/04/2014; BBC ARCHIVE: rugby commentary, BBC Scotland TX 04/03/1995; M P YouTube channel, Jim Telfer’s tribute to Doddie Weir 26/11/2022; British and Irish Lions YouTube channel, Doddie’s ‘mistaken identity’ 04/07/2020; Lorraine YouTube channel, Doddie Weir interview 29/11/2018; Rugby Republic YouTube channel, Doddie honoured NZ rugby stadium this autumn 13/11/2022; lozleo/YouTube channel, Irene Cara performs on ‘The Original Amateur Hour’ in 1967 29/08/2011; BBC ARCHIVE: Pebble Mill, BBC Two TX 27/02/1996; PROFILES Featuring Mickey Burns channel, Profiles host Mickey Burns interviews Singer, Songwriter and Actress Irene Cara 14/01/2014; Al Jazeera/YouTube channel, Tribute to Hebe de Bonafine 22/11/2022; BBC ARCHIVE: International Assignment, Radio 4 TX 4/9/1981
12/2/2022 • 27 minutes, 54 seconds
Mehran Karimi Nasseri, Ann Savours, Sue Baker, Wilko Johnson
Matthew Bannister on
Mehran Karimi Nasseri – otherwise known as Sir Alfred (pictured). He was the Iranian migrant who lived for eighteen years in terminal one of the Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris.
Sue Baker, the motoring journalist who presented Top Gear.
Ann Savours, the archivist and polar historian who wrote books on the search for the Northwest Passage and Captain Scott’s ship the Discovery.
Wilko Johnson, the former guitarist with Dr Feelgood who was diagnosed with terminal cancer in 2013 and given ten months to live. He undertook a farewell tour, but then a nine hour operation changed the prognosis.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: John Shirley
Interviewed guest: Robert Headland
Interviewed guest: Michael Palin
Interviewed guest: Paul Schroeder
Interviewed guest: Martin Gurdon
Interviewed guest: Vicki Butler-Henderson
Interviewed guest: Andrew Donkin
Archive clips used: Clip from the trailer for Terminal Man, Rotten Tomatoes Classic Trailers YouTube Channel, Uploaded 13/12/2017; Clip from the trailer for Jonathan Dove's opera 'Flight', Minnesota Opera YouTube Channel, Uploaded on 24/01/2020; BBC Archive: BBC World News - 13/11/2022: An Iranian man who lived in a Paris airport for 18 years has died; BBC Archive, Top Gear 27/09/1983; BBC Sound Archive, Mastertapes 19/05/2018; BBC Archive, World News 07/08/2013
11/25/2022 • 28 minutes, 1 second
Peter de Savary, Bob Le Sueur MBE, Ela Bhatt, Hannah Pick-Goslar
Matthew Bannister on
Peter de Savary, the serial entrepreneur who ran private members’ clubs, once owned both Land’s End and John O’Groats and spent a fortune trying to win the America’s Cup for the UK.
Bob Le Sueur MBE, who risked his life during the German occupation of Jersey by helping Russian slave workers to escape.
Ela Bhatt (pictured), the Indian trade unionist who campaigned for the rights of street vendors and other self-employed women.
Hannah Pick-Goslar, the German-born Israeli nurse and Holocaust survivor who was a close friend of Anne Frank.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Savannah de Savary
Interviewed guest: Chris Stone
Interviewed guest: Renana Jhabvala
Archive clips used: OxfordUnion YouTube Channel, Peter de Savary – Business Advice 22/03/2013; BBC World News, Madonna and Guy Ritchie marry 22/12/2000; BBC Sound Archive, Peter de Savary – America’s Cup 02/07/1983; BBC Sound Archive, The America’s Cup 27/09/1983; BBC Radio 5Live, Backtrackers – Jersey Under Occupation 02/05/1991; BBC Radio 4, Open Country 24/11/2011; British Pathé/ Gaumont British Newsreel, Liberation of the Channel Islands (1945); BBC Two, Gandhi – The Rise To Fame 10/10/2009; BBC Two, India – Ruins of the Raj 11/12/1990; Yad Vashem – The World Holocaust Remeberance Center, ‘That’s What I Hope’ – The Story of Hannah Pick 13/01/2020; BBC Two Holocaust Memorial Day 27/01/2005.
Matthew Bannister on
Leslie Phillips CBE (pictured), the actor who made his name in the Navy Lark and the Carry On Films, then became a respected character actor.
Dame Valerie Beral, the epidemiologist who created the million women study and investigated the safety of the contraceptive pill and HRT.
Avtar Singh Jouhl, the trade unionist and activist who campaigned for racial equality.
Atarah Ben-Tovim MBE, the flautist who inspired generations of children to take up music.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Peter Bradshaw
Interviewed guest: Tim Teeman
Interviewed guest: Jagwant Jouhl
Interviewed guest: David Jesudason
Interviewed guest: Emily Banks
Archive clips used: BBC News, HardTalk Extra – Leslie Phillips 2000; Peter Rogers Productions/ Beaconsfield Productions, Carry On Teacher (1959); BBC Radio 4 Extra, The Navy Lark – Left Hand Down A Bit! 28/03/2009; Sol C. Siegel Productions/ Metro-Goldwyn-Meyer, Les Girls (1957); Peter Rogers Productions/ Beaconsfield Productions, Carry on Nurse (1959); Impact Quadrant/ Izaro Films/ Quadrant Films, Spanish Fly (1976); Amblin Entertainment/ Warner Brothers, Empire of the Sun (1987); BBC Radio 4, The Skivers 17/03/1994; BBC Radio 4, The Life Scientific – Valerie Beral 05/02/2013; Jagwant Photobooks, Avtar Singh Jouhl interview – 2021; Midlands Today/ YouTube, Malcolm X visits Smethwick 03/10/2014; BBC Radio 3, Sound Archive – Atarah Ben-Tovim 11/05/1972; Thames TV, Seeing And Doing – Atarah Ben-Tovim 1985; BBC Radio 3, Atarah’s Music Box 04/10/1976; BBC Radio 4, Woman’s Hour 02/06/2004; Sandie Smith/ YouTube Channel, Atarah Ben-Tovim and Sophie Clavel at Chateau Rigaud 16/09/2016.
11/11/2022 • 28 minutes, 4 seconds
Baroness Blood, Jerry Lee Lewis, Ian Jack, Hilaree Nelson
Matthew Bannister on
Baroness Blood (pictured), the trade unionist, community worker and peace campaigner who became the first woman from Northern Ireland to be given a life peerage.
Jerry Lee Lewis, the rock 'n' roll pioneer whose turbulent private life included bigamy, violence and drug addiction.
Ian Jack, the journalist known for his long form articles and for editing the Independent on Sunday and the literary magazine Granta.
Hilaree Nelson, the intrepid ski mountaineer who completed more than forty challenging expeditions in 16 countries.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Monica McWilliams
Interviewed guest: Joe Bonomo
Interviewed guest: Bill Paterson
Interviewed guest: Sigrid Rausing
Interviewed guest: Richard Williams
Interviewed guest: Emily Harrington
Archive clips used: Newsline Belfast/ YouTube, NI Women's Coalition Launch and Forum 1996; BBC News, Lady Blood being sworn into the House of Lords 02/11/1999; BBC Radio 4, The House of Ladies - The Mouldbreakers 17/08/2005; YouTube, Jerry Lee & Myra Lewis interview 1958; BBC Radio 3, Night Waves 16/05/2007; The North Face, Mentors - Hilaree Nelson 04/09/2018; Men's Journal/ YouTube, The Line Between Good and Evil 20/01/2021; OutsideWatch/ YouTube, Failure Is Next To Success - Hilaree Nelson Elements 26/06/2020; AP Archive, US extreme skier cremated in Nepal 02/11/2022; The North Face, Lhotse ft. Hilaree Nelson and Jim Morrison 15/10/2019.
11/4/2022 • 28 minutes
Dame Carmen Callil, Ivy Jo Hunter, Kathleen Booth, Dietrich Mateschitz
Matthew Bannister on
Dame Carmen Callil (pictured), the Australian-born publisher who founded the feminist Virago Books.
Ivy Jo Hunter, known as the 'forgotten man of Motown', he co-wrote Dancing In The Street for Martha Reeves and the Vandellas.
Kathleen Booth the mathematician and pioneering computer designer.
Dietrich Mateschitz, the billionaire who turned the Red Bull energy drink into a global success by sponsoring sports clubs and daring stunts, including backing two Formula One motor racing teams.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Harriet Spicer
Interviewed guest: Graham Betts
Interviewed guest: Ian Booth
Interviewed guest: Amanda Booth
Interviewed guest: Nina Baker
Interviewed guest: Chris Medland
Archive clips used: BBC Radio 4, Desert Island Discs – Carmen Callil; Audible Audio/ Spoken Realms, My Brilliant Career by Miles Franklin 30/03/2021; The Red Bull Company, Rapunzel commercial 1991; BBC One, Formula 1 – The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 14/11/2010; Red Bull Stratos, Red Bull Space Dive 14/10/2012; TikTok.com @pianograndad – Alan Melinek.
10/28/2022 • 28 minutes, 7 seconds
Ian Hamilton KC, Audrey Evans, Parvatiben Solanki, Robbie Coltrane OBE
Matthew Bannister on
Ian Hamilton KC, the Scottish lawyer who, as a student, took part in removing the Stone of Destiny from Westminster Abbey and returning it to Scotland.
Professor Audrey Evans, the paediatric oncologist who founded a global network of homes where the families of her young patients could stay during their treatment.
Parvatiben Solanki, who teamed up with her husband to launch Garavi Gujarat, one of the biggest selling Asian news magazines outside India.
Robbie Coltrane OBE (pictured), the actor best known for playing Hagrid in the Harry Potter films and the criminal psychologist 'Fitz' in Cracker.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Kevin Drummond KC
Interviewed guest: Richard Durham
Interviewed guest: Shailesh Solanki
Archive clips used: crisden1/ YouTube Channel, Òran na Cloiche performed by Ruairidh Caimbeul 14/07/2010; Infinity Features Entertainment/ The Mob Film Company/ Alliance, Stone of Destiny (2008) movie clip; BBC World Service, The History Hour - How I took the British Coronation Stone 29/12/2018; British Pathé, ‘The Stone’ Returns 1951, AP Archive, Stone of Scone Is Returned After 700 Years In UK 21/07/2015; Modern Hero/ YouTube Channel, Meet Dr. Audrey Evans 27/05/2017; RMHC/ YouTube Channel, Ronald McDonald House Charities 16/07/2020; BBC One, Black Adder the Third, Ink and Incapability 05/06/1987; BBC Radio 4, Desert Island Discs – Robbie Coltrane 09/02/1992; BBC News Scotland 10/04/2014; BBC Scotland, Tutti Frutti – The Boy Can’t Help It 03/05/1987; Eon Productions/ United Artists, GoldenEye (1995) movie clip; A+E Networks/ Granada Television, Cracker – Murder On The Train 27/09/1993; Hat Trick Productions, Clive Anderson Talks Back – Robbie Coltrane interview 29/10/1993; Warner Bros./ Heyday Films/ 1492 Pictures, Harry Potter And The Philosopher’s Stone (2001) movie clip; Casey Patterson Entertainment/ Pulse Films/ Warner Horizon Unscripted Television, Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: Return To Hogwarts (2022); Warner Bros./ Heyday Films/ 1492 Pictures, Harry Potter And The Chamber Of Secrets (2002) movie clip.
10/21/2022 • 27 minutes, 52 seconds
Dame Angela Lansbury, Lady Keswick, Sacheen Littlefeather, Franca Fendi
Matthew Bannister on
Dame Angela Lansbury (pictured), the stage and screen actor best known in recent years for her role in the TV series Murder She Wrote.
Lady Keswick who was Director of the Conservative think tank the Centre for Policy Studies after being a special adviser to Kenneth Clarke at Education and the Treasury. He pays tribute.
Sacheen Littlefeather, who staged a high profile protest about the representation of Native Americans in Hollywood when she declined an Oscar on behalf of Marlon Brando.
Franca Fendi, one of five sisters who took an Italian leather and fur business from a small shop in Rome to a multi-million pound international fashion house.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: David Benedict
Interviewed guest: Matt Wolf
Interviewed guest: Kenneth Clarke
Interviewed guest: Tim Knox
Interviewed guest: N. Bird Runningwater
Interviewed guest: Dana Thomas
Archive clips used: Corymore Productions/ Universal Television, Murder She Wrote S05E10 10/02/1990; Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, Gaslight (1941) clip; Wallis Productions, Blue Hawaii (1961) clip; Audible Audio/ W.F. Howes Ltd, The Colour Of The Sky After Rain – by Tessa Keswick 22/10/2020; BBC Radio 4, PM 17/06/2003; ABC7/ KGO-TV, Escape To Alcatraz – Documentary 13/06/2021; Firelight Media/ Native American Public Telecommunications/ WGBH, Wounded Knee 16/01/2009; Oscars – YouTube Channel, 45th Annual Academy Awards® 27/03/1973; BBC Radio 4, Short Cuts 12/07/2016; KPIX Public Affairs Presentation, I Believe – Sacheen Littlefeather interview 1976; BBC News, Academy apologises to Sacheen Littlefeather 16/08/2022.
10/14/2022 • 28 minutes, 2 seconds
Yusuf al-Qaradawi, 'Ma' Smith MBE, Mike Burrows, Loretta Lynn
Matthew Bannister on
Yusuf al-Qaradawi, one of the most influential Muslim scholars of his generation. He reached a vast audience through his show on the TV channel Al Jazeera.
'Ma' Smith MBE, who ran a celebrated soup kitchen in Oxford for thirty years.
Mike Burrows, the pioneering cycle designer who came up with the Lotus 108 bike ridden by Chris Boardman when he won Olympic Gold in Barcelona.
Loretta Lynn (pictured), the American country singer whose songs told the stories of working class women.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Dr. Usaama al-Azami
Interviewed guest: Gary Smith
Interviewed guest: Stuart Dennison
Interviewed guest: Michael Hutchinson
Interviewed guest: Garth Cartwright
Archive clips used: MEMRI TV Production, Friday Sermon with Dr. Yusef al-Qaradhawi 15/04/2005; BBC Two, Newsnight 07/07/2004; BBC Radio 4, PM 07/07/2004; BBC News Online, Ma Smith wins Pride of Britain Award 01/11/2018; BBC One, Songs Of Praise – Interview with Ma Smith 08/03/2020; BBC Sport, Barcelona 1992 – Chris Boardman qualifying 28/07/1992; BBC Radio 4, Eureka – Mike Burrows 16/01/1994; BBC One, Tomorrow’s World - Mike Burrows interview 01/10/1993; BBC Radio 2, Loretta Lynn – In Conversation 07/03/2016.
10/7/2022 • 28 minutes, 2 seconds
Dame Hilary Mantel, John McVicar, Joyce Reynolds, Paul Sartin
Matthew Bannister on
Dame Hilary Mantel (pictured), the Booker prize winning novelist best known for the Wolf Hall trilogy.
John McVicar, the former armed robber who studied sociology in prison and became a writer and broadcaster.
Joyce Reynolds, the eminent Cambridge classicist who specialised in the study of epigraphs and taught Dame Mary Beard who joins us to remember her.
The multi-instrumentalist and singer Paul Sartin, a key figure on the English folk scene and member of the band Bellowhead. His band mate Sam Sweeney pays tribute.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Laurie Taylor
Interviewed guest: Dame Mary Beard
Interviewed guest: Sam Sweeney
Interviewed guest: Jon Wilks
Archive clips used: Company Pictures/ Playground Entertainment/ BBC, Wolf Hall – E01 Three Card Trick 21/01/2015; BBC News, interview with Hilary Mantel 03/05/2020; BBC Radio 4, Front Row – extended interview with Hilary Mantel 05/06/2012; BBC Radio 4, The Reith Lectures – Hilary Mantel 13/06/2017; Polytel/ The Who Films, McVicar (1980) UK TV Trailer; BBC One, Straight Talk – John McVicar interview 09/05/1980; BBC Radio 4, Six Men – John McVicar interview 20/04/1986; Loftsingers Andover, Andover Museum Loft Singers Promo 13/10/2018.
9/30/2022 • 28 minutes, 5 seconds
Jean-Luc Godard, Barbara Ehrenreich, Dennis Wilson, Mavis Nicholson
Kirsty Lang on Jean-Luc Godard (pictured), the critic and filmmaker who revolutionised French cinema.
The writer and journalist Barbara Ehrenreich, whose bestseller 'Nickel and Dimed', is considered a classic in social justice literature.
Captain Dennis Wilson, the Normandy veteran whose war poems were ranked alongside Wilfred Owen’s...
And Mavis Nicholson, the Welsh broadcaster with a knack for making her subjects talk about matters that they had never previously confronted in public.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Ian Christie
Interviewed guest: Professor James Williams
Interviewed guest: Alissa Quart
Interviewed guest: Professor Tim Crook
Interviewed guest: Steve Nicholson
Interviewed guest: Maureen Lipman
Archive clips used: Les Films de la Pléiade/ Pathé Consortium Cinéma, Vivre Sa Vie (1962) - Trailer; Daphne Productions Inc/ WNET/ Thirteen, The Dick Cavett Show – Interview with Jean-Luc Godard 23/10/1980; Les Films Impéria/ Les Productions Georges de Beauregard/ Société Nouvelle de Cinématographie (SNC), À bout de souffle (1960) - Trailer; Rome Paris Films/ Les Films Concordia/ Compagnia Cinematografica Champion, Le Mépris (1963) - Clip; BBC Radio 3, Night Waves 30/01/2003; BBC Radio 4, Woman’s Hour – Barbara Ehrenreich interview 22/09/2008; BBC Radio 4, Today Programme – Captain Dennis Wilson interview 19/11/2013; Thames TV/ Pineapple Productions, Mavis catches up with Kenny Everett – jingle 15/11/1989; Thames TV/ Channel 4 , Mavis on 4 – Elizabeth Taylor interview 10/02/1988; Thames TV, Afternoon Plus – David Bowie interview 16/02/1979; BBC Wales, Being Mavis Nicholson: TV’s Greatest Interviewer 25/08/2016.
9/23/2022 • 28 minutes, 9 seconds
Bill Turnbull, Anne Sutton, Norah Vincent, Drummie Zeb
Matthew Bannister on
Bill Turnbull (pictured), the journalist and BBC Breakfast presenter who was also a beekeeper and committed fan of Wycombe Wanderers.
Anne Sutton, whose detailed studies of the life and times of King Richard III transformed his reputation.
Norah Vincent, who wrote a best-selling book about her experience of living as a man for eighteen months and then suffered a mental breakdown.
Drummie Zeb, the drummer and vocalist with the British reggae band Aswad.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Sian Williams
Interviewed guest: Wendy Moorhen
Interviewed guest: Justine Hardy
Interviewed guest: Brinsley Forde
Archive clips used: BBC One, BBC Breakfast 27/04/2001; BBC News, London Bombs at Kings Cross 08/07/2005; BBC Three, Strictly Dance Fever on Three 01/04/2006; BBC One, BBC Breakfast - Bill Turnball talks about cancer 21/12/2018; WeTalkWycombe/ YouTube Channel, Best Wycombe Wanderers Chants! 06/07/2020; BBC One, BBC Breakfast 23/01/2007; BBC One, Celebrity Mastermind 01/01/2008; London Film Production/ L.O.P., Richard III (1955) film; Quite Frankly Productions/ BBC Hardtalk Extra, Norah Vincent 21/04/2006; ABC News, Self-Made Man: Norah Vincent 2006; Elephant House Studios/ Tribute, Nelson Mandela 70th Birthday Concert 11/06/1988.
9/16/2022 • 28 minutes, 10 seconds
Mikhail Gorbachev, Stella 'Jaye' Edwards, Jerry Allison
Matthew Bannister on
The last President of the Soviet Union Mikhail Gorbachev (pictured), who was feted in the West but often derided in his own country. We follow his journey from a collective farm in Stavropol to momentous times in the Kremlin, including the introduction of Perestroika and Glasnost, the end of the Cold War and the coup that toppled him from power.
Stella 'Jaye' Edwards, who was the last surviving British woman pilot who delivered planes from factories to front line bases during the second world war.
Jerry Allison, the drummer and songwriter with Buddy Holly and the Crickets, whose girlfriend inspired their hit song 'Peggy Sue'.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Bridget Kendall
Interviewed guest: John Eames Petersen
Interviewed guest: Geoff Barker
Archive clips used: BBC Radio 4, Today programme 31/08/2022; BBC Two, Newsnight 30/08/2022; CNN - Larry King, Mikhail Gorbachev interview November 1993; UVA Miller Center, President Ronald Reagan speech on the Geneva Summit 21/11/1985; Pizza Hut, Gorbachev TV spot commercial January 1998; Juno Beach Centre / YouTube Channel, Jaye Edwards interview 19/02/2019; British Pathé, Sir Stafford Cripps and the A.T.A. (1943); Geoff Barker Archives, Jerry Allison interview.
9/2/2022 • 28 minutes, 9 seconds
Margaret Keane, Keith Smith, Mario Fiorentini, Brenda Fisher
Matthew Bannister on
Margaret Keane (pictured), the American artist whose paintings of children with 'Big Eyes' became hugely popular in the 1960s. Her identity as the painter was kept secret by her husband who claimed the works as his own.
Keith Smith, the market trader who co-founded the Poundland chain of shops.
Mario Fiorentini, Italy’s most decorated partisan, who risked torture and death to fight the German occupation of his country.
Brenda Fisher, the long distance swimmer from Grimsby who became an international celebrity after breaking the women’s speed record for swimming the English Channel.
Producer: Emily Finch
Interviewed guest: Larry Karaszewski
Interviewed guest: Steve Smith
Interviewed guest: Philip Cooke
Interviewed guest: Alessandro Portelli
Interviewed guest: Lucy Wood
Interviewed guest: Peter Winchester MBE
Archive clips used: Westinghouse Broadcasting Company / Mike Douglas Entertainments, The Mike Douglas Show - Interview with Margaret Keane 1972; BBC World Service, Outlook - Margaret Keane interview 30/12/2014; Duane Anderly, 1964 Lost Interview with Walter and Margaret Keane from YouTube; The Weinstein Company / Silverwood Films / Tim Burton Productions, Big Eyes (film clip) 2014; Express & Star YouTube Channel, Founder of Poundland, Keith Smith opens his grounds up for a festival 25/06/2015; BBC One, Antiques Roadshow: Series 41 - Pioneering Women Special 10/06/2018; BBC Sound Archive, Swim The Channel 17/08/1951.
8/26/2022 • 27 minutes, 47 seconds
Lamont Dozier, Joan Lingard, Issey Miyake, Edana Minghella
John Wilson on
Lamont Dozier (pictured), who wrote dozens of hits for Motown Records.
Joan Lingard, the author of the popular Kevin and Sadie books set during the Troubles in Northern Ireland.
Issey Miyake, the Japanese fashion designer who survived the atomic bomb.
Edana Minghella, the mental health researcher and jazz singer.
Producer: Emily Finch
Interviewed guest: Eddie Holland
Interviewed guest: Adam White
Interviewed guest: Shelly Clark
Interviewed guest: Lindsey Fraser
Interviewed guest: Dana Thomas
Interviewed guest: Dai Fujiwara
Interviewed guest: Dominic Minghella
Interviewed guest: Jo Brand
Archive clips used: Radio 4, Front Row - Brian and Eddie Holland interview 25/12/2019; BBC Radio 1, David Jensen Show - Lamont Dozier interview 29/02/1984; Radio 4, Joan Lingard interview 01/01/1984; BBC Two, Maggie episode 1 17/02/1981; British Pathé, Atomic Bomb Destruction in Japan (1945); INA Société/YouTube Channel, Mai 68 et l'éducation (1968).
8/19/2022 • 28 minutes, 7 seconds
James Lovelock, Ayman al-Zawahiri, Roy Hackett MBE, Dame Olivia Newton-John
Kirsty Lang on
James Lovelock (pictured), the scientist and inventor who came up with the Gaia theory.
Ayman al-Zawahiri, the leader of the terrorist group Al-Qaeda.
Roy Hackett MBE, who led the Bristol bus boycott in 1963.
Dame Olivia Newton-John, the singer and actor who starred in Grease.
Producer: Emily Finch
Interviewed guest: Bryan Appleyard CBE
Interviewed guest: Paul Martin
Interviewed guest: Lynn Mareno
Interviewed guest: Professor Kehinde Andrews
Interviewed guest: Holly Thomas
Archive clips used: Web of Stories - YouTube channel, James Lovelock - The Gaia Theory (11/17) 17/08/2017; BBC Radio 4, Desert Island Discs - James Lovelock 17/11/1997; AP Archive, USS Cole Attacked 12/10/2000; BBC News, Bombings in New York 11/09/2001; BBC Two, Newsnight - London Bombings 07/07/2005; BBC Radio 4, Six O'clock News 06/10/1981; AP Archive, Muslim Extremists Trial 15/12/1982; PBS News Hour, President George W. Bush - First US strikes in Afghanistan 07/10/2001; CBS News, Biden announces death of Ayman al-Zawahiri 02/08/2022; BBC Ideas, Why I'm still fighting racism at 90 24/01/2019; BBC One, Paul O'Grady's Working Britain 15/08/2013; BBC World Service, Witness - Bristol Bus Boycott 10/10/2019; BBC One, Parkinson - Olivia Newton-John interview 02/12/1978; Paramount Pictures/Robert Stigwood Organisation (RSO)/Allan Carr Production, Grease (Film clip) 1978.
8/12/2022 • 27 minutes, 54 seconds
Bernard Cribbins OBE (pictured), Diana Kennedy MBE, Sir Colin Blakemore, Nichelle Nichols
Matthew Bannister on
Bernard Cribbins OBE, the much-loved actor known for appearances in The Railway Children and Doctor Who as well as reading countless stories on Jackanory.
Diana Kennedy MBE, the British-born food writer who dedicated her life to promoting the diversity of Mexican cuisine.
Sir Colin Blakemore, the neuroscientist who received death threats after speaking out in defence of experiments on animals.
Nichelle Nichols, the trailblazing African American actor who played Lieutenant Uhura in Star Trek.
Producer: Sofie Vilcins
Interviewed guest: Jenny Agutter
Interviewed guest: Helen Lederer
Interviewed guest: Gabriela Cámara
Interviewed guest: Fiona Fox
Archive clips used: EMI Films, The Railway Children 1970; BBC One, Fawlty Towers - The Hotel Inspectors 10/10/1975; BBC, CBeebies - Storm in a Teacup 05/04/2015; Filmfair, The Wombles - One Pair of Feet 23/02/1973; BBC Radio 4, The Food Programme 30/06/2014; Greenwich Entertainment/Submarine Deluxe, Diana Kennedy - Nothing Fancy 2020; BBC Two, The Mind Machine 13/09/1988; BBC Radio 4, Today 08/11/2011; BBC Radio 4, The Life Scientific - Sir Colin Blakemore 08/11/2011; Desilu Productions/Norway Corporation, Star Trek S02E02 Who Mourns For Adonais 27/04/1970; BBC Radio 4, Archive on 4 - Star Trek, The Undiscovered Future 03/09/2016; BBC Radio 1, Nicky Campbell - Nichelle Nichols interview 31/01/1995; NASA, Recruitment Film 1977; Yap Films, Building Star Trek (TV Movie) 2016.
8/5/2022 • 28 minutes, 4 seconds
Lord David Trimble (pictured), Susie Steiner, Uwe Seeler
John Wilson on
Lord David Trimble, Northern Irish politician who was an architect of the Good Friday Agreement and won a Nobel Peace Prize.
Susie Steiner, a British crime author who shared her experience of living with a brain tumour.
Uwe Seeler, captain of the West German football team in 1966 and a hero for his home team of Hamburg.
Producer: Sofie Vilcins
Interviewed guest: Lord Dean Godson
Interviewed guest: Val McDermid
Interviewed guest: Alan Mullery MBE
Interviewed guest: Derek Rae
Archive clips used: British Pathé, 1966 World Cup Final: England vs Germany (Part 1) 1966; BBC Radio 4, Meeting Myself Coming Back - David Trimble 05/03/2017; BBC News Online, Good Friday agreement 10/04/1998; BBC Radio 4, Today - Tony Blair on David Trimble 26/07/2022; ITV.com, Michelle O'Neill on David Trimble's legacy of leadership 26/07/2022; BBC Radio Ulster, Doug Beattie and Sir Jefferey Donaldson on David Trimble 26/07/2022; BBC Radio 4, Great Lives - Elvis Presley 14/08/2007; Peter James TV / YouTube Channel, Susie Steiner interview 02/01/2018; BBC Radio 4, In Touch, Susie Steiner interview 12/04/2016; BBC Radio 4, Open Book - Susie Steiner interview 24/09/2020; BBC Archive, 1966 World Cup Final 30/07/1966; YouTube, Uwe Seeler scores against England - World Cup 1970; HSV / Hamburger SV YouTube Channel, The Life of Uwe Seeler 22/07/2022; YouTube, HSV Team Tribute in memory of Uwe Seeler.
7/29/2022 • 28 minutes, 7 seconds
Tony Sirico (pictured), José Eduardo dos Santos, Ann Shulgin, Ivana Trump
John Wilson on
Tony Sirico, the former armed robber turned actor who found fame playing the role of mobster Paulie Walnuts in ground-breaking television series The Sopranos.
José Eduardo dos Santos, who ruled Angola as president for 37 years, steering the country through a bloody civil war, and reaping the benefits of an oil boom while being accused of huge levels of corruption.
Ann Shulgin, a therapist who pioneered the use of psychedelics and MDMA in therapy together with her chemist husband Sasha.
And Ivana Trump, the Czechoslovakian skier and model whose marriage to Donald Trump made her a fixture of tabloid and society pages for decades.
Producer: Tim Bano
Interviewed guest: Fr Robert Sirico
Interviewed guest: Dr Justin Pearce
Interviewed guest: Amanda Feilding
Interviewed guest: Professor David Nutt
Archive clips used: Paramount Pictures, The First Wives Club (1996); American Playhouse, The Big Bang (1989); NBC Today, 20th Anniversary of 'The Sopranos' 10/01/2019; HBO, The Sopranos (1999); Miramax/ Sweetland Films/ Magnolia Production, Bullets Over Broadway (1994); YouTube, Comício José Eduardo dos Santos - Angola 1992 16/09/2010; BBC Sound Archive, Independence celebrations in Angola 11/11/1975; BBC Radio 4, News 23/02/2002; BBC News Archive, Angola vote in first election for 16 years 05/09/2008; BBC Two, Panorama - The Corrupt Billionaire 25/01/2020; Viveka Films, MDMA The Movie - Promo Clip (2016); CBS News, When Ecstasy was legal 1985; gaiamedia/ YouTube channel, Ask the Shulgins 17/03/2014; BBC One, Wogan - Ivana Trump interview 03/06/1992; CBS Sunday Morning, Ivana Trump interview 08/10/2017; BBC Radio 4, Woman's Hour - Ivana Trump interview 03/06/1992; HBO/ Harpo Productions, The Oprah Winfrey Show 25/04/1998; BBC One, Modern Times - The Fame Game 03/01/1996; Del Monte/ Brian Jackson, UK Del Monte pears advert (2014).
7/22/2022 • 27 minutes, 52 seconds
Shinzo Abe (pictured), Mona Hammond OBE, Lorna de Smidt, Monty Norman
Kirsty Lang on
Shinzo Abe - Japan’s longest-serving prime minister who sought to end a wartime legacy of defeat and occupation and to tackle the economy through ‘Abenomics’.
Actor Mona Hammond is best known for her TV role in Eastenders.
Lorna de Smidt, the anti-apartheid and anti-racist activist who cut her political teeth in the Black Consciousness Movement in South Africa in the late 1960s.
And Monty Norman - Composer and singer who wrote the James Bond main theme and a string of successful musicals as well.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Nakano Koichi
Interviewed guest: Dr Kristin Surak
Interviewed guest: Michael Buffong
Interviewed guest: Graham de Smidt
Interviewed guest: Matthew Sweet
Archive clips used: BBC News, Report on death of Shinzo Abe, 08/07/2022; BBC Radio 4, The World This Weekend, Votes counted for Japanese election, 29/07/2007; BBC One, Eastenders 25/10/2010; Humphrey Barclay Productions for Channel 4, Desmond's S01E04 26/01/1989; BBC Radio 4, The Archers 28/12/2003; BBC Two, Storm Damage (1989), 23/01/2000; Paramount Pictures/ Albert S. Ruddy Productions/ Alfran Productions, The Godfather Part 1 (1972); BBC Radio 4, News Bulletin19/03/2001; BBC Two Omnibus - Monty Norman interview 17/10/1982.
7/15/2022 • 27 minutes, 46 seconds
Baroness Greengross OBE (pictured), Sonny Barger, Technoblade, Qin Yi
Matthew Bannister on
Baroness Greengross, who championed the rights of older people as Director General of the charity Age Concern.
Sonny Barger, the leading American Hell’s Angel who was arrested 21 times and spent 13 years in prison.
Technoblade, the young Youtuber who amassed millions of followers for his commentaries on the video game Minecraft.
Qin Yi, the leading Chinese film star whose career spanned eight decades.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Gail Perry
Interviewed guest: Alexandre Kalache
Interviewed guest: Zhen Zhang
Interviewed guest: Chris Berry
Interviewed guest: Deanne Stillman
Archive clips used: BBC Radio 4, Woman's Hour 07/03/2003; BBC Radio 4, Woman's Hour 03/03/2004; BBC News, News report on Dementia 03/07/2012; BBC Two, Hell's Angels 04/01/2004; BBC Four, Storyville - Gimme Shelter 11/12/2009; KSAN Radio/ Stefan Ponek/ from Storyville - Gimme Shelter, Sonny Barger Interview 11/12/2009; EricSalasProductions/ YouTube Channel, Sonny Barger Exclusive Interview 08/08/2012; Technoblade YouTube Channel, Minecraft Storymode Season 1 Episode 1 07/01/2019; Technoblade YouTube Channel, "so long nerds" 01/07/2022/; Technoblade YouTube Channel, the hypixel skyblock experience 14/06/2019; BBC Radio 4, Glenda Jackson interviews Peter Brook 19/04/2021; Shanghai Film Studio/ Tianma Film Studio, Woman Basketball Player No 5 (1957); Ningxia Film Group/ Shanghai Film Studios, Railway Guerrilla (1956); China Central Television, Under the Roofs of Shanghai (1982); BBC One, Eastenders 26/05/1997.
7/8/2022 • 28 minutes, 5 seconds
Dame Deborah James (pictured), Yves Coppens, Revel Guest OBE, Samuel Bhima
Matthew Bannister on
Dame Deborah James who raised millions of pounds for cancer research by talking openly about living with - and dying from - bowel cancer.
Yves Coppens, the charismatic French palaeontologist who led the team that discovered hominid remains estimated to be 3.2 million years old.
Revel Guest OBE, the documentary film producer who became chair of the Hay Literary Festival.
Samuel Bhima, the first Malawian to become a Fellow of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Jude Rogers
Interviewed guest: Zeresenay Alemseged
Interviewed guest: Corisande Albert
Interviewed guest: Maliza Bhima
Archive clips used: BBC Radio 5 Online, Raising a Glass to Deborah James 28/06/2022; BBC Two, The Making of Mankind - One Small Step 11/05/1981; FRANCE 24 English, Yves Coppens dies at 87 23/06/2022; PBS (US), PBS Ident by Paul Alan Levi; Trans Atlantic Film, Placido 1983; Dreamworks Pictures/ Touchstone Pictures/ Reliance Entertainment, War Horse (2011) Trailer; YouTube/ memoriesofrhodesia, 1957 Royal Tour of Nyasaland 29/10/2015; Meliza Bhima Personal interview archive with Samuel Bhima; BBC Sound Archive, Dr Hastings Banda Interview 27/02/1959.
7/1/2022 • 27 minutes, 59 seconds
Dom Phillips (pictured), Stephen S. Thompson, Caroline Drummond, Maureen Hiron
Matthew Bannister on
Dom Phillips, the freelance journalist who was ambushed and shot dead on a trip into the Amazon rain forest.
Stephen S. Thompson, the novelist and screenwriter who won a BAFTA for his TV drama telling the story of his brother’s experiences during the Windrush scandal.
Caroline Drummond, who campaigned for greater links between farming and environmental protection – and oversaw the launch of Open Farm Sunday.
Maureen Hiron, the top-class bridge player who invented many new games including Continuo and Quizwrangle.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Sian Phillips
Interviewed guest: Sylvia Colombo
Interviewed guest: Anthony Bryan
Interviewed guest: Krishnendu Majumdar
Interviewed guest: Minette Batters
Interviewed guest: Ian Pigott
Interviewed guest: W. Eric Martin
Interviewed guest: Deej Johnson
Archive clips used: BBC News 24, Dom Phillips and Bruno Pereira 16/06/2022; Metrópoles - Café da Manhã Com Jornalistas 14/06/2022; BBC News Online, Amber Rudd's regret over scale of Windrush problem 26/04/2018; Edinburgh Television Festival, Sitting in Limbo - Edinburgh TV Festival 2021 12/06/2021; Left Bank Pictures/BBC/Ian Johnson Publicity, BBC Trailers Sitting in Limbo 01/06/2020; BAFTA, Sitting in Limbo wins Single Drama BAFTA TV Awards 2021 06/06/2021; BBC Radio 4, The Archers 07/06/2019; BBC Two, A Will To Win 20/10/1986; Granada TV, The Krypton Factor 1993.
6/24/2022 • 28 minutes, 9 seconds
Dame Paula Rego (pictured), Bruce Kent, Hilary Devey CBE
Matthew Bannister on
Dame Paula Rego, the acclaimed Portuguese-born artist who later made her home in the UK and was renowned for making vivid and disturbing work focussing on the subjugation of women. We talk to her son Nick Willing.
Bruce Kent, the Catholic priest who became a leader of the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament.
Hilary Devey CBE, who founded a multi-million pound freight distribution business and was one of the Dragons on the TV show Dragons Den.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Nick Willing
Interviewed guest: Jacky Klein
Interviewed guest: Kate Hudson
Archive clips used: BBC Radio 4, Desert Island Discs - Dame Paula Rego 07/12/1997; Kismet Film Company/ BBC, Paula Rego - Secrets and Stories 25/03/2017; Eric Minh Swenson Art Films, Samella Lewis - Pioneering Visual Artist and Educator 19/12/2016; BBC Radio Ulster, Bruce Kent documentary 13/03/1988; British Movietone, Aldermaston March - Natural Sound 12/04/1963; British Movietone, The March to Aldermaston in Trafalgar Square 10/04/1958; BBC Radio 4, PM - Cardinal Basil Hume interview 27/04/1983; BBC News, Troops Erect Fence Around RAF Molesworth Base 06/02/1985; CND - YouTube Channel, Bruce Kent - Why I joined CND 18/02/2018; BBC Radio 4, Desert Island Discs - Hilary Devey 02/11/2012; BBC Radio 4, Woman's Hour - Hilary Devey interview 24/05/2012; BBC One, Dragons' Den (Season 10) 2012; ITV Studios - YouTube Channel, Loose Women - Hilary Devey interview 03/06/2015.
6/17/2022 • 28 minutes, 6 seconds
Amanda Claridge, Sidhu Moose Wala (pictured), Mark Sykes, Paul Vance
Matthew Bannister on
Amanda Claridge, the archaeologist who was a leading expert on ancient Rome.
Sidhu Moose Wala, the acclaimed Indian rapper who was shot dead at the age of 28.
Mark Sykes, the upper-class gambler, con man, gun smuggler and playboy.
Paul Vance, who wrote the song 'Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini' and whose death was announced prematurely in 2006.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Richard Hodges
Interviewed guest: Professor Richard Alston
Interviewed guest: Bobby Friction
Interviewed guest: Lady Colin Campbell
Interviewed guest: Douglas Thompson
Archive clips used: BBC Radio 3, Night Waves - Roman Empire Exhibition 20/10/2000; BBC One, Nationwide - Pompeii 19/11/1976; BBC News 31/05/2022; ABP Sanjha / YouTube Channel, Sidhu Moose Wala in Big Trouble 04/05/2020; BBC Radio 4, Last Word 29/09/2006.
6/10/2022 • 28 minutes, 4 seconds
Dervla Murphy, Lester Piggott (pictured), Anne Howells
Matthew Bannister on
Dervla Murphy, the intrepid travel writer who cycled from her native Ireland to India.
Lester Piggott, the jockey who rode thousands of winners and broke many records, including winning the Derby 9 times.
Anne Howells, the acclaimed mezzo soprano known for her beautiful voice and sense of mischief.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Antonia Quirke
Interviewed guest: Hilary Bradt MBE
Interviewed guest: Susan Griffiths
Interviewed guest: Frank Keogh
Interviewed guest: Sir John Tomlinson CBE
Interviewed guest: Mark Rice-Oxley
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips used: BBC Radio 4, Desert Island Discs - Dervla Murphy 17/01/1993; BBC Radio 4, Wheels Within Wheels ep 2 23/12/2001; BBC Radio 4, Intrepid Women 19/05/1980; BBC Radio 4, Wheels Within Wheels ep 3 30/12/2001; BBC Sport, AP McCoy tribute to Lester Piggott May 2022; BBC News 06/06/1970; BBC News, Frankie Dettori tribute to Lester Piggott 30/05/2022; BBC News, Willie Carson tribute to Lester Piggott 30/05/2022; British Pathé, Lester Piggott 56th win 1950; YouTube, 1970 King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes win 25/07/1970; Ascot Racecourse, Lester Piggott interview 23/07/2020; Central Television/Spitting Image Productions, Spitting Image 1984-1996; BBC News, Lester Piggott tax evasion 23/10/1987; NBC Sports, Lester Piggott amazing ride on Royal Academy 27/10/1990; BBC Radio Archive, Music Now: Anne Howells 20/09/1975.
6/3/2022 • 28 minutes, 13 seconds
Baroness Haleh Afshar, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Kay Mellor, Vangelis (Pictured)
Matthew Bannister on
Baroness Haleh Afshar, the Iranian-born academic and activist who made her home in the UK and campaigned for women’s rights.
Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Emir of Abu Dhabi and President of the United Arab Emirates who led the transformation of his country and was a key ally of the West.
Kay Mellor, the TV writer best known for series like 'Band of Gold', 'Fat Friends' and 'The Syndicate'.
Vangelis, the prolific composer who won an Oscar for the soundtrack to the film 'Chariots of Fire'.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Molly Newton
Interviewed guest: Janet Veitch OBE.
Interviewed guest: Sameer Hashmi.
Interviewed guest: Paul Allen.
Archive clips used: BBC Radio 4, Desert Island Discs - Baroness Haleh Afshar 28/12/2008; FOX 5 New York, The first minutes of the reporting of the 9/11 attacks from WNYW 11/09/2001; BBC Radio 4, Today Programme - Kay Mellor tribute 18/05/2022; BBC Radio 4, Desert Island Discs - Kay Mellor OBE 29/10/2017; Granada TV, Band of Gold (1995); Rollem Productions/ Tiger Aspect Productions/ Yorkshire Television, Fat Friends 2000; Isolde Films, Vangelis and the Journey to Ithaka - Documentary (2013); Al Jazeera English, Vangelis: A Message of Hope 22/01/2012.
5/27/2022 • 28 minutes, 11 seconds
Shireen Abu Akleh, Robert Gillmor, Leonid Kravchuk (pictured), Carrie White
Matthew Bannister on
Shireen Abu Akleh, the respected Al Jazeera reporter who was shot dead while covering an Israeli military raid in Jenin in the occupied West Bank.
Robert Gillmor, the wildlife artist best known for his striking paintings of birds.
Leonid Kravchuk who oversaw Ukraine’s transition to independence after the collapse of the Soviet Union and became its President.
Carrie White, the hairdresser who styled some of Hollywood’s biggest stars and became addicted to drink and drugs.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Dalia Hatuqa
Interviewed guest: Stephen Moss
Interviewed guest: Dr Taras Kuzio
Interviewed guest: Helena de Bertodano
Interviewed guest: Pitita Alcala White
Archive clips used: BBC News 24, Newsday 12/05/2022; BBC News,14/05/2022; Al Jazeera English, 74 years of Nakba 2022; xeno-canto.org, Pied Avocet (Recurvirostra avosetta); BBC One, Animal Magic 23/11/1971; YouTube/Behind Nhu, Eurasian collared dove call 17/05/2020; BBC Radio 4, The World Tonight 28/04/1986; BBC News, Ukranian Referendum Results 02/12/1991; AP Archive, Ukraine - Preparations for Presidential Elections 25/06/1994; BBC One, six o'clock news - Ukraine Nuclear Weapons 14/01/1994; Connie Martinson YouTube channel, Upper Cut - Carrie White interview 31/10/2011.
5/20/2022 • 28 minutes, 1 second
Kathy Boudin, Dennis Waterman (pictured), Sidney Altman, Régine Zylberberg
Matthew Bannister on
Kathy Boudin, the American radical activist who was sent to prison for her part in the killing of a security guard and two police officers during a robbery. While serving her sentence she became a campaigner for penal reform.
Dennis Waterman, the actor best known for his roles in TV series 'The Sweeney', 'Minder' and 'New Tricks'.
Sidney Altman, the American biologist who won the Nobel prize for his work on the function of RNA...
And Régine Zylberberg, the French nightclub owner who claimed to have invented the discotheque.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Baroness Helena Kennedy QC.
Interviewed guest: Dr Thomas R. Cech, Ph.D.
Interviewed guest: Hugh Schofield
Archive clips used: CBS Sunday Morning, Weather Underground's accidental bombing 06/03/1970; Center for Justice at Columbia University, Interview with Kathy Boudin 09/05/2022; BBC One, Life and Times of Dennis Waterman 06/12/2000; Danziger Productions Ltd, Night Train To Inverness (1960); Cy Howard Productions / Desilu Productions, Fair Exchange (1962); Minder.org / YouTube clip, Dennis Waterman - Very Early Clip 07/10/2016; BHE Films / Crasto, Up The Junction (1968); Euston Films / Thames TV, The Sweeney (TV series) 1974; Euston Films / Thames TV, Minder 1979; BBC / Wall To Wall, New Tricks 01/04/2004; UC Berkeley Events, Unravelling the Mystery of Ribonucleic Acid 2010; i24NEWS Francais, Histoires Et Decouvertes Régine se raconte 4/04/2021.
5/13/2022 • 28 minutes, 6 seconds
Colonel Alan Jenkins, Mary Monson, Elspeth Barker, Art Rupe (pictured)
Matthew Bannister on
Colonel Alan Jenkins, the Gurhka officer who was the last living Westerner to have travelled to independent Tibet.
Mary Monson, the solicitor who devoted her career to helping the poor and disadvantaged.
Elspeth Barker, the novelist and critic who lived a colourful life surrounded by animals in a Norfolk farmhouse.
Art Rupe, the American record producer who helped to launch the careers of Little Richard and Sam Cooke.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Nigel Warren
Interviewed guest: Roger Croston
Interviewed guest: Joseph Kotrie Monson
Interviewed guest: Raffaella Barker
Interviewed guest: Geoff Barker
Archive clips used: BBC TV Archive, Jungle Green - Borneo 24/12/1964; BBC Radio Manchester, Trump's tour bus 13/07/2018; Mary Monson Solicitors - YouTube channel, client care philosophy 18/02/2014; BBC Radio 4, O Caledonia by Elspeth Barker 14/10/1992; BBC Radio 3, The Verb - Life, Nature & Literature 10/04/2004; CBS, Alan Freed Rock & Roll Dance Party 1957.
5/6/2022 • 28 minutes, 9 seconds
Yvonne Blenkinsop (pictured), Dr Margaret Carswell, Mikhail Vasenkov, Denise Coffey
Matthew Bannister on
Yvonne Blenkinsop, one of the four so-called 'Headscarf Revolutionaries' from Hull who campaigned for better safety regulations on fishing trawlers after three were lost at sea in 1968.
Margaret Carswell, the doctor and ornithologist who treated survivors of the Ugandan civil war and in her spare time compiled the definitive guide to the country’s bird population.
Mikhail Vasenkov, the Russian spy who assumed a South American identity and lived undercover in the United States for decades.
Denise Coffey, the talented comic actor who made her name in the TV show 'Do Not Adjust Your Set'.
Producer: Emily Finch
Interviewed guest: Nell Carswell
Interviewed guest: Grace Carswell
Interviewed guest: Gordon Corera
Interviewed guest: Dr. Brian W. Lavery
Interviewed guest: Humphry Barclay
Interviewed guest: Michael Coveney
Interviewed guest: Miriam Margolyes
Archive clips used: British Pathé, Hull - Trawlers Lost At Sea - Wives Demand Stricter Safety Measures 1968; BBC World Service, Witness - Hull's Headscarf Revolutionaries 12/02/2018; BBC TV, Look North - Yvonne Blenkinsop gets freedom of the city of Hull 20/12/2018; YouTube, Triple Trawler Disaster - Hull 1968; xeno-canto, XC292779 Speckled Tinkerbird / XC291649 Woodland Warbler; BBC World Service, Witness - The Fall of Idi Amin 29/04/2014; BBC News 24, Russia/US Spy Swap 09/07/2010; Rediffusion, Do Not Adjust Your Set Ep 05 25/01/1968; BBC Radio 4 Extra, Alison and Maud 20/05/2009.
4/29/2022 • 27 minutes, 58 seconds
Mimi Reinhard, Sir Harrison Birtwistle (pictured), Sylvia Lancaster OBE, Letizia Battaglia
John Wilson on
Mimi Reinhard, the Holocaust survivor who typed Oskar Schindler’s famous list and later turned down an offer from Steven Spielberg.
Sir Harrison Birtwistle, the uncompromising British composer of contemporary classical music who once caused panic at the Proms.
Sylvia Lancaster, the mother of Sophie Lancaster who was brutally murdered in 2007. Sylvia set up a foundation with the aim of promoting tolerance and inclusivity among young people...
And Letizia Battaglia, who defied the Mafia with her graphic photographs of their crimes.
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips used: BBC News 24, Mimi Reinhard 07/12/2007; Universal Pictures/Amblin Entertainment, Schindler's List - Trailer 1993; Oscars, Schindler's List wins Best Picture 1994; The Royal Opera - YouTube Channel, The Minotaur - Labyrinth Scene 1991; BBC Radio 4, Desert Island Discs - Sir Harrison Birtwistle 16/01/1994; BBC Radio 3/English National Opera, The Mask Of Orpheus 01/04/1987; BBC News 24, Greater Manchester Police records offences against members of subcultures 04/04/2013; BBC TWO, Black Roses: The Killing of Sophie Lancaster 12/03/2015; BBC Radio 4 Extra, Black Roses: The Killing of Sophie Lancaster 11/10/2015; Granada TV, Coronation Street 07/05/2021.
4/22/2022 • 28 minutes, 3 seconds
Jordan Mooney (pictured), Jack Higgins, Robert Ashe, David McKee
John Wilson remembers the lives of those who have recently died including Jordan Mooney the punk icon known as ‘the original Sex Pistol’ who ended up as a veterinary nurse.
Jack Higgins, the thriller writer who hit the jackpot with The Eagle Has Landed, and sold more than 250 million books.
Robert Ashe, an aid worker who spent most of his working life supporting refugees all over the world.
And David McKee - author and illustrator who created timeless childhood favourites including Mr Benn and Elmer the multi-coloured elephant.
Producer: Neil George
Archive Clips Used: BBC 6Music, Three Minute Epiphany - The Essence of Punk and Defiance 05/06/2019; BBC TWO, The Culture Show - Jordan Mooney interview 01/07/2014; Megalovision/ Whaley-Malin Productions, Jubilee - trailer (1978); BBC Radio 2, The John Dunn Show 01/07/1992; Audible Audiobook/Harper Collins Publishers Ltd, The Savage Day by Jack Higgins 2019; BBC Radio 4, Desert Island Discs - Jack Higgins 12/12/1981; Associated General Films/ ITC Entertainment, The Eagle Has Landed - trailer (1976); BBC Radio 4, Profile - Jack Higgins 27/04/1984; ThamesTV/ Freemantle, The Killing Fields - Cambodia VT50536 18/01/1990; BBC News, 29/06/1980; BBC News, 23/10/1999; BBC Breakfast News, interview with David McKee 25/05/2019; BookTrust, David McKee reads Elmer 25/05/2022; Books Alive! YouTube Channel, Not Now Bernard by David McKee 08/11/2017; BBC TWO, Mr Benn - Pirate 31/03/1972; Made in Me - YouTube Channel, Me Books - David McKee interview 10/01/2013.
4/15/2022 • 28 minutes, 5 seconds
Derek Mack (pictured), June Brown, Doris Derby, Dave Sales
Matthew Bannister on
Derek Mack, the rocket engineer who helped Britain enter the space age
June Brown, the actor best known as Dot Cotton in Eastenders
Dr Doris A. Derby, the American civil rights activist and photographer who took historic pictures of the struggle for equality
Dave Sales, the Dorset fisherman who fought a 23 year campaign to protect the sea bed in Lyme Bay.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Dion Mack
Interviewed guest: Ken MacTaggart
Interviewed guest: Bob Banks
Interviewed guest: Hannah Collins
Interviewed guest: Gill Sales
Archive clips used: British Pathé, The Black Knight Rocket 1958; BBC One, The One Show - The Rocket Men 25/01/2019; BBC TV Archive, Black Arrow Project - 24 Hours 27/10/1971; BBC One, Eastenders, 1985-2020; BBC Radio 4, Desert Island Discs - June Brown 17/02/2017; British Movietone, V E Day in London 1945; Granada TV, Coronation Street, 19/08/1970; Library of Congress, Southern Oral History Program in North Carolina - Doris Derby Interview 2011; Storylines, Guardians of the Reef Project - Interview with David Sales 27/07/2017.
4/8/2022 • 27 minutes, 50 seconds
Madeleine Albright (pictured), Peter Padfield, Christina Smith, Sheila Paine
Matthew Bannister on
The first female US Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, who was a leading advocate of the NATO bombing campaign aimed at stopping ethnic cleansing in the Balkans.
Peter Padfield, the naval historian who as a young man took part in the reconstruction of the voyage of the Mayflower from the UK to the USA.
Christina Smith, the colourful entrepreneur known as “the queen of Covent Garden” for her property and business development in that area of London.
Sheila Paine, who travelled to remote areas of the world to build up a renowned collection of textiles.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Jim Naughtie
Interviewed guest: Tom Lippman
Interviewed guest: Fiona Padfield
Interviewed guest: Andrew Lambert
Interviewed guest: Dame Rosemary Anne Squire DBE
Interviewed guest: Nick Fielding
Archive used: One to One: Madeleine Albright, BBC Two, TX 12.9.2005; A Woman Called Smith, BBC Two, TX 30.4.1997
4/1/2022 • 27 minutes, 51 seconds
Bruce Page, Dottie Frazier, Josephine Veasey (pictured), Maynard Davies
Matthew Bannister on
Bruce Page, the investigative journalist best known for leading the Sunday Times Insight team’s expose of the Thalidomide scandal.
Dottie Frazier, the pioneering American scuba diver who kept a boa constrictor as a pet and rode a motorcycle until she was in her nineties.
Josephine Veasey, the British mezzo-soprano acclaimed for her performances in works by Wagner and Berlioz.
And Maynard Davies, who left school unable to read and write, went on to become a well-known bacon curer and chronicled his extraordinary life in a series of books.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Magnus Linklater
Interviewed guest: Peter Kellner
Interviewed guest: Alec Peirce
Interviewed guest: Karen Straus
Interviewed guest: Una Barry
Interviewed guest: Karen McCall
Archive clips used: AP Archive, How West Germany Treats Thalidomide Children 10/12/1972; BBC One, The Editors: Press and Politicians 02/07/1978; Alec Peirce Scuba Channel, Dottie Frazier - A Diving Legend 09/01/2020; BBC Radio 4, A Musical Evening - Josephine Veasey 01/08/1985; YouTube - TheScottReaProject/Channel 4, Interview with Maynard Davies 1996; BBC Radio 4, The Food Programme - Interview with Maynard Davies 23/07/2000; AmericanRhetoric.com/YouTube Channel, Madeleine Albright - International Women's Day speech 08/03/2010.
3/25/2022 • 28 minutes, 9 seconds
Mary Coombs, Paul Farmer, Leslie Lonsdale-Cooper, William Hurt (pictured)
John Wilson on Mary Coombs, the world's first female computer programmer in the commercial sector; Paul Farmer, a medical anthropologist who saved millions of lives in the world's poorest countries; Leslie Lonsdale-Cooper, who had a run-in with General Eisenhower and later went on to translate the comic book Tintin; and William Hurt, Oscar-winning actor.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Fred Frank Land OBE
Interviewed guest: Georgina Ferry
Interviewed guest: Sheila Davis
Interviewed guest: Sue Brown
Interviewed guest: Michael Goldfarb
Archive clips used: Putney High School YouTube Channel, Mary Coombs - 125th Anniversary Alumnae Portrait Exhibition 09/11/2018; LEO Computer Society / The Centre for Computing History, Sounds of the Leo Computer - LEO III in Operation 1964; Google / computingheritage YouTube Channel, Mary Coombs shares her story 25/09/2013; Partners in Health YouTube Channel, Paul Farmer - I believe in healthcare as a human right 21/05/2009; Decades TV Network, America Enters World War II 1941; British Movietone, Festival of Britain Opening 03/05/1951; BBC Cymru / Moulinsart, Tintin's Adventure with Frank Gardner 30/10/2011; Ellipse Programme/Nelvana Ltd, Tintin - The Crab With The Golden Claws (DVD) 1992; BBC Radio 4 Extra, The Adventures of Tintin By Hergé - Explorers On The Moon (Radio Drama) 06/02/1992; The Ladd Company, Body Heat (1981) film; HB Filmes / FilmDallas, Kiss of The Spiderwoman (1985) film; Marvel Studios / Vita-Ray Dutch Productions (III) / Studio Babelsberg, Captain America - Civil War (2016) film.
3/18/2022 • 27 minutes, 40 seconds
Shirley Hughes (pictured), Roger Graef, Shane Warne
Matthew Bannister on
Shirley Hughes, the children’s author and illustrator whose books created a welcoming and recognisable picture of family life.
Roger Graef, the documentary filmmaker who revealed the inner workings of the criminal justice system, the planning authorities and the treatment of children in care.
Shane Warne, the Australian spin bowler hailed as one of the greatest cricketers of all time, but also known for his off the pitch party lifestyle.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Tom Vulliamy
Interviewed guest: Julia Eccleshare
Interviewed guest: Michael Palin
Interviewed guest: Katie Derham
Interviewed guest: Simon Wilde
Archive clips used: Random House Children's Publishers UK, Shirley Hughes reading 'Dogger' 18/09/2013; BBC Radio 4, Desert Island Discs - Shirley Hughes 25/03/2001; BBC Radio 4, Woman's Hour - Shirley Hughes on 30 Years of Alfie 06/06/2011; Amnesty International, A Pleasure at Her Majesty's - documentary 1976; BAFTA, Tribute to Roger Graef 02/05/2014; Derrick Knight and Partners/ BFI, One of Them is Brett - documentary 1965; BBC Radio 4, Desert Island Discs - Robert Graef 26/10/2014; BBC One, Police - A Complaint of Rape 18/01/1982; BBC Radio 5Live, Remembering Shane Warne 04/03/2022; YouTube, 5 Magical Wickets of Shane Warne 05/08/2018; 60 Minutes Australia/ YouTube Channel, Shane Warne Interview 04/03/2022; Cricket.com.au/ YouTube Channel, From the Vault - Warne's Four Turns Adelaide on its Head 19/04/2020; BBC Radio 4, News - Shane Warne Sent Home from World Cup 11/02/2003; BBC Radio 4, Today - Tribute to Shane Warne 05/04/2022.
3/11/2022 • 28 minutes, 7 seconds
Sonny Ramadhin (pictured), Sister Catherine Wybourne, Captain Raymond Savage, Anna Karen
Matthew Bannister on
Sonny Ramadhin, the West Indian bowler who was one of the heroes of the side that scored a famous victory over England in 1950.
Sister Catherine Wybourne, who was known as the 'digital nun' for her use of blogs and social media to communicate the messages of her order.
Captain Raymond Savage, one of the last surviving prisoners of war who worked on the notorious Burma railway in the 1940s.
Anna Karen, the actor best known for her appearances in the TV sitcom 'On The Buses' and the 'Carry On' films.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Kenneth Ramchand
Interviewed guest: Joshua Surtees
Interviewed guest: Eric Southworth
Interviewed guest: Caroline Aston
Interviewed guest: Linda Regan
Archive clips used: YouTube, Melbourne 1960 - The Tied Test; British Pathé, West Indies Cricketers Look 'Aussie' Class (1950); Joshua Surtees, Interview with Sonny Ramadhin; BBC SOUND ARCHIVE, ENGLAND V WEST INDIES 29/06/1950; Imperial War Museum, IWM 4823 Interview with Raymond Savage; British Pathé/ Reuters, The Fall of Singapore 1942; London Weekend Television, On The Buses TV Show 1971; Rabbit and Snail / Morris Bright MBE Interview with Anna Karen; Hammer Films/EMI, Holiday on The Buses (1973); The Rank Organization, Carry on Camping (1969); BBC One, Eastenders 20/01/1997; BBC Radio 4, Listening Corner - Sally's Secret by Shirley Hughes 04/04/1983.
Matthew Bannister on
Jamal Edwards, the young music entrepreneur whose YouTube channel supported the careers of grime and rap stars like Dave, Skepta and Stormzy.
P.J. O’Rourke, the conservative American satirist who applied his barbed wit to reporting from the world’s trouble spots.
Romaine Hart, whose Screen on the Green cinema gave a platform to art house films and was described by Quentin Tarantino as “the coolest cinema in London”.
Ronnie Campbell, the Scottish crofter and land rights campaigner who is thought to have been the last Highland drover, taking flocks of sheep on long distance journeys by foot.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Crystal Mahey-Morgan
Interviewed guest: Michael Goldfarb
Interviewed guest: Nicola Hart
Interviewed guest: Kenny Mackintosh
Archive clips used: BBC Radio 4: Bookclub, TX 5.2.2006; BBC Radio 4: The Report, TX 11.2.2016
2/25/2022 • 28 minutes, 6 seconds
Beryl Vertue CBE (pictured), Flavio Carboni, Phil Harvey, Lata Mangeshkar
Matthew Bannister on
Beryl Vertue, the TV and film producer who brought us 'Men Behaving Badly' and 'Sherlock'. The actors Martin Clunes and Martin Freeman pay tribute.
Flavio Carboni, the Italian wheeler dealer who was at the centre of many legal and political mysteries, including the death of the Vatican banker Roberto Calvi.
Phil Harvey, the American businessman who set up a chain of sex shops to fund the provision of birth control to millions of people in the developing world.
Lata Mangeshkar, who was seen as one of India’s most influential singers. She recorded songs in thirty six Indian languages.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Simon Nye
Interviewed guest: Martin Clunes
Interviewed guest: Martin Freeman
Interviewed guest: Philip Willan
Interviewed guest: Simona Zecchi
Interviewed guest: Christopher Purdy
Interviewed guest: Anil Sinanan
Archive clips used: BBC RADIO 3, Free Thinking 09/06/2021; Thames TV/Hartswood Films, Men Behaving Badly S01 E01 18/02/1992; BBC/Hartswood Films, Men Behaving Badly S06 E01 06/11/1997; BBC/Hartswood Films, Sherlock 2010; BBC RADIO 4, Desert Island Discs 20/01/2013; YouTube, Italian Dinner Party 2010; BBC ONE, PANORAMA: Called To Account 20/12/1982; BBC NEWS, Report on Roberto Calvi 06/10/2005; BBC NEWS, Bomb Explosion in Bologna 03/08/1980; DKT International, Phil Harvey: Pioneer of Social Marketing 28/09/2015; YouTube/Telly TalkIndia, Lata Mangeshkar Funeral 07/02/2022.
Matthew Bannister on
Bamber Gascoigne, the broadcaster and author best known as the long serving host of the TV quiz show 'University Challenge'.
Norma Waterson, the revered singer who was part of the Waterson Carthy dynasty that played a leading role in the English folk revival. We have a personal tribute from her husband Martin Carthy and daughter Eliza Carthy.
Claire Tomlinson, who broke down barriers to become one of the UK’s best polo players.
Thich Nhat Hanh, the Vietnamese-born Buddhist monk known as the 'father of mindfulness'.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Christina Gascoigne
Interviewed guest: Wasfi Kani
Interviewed guest: Martin Carthy
Interviewed guest: Eliza Carthy
Interviewed guest: Mark Tomlinson
Interviewed guest: Brother Phap Huu
Interviewed guest: Jeff Wilson
Archive clips used: BBC Radio 4, Desert Island Discs 01/11/1987; Granada TV, University Challenge 01/09/1987; BBC Two, The Young Ones - Bambi 08/05/1984; Granada TV, The Christians e03 The Birth of Europe 16/08/1977; BBC Radio 3, Music Matters 31/03/2018; BBC Radio 4, The King of Games 21/08/1984; BBC SOUND ARCHIVE, Hurlingham vs Scotland 02/09/1980; YouTube / Is Secret, Namo Avalokiteshvara Plum Village Chanting 13/08/2014; BBC Two, Arena: Stories My Country Told Me 14/07/1996.
2/11/2022 • 28 minutes, 3 seconds
Sir Crispin Tickell, Barry Cryer (pictured), Darlene Hard, Elza Soares
Julian Worricker on:
The diplomat Sir Crispin Tickell, who advised four prime ministers, and influenced international policy on climate change...
The writer and performer, Barry Cryer, whose work spanned sixty years and involved scripts for most of the comedy greats...
Darlene Hard, 21 times a Grand Slam tennis champion, described as one of the greatest doubles players of her generation...
And the Brazilian singer, Elza Soares, who was a campaigner for women's rights and against racism.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Oliver Tickell
Interviewed guest: Euan Nisbit
Interviewed guest: Sally Jones
Interviewed guest: Virginia Wade
Interviewed guest: Robin Denslow
Archive clips used: BBC Radio 4, Desert Island Discs - Sir Crispin Tickell 15/04/1990; BBC One, Breakfast News - Gulf War 17/01/1991; United Nations, UN General Assembly Climate Change 08/11/1989; AP, Rio Earth Summit 12/06/1992; BBC Four, Mark Lawson talks to Barry Cryer 02/04/2008; BBC Radio 4, I'm Sorry I Haven't A Clue 24/08/2015; YouTube, Darlene Hard vs Maria Bueno US Nationals 1960; BBC Archive, All England Championships Ladies Final 04/07/1960; BBC Archive, All England Championships Ladies Final TX 06/07/1957; BBC Four, Brasil, Brasil: Samba to Bossa 24/11/2007.
2/4/2022 • 28 minutes, 7 seconds
Meat Loaf (pictured), André Leon Talley, Jana Bennett, Kristin Baybars
Matthew Bannister on
Meat Loaf, the rock opera singer best known for his album Bat Out Of Hell.
André Leon Talley, the fashion editor who played a leading role at US Vogue magazine and supported the careers of many designers.
Jana Bennett, the BBC executive who led the transformation of TV science programmes and oversaw the Corporation’s move into the digital age.
Kristin Baybars, whose beautiful doll's house furniture and other toys were sought after by children and adults alike.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Dana Thomas
Interviewed guest: Mark Thompson
Interviewed guest: Lorraine Heggessey
Interviewed guest: Susila Baybars
Interviewed guest: Janet Richardson
Archive clips used: BBC Four, Meat Loaf: In and Out of Hell 21/01/2022; CNBC News, assassination of John F. Kennedy 22/11/1963; BBC Radio 5Live, Afternoon Edition 07/09/2016; Twentieth Century Fox / Michael White Productions, The Rocky Horror Picture Show 1975; Radio 4 Last Word 09/05/2021; Fox 2000 Pictures / New Regency Productions / Linson Films, Fight Club 1999; BBC Radio 4, Front Row 12/01/2010; BBC One, Good Morning with Anne and Nick 27/10/1995; CBS, The Late Late Show with James Corden 25/01/2022; BBC Natural History Unit / Impossible Pictures / Discovery Channel, Walking With Dinosaurs 1999; BBC / The Learning Channel, The Human Body 1998, YouTube / National Theatre, Jerry Springer (The Opera) - National Theatre 50th Birthday Show 06/07/2014; André Leon Talley Full Address Oxford Union 08/05/2013; Entertainment Tonight Canada, tribute to André Leon Talley; BBC Radio 5Live, Emma Barnett with André Leon Talley 11/06/2020; Los Angeles Times / YouTube Channel, André Leon Talley On Growing Up 10/09/2017; BBC News, Kristin Baybars news report 17/01/2017; London Dollshouse Showcase, Kristin Baybars & her Aladdin's Cave 2016; BBC One Play School 06/01/1978; Talkback Thames / BBC, QI S02 E04 22/10/2004.
1/28/2022 • 28 minutes, 9 seconds
Lord Sainsbury, David Stuart, Elizabeth Selby, Ronnie Spector (pictured)
Matthew Bannister on
Lord Sainsbury of Preston Candover who led the expansion of the family grocery business during the 1970s and 80s.
David Stuart, the former gay escort and drug dealer who turned his life around and became a much loved support worker and advocate for the LGBT community.
Elizabeth Selby, who with her husband ran one of the UK’s most successful photographic agencies, supplying pictures to newspapers and magazines around the world.
And Ronnie Spector, lead singer of the Ronettes and wife of the notorious music producer Phil Spector.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Sir Timothy Sainsbury
Interviewed guest: Adam Leyland
Interviewed guest: Matthew Hodson
Interviewed guest: John Selby
Interviewed guest: Herbie Knott
Archive clips used: Sainsburys, Jamie Oliver Advert 2003; BBC Archive, Woman's Hour - Centenary of J. Sainsbury Ltd 18/04/1969; BBC Radio 4, The Fall & Rise of Reginald Perrin: The Manipulators 29/01/1980; .NOBI Films, hu.mans: David Stuart 2016; David Stuart YouTube Channel, Why chemsex support doesn't belong in traditional addiction services 30/12/2021; BBC 6 Music, Lauren Laverne with Ronnie Spector 15/06/2016; BBC Radio 2, Tycoon of Teen 21/12/1996.
1/21/2022 • 28 minutes, 5 seconds
Sidney Poitier (pictured), EO Wilson, Sarah Weddington, Assunta 'Pupetta' Maresca
Matthew Bannister on
Sidney Poitier, the first black man to win a 'Best Actor' Oscar, known for his powerful performances in ‘In The Heat of The Night’, ‘Lilies of the Field’ and ‘To Sir, With Love’. His co-star in that film - Lulu - pays tribute.
E.O.Wilson, the American biologist and champion of biodiversity who some have compared to Charles Darwin.
Sarah Weddington, the lawyer who argued the landmark case of Roe v Wade before the US Supreme Court. The case, which is being challenged now, established the constitutional right for women to have abortions.
Assunta ‘Pupetta’ Maresca, the Italian mafia boss who served a prison sentence for shooting dead the man who killed her husband.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Lulu
Interviewed guest: Barbie Latza Nadeau
Interviewed guest: Dr George McGavin
Interviewed guest: Paula Ehrlich
Interviewed guest: Joshua Prager
Interviewed guest: Mary Ziegler
Interviewed guest: Stephen Bourne
Archive clips used: The Mirisch Corporation, In The Heat Of The Night (1967); BBC News, Bonnie Greer tribute to Sidney Poitier 07/01/2022; Entertainment Tonight Canada, Philip Davis tribute to Sidney Poitier 07/01/2022; YouTube, Poitier 80; Twentieth Century Fox, No Way Out (1950); Oscars / YouTube channel, Sidney Poitier wins best Actor 36th Oscars (1964); Columbia British Productions, To Sir, With Love (1967); BBC Radio 4, The Life Scientific - E.O. Wilson 28/07/2015; Texas Tribune / YouTube channel, Sarah Weddington interview 22/01/2013; ITV News / YouTube channel, Protest of anti-abortion laws in America 21/05/2019; BBC TV, Everyman - The Politics Of Life 03/12/1989.
1/14/2022 • 28 minutes, 8 seconds
Lord Rogers (pictured), April Ashley MBE, Joan Didion, Ray Illingworth
Matthew Bannister on
Lord Rogers of Riverside, the influential architect who designed the Pompidou Centre in Paris and the Lloyds Building in London.
April Ashley, the transgender model who partied with pop stars and aristocrats during the Swinging Sixties and campaigned for changes to the law on gender identity.
Joan Didion, the American writer best known for her memoir 'The Year of Magical Thinking' written after the deaths of her husband and daughter.
Ray Illingworth, the Yorkshire-born cricketer who captained England to two successive Ashes victories.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Catherine Slessor
Interviewed guest: Ivan Harbour
Interviewed guest: Christine Burns MBE
Interviewed guest: Dr Gary Everett
Interviewed guest: Tracy Daughtery
Interviewed guest: Susanna Moore
Interviewed guest: Henry Blofeld
Archive clips used: BBC TV, IMAGINE - Richard Rogers Inside Out 26/02/2008; ThamesTv YouTube Channel, Good Afternoon - April Ashley Interview 1970s; Media Archive Central England, What Am I? (1980); BBC RADIO 4, KALEIDOSCOPE - California Dreaming 05/07/1979; F.P. Productions / Universal Pictures, Play It As It Lays (1972); BBC RADIO 3, Words and Music - Less is More 23/02/2020; BBC RADIO 4, Today 23/04/2008; Merlin Television, MMC Masterclass (1994); YouTube, Ray Illingworth Career Review 01/01/2022; YouTube, Ashes Tour 1970-71 7th Test SCG 17/08/2021; BBC RADIO 4, Start The Week 09/08/1980; BBC RADIO 5Live, Ian Chappell Tribute to Ray Illingworth 26/12/2021; BBC RADIO 4, It's Your Line 13/04/1971; BBC Video. Ashes '72 (1988); YouTube, The Ashes 1970-71 Australia v England 7th Test End of Match 31/10/2016.
1/7/2022 • 28 minutes, 2 seconds
Janice Long (pictured), Marvin Hagler, Esther Bejarano, Leslie Bricusse
Julian Worricker on
Janice Long, the pioneering female DJ who was heard on Radios 1 and 2 and was a familiar face on Top of the Pops.
“Marvellous” Marvin Hagler, one of the greatest middleweight boxing champions of all time.
Esther Bejarano, one of the last survivors of the Auschwitz women’s orchestra who devoted her life to campaigning against racism.
Leslie Bricusse OBE, the prolific songwriter behind dozens of hits for stage and screen, including songs for the Bond films, Willy Wonka and Doctor Dolittle.
Producer: Dan Hardoon
Interviewed guest: Annie Nightingale CBE
Interviewed guest: Peter “Hooky” Hook
Interviewed guest: Sugar Ray Leonard
Interviewed guest: John McDonald
Interviewed guest: Antonella Romeo
Interviewed guest: Kutlu Yurtseven
Interviewed guest: Evie Bricusse
Interviewed guest: Dame Joan Collins
Interviewed guest: Craig McLean
Archive clips from: YouTube, Janice Long Radio 2 Presenter on 3-2-1 in 1978; YouTube, Janice Long 1986 interview with Billy Jam 10/09/2020; Top of the Pops, BBC1 07/03/1985; Rob Bonnett interview with Marvin Hagler, BBC TV 11/06/2005; On Side, BBC1 09/03/1998; YouTube, Marvin Hagler vs Alan Minter 1980, Fight Collective 07/03/2021; YouTube, Marvin Hagler vs Sugar Ray Leonard, Top Rank Boxing 06/04/2020; YouTube, Esther Bejarano & Coincidence, ‘Mir Lebn Ejbig’; BBC4, Shooting the War: Women 03/02/2010; YouTube, Kölner Treff - Mit Jeanette Hain und Esther Bejarano 30/03/2019; Esther Bejarano & Microphone Mafia, ‘Avanti Popolo’; BBC Radio 2, Graham Norton 05/11/2017.
12/31/2021 • 28 minutes, 4 seconds
bell hooks (pictured), Shirley McGreal, Lionel Blair, Melvin Van Peebles
Julian Worricker on
The feminist writer bell hooks, credited with prompting new, radical thinking about race, gender and class.
Shirley McGreal, founder of the International Primate Protection League, whose work in conservation led to her opening a gibbon sanctuary in South Carolina.
The singer, dancer and actor, Lionel Blair, whose career began during World War II, and spanned eight decades...
And the pioneering film director, Melvin Van Peebles, who became known as the godfather of black cinema.
Producer: Emily Finch
Interviewed guest: Liza Goddard
Interviewed guest: Gwenda Motley
Interviewed guest: Linda Strong-Leek
Interviewed guest: Helen Thirlway
Interviewed guest: Liza Goddard
Interviewed guest: Jess Conrad
Interviewed guest: Garrett Chaffin-Quiray
Archive clips used: YouTube, Freedom Forum: Speaking Freely - bell hooks 29/03/2016; Sankofa Read Aloud YouTube Channel, Happy to Be Nappy by bell hooks 03/07/2017; YouTube, The Bill Collins Show - Shirley McGreal 13/04/2018; International Primate Protection League Facebook Page, Gibbons Singing and Swinging 16/4/2020; BBC1 TV, Nationwide: Shirley McGreal 01/07/1980; SOSorangutans YouTube page, Orangutan Longcall 11/10/2011; YouTube, Gibbon Sound 05/10/2016; THAMES TV, Give Us a Clue (Series 2) 1979; The Official Sammy Davis Jr Website, Sammy Davis Jr and Lionel Blair Tap Battle - 1961 Royal Variety Performance; BBC Radio 4, Today 17/02/2010.
12/24/2021 • 28 minutes, 4 seconds
Mary Maher, Robbie Shakespeare (pictured), Anwar Ditta, Anne Rice
Matthew Bannister on
The journalist and feminist Mary Maher. She edited the women’s page of the Irish Times and was a prime mover in campaigns for equal rights.
The bass player Robbie Shakespeare. With his partner Sly Dunbar he formed a powerful rhythm section in demand by artists from Peter Tosh and Black Uhuru to Grace Jones, Mick Jagger and Bob Dylan.
Anwar Ditta, the British Asian mother who fought for five years to be allowed to bring her three children from Pakistan to the UK.
Anne Rice the best-selling author of the Vampire Chronicles series of books.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Rosita Sweetman
Interviewed guest: Michael Foley
Interviewed guest: Don Chandler
Interviewed guest: David Katz
Interviewed guest: Tariq Mehmood
Interviewed guest: Ruth Bundey
Interviewed guest: Dr Samantha George
Archive clips used: RTE, Bowman - Tribute to Mary Maher 12/12/2021; GRANADA TV, World in Action: These Children Are Mine 16/03/1981; Oxford Television Production/BBC FOUR, Cover Stories - Anne Rice 25/06/2002; BBC Radio 4, Front Row - Tribute to Anne Rice 13/12/2021; Geffen Pictures, Interview With The Vampire (1994); Anne Rice YouTube Channel, Returning to Christianity 07/05/2010.
12/17/2021 • 27 minutes, 58 seconds
Sir Antony Sher (pictured), Roger Phillips, Judy Totton
Matthew Bannister on
Sir Antony Sher, one of the finest actors of his generation, who was also a writer and a painter. We have a heartfelt personal tribute from his husband, the Artistic Director of the Royal Shakespeare Company Gregory Doran.
Roger Phillips, the colourful plant photographer who produced many authoritative books on wild flowers, trees and plants but was perhaps best known for his work on mushrooms.
Judy Totton, the music business publicist who worked with clients like Status Quo, Toyah Willcox and the Great Train robber Ronnie Biggs. Her friend Joan Armatrading pays tribute.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Gregory Doran
Interviewed guest: Martyn Rix
Interviewed guest: Lyla Foy
Interviewed guest: Joan Armatrading
Interviewed guest: John Taylor
Archive clips used: Opus Arte, King Lear - Royal Shakespeare Company 2017; BBC Radio 3, Free Thinking - Antony Sher 06/05/2015; Illuminations Media, Macbeth - Royal Shakespeare Company 2003; Roger Phillips' YouTube Channel, Wild Food Forager: Foraging for Morel Mushrooms in the Forest 24/05/2019; YouTube: Happy Tibet, Tibetan Prayer Dechen Monlam 26/10/2017.
12/10/2021 • 28 minutes, 1 second
Stephen Sondheim (pictured), Sir Frank Williams, Jo-Carroll Dennison
Matthew Bannister on
Stephen Sondheim, the acclaimed composer and lyricist who revolutionised the stage musical. We have a tribute from Imelda Staunton who gave award-winning performances in some of his finest roles.
Sir Frank Williams, the Formula One motor racing team owner who continued to enjoy great success after breaking his neck in a car crash that left him quadriplegic. His close friend and colleague Sir Patrick Head recalls their long working relationship.
Jo-Carroll Dennison, the oldest surviving winner of the Miss America beauty contest and one of the first to object to the swim suit round.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: David Benedict and to actor
Interviewed guest: Imelda Staunton
Interviewed guest: Simon Taylor.
Interviewed guest: Jenny Kirchner
Interviewed guest: Evan Mills
Archive clips used: BBC TV, The Late Show: Face to Face - Stephen Sondheim 09/10/1995; BBC Radio 4, Desert Island Discs - Stephen Sondheim 31/12/2000; BBC Sound Archive, Frank Williams Interview 12/07/1980; BBC One, News 29/11/2021; BBC Radio 1Xtra, Newsbeat 29/11/2021; Watershed Pictures/Formula One Constructors Association, Mansell & Williams 1992; BBC 5Live, News 29/11/2021; BBC Radio 4, Sport On Four 20/09/1986; YouTube, Crash Aftermath - F1 1994 San Marino; BBC One, Six o' Clock News 29/10/1997; BBC Radio 4, Today programme 29/11/2021; Justin Johnson/YouTube Channel, Delta Blues on the Weissenborn Lap Slide Guitar 20/08/2021; British Pathé, Miss America 1940; Miss America Organization/Evan Mills, Jo-Carroll Dennison 100th Anniversary Gala Speech 07/09/2021; Kenco Productions/CBS Television Network, The Phil Silvers Show 1955; Columbia Pictures, Trailer for the Jolson Story 1946; Alliance Productions, Trailer for Prehistoric Women 1950; Television Corporation of America, Abbott and Costello Show S1 E24 The Actors' Home 1953.
12/3/2021 • 28 minutes, 9 seconds
Ian Wallace, Rossana Banti, Ivy Nicholson (pictured), Cedric Robinson MBE
Matthew Bannister on
Ian Wallace, one of the most influential figures in British ornithology. At one time he had seen a wider variety of species of birds than anyone else in Britain.
Rossana Banti, the Italian partisan who risked her life acting as a courier for the Resistance.
Ivy Nicholson, the model who was once a muse for Andy Warhol but fell on hard times and ended up sleeping on the streets.
Cedric Robinson MBE, who guided people across the treacherous sands of Morecambe Bay for more than 50 years.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Stephen Moss
Interviewed guest: Roderick Bailey
Interviewed guest: Bill Bewley
Interviewed guest: Taryn Gould
Interviewed guest: Sean Bolger
Archive clips used: BBC Radio 4, 100 Years of British Birds 07/05/2007; The Sound Approach Podcast, Interview With Ian Wallace 2019; Progettazione Multimediale, Noi Partigiani - Interview With Rossana Banti 2021; Taryn Gould / Vimeo, As Is, As Was teaser 2014; Planet Group Entertainment, Factory People 2008; YouTube, Valarie Solanas on Shooting Andy Warhol 1968; BBC Radio 4, Midweek 09/12/2009; BBC Radio 4 Extra, Crossing the Bay 19/04/2019; BBC Radio 4, Saturday Live 16/07/2016.
11/29/2021 • 28 minutes, 5 seconds
Aaron Beck, Joan Carlyle (pictured), Etel Adnan, Anne Bradford
Kirsty Lang on Aaron Beck the Eminent psychiatrist who developed cognitive behavioural therapy into the world’s most popular treatment for depression and anxiety.
Joan Carlyle the principal soprano at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden for almost 20 years.
Etel Adnan one of the Arab world's most important writers, and author of one of the most important War Novels ever written and
Anne Bradford Compiler of the bestselling crossword solver’s dictionary who could complete the Times puzzle in six minutes.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Dr Judith Beck
Interviewed guest: Catriona Gallo
Interviewed guest: Peggy Reynolds
Interviewed guest: Dr Elizabeth Marcus
Interviewed guest: Gillian Beauchamp
Archive clips used: BBC Radio 4, All In The Mind 26/03/2003; BBC TWO, Living Hell: Depression 03/03/1999; BBC TWO, Music On Two: I Think It Should Go Like This 31/01/1973; Serpentine Galleries, Etel Adnan Reading From The Arab Apocalypse 07/10/2015; HENI Talks, Hans Ulrich Obrist Visits Etel Adnan 24/02/2020; BBC Radio 4, The Reference Library 21/11/2000.
11/19/2021 • 28 minutes
Sir Archie Lamb (pictured), John Boyden, Ida Nudel, Abolhassan Banisadr
Matthew Bannister on
Sir Archie Lamb who rose from Foreign Office filing clerk to become one of the UK’s most distinguished ambassadors.
John Boyden, the record producer who founded the Classics For Pleasure label to bring classical music to a wide audience at affordable prices.
Ida Nudel, whose campaigns on behalf of Jewish people refused permission to emigrate to Israel from the Soviet Union led to her being sent to Siberia.
Abolhassan Banisadr, the first President of Iran after the Islamic Revolution.
Produced by Neil George
Interviewed guest: Robin Lamb
Interviewed guest: Tony Faulkner
Interviewed guest: Norman Lebrecht
Interviewed guest: Jane Biran
Interviewed guest: Hossein Bastani
Archive clips used: Churchill College Archives Centre - Cambridge, Interview with Sir Archie Lamb 21/06/2000; BBC Panorama 18/07/1977; AP Archive, Anti-Soviet Demonstration Over Jews' Treatment 04/10/1987; YouTube, Songs of Islamic Revolution in Iran 02/02/2020; AP Archive, Ayatollah Komeini Returns in Triumph to Iran 01/02/1974; ABC News, Iran Hostage Crisis 1979 11/11/1979; BBC Radio 4, The World Tonight 03/08/2009; AP Archive, Iran - Fall of President Bani-Sadr 26/06/1981.
11/12/2021 • 28 minutes, 8 seconds
Sir Michael Rutter (pictured), Christopher Wenner, Sister Megan Rice, Jeanette Altwegg
Matthew Bannister on
Sir Michael Rutter who was known as the 'father of child psychiatry'. He pioneered research into many aspects of child development.
Christopher Wenner - also known as Max Stahl - who changed career from Blue Peter TV presenter to intrepid documentary film maker.
Sister Megan Rice, the American nun who campaigned against nuclear weapons. She was arrested and sent to prison for breaking into a uranium processing plant.
Jeanette Altwegg, the last British woman to win the individual Olympic Gold Medal for figure skating back in 1952.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Edmund Sonuga-Barke
Interviewed guest: Stephen Scott
Interviewed guest: Martin Wenner
Interviewed guest: David Butcher
Interviewed guest: Carole Sargent
Interviewed guest: Peter Mason
Interviewed guest: Susan D Russell
Archive clips used: BBC Radio 4, The Life Scientific - Sir Michael Rutter 03/06/2014; BBC TV, Blue Peter 18/06/1979; JOURNEYMAN TV, REF 4701 Dili Massacre 12/07/1994; ABC Australia, British journalist and television presenter passes away 28/10/2021; MSNBC, Nun Prisoned For Anti-Nuclear Protest Released 21/05/2015; British Pathé, Atomic Tests in Nevada 1955; Washington Post, The Nun Who Broke Into a US Nuclear... 30/04/2013; War Register's International, Sister Megan Rice Talk In London 08/02/2016; British Pathé, British Amateur Figure Skating 1947; British Movietone, British Women in Winter Olympics 25/02/1952; BBC Sound Archive, Olympic Games Skating 02/02/1952; AP /Movietone, Jeannette Altwegg wins European Figure Skating 08/02/1951.
11/9/2021 • 27 minutes, 41 seconds
Bernard Haitink (pictured), Victor Gregg, Ruthie Tompson, Paddy Moloney
Matthew Bannister on
Bernard Haitink, one of the greatest orchestral conductors of his generation, known for his interpretations of Mahler, Bruckner and Wagner.
Victor Gregg, the British soldier who was caught up in the Dresden bombing raids, suffered Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and later went undercover for MI6.
Ruthie Tompson, one of Walt Disney’s longest serving animators, she worked on classic films like 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs' and 'Fantasia'.
Paddy Moloney, the Irish pipe player who founded and led the influential band the Chieftains.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Norman Lebretch
Interviewed guest: Nick Kenyon
Interviewed guest: Rick Stroud
Interviewed guest: Brian Sibley
Interviewed guest: Louise Mulcahy
Interviewed guest: Aedín Moloney
Archive clips used: BBC, Proms 2005/2008/2019; BBC Radio 3, Music Matters 20/11/2017; BBC Radio 2, Victor - Read by John Hurt 12/11/2011; MPTF YouTube channel, Spotlight on Ruthie Tompson 06/03/2012; King Features Syndicate, Popeye The Sailor Man ep52 1960; Walt Disney Productions, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs 1937/Pinocchio 1940/Mary Poppins 1964; BBC, Omnibus 29/01/1976; BBC, Profile 15/11/1976; BBC FOUR, Legends - The Chieftains 15/03/2008; BBC, The Old Grey Whistle Test 06/04/1976.
10/29/2021 • 28 minutes, 7 seconds
Colin Powell (pictured), Brendan Kennelly, Myriam Sarachik, John Clunies-Ross
Kirsty Lang on
Colin Powell, who rose from an impoverished childhood in Harlem to become US Secretary of State
A much loved Irish poet: Brendan Kennelly who learnt his storytelling skills growing up in his father’s pub in County Kerry
A ground-breaking female scientist Myriam Sarachik who had to contend with the deeply entrenched sexism
And the extraordinary story of John Clunies-Ross - former ruler of the Cocos Islands which he ran for many years as a private fiefdom
Produced by Neil George
Interviewed guest: Karen de Young
Interviewed guest: John Sugar
Interviewed guest: Gerald Dawe
Interviewed guest: Kenneth Chang
Interviewed guest: John George Clunies-Ross
Archive clips used: AP, US President Biden on Colin Powell 18/10/2021; NBC, Colin Powell addresses UN Sec Council 2003; Aspen Ideas Festival, Colin Powell 26/09/2007; Bloodaxe Books, Driving to Work With Brendan Kennelly 19/09/2011; CUNY TV, Women to Women - Dr Myriam P. Sarachik 28/04/2005; David R.M. Irving - YouTube, The World of Cocos Malay Music and Dance 30/12/2020; ABC (Australian TV), Dynasties - The Clunies-Ross Family 2004; Movietone, Queen at Cocos Islands and Ceylon 22/04/1954.
10/22/2021 • 28 minutes, 2 seconds
Abdul Qadeer Khan (pictured), R. Allen Gardner, Joyce Jackson, Beresford King-Smith
Matthew Bannister on
Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan, once described as the world’s most dangerous man - but hailed as a hero in his native Pakistan for leading the country’s development of nuclear weapons.
Dr. R. Allen Gardner, the American ethologist who trained a chimpanzee to use sign language.
Beresford King-Smith, who played a key backstage role in the success of the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra.
And memories of the long life of Joyce Jackson who has died aged 107.
Interviewed guest: Stephen Maddock OBE
Interviewed guest: Mary Lee Jensvold
Interviewed guest: Umer Farooq
Interviewed guest: Gordon Corera
Interviewed guest: Mary Lee Jensvold
Interviewed guest: Sarah Allatt
Archive clips used: DocsOnline, Nuclear Tango 26/05/2009; AP, Clinton condemns Pakistans Nuclear Tests 28/05/1998; Al Jazeera English, Abdul Qadeer Khan 10/10/2021; Geo News, Funeral prayers for Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan 10/10/2021; WGBH, BBC Horizon - Washoe the Chimp 04/11/1974; YouTube, Unidentified clip of Beatrix and Allen Gardner with Washoe the Chimp 13/02/2009; Sarah Allatt, Private interviews of Joyce Jackson 2021; BBC, Scrapbook for 1924 23/02/1955; British Pathé, Sir Alan Cobham shows how he will refuel in the air 1934; Inter-Pathé History, British Declaration of War 03/09/1939; BBC Radio 4, On The Town - Birmingham 02/01/1980; Central Television, Simon Rattle on the Record 1988.
10/15/2021 • 28 minutes, 6 seconds
Antony Hewish (pictured), Roger Michell, Abdelaziz Bouteflika, Jane Powell
Matthew Bannister on
Antony Hewish, the radio astronomer who won the Nobel Prize for his work on discovering pulsars.
Roger Michell, the film, theatre and TV director who brought us Notting Hill, The Buddha of Suburbia and Persuasion.
Abdelaziz Bouteflika, the President of Algeria for more than twenty years, who was ousted from power after trying to secure a fifth term in office.
And Jane Powell, the American actor, singer and dancer who starred in many classic film musicals in the 1940s and 50s.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Astronomer Royal Lord Rees
Interviewed guest: Michael Rowan-Robinson
Interviewed guest: Jeremy Sams
Interviewed guest: David Benedict
Interviewed guest: Maher Mezahi
Archive clips used: Web of Stories, Antony Hewish interview 01/08/2017; New York Times, Almost Famous - The Silent Pulse of the Universe 27/07/2021; Polygram Filmed Entertainment, Notting Hill (film) 1999; BBC Radio 3, The Essay – Roger Michell 06/05/2016; BBC 2, Downtown Lagos 07/10/1992; Paramount/Scott Rudin, Changing Lanes (film) 2002; BBC/Millésime Productions/WGBH, Jane Austen’s Persuasion (tv series) 1995; YouTube, From Our Mountains – revolution song; BBC Newsnight, Algerian Elections 15/04/1999; BBC World Service, This Week and Africa – Algeria Referendum 18/09/1999; BBC Radio 4, Today – Algerian Elections 09/04/2009; HBO/VICE News, The Youth-Led Protests That Forced Algeria's President To Not Run Again 13/03/2019; SAG-AFTRA Foundation, Conversation with Jane Powell 02/12/1997; Charles R. Rogers Productions, Song of the Open Road (trailer) 1944; NBC RADIO, The Big Show 12/11/1950.
10/8/2021 • 28 minutes, 9 seconds
Lord Gowrie, Kamla Bhasin (pictured), Shirley Metherell MBE, Roger Hunt MBE
Matthew Bannister on
Lord Gowrie, the Tory peer who served as Northern Ireland minister and Arts minister under Margaret Thatcher. He was also a poet and went on to chair Sotheby’s and the Arts Council.
Kamla Bhasin, the Indian feminist writer who inspired millions of women in her campaigns against patriarchy.
Shirley Metherell MBE who founded a centre for the treatment of babies with hearing loss after her own daughter was diagnosed.
Roger Hunt MBE, the Liverpool FC striker who played a key role in England’s 1966 World Cup winning team.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Julia Langdon
Interviewed guest: V (formerly known as Eve Ensler)
Interviewed guest: Aishwarya Bhuta
Interviewed guest: Julie Hughes
Interviewed guest: Imogen Manuel
Interviewed guest: John Keith
Archive clips used: BBC Radio 3, Private Passions - Lord Gowrie 01/08/1998; BBC Radio 4, The Ones That Got Away 01/08/2001; YouTube, Kamla Basin Official - Because I am a Girl 27/03/2020; YouTube, Kamla Bhasin - Slogans for One Billion Rising, 31/10/2013; TEDxDurbarMarg, Kamla Bhasin - In Women We Believe 08/06/2021; The Elizabeth Foundation Charity, Interview with Shirley Metherell MBE; BBC Radio 5Live, Football Daily 29/09/2021; British Pathe, Liverpool vs Leeds 1965 cup final; BBC1 Summer of 66 - Magyr Misery 26/05/1986; YouTube, England vs Scotland April 1966.
10/1/2021 • 28 minutes, 5 seconds
Jimmy Greaves (pictured), Sir Clive Sinclair, Olivia Jordan, Carolyn Shoemaker
Julian Worricker on:
One of the greatest attacking footballers of all time, Jimmy Greaves, who later became a successful and often very funny TV presenter...
The inventor Sir Clive Sinclair, who made home computers and calculators portable and affordable.
Olivia Jordan whose heroism during World War 2 saw her driving ambulances through France before she became Charles De Gaulle's translator.
And the astrophysicist, Carolyn Shoemaker, one of the world's foremost detectors of comets and asteroids.
Interviewed guest: Jim Rosenthal
Interviewed guest: Jason Fitzpatrick
Interviewed guest: Christopher Curry
Interviewed guest: Tessa Dunlop
Interviewed guest: Dr Jennifer Wiseman
Interviewed guest: David Levy
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: The Levin Interview: Radio 4 24.06.1984; Today, Radio 4 20.09.2021; Profile, Radio 4 22.03.1979; Newsreel: German Invasion of France 1940, Pathe News; To All Free Frenchmen: Charles de Gaulle on the French Defeat 1940, Pathe News 13.04.2014; The Jupiter Collision - Watch this space, BBC Two 16.07.1994; BBC News: BBC One 22.07.1994.
Datshiane Navanayagam on Otelo Saraiva de Carvalho, the army officer who led the Carnation Revolution in Portugal.
Jean-Paul Belmondo, the unconventional film star who made his name in the film Breathless.
Angela Milner the palaeontologist who identified the previously unknown fish-eating theropod, the Baryonyx Walkeri.
Inge Ginsberg - the holocaust survivor who became a heavy metal singer in her nineties.
Produced by Neil George
Interviewed guest: Kenneth Maxwell
Interviewed guest: Raquel Varela
Interviewed guest: Neil Christie
Interviewed guest: Paul Barrett
Interviewed guest: Pedro da Silva
Interviewed guest: Lucia Caruso
Archive clips used: Thames TV, Portugal The Carnation Revolution 02/05/1974; Les Productions Georges de Beauregard/Société Nouvelle de Cinématographie (SNC)/Les Films Imperia, A Bout de Souffle 1960; YouTube, Tetes d'affiche Jean-Paul Belmondo interview 1961; Films Georges de Beauregard/Rome Paris Films/Société Nouvelle de Cinématographie (SNC), Pierrot Le Fou (trailer) 1965; Cerito Films/Les Films/ArianeSimar Films, Stavisky (trailer) 1974; Dinosaurs Dinosaurs Dinosaurs, Interview with Angela Milner 1985; Natural History Museum, Baryonyx - the discovery of an amazing fish-eating dinosaur 2011; The New York Times YouTube Channel, How a Holocaust Survivor Became Death Metal Grandma 2018.
9/17/2021 • 28 minutes, 4 seconds
Sergei Kovalev (pictured), Lee 'Scratch' Perry, Abebech Gobena, Ed Asner
Matthew Bannister on
Sergei Kovalev, the scientist and leading dissident, who spoke out against human rights abuses under the Soviet Union and the Yeltsin and Putin regimes. He was sent to a labour camp and suffered internal exile.
Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry, the reggae pioneer who helped Bob Marley to develop his sound.
Abebech Gobena, the Ethiopian humanitarian who devoted her life to helping thousands of disadvantaged children, with some calling her ‘Africa’s Mother Theresa’.
Ed Asner, the American actor best known for playing the irascible but principled news editor in the TV series Lou Grant.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Jonathan Dimbleby
Interviewed guest: Victor Davidoff
Interviewed guest: Neil ‘Mad Professor’ Fraser
Interviewed guest: David Katz
Interviewed guest: Elias Mulugeta Hordofa
Interviewed guest: David Gritten
Interviewed guest: Angie Errigo
Archive clips used: BBC, Russia: A Journey with Jonathan Dimbleby 25/05/2008; ITN, Chechnya war report 1995; YouTube - Human Rights Watch, Sergei Kovalev interview 28/12/2011; BBC, Lee 'Scratch' Perry in His Own Words 13/06/2011; YouTube - Choir at Emmanuel Orphanage in Woliso 2010; BBC, News Report 1Ethiopia Famine 7/07/1984; BBC, Everywoman 27/02/2004; Addis Post, Abebech Gobena funeral 06/07/2021; My Generation, Bill Newcott interview with Ed Asner 2021; Pixar/Disney, Up movie 2009; MTM Productions, Lou Grant S01 E01 1977; EMMYTVLEGENDS.ORG, Ed Asner interview 2011; New Line Cinema/Guy Walks into a Bar Productions/Gold/Miller Productions, Elf movie 2003.
9/10/2021 • 28 minutes, 5 seconds
Jill Murphy (pictured), Len Gibson, Dame Elizabeth Blackadder, Nanci Griffith
Matthew Bannister on:
The children’s author Jill Murphy who based her best-selling stories of the Worst Witch on her own schooldays.
Len Gibson, the former prisoner of war from Sunderland who worked on the notorious Burma railway and later taught Dave Stewart of the Eurythmics to play guitar.
Dame Elizabeth Blackadder, the acclaimed artist noted for her exquisite Japanese-influenced paintings of flowers and cats.
Nanci Griffith, the singer and songwriter from Texas who was known as the 'queen of folkabilly'.
Producer: Lucy Wai
Interviewed guest: Bob Harris
Interviewed guest: Alexandra Gladwell
Interviewed guest: Brian Burnie
Interviewed guest: Pamela Todd
Interviewed guest: Alice Strang
Interviewed guest: Duncan Macmillan
Archive clips used: BBC, Jackanory Words or Pictures 1995; CBBC/ZDF, The Worst Witch 2017; BBC, Woman's Hour 2016; Pathe News, Japanese planes 1943; WarGen, The War Memories of Len Gibson 2019; Daft as a Brush charity, Dave Stewart tribute to Len Gibson 2021; BBC, Conversation with Artists 1982; BBC, Words and Music 1994; BBC, Bob Harris' Country 2012.
9/3/2021 • 28 minutes, 5 seconds
Charlie Watts (pictured), Austin Mitchell, Hugh Wood, Sean Lock
Matthew Bannister on
The Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts. We have a tribute from the boogie woogie pianist who played with Charlie in his other band.
The maverick Labour MP and TV presenter Austin Mitchell who fought for the fishing industry in his constituency of Great Grimsby, once changing his surname to 'Haddock' as a publicity stunt.
The composer Hugh Wood, remembered by his former student the pianist Joanna MacGregor.
And the comedian Sean Lock, a regular on Channel Four’s panel show '8 Out of 10 Cats'. His friend and fellow comic Lee Mack pays tribute.
Producer: Lucy Wai
Archive clips used: Daily Politics: BBC Two, TX 13.11.12; BBC NEWS: BBC One, TX 1.2.1989; Woman's Hour: Radio 4, TX 23.8.2014; YORKSHIRE TV - September 1974; BBC Proms 2019: Radio 3, TX 29.8.2019; Cheltenham Festival 1999: London Mozart Players & Chilingirian Quartet; 15 Storeys High: Radio 4, TX 24.11.1999; Channel 4, You Tube page.
8/27/2021 • 28 minutes, 9 seconds
Una Stubbs (pictured), Gino Strada, Mo Hayder
Matthew Bannister on
Una Stubbs, the actor who first came to fame in the 1960s TV sitcom 'Till Death Us Do Part', then attracted a new generation of fans as Aunt Sally in Worzel Gummidge. She was also an acclaimed stage performer and ended her career as Mrs Hudson in the Sherlock TV series.
Gino Strada, the Italian surgeon who set up the charity Emergency to provide state of the art hospital facilities in some of the world’s poorest countries, including Afghanistan. The photographer Giles Duley pays tribute.
Mo Hayder, the best-selling crime writer known for describing the grisly details of violence, who in a previous life was a glamour model and TV actor.
Producer: Laura Northedge
Interviewed guest: Christian Henson
Interviewed guest: David Benedict
Interviewed guest: Giles Duley
Interviewed guest: Alice Jolly
Interviewed guest: Selina Walker
Archive clips used: Yorkshire Films Archive, Dairy Box advert 1958; Ivy Films, Summer Holiday 1963; Southern Television, Worzel Gummidge 1979; Freemantle/Thames TV, 5's Company 1997; Hartswood Films, Sherlock 2014; The Graduate Institute Geneva, Gino Strada wins Right Livelihood Award 09/12/2015; Right Livelihood Awards, Gino Strada acceptance speech 04/12/2015; Dreamscape Media/ISIS Productions, Birdman audiobook.
8/20/2021 • 27 minutes, 40 seconds
Jean 'Binta' Breeze MBE (pictured), Sir Nicholas Goodison, Shaykh Abdalqadir as-Sufi, Joyce Shrubbs
Matthew Bannister on
The Jamaican-born poet Jean ‘Binta’ Breeze MBE, who was known for her compelling performances. We have a tribute from Linton Kwesi Johnson.
Sir Nicholas Goodison, chairman of the stock exchange at the time of the Big Bang in the 1980s and also a noted expert on antique clocks.
Shaykh Abdalqadir as-Sufi, the influential Muslim teacher who was born Ian Dallas, worked as an actor and script writer in the 1960s and converted to Islam after a visit to the holy city of Fez in Morocco.
Joyce Shrubbs, who joined the Royal Observer Corps during World War II and rose to become its highest ranking woman officer.
Producer: Laura Northedge
Interviewed guest: Justin Urquhart Stewart
Interviewed guest: Jonathan Betts
Interviewed guest: Linton Kwesi Johnson
Interviewed guest: Dona Croll
Interviewed guest: Shaykh Paul Salahuddin Armstrong
Interviewed guest: Yasin Dutton
Interviewed guest: Michael Marks
Interviewed guest: Edwina Holden
Archive clips used: Pathe News, London stock exchange during Second World War; Cineriz, Federico Fellini's 8 1/2; Cyclops TV, documentary Sentinels of Britain.
8/13/2021 • 27 minutes, 55 seconds
Sir Graham Vick (pictured), Carmel Budiardjo, Piers Plowright, Dusty Hill
Julian Worricker on:
The opera director, Sir Graham Vick, who challenged people's perceptions by discovering new performers and new audiences.
Carmel Budiardjo, the human rights campaigner whose work was influenced by time spent in jail in Indonesia.
The award-winning radio documentary maker, Piers Plowright, who set out to shine a light on the everyday lives of ordinary people.
And Dusty Hill....the bearded bass player from Texas, who enjoyed worldwide success as part of ZZ Top.
Producer: Laura Northedge
Interviewed guest: Simon Halsey
Interviewed guest: Nicholas Payne
Interviewed guest: Jonathan Head
Interviewed guest: Barbara Patilla
Interviewed guest: Simon Elmes
Interviewed guest: Sam Dunn
8/6/2021 • 28 minutes, 7 seconds
Jackie Mason (pictured), John Woodcock, Dinah Murray, Billy Lacey
Matthew Bannister on
Jackie Mason, the comedian and former rabbi whose observations of Jewish life took him from the Borscht Belt to Broadway.
John Woodcock, the veteran cricket writer who reported on some of the greatest matches of the twentieth century.
Dinah Murray, a tireless campaigner for the rights of autistic people.
Billy Lacey, thought to be the last of the Norfolk marshmen who used traditional methods to clear dykes and cut reeds.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Michael Goldfarb
Interviewed guest: Jonathan Agnew
Interviewed guest: Fergus Murray
Interviewed guest: Dr Rebecca Wood
Interviewed guest: Sue Goodchild
Archive clips used: 20th CENTURY FOX, Simpsons episode 8F05, 1991; WARNER, The World According To Me, 1987; YouTube, A Bi Geznut The Genius Which is Jackie Mason; Angel/EMI, Look Who's Laughing - Live at the London Palladium, 1997; SPORTS BOOK AWARDS, John Woodcock, 2018; WISEArchive, Bill Lacey interview, 2021.
7/30/2021 • 28 minutes
Gillian Sheen (pictured), William 'Twink' Allen, Lawrence 'Benny' Goodman, Alan Lewis
Matthew Bannister on
Gillian Sheen, the first and only British person to win an Olympic Gold Medal for fencing.
Professor William 'Twink' Allen, the equine fertility expert whose request for permission to clone a horse was turned down by regulators.
Squadron Leader Lawrence 'Benny' Goodman, the bomber pilot who flew highly dangerous missions with the 617 squadron during the second world war.
Alan Lewis, the publisher and editor who presided over some of the most successful music magazines of the late twentieth century, including 'Sounds', 'NME' and 'Kerrang!'.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Bruce Donaldson
Interviewed guest: Malcolm Fare
Interviewed guest: Richard Greenwood
Interviewed guest: Dr. Robert Owen
Interviewed guest: James Brown
Archive clips used: BRITISH FENCING interview, 2012; PATHE, Olympian wins at foil competition, 1957; CSA The Melbourne Rendezvous film, 1956; Global Entertainment Test Tube Foals, 2016; MYFOOTAGE.COM Bombers Sink Nazi Battleship, 1944; PATHE RAF's New 10 Ton Bomb, 1945; EMAP Kerrang! UK advert, 2007.
7/23/2021 • 28 minutes, 4 seconds
Jehan Sadat (pictured), Michael Horovitz, Richard Ernst, Dilip Kumar
Matthew Bannister on
Jehan Sadat, the wife of president Anwar Sadat of Egypt, who campaigned for women’s rights, supported the disabled and disadvantaged people and forged an academic career.
Michael Horovitz, the anarchic poet who staged chaotic 'happenings' and supported new talent.
Richard Ernst, the Swiss chemist who won the Nobel prize for his work on nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy.
Dilip Kumar, the Bollywood actor known as 'the king of tragedy'.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Noah Bakr
Interviewed guest: Shibley Telhami
Interviewed guest: Adam Horovitz
Interviewed guest: John Hegley
Interviewed guest: Matthias Ernst
Interviewed guest: Professor Kurt Wüthrich
Interviewed guest: Anil Sinanan
Archive clips used: ABC NEWS, 06/10/1980; SPINE TV, 21/12/2011;
Optic Nerve Ltd 2011-2021; Martin Packard, You Tube 2010; Devdas film, 1955; Kohinoor film, 1960; Mughal-E-Azam film, 1960.
7/16/2021 • 27 minutes, 57 seconds
Donald Rumsfeld (pictured), Menelik Shabazz, Elizabeth French
Matthew Bannister on
Donald Rumsfeld, the US Secretary of Defense who challenged the military bureaucracy, advocated the invasion of Iraq in 2003 and was blamed for many of the failings of that operation.
Menelik Shabazz, the pioneering film director who supported the careers of many other black film makers.
Elizabeth French, the archaeologist who was a leading expert on the pottery of the ancient Greek city of Mycenae.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Justin Webb
Interviewed guest: Andrew Cockburn
Interviewed guest: Joy Francis
Interviewed guest: David Somerset
Interviewed guest: John Bennet
Archive clips used: C-SPAN 19/03/2003; CNN 02/12/2002; AP 13/05/2004;
Step Forward Youth 1977 by Menelik Shabazz; Burning an Illusion 1981 by Menelik Shabazz;
Blood Ah Go Run 1981 by Menelik Shabazz; Autumn Breeze Movies, Mycenaean War and Peace 24/05/2010;
Introduction to Mycenaeans and Mycenaean Culture, History with Cy 21/06/2019; History Victorum,
The Citadel of Mycenae 04/06/2020.
7/9/2021 • 27 minutes, 37 seconds
John McAfee (pictured), Trần Thiện Khiêm, Karla Burns, Horace 'Lyle' Hutley
Matthew Bannister on
The controversial American businessman John McAfee who made his first fortune selling anti-virus software, retreated into a compound in Belize where he was suspected of links with organised crime, campaigned to win the Presidential nomination for the Libertarian party and was found hanged in a Spanish prison cell after facing extradition on fraud and tax evasion charges.
General Trần Thiện Khiêm, a key player in the 'snake pit' of coup and counter coup that destabilised the government of South Vietnam during the war of the 1960s.
Karla Burns, the Broadway and West End singer who became the first black person to win an Olivier Award.
Horace 'Lyle' Hutley, thought to be the last surviving prisoner of war who worked on the infamous bridge over the River Kwai.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Michael Carlson
Interviewed guest: Nanette Burstein
Interviewed guest: Professor Lien-Hang T. Nguyen
Interviewed guest: Bill Ripper
Interviewed guest: Allan Mallinson
Archive clips used: CNBC News, 24/06/2021; Soft Focus with Jena Friedman, Adult Swim 2019; John McAfee on Larry King, Ora TV 11/03/2016; President Johnson Speaks on the Vietnam Crisis, British Pathe 1964; The Fall of Saigon, CBC News 1975; One On One, PBS 02/01/2019; It’s All Good With Sierra, Wichita Public TV 14/06/2012; The Battle of Dunkirk, British Pathe 1940; The Fall of Singapore, British Pathe/Gaumont/Reuters 1942; Far East Prisoners of War Return Home, British Movietone 11/10/1945.
7/2/2021 • 28 minutes, 5 seconds
Kenneth Kaunda, Janet Malcolm, Penny Kemp, Bob Swash
Pictured: President Kenneth Kaunda
Matthew Bannister on
The Zambian President Kenneth Kaunda who fought for independence then ruled his country for nearly thirty years, but was voted out of office in the first multi-party elections of 1991.
Janet Malcolm, the American writer whose works questioned the ethics of journalists and biographers, including herself.
Penny Kemp, who brought passion and professionalism to the campaigns of the Green Party.
Bob Swash, the theatre producer whose hits included Evita and Blood Brothers.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Maureen Nkandu
Interviewed guest: Katie Roife
Interviewed guest: Darren Johnson
Interviewed guest: Caroline Lucas
Interviewed guest: Michael Coveney
Interviewed guest: Willy Russell
Archive clips used: Zambian Independence Celebrations, BBC Archives, October 1964; Reading Chekhov, Radio 3 08/07/2004; A Brunch Conversation with Janet Malcolm, Kelly Writers’ House 19/03/2013; Today, Radio 4 13/09/2002; Greens On The Record, BBC One 24/09/1989; The World This Weekend, Radio 4 16/04/2006; Taking Issue, BBC Radio Scotland 30/01/1986.
6/25/2021 • 28 minutes
Edward de Bono, Paul Van Doren, Alastair Hanton OBE, Violetta Elvin
Pictured: Edward de Bono
Matthew Bannister on
Edward De Bono, the psychologist who advocated lateral thinking – and sold the concept to companies around the world.
Paul Van Doren, the American businessman whose Vans sneakers were adopted by skateboarders, making him a multi-millionaire.
Alastair Hanton OBE, who set up the National Girobank and developed direct debits to allow greater access to banking before becoming a campaigner for ethical investing and greener transport.
Violetta Elvin, the Russian ballerina who made her name as a rival to Dame Margot Fonteyn at the Royal Ballet.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Sarah Tucker
Interviewed guest: Steve Van Doren
Interviewed guest: Nicholas Smith
Interviewed guest: Angus Hanton
Interviewed guest: Raffaele Lauro
Interviewed guest: Ronald Hynd
Translator: Martin Esposito
Archive clips used: Logical and Lateral, Radio 4 29/12/1976; Today, Radio 4 29/04/1976; Fast Times at Ridgemont High, directed by Amy Heckerling, Universal Pictures 1982; LA Olympics Opening Ceremony, ABC News 1984; Alastair Hanton Oral History, The Hanton Family 2021.
6/18/2021 • 28 minutes, 9 seconds
Lee Evans (pictured), Yuan Longping, Bill McCall, Alix Dobkin
Matthew Bannister on
Lee Evans, the world-record-breaking American sprinter who took part in black power protests at the 1968 Mexico Olympics.
Yuan Longping, the plant scientist who developed hybrid varieties of rice that increased yields dramatically and so saved millions from hunger.
Bill McCall, the General Secretary of the Institution of Professional Civil Servants who challenged Margaret Thatcher over union recognition at GCHQ.
Alix Dobkin, the folk singer and lesbian activist who performed to women-only audiences.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Tommie Smith
Interviewed guest: Professor Douglas Hartmann
Interviewed guest: Keith Bradsher
Interviewed guest: Charles Harvey
Interviewed guest: Liza Cowan
Archive clips used: Athletics_400 Metres Final: BBC One, TX 18.10.1968; A Classless Civil Service: Radio 3, TX 10.7.1968; BBC News: BBC One, TX 28.2.1984
6/11/2021 • 28 minutes, 15 seconds
Eric Carle (pictured), Helen Murray Free, Michael Parsons, Evelyn McNicol
Matthew Bannister on
The children’s author and illustrator Eric Carle, best known for creating The Very Hungry Caterpillar which has sold fifty-five million copies.
Helen Murray Free, the American chemist who developed revolutionary simple tests for diabetes and other serious conditions.
Michael Parsons, the engineer who designed some of the world’s longest suspension bridges, including the Severn Bridge and the Humber Bridge.
Evelyn McNicol, the pioneering Scottish mountaineer who was a member of the first all-female British expedition to the Himalayas.
Producer: Rabeka Nurmahomed
Interviewed guest: Oliver Jeffers
Interviewed guest: Julia Eccleshare
Interviewed guest: Dr Bill Carroll
Interviewed guest: Philip Parsons
Interviewed guest: Kate Ross
Archive clips used: Open Book: Radio 4, TX 4.5.1999; The Severn Bridge at 50_A High Wire Act: BBC One Wales, TX 7.9.2016; Ladies Scottish Climbing Club: Radio Scotland, TX 20.12.2006
6/4/2021 • 28 minutes, 5 seconds
Sir Paul Cosford, Max Mosley (pictured), Dr Frances Rotblat, Norman Lloyd
Julian Worricker on:
Sir Paul Cosford, who - as medical director of Public Health England - took on a prominent role during the Ebola outbreak and the Salisbury poisonings.
The Formula One boss, Max Mosley, who helped turn his sport into a global spectacle and became an outspoken privacy campaigner.
Dr Frances Rotblat, a haematologist, whose pioneering work led to significant advances in the treatment of haemophilia.
And the veteran actor, Norman Lloyd, whose career began in the 1920s and who worked alongside Orson Welles, Alfred Hitchcock and Charlie Chaplin.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Dr Gillian Leng
Interviewed guest: Jeremy Hunt
Interviewed guest: Simon Taylor
Interviewed guest: Tom Brown
Interviewed guest: Donogh O’Brien
Archive clips used: BBC News: BBC One, TX 7.3.2018; BBC News, BBC One, TX 25.10.2014; Today Programme: Radio 4, TX 24.5.2021; On the Ropes: Radio 4, TX 1.3.2011; Today: Radio 4, TX 22.11.1984; Brain of Britain: Radio 4, TX 12.9.1977; Art for the Millions: Radio 4, TX 1.2.2018
5/28/2021 • 28 minutes, 13 seconds
Spencer Silver, Kevin Jackson, Patricia Brown, Asfaw Yemiru
Matthew Bannister on
Dr. Spencer Silver, the American chemist who invented the adhesive used in Post It Notes.
Kevin Jackson, the writer, broadcaster and critic described as a “21st century man of letters”.
Patricia Brown, who played a leading role in cracking German codes at Bletchley Park during the second world war.
Asfaw Yemiru, the former street boy from Ethiopia who founded a school for orphans in Addis Ababa which has given free education to thousands of students.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Linda Spencer
Interviewed guest: Art Fry
Interviewed guest: Tom Sutcliffe
Interviewed guest: Iona Brown
Interviewed guest: Dr Tessa Dunlop
Interviewed guest: Beneberu Demissie Kassa
Interviewed guest: Revd Canon Tim Kinahan
Archive clips used: Twenty Minutes_Dutch Icons_Vermeer: Radio 3, TX 8.10.2002; Saturday Review: Radio 4, TX 9.11.2019
5/21/2021 • 28 minutes, 2 seconds
Olympia Dukakis (pictured), Eric McGraw MBE, Anthony Thwaite
Matthew Bannister on:
Olympia Dukakis, the Greek-American actor who won an Oscar for playing Cher’s mother in Moonstruck and became an LGBT icon after playing Anna Madrigal in Tales of the City. Its author Armistead Maupin pays tribute.
Eric McGraw who founded and edited a magazine for prisoners called “Inside Time”. Former inmate Noel “Razor” Smith explains how it changed the course of his life.
Anthony Thwaite, the poet, editor and critic who was a pivotal figure in British literary life. The former poet laureate Andrew Motion pays tribute.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Gregory Pappas
Interviewed guest: Armistead Maupin
Interviewed guest: Rachel Billington
Interviewed guest: Noel ‘Razor’ Smith
Interviewed guest: Ann Thwaite
Interviewed guest: Andrew Motion
Archive clips used: Hardtalk: BBC One, TX 19.3.2001; In Living Memory: Strangeways riot: Radio 4, TX 20.4.2005
5/14/2021 • 28 minutes, 11 seconds
Baroness O'Cathain, Michael Collins, Sharon Matola, Jim Steinman (pictured, with Meat Loaf)
Matthew Bannister on
Baroness O’Cathain, the successful businesswoman who became Managing Director of the Barbican Arts Centre in London but left after losing the confidence of staff and artists.
Michael Collins, the Apollo 11 astronaut who stayed in the Apollo command module while Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin walked on the moon.
Sharon Matola, the former lion tamer who became an environmentalist in Belize, establishing a zoo to care for the country’s rare and rescued animals.
Jim Steinman, the songwriter whose masterwork “Bat Out Of Hell” became one of the best-selling albums of all time.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Lord Faulkner of Worcester
Interviewed guest: Sir Nicholas Kenyon
Interviewed guest: Lou Nicolait
Interviewed guest: Andrea Polanco
Interviewed guest: Meat Loaf
Interviewed guest: Don Black
Archive clips used: The Farming Week: Radio 4, TX 1.8.1987; Woman's Hour: Radio 4, TX 17.10.1989; 13 Minutes to the Moon: World Service, TX 15.5.2019; Naomi's Nightmares of Nature: CBBC, TX 2.7.2014; Simon Bates interview with Meat Loaf and Jim Steinman, recorded circa 1993, TX unknown; World at One: Radio 4, TX 21.4.2021; I Write the Songs - Series 3: Radio Wales, TX 12.3.2016
5/7/2021 • 28 minutes, 1 second
Geoff Crowther, Isamu Akasaki, June Newton, Les McKeown (pictured)
Matthew Bannister on:
Geoff Crowther, the global traveller, writer and map maker whose work helped to build the success of the Lonely Planet guide books.
Isamu Akasaki, the Nobel prize winning physicist whose discoveries paved the way for LED lighting.
June Newton, who was a successful portrait photographer using the name Alice Springs to avoid comparisons with her husband and fellow photographer Helmut Newton.
Les McKeown, the front man of the Scottish boy band The Bay City Rollers. At their height the band provoked the same hysteria from fans as the Beatles had done a decade earlier.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Ashley Crowther
Interviewed guest: Tony Wheeler
Interviewed guest: Hiroshi Amano
Interviewed guest: Professor Russell Dupuis
Interviewed guest: Dana Thomas
Interviewed guest: Billy Sloan
Interviewed guest: Nina Myskow
Archive clips used: Newsnight: BBC One, TX 5.8.1999
4/30/2021 • 28 minutes, 7 seconds
Helen McCrory (pictured), Hans Küng, Eric Gordon, George Reynolds
Matthew Bannister on
Helen McCrory, the actor best known for playing the matriarch Aunt Polly in Peaky Blinders, but equally acclaimed for her classical stage performances. David Hare pays tribute.
Hans Küng, the controversial Catholic theologian who often clashed with the Vatican and wrote many books including 'Does God Exist?” and “Can We Save The Catholic Church?”.
Eric Gordon, the communist journalist who took his family to live in China under Chairman Mao and on his return bought the North London newspaper the Camden Journal and turned its fortunes around.
George Reynolds, the colourful ex-offender who became a multi-millionaire, bought his local football club Darlington FC and once offered to pay off the mortgages of many of his employees and give them each a Mercedes car.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: David Hare
Interviewed guest: Mark Strong
Interviewed guest: Michael Coveney
Interviewed guest: David Willey
Interviewed guest: Charles Curran
Interviewed guest: Kim Gordon
Interviewed guest: Mike Amos
Archive clips used: Sunday programme: Radio 4, TX 7.10.2012; Infallibility Questioned - Prof. Hans Kung: Radio 4, TX 24.7.1971; BBC News: BBC One, TX 16.12.1968; Twenty-Four Hours - Gordon Family Interview: Radio 4, TX 20.10.1969; BBC News: BBC One, TX 16.10.1969; Midweek: Radio 4, TX 2.4.2003; Homeground - George Reynolds Playing By His Own Rules: BBC 2, TX 16.3.2004; Desert Island Discs – Helen McCrory: Radio 4, TX 3.7.2020
4/23/2021 • 28 minutes, 11 seconds
Baroness Shirley Williams (pictured), Glynn Lunney, Lyn Macdonald
Matthew Bannister on:
The Liberal Democrat peer Baroness Williams of Crosby. As Shirley Williams she was a Labour cabinet minister who abolished the 11-plus exam in many parts of the UK, then a member of the Gang of Four who founded the SDP and later the Lib Dem leader in the House of Lords. Her former colleague Lord Owen pays tribute.
Glynn Lunney, who was the flight director on key American space missions, including the Apollo 11 moon landing and the aborted Apollo 13 mission, during which he played a key role in saving the astronauts' lives. His fellow flight director Gerry Griffin pays tribute.
And Lyn Macdonald, the historian who documented the testimony of ordinary First World War soldiers. The author Sebastian Faulks tells us how she inspired his best-selling novel “Birdsong”.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Julia Langdon
Interviewed guest: Lord David Owen
Interviewed guest: Gerry Griffin
Interviewed guest: Kevin Fong
Interviewed guest: Sebastian Faulks
Archive clips used: Desert Island Discs - Shirley Williams: Radio 4, TX 3.2.2006; World At One: Launch of SDP: Radio 4, TX 26.3.1981; BBC News: BBC One, TX 29.11.1959; The Reunion – The Gang of Four: Radio 4, TX 17.8.2018; I Died In Hell... They Called It Passchendaele: Radio 4, TX 26.10.1977; Woman's Hour: Radio 4, TX 9.11.1974
4/16/2021 • 28 minutes, 6 seconds
Doreen Lofthouse OBE, Dr Chris Doake, Barbara Hosking CBE, Bernice Cohen
Matthew Bannister on
Doreen Lofthouse, the Lancashire businesswoman who took Fisherman’s Friends lozenges from a Fleetwood chemist’s shop to a multi-million pound international company.
Dr Chris Doake, the glaciologist who was able to predict with great accuracy the break-up of the Antarctic ice shelf.
Barbara Hosking, who served as a Downing Street press officer under both Harold Wilson and Ted Heath and came out as a lesbian in her nineties.
Bernice Cohen, the self-taught investor who became a TV star.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Duncan Lofthouse
Interviewed guest: David Pearce
Interviewed guest: Dr Andy Smith
Interviewed guest: Iain Dale
Interviewed guest: Lawrence Lever
Archive clips used: Women of the Year: BBC One, TX 16.10.1989; Government ad re preparations for the European Single Market: BBC One, TX 12.7.1990; Horizon: Antarctica - Ice Station Rescue: BBC Two, TX 5.2.2018; The Emma Barnett Show: Radio 4, TX 14.2.2018; The Morning Show: BBC One, TX 14.2.2003; Woman’s Hour: Radio 4, TX 4.6.1999
4/9/2021 • 28 minutes, 5 seconds
Bob Davey MBE; George Segal (pictured); Lady Violet Aitken; Tony Hendra
Matthew Bannister on
Bob Davey, the retired water board superintendent who made it his mission to restore an ancient church in Norfolk – and in the process made a remarkable archaeological find.
George Segal, the American film star who was nominated for an Oscar for his performance in “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” and starred opposite Glenda Jackson in the comedy “A Touch of Class”.
Lady Violet Aitken, the aristocratic power boat racer who carried on competing despite a serious injury.
Tony Hendra, the outrageous British-born comedian who made his name in America. He edited the magazine National Lampoon, wrote for Spitting Image and played the manager of Spinal Tap in the classic spoof rockumentary.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Nick Ullett
Interviewed guest: Sue Gattuso
Interviewed guest: Michael Goldfarb
Interviewed guest: Laura Levi
Archive clips used: Making History: Radio 4, TX 8.5.2012; BBC NEWS: BBC One, TX 11.7.1969
4/2/2021 • 27 minutes, 10 seconds
Nawal El Saadawi (pictured), Brigadier Jack Thomas, President John Magufuli, Ion Mihai Pacepa
Matthew Bannister on:
The Egyptian feminist writer Nawal El Saadawi who faced persecution and imprisonment but never wavered from her commitment to campaigning for women’s rights.
Brigadier Jack Thomas who had a distinguished military career, serving during the Second World War, the Korean war and in Northern Ireland.
John Magufuli, the autocratic President of Tanzania who advocated prayer and inhaling herbal infusions as a way of tackling the Coronavirus pandemic.
Ion Mihai Pacepa, the senior Romanian intelligence officer who defected to the West and lived the rest of his life under a secret identity.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Mona Eltahawy
Interviewed guest: Sally Nabil
Interviewed guest: John Thomas
Interviewed guest: Brigadier Norman Allen
Interviewed guest: Zuhura Yunus
Interviewed guest: Prof Ronald Rychlak
Archive clips used: Woman’s Hour: Radio 4, TX 25.7.2011; Woman at Point Zero: Radio 4, TX 19.4.1993; Breakfast News: BBC One, TX 14.7.1988
3/26/2021 • 27 minutes, 9 seconds
Murray Walker (pictured), King Goodwill Zwelithini, Mary Asprey, Bunny Wailer
Julian Worricker on:
One of the best known sports commentators of his generation, motor racing's Murray Walker
The woman who co-founded what became the charity, Missling People, Mary Asprey
King Goodwill Zwelithini, who ruled the Zulu nation at a time of enormous change in South Africa
And Bunny Wailer, founder member of the Wailers, whose album Blackheart Man is regarded as one of reggae's finest.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Simon Taylor
Interviewed guest: Nomsa Maseko
Interviewed guest: Sophie Macaulay
Interviewed guest: Trevor McDonald
Interviewed guest: David Katz
Interviewed guest: Clive Allick
Desert Island Discs: Radio 4, TX 16.3.2014; 5 Live Sport Special - Murray Walker (BBC Podcast); BBC News: BBC One, TX 24.9.1994; BBC News: BBC One, TX 26.5.1991; The learning zone: BBC 2, TX 15.1.1998
3/19/2021 • 27 minutes, 8 seconds
Nicola Pagett (pictured), Stan Shaw, Prof John Mallard, Rupert Neve
Matthew Bannister on
Nicola Pagett, the acclaimed actor who made her name on TV in Upstairs Downstairs and as Anna Karenina but also excelled in classical stage roles. Later in life she suffered severe mental illness.
Stan Shaw, one of the last Sheffield craftsmen known as “little mesters”. He spent eighty years forging, grinding and finishing blades in the city’s cutlery industry.
Professor John Mallard, who led the team at Aberdeen University which developed the first full body MRI scanner.
Rupert Neve, the recording engineer who designed mixing desks revered by rock stars and music producers.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Simon Williams
Interviewed guest: Michael Coveney
Interviewed guest: Prof David Lurie
Interviewed guest: Dave Harries
Interviewed guest: Phil Ward
Archive clips used: Woman’s Hour: Radio 4, TX 23.9.1997; Shelford Interviews: Rupert Neve discusses how technologies in the 60's changed sound engineering
3/12/2021 • 27 minutes, 3 seconds
Sheikh Ahmed Zaki Yamani (pictured), Sidney Alford, Alison Lurie, Chris Barber
Matthew Bannister on
Sheikh Ahmed Zaki Yamani, the Saudi oil minister who presided over the 1970s embargo that caused crises for Western economies.
Sidney Alford, the maverick explosives expert who created methods of defusing improvised explosive devices used in Northern Ireland, Afghanistan and the Middle East. He also demolished large buildings and created spectacular effects for film makers.
Alison Lurie, the American novelist whose biting satires on academic life and manners have been compared to Jane Austen.
Chris Barber, the jazz trombonist and band leader who was a leading figure in the trad boom of the 1960s.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Dr Mai Yamani
Interviewed guest: Javier Blas
Interviewed guest: Jeffrey Robinson
Interviewed guest: Roland Alford
Interviewed guest: Prof Judith Newman
Archive clips used: Panorama: BBC One, TX 20.11.1973; Book at Bedtime – Foreign Affairs: Radio 4, TX 11.10.2004; Desert Island Discs: Radio 4, TX 9.3.1985; 15 Minute Drama - Imaginary Friends: Radio 4, TX 11.7.2011; Chris Barber - Leader of the Band: Radio 2, TX 20.4.2011
3/5/2021 • 27 minutes, 9 seconds
Sir William Macpherson (pictured), Margaret Snyder, Eleanor Wadsworth, Iain Pattinson
Matthew Bannister on
Sir William Macpherson, the retired judge whose report on the investigation of the murder of Stephen Lawrence accused the Metropolitan Police of “institutional racism”.
Margaret Snyder, seen by some as the United Nations’ first feminist. She established funds and projects to support women in developing countries.
Eleanor Wadsworth, one of the last surviving women who delivered fighter planes during the second world war.
Iain Pattinson, who gave up a career as an oil company executive to write jokes once described as “blue chip filth” for “I’m Sorry I Haven’t A Clue”.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Lord Brown
Interviewed guest: Joshua Rozenberg
Interviewed guest: Marilyn Carr
Interviewed guest: Wanjira Mathai
Interviewed guest: Jon Naismith
Interviewed guest: Nick Utechin
Interviewed guest: Jack Dee
Archive clips from: Pathe News (A.T.A. 1943); Kaleidoscope: Radio 4, TX 9.2.1991; I’m Sorry I Haven’t A Clue: Radio 4, TX 15.12.2020 and TX 21.6.1999.
2/26/2021 • 26 minutes, 54 seconds
Carlos Menem (pictured), Mary Wilson, Robin Pooley, Larry Flynt
Matthew Bannister on:
Carlos Menem, the flamboyant President of Argentina during the 1990s who transformed the country’s economy, but was dogged by allegations of corruption.
Mary Wilson, a founding member of the Supremes who rivalled the Beatles for chart success during the 1960s.
Robin Pooley, the businessman who started in the meat trade before switching to become Chief Executive of the Potato Marketing Board and transforming the fortunes of that humble root vegetable.
Larry Flynt, the multi-millionaire pornographer who saw himself as a champion of free speech.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Jill Hedges
Interviewed guest: Professor Ernesto Calvo
Interviewed guest: John Tuckwell
Interviewed guest: Michael Pollitt
Interviewed guest: Adam White
Interviewed guest: Peter White
Archive clips from: Breakfast with Frost, BBC One, TX 25.10.1998; Midweek, Radio 4, TX 2.3.2011; Ken Bruce, Radio 2, TX 16.9.2019; BBC Breakfast, BBC One, TX 12.7.1994; No Triumph No Tragedy - Larry Flynt, Radio 4, TX 19.1.1999
2/19/2021 • 27 minutes, 9 seconds
George Shultz, Yvonne Conolly, Maureen Colquhoun, Christopher Plummer (pictured)
Matthew Bannister on
George Shultz, the US Secretary of State during the Reagan years who came close to brokering a deal to abolish all US and Soviet nuclear weapons.
Yvonne Conolly, Britain’s first black female head teacher who overcame racism to become a role model for others.
Maureen Colquhoun, the first UK member of parliament to be openly in a same sex relationship. When they heard the news, her local Labour Party deselected her.
Christopher Plummer, the Canadian born actor who played many roles on stage and screen, but will always be remembered as Captain Von Trapp in The Sound of Music.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Angela Errigo
Interviewed guest: Rose Gottemoeller
Interviewed guest: Philip Taubman
Interviewed guest: Denise Patrick
Interviewed guest: Dame Angela Eagle
Interviewed guest: Peter Tatchell
Archive clips from: Maureen Colquhoun on Countdown to Number 10, Radio 4 TX 3.5.1979; I Was Britain’s First Black Headteacher, BBC World Service TV, TX 8.3.2020; West Indian Teacher, Pathe News TX 1969; William Shatner’s memories of Christopher Plummer, BBC World News TX 5.2.2021
2/12/2021 • 27 minutes, 5 seconds
Lewis Wolpert, Cicely Tyson, Prince Khalid Abdullah and Captain Sir Tom Moore (pictured)
Matthew Bannister on
The biologist Lewis Wolpert who developed new theories about embryo development and was a passionate communicator of science.
The award winning actor Cicely Tyson, best known for portraying strong, dignified African American women on stage and screen.
Saudi Prince Khalid Abdullah who became one of the world’s most successful racehorse owners. His horses included the great Frankel who was unbeaten in 14 races.
Captain Sir Tom Moore, the second world war veteran who became a national hero when he raised millions of pounds for NHS charities as he approached his 100th birthday.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Julian Muscat
Interviewed guest: Brough Scott
Interviewed guest: Matt Wolfe
Interviewed guest: Prof Jim Smith
Archive clips from: Desert Island Discs, Radio 4 TX 25.6.1996; The Essay, Radio 3 TX 25.3.2008; Conversations, Radio 3 TX 27.3.1993; The Michael Ball Show, Radio 2 TX 6.9.2020
2/5/2021 • 27 minutes, 9 seconds
Larry King (pictured), Catherine Ennis, Margaret Weston, Gerry Cottle
Matthew Bannister on
Larry King, the American TV interviewer whose long running show on CNN attracted guests ranging from Presidents to pop stars. Christiane Amanpour pays tribute.
Catherine Ennis, the organist at the City of London Church of St Lawrence Jewry who helped to design four major organs in the capital.
Dame Margaret Weston, the Director of the Science Museum who spread funding around the UK by opening the National Railway Museum in York and the National Museum of Photography, Film and Television in Bradford.
Gerry Cottle, the charismatic circus owner who overcame bankruptcy and sex and cocaine addiction to evolve the art form as public tastes changed
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Christiane Amanpour
Interviewed guest: Michael Carlson
Interviewed guest: Sir Roger Gifford
Interviewed guest: Sir Andrew Parmley
Interviewed guest: Heather Mayfield
Interviewed guest: David Morgan
Interviewed guest: Professor Vanessa Toulmin
Interviewed guest: John Haze
Archive clips from: Profile, Radio 4 TX 26.03.1974; In Tune, Radio 3 TX 14.10.2016; Desert Island Discs, Radio 4 TX 21.9.1984
1/29/2021 • 27 minutes, 12 seconds
Phil Spector (pictured), Grace Robertson, Paul Nihill
Matthew Bannister on:
Phil Spector, the influential record producer who created the “Wall of Sound”. He died while serving a prison sentence for murdering actress Lana Clarkson.
Grace Robertson, the photojournalist known for chronicling working class life in post war Britain.
Paul Nihill, one of the world’s finest race walkers who won 96 consecutive races and was the first male British athlete to compete in four consecutive Olympic games.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Mick Brown
Interviewed guest: Prof. Amanda Hopkinson
Interviewed guest: David Ainsworth
Archive clips from: Five Master Photographers, Radio 3 TX 14.8.1990; Olympic Memories Part 3/6 - Mexico 1968, Radio 4 TX 1.4.1984; Olympics 1964: 50km walk, Radio 4 TX 18.10.1964
1/22/2021 • 27 minutes, 4 seconds
Michael Apted (pictured), Kay Ullrich, Katharine Whitehorn, Reginald Foster
Julian Worricker on the film-maker Michael Apted, famous for his work on the 7UP documentary series, but who also directed nearly 30 feature films.
Kay Ullrich, an MSP after the first elections to the Scottish parliament, who Nicola Sturgeon described as one of the most influential figures in her life.
Katharine Whitehorn, whose column in the Observer revolutionised the journalism that women wrote....and read.
And the Vatican Latinist, Reginald Foster, who served four Popes, and who would never acknowledge that the language he was expert in was anything other than alive.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Claire Lewis
Interviewed guest: Shelley Joffre
Interviewed guest: Nicola Sturgeon
Interviewed guest: Julie Welch
Interviewed guest: David Willey
Archive from: Today Programme, Radio 4 TX 8.1.2021; On Top of A Column, Radio 4 TX 14.7.1971; A Point of View, Radio 4 TX 12.9.2008; Reginald Foster, High Priest of Latin, Radio 4 TX 16.4.1992; Today Programme, Radio 4 TX 27.12.2008; A World in Your Ear, Radio 4 TX 19.12.2003
1/15/2021 • 27 minutes, 9 seconds
Sir Brian Urquhart (pictured), Albert Roux, Dame Rachel Waterhouse, Gerry Marsden
Matthew Bannister on
Sir Brian Urquhart, the international civil servant and war veteran who played a key role in setting up United Nations peacekeeping forces.
Albert Roux, the French-born chef who, with his brother Michel, helped to revolutionise the quality of British restaurant cooking.
Dame Rachel Waterhouse, the chair of the Consumers’ Association whose campaigns were behind many significant improvements in consumer legislation.
And Gerry Marsden, lead singer of Gerry and the Pacemakers, best known for his hit versions of “You’ll Never Walk Alone” and “Ferry ‘Cross The Mersey”.
Interviewed guest: Alison Bernays
Interviewed guest: Andrew Gilmour
Interviewed guest: Rowley Leigh
Interviewed guest: Brian Yates
Interviewed guest: Peter Parfet
Interviewed guest: Spencer Leigh
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips used: Profile: Brian Urquhart, Radio 4, 28.2.1981; Pathe News – Shaping the Future; The Liberation of Bergen Belsen –WS Historic Moments; Desert Island Discs: Albert & Michel Roux, Radio 4, 1986; Albert & Michel Roux on Roux Scholarship – YouTube; File on 4: Quangos, Radio 4, 7.6.1978; Farming Today, Radio 4, 17.10.1988
1/8/2021 • 26 minutes, 46 seconds
Stella Tennant, George Bizos, Joan Feynman, Rishi Kapoor
Matthew Bannister on
Stella Tennant, the iconic fashion model who rose to prominence in the 1990s, becoming the face of Chanel.
George Bizos, the South African human rights lawyer who represented Nelson Mandela at the Rivonia Trial.
Joan Feynman, the astrophysicist who made important breakthroughs in her study of auroras and solar cycles.
Actor Rishi Kapoor, who appeared in almost 100 films and defined Bollywood for a generation.
Interviewed guest: Plum Sykes
Interviewed guest: Sir Nicholas Stadlen
Interviewed guest: Christopher Riley
Interviewed guest: Laura Tenenbaum
Interviewed guest: Haroon Rashid
Archive clips from: HARDtalk, BBC News 11/10/2011; Remembering Rivonia, BBC World Service 06/03/2018; Nelson Mandela Released from Prison, BBC News Archive 11/02/1990; The Fantastic Mr Feynman, dir. Christopher Riley, BBC2 12/05/2013; Bobby, R.K. Films Ltd 28/09/1973; Prem Rog, K.R. Films Ltd. 31/07/1982; Agneepath, Dharma Productions/Eros International 26/01/2012.
Producer: Dan Hardoon
1/1/2021 • 27 minutes, 10 seconds
Millie Small, JJ Williams, Maurice Healy, Dame Fanny Waterman
Julian Worricker on
Millie Jones, the singer who brought ska rhythms and Jamaican culture to a global audience with her hit song My Boy Lollipop.
JJ Williams, the Llanelli, Wales and British Lions winger who became one of the stars of world rugby.
Dame Fanny Waterman, who co-founded the Leeds International Piano Festival and introduced many of the greatest pianists of our time.
And consumer champion Maurice Healy, editor of Which? magazine and director of the National Consumer Council, who was instrumental in bringing in shopping on a Sunday, cheaper air fares and better food labelling.
Interviewed guest: Chris Blackwell
Interviewed guest: Chris Salewicz
Interviewed guest: Phil Bennett
Interviewed guest: Petroc Trelawny
Interviewed guest: Richard Thomas
Producer: Paul Waters
12/27/2020 • 27 minutes, 3 seconds
John le Carré (pictured), Patience Thomson, Doug Scott, Dame Barbara Windsor
Matthew Bannister on
The author John le Carré , the pen name of David Cornwell, who drew on his own experiences as a spy to elevate the espionage novel to new heights.
Patience Thomson, the educator who devoted herself to helping children with reading difficulties and set up a publishing house to create books for them. Michael Morpurgo pays tribute.
Doug Scott, the pioneering mountaineer who was the first Englishman to climb Mount Everest. His friend Sir Chris Bonington recalls Doug’s adventures.
Dame Barbara Windsor – the much loved actor who went from Carry On to Eastenders.
Interviewed guest: Adam Sisman
Interviewed guest: Sir Chris Bonnington
Interviewed guest: Denise Prior
Interviewed guest: Alice Thomson
Interviewed guest: Michael Morpurgo
Producer: Neil George
12/18/2020 • 27 minutes, 56 seconds
Mario Molina, Irina Antonova, Valéry Giscard d’Estaing, Peter Alliss (pictured)
Matthew Bannister on
Mario Molina, the chemist who won the Nobel prize for revealing the devastating impact of CFCs on the ozone layer.
Irina Antonova, the director of the Pushkin Museum in Moscow for more than fifty years. She was caught up in a controversy over her refusal to send back priceless works of art looted by the Soviet Army at the end of the Second World War.
Valery Giscard d’Estaing, President of France between 1974 and 1981. He introduced liberal social reforms and was a passionate supporter of closer European integration.
Peter Alliss, the jovial former player who became known as TV’s “Voice of Golf”
Interviewed guest: Tony Adamson
Interviewed guest: Prof James Shields
Interviewed guest: Konstantin Akinsha
Interviewed guest: Dr Tony Cox
Producer: Neil George
12/11/2020 • 28 minutes, 4 seconds
Hamish MacInnes OBE, José Padilla, Anne Rasa
Matthew Bannister on:
Hamish MacInnes, the mountaineer known as “The Fox of Glencoe”. He climbed the Matterhorn aged 16, made four trips to Everest and was a stalwart of the Glencoe Mountain Rescue team. He was also an inventor, coming up with an all metal ice axe and a collapsible stretcher for use in rescue operations. His services were much in demand as an advisor to big budget films like The Eiger Sanction, the Mission and even Monty Python and the Holy Grail.
Professor Anne Rasa, an expert in animal behaviour who studied the matriarchal society of the dwarf mongoose and then set up a sanctuary for meerkats in the Kalahari region.
The Spanish DJ Jose Padilla who pioneered chill out music by providing a soundtrack to the sunset on Ibiza.
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Final Ascent: The Legend of Hamish MacInnes, BBC 4, 01/11/2020; Singular Scots, Radio 4, 12/09/1991; A Time to Talk, Radio Scotland, 10/01/1974; The Eiger Sanction, The Malpaso Company/ Universal Pictures; Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Python (Monty) Pictures / EMI Films; Natural Selection: Mongoose, BBC Bristol, 25/10/1985; Jóse Padilla – An Ibiza Original, A Fact Magazine Documentary; Moments in Love: A History of Chillout Music, Radio 2, 01.05.2004
12/4/2020 • 28 minutes, 4 seconds
Diego Maradona, Rosalind Grimshaw, Jan Morris CBE
Pictured: Diego Maradona
Matthew Bannister on:
Diego Maradona, the flawed footballing genius who was worshipped by fans in Argentina and his adopted home city of Naples before drug abuse and scandal tainted his reputation. We speak to Asif Kapadia, director of the acclaimed film about Maradona’s life.
Rosalind Grimshaw, the talented stained glass artist whose works include a spectacular window depicting the seven days of creation at Chester Cathedral.
And Jan Morris, the author of more than 50 books chronicling her travels around the world and one describing her decision to undergo gender reassignment surgery.
Interviewed guest: Asif Kapadia
Interviewed guest: Chris King
Interviewed guest: Patrick Costeloe
Interviewed guest: Paul Clements
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Today, Radio 4 26/11/2020; 5 Live Breakfast, 26/11/2020; Diego Maradona, directed by Asif Kapadia, On The Corner/Film 4 14/06/2019; Match Commentary: World Cup 1990 Semi Final - Italy v Argentina, BBC Sound Archive 1990; Woman’s Hour, Radio 4 29/03/2003; Desert Island Discs, Radio 4 16/06/2002; Profile, Radio 4 01/06/1978; The Verb, Radio 4 14/02/2020.
11/27/2020 • 28 minutes, 6 seconds
Des O’Connor CBE, Richard Trim OBE, Dr Ataullah Siddiqui, Edith Raymond Locke
Pictured: Des O'Connor
Matthew Bannister on
The comedian Des O’Connor, an all-round entertainer equally at home telling jokes, hosting a chat show or recording an album.
Richard Trim, the radar engineer who developed the technology that supports modern air traffic control systems.
Dr Ataullah Siddiqui, the leading Muslim scholar who played a major role in creating inter-faith dialogue.
Edith Raymond Locke, the editor of Mademoiselle Magazine who supported the early careers of fashion designers like Ralph Lauren and Donna Karan.
Interviewed guest: David Steadman
Interviewed guest: Fergus Trim
Interviewed guest: Sughra Ahmed
Interviewed guest: Canon Andrew Wingate OBE
Interviewed guest: Ali MacGraw
Interviewed guest: Rosemary Feitelberg
Interviewed guest: Andrea Robinson
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Desert Island Discs, Radio 4 01/09/1969; Jimmy Tarbuck, The Daily Mail 17/11/2020; One Minute With Des O’Connor, Radio 1 01/01/2000; The Morecambe & Wise Show, BBC Two 25/12/1975; Front Row, Radio 4 06/10/2011; Jimmy Tarbuck, ITV News 16/11/2020; This Morning, ITV 16/11/2020; Countdown, Channel 4 29/09/2008; Good Morning Britain, ITV 16/11/2020; Tomorrow's World, BBC One 15/01/1997; Ataullah Siddiqui, Cardiff University/Islam UK 21/01/2019.
11/20/2020 • 28 minutes, 10 seconds
Lord Sacks, John Sessions, Joanna Harcourt-Smith, Jim Radford
Pictured: Lord Sacks
Matthew Bannister on
The former Chief Rabbi Lord Sacks, a respected scholar and broadcaster who reached out to other faiths, but had trouble reconciling the different strains of opinion in his own.
John Sessions, the actor and comedian who used his gift for improvisation and mimicry in TV shows like Whose Line Is It Anyway, Spitting Image and Stella Street. Clive Anderson and Sir Kenneth Branagh pay tribute.
Joanna Harcourt-Smith, the socialite who was friends with the Rolling Stones, campaigned to get Timothy Leary released from prison and struggled with addiction. Once she entered recovery she hosted an early podcast called Future Primitive.
Jim Radford, the singer-songwriter and peace campaigner who took part in the D-Day landings aged 15 – and later performed his song based on the experiences at the Royal Albert Hall to mark the 70th Anniversary.
Interviewed guest: Dr Rowan Williams
Interviewed guest: Jenni Frazer
Interviewed guest: Clive Anderson
Interviewed guest: Sir Kenneth Branagh
Interviewed guest: Lara Tambacopoulou
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Desert Island Discs, Radio 4 26/041991; Sunday, Radio 4 25/08/2013; Today, Radio 4 28/11/2019; Whose Line Is It Anyway, Channel 4 1988; Whose Line Is It Anyway, Radio 4 February 1988; Desert Island Discs, Radio 4 25/02/1990; Finding Your Feet, directed by Richard Loncraine, Eclipse Films 2017; Napoleon by John Sessions, directed by Sir Kenneth Branagh 1989; Margaret, directed by James Kent, Great Meadow Productions 2009; Future Primitive: Heartmending, 23/08/2020; My Psychedelic Love Story, directed by Errol Morris, Fourth Floor Productions 22/10/2020; Good Morning Britain, ITV 31/05/2019; D-Day Veteran Goes Back to the Beaches, BBC Three Counties Radio 06/06/2019; Jim Radford Goes Back to Normandy, Legasee Educational Trust 01/08/2017; BBC News 05/06/2019.
11/13/2020 • 28 minutes, 6 seconds
Sir Sean Connery, Eavan Boland, Nobby Stiles MBE, Bobby Ball
Pictured: Sir Sean Connery
Matthew Bannister on
Sir Sean Connery, seen by many as the definitive James Bond, he won an Oscar for The Untouchables and was a supporter of the Scottish National Party.
Eavan Boland, who changed the course of Irish poetry by making women’s experiences central to her work.
The footballer Nobby Stiles, one of only two Englishmen to have won both the World Cup and the European Cup.
Bobby Ball, the comedian whose double act with Tommy Cannon was hugely popular on TV during the 1980s. His catchphrase was “Rock On Tommy”.
Interviewed guest: Christopher Bray
Interviewed guest: Professor Peggy Reynolds
Interviewed guest: Mary Robinson
Interviewed guest: Alex Stepney
Interviewed guest: Gary Richardson
Interviewed guest: Rob Harper
Interviewed guest: Darren Harper
Interviewed guest: Lee Mack
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Sean Connery In His Own Words, BBC 2 Scotland 18/08/2015; Dr No, directed by Terence Young, Eon Productions 1962; With Great Pleasure, Radio 4 09/11/2000; ‘Our Future Will Become The Past of Other Women’ by Eavan Boland, read by Fiona Shaw, The Royal Irish Academy 09/12/2018; Archive on 4: Four Women Poets Today, Radio 4 18/07/2020; My Top Ten: Bobby Ball, Radio 1 15/09/1985; Not Going Out, BBC One 30/12/2009.
11/6/2020 • 28 minutes, 13 seconds
David Toole OBE, Professor Valerie Curtis, Frank Bough, Jill Paton Walsh CBE
Pictured: David Toole
Matthew Bannister on
David Toole, the disabled dancer who starred in the opening ceremony of the 2012 Paralympics.
Professor Val Curtis, who was known as the Queen of Hygiene for her expertise on sanitation and research in how to communicate public health messages.
Frank Bough, the popular presenter of TV shows like 'Grandstand' and 'Nationwide' whose BBC career ended in disgrace after he was caught taking drugs with prostitutes.
Jill Paton Walsh, the award winning children’s author who also wrote the first self-published novel to be shortlisted for the Booker Prize and completed an unfinished work by Dorothy L. Sayers.
Interviewed guest: Jenny Sealey
Interviewed guest: Oliver Cumming
Interviewed guest: John Stapleton
Interviewed guest: Sally Magnussen
Interviewed guest: Julia Eccleshare
Interviewed guest: Oliver Soden
Reader: Emma Handy
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Midweek, Radio 4 01/03/2017; The Cost of Living, directed by Lloyd Newson, DV8 Physical Theatre 2005; In Business, Radio 4 29/07/2010; Science Stories, Radio 4 28/08/2019; Off The Page, Radio 4 Extra 13/07/2016; Grandstand, BBC One 1960; Woman’s Hour, Radio 4 09/07/1975; Nationwide, BBC One 05/08/1983; Desert Island Discs, Radio 4 26/04/1987; PM, Radio 4 26/10/2020; BBC Breakfast Time, BBC One 17/01/1983; The John Dunn Show, Radio 2 17/10/1984; News 92, Radio 1 01/09/1992; Treasure Islands: Jill Paton-Walsh, Radio 4 20/11/1991; The Dolphin Crossing by Jill Paton Walsh, Faber & Faber 15/11/2012, read by Emma Handy; Private Passions, Radio 3 07/12/2014; Knowledge of Angels by Jill Paton Walsh, Black Swan 01/01/1995, read by Natasha Pyne, Radio 4 10/10/1994.
10/30/2020 • 28 minutes, 2 seconds
Herbert Kretzmer, James Nash, Tom Maschler, Sister Chiara Hatton Hall
Pictured: Herbert Kretzmer
Matthew Bannister on
Herbert Kretzmer, the journalist turned lyricist, best known for writing the lyrics for the musical Les Misérables.
James Nash, the flamboyant adventurer who came under fire as a Colonial Officer in the Middle East during the last days of the British Empire.
Tom Maschler, the influential publisher who promoted the careers of many leading novelists and founded the Booker Prize.
Sister Chiara Hatton Hall, known as 'The Galloping Nun'. She taught Princess Anne and many other students to ride before taking holy orders as a forty-two year old widow.
Interviewed guest: Don Black
Interviewed guest: Russell Davies
Interviewed guest: John Harding
Interviewed guest: Peter Straus
Interviewed guest: Sister Jane Bertelsen
Interviewed guest: Ginny Elliott MBE
Interviewed guest: Steve Axon
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: The Reunion, Radio 4 17/10/2003; Desert Island Discs, Radio 4 17/10/2003; Gamal Abdel Nasser’s speech on Yemen 1962, IEPlus 27/03/2015; Everything You Need To Know About The Permissive Society, Radio 4 22/07/1971; Kaleidoscope: First Among Equals, Radio 4 22/10/1986; Burghley Horse Trials, AP / British Movietone 21/07/2015; Nuns’ Vows at Ladywell Convent 1962, British Pathe 13/04/2014.
10/27/2020 • 28 minutes, 4 seconds
Derek Mahon, Professor Gerta Vrbová, Ang Rita Sherpa, Helena Shenel
Pictured: Derek Mahon
Matthew Bannister on
Derek Mahon, one of Ireland’s greatest poets of recent times, whose work 'Everything’s Going To Be Alright' was read on Irish TV and radio at the start of the Covid lockdown.
Professor Gerta Vrbová, who spent her youth fleeing Nazi persecution, then carried out pioneering work on the interaction between muscles and nerves.
Ang Rita Sherpa, the only person to have climbed Mount Everest ten times without using supplemental oxygen.
Helena Shenel, the voice coach who helped many celebrated performers – including Shirley Bassey, Annie Lennox and Peter Gabriel – to overcome problems with their singing.
Interviewed guest: Sean O’Brien
Interviewed guest: Peter Hilton
Interviewed guest: Uma Shahani
Interviewed guest: Ang Tshering Sherpa
Interviewed guest: Bhadra Sharma
Interviewed guest: Nikki Slade
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Derek Mahon, Radio Ulster 15/01/1984; Arts Extra Special - Derek Mahon: A Celebration, Radio Ulster 16/12/2008; Poetry Please, Radio 4 28/01/2007; New Poems, Radio 3 19/08/1974; Gerta Vrbová: Oral History, Imperial War Museum 15/04/2003; 60 Minutes Australia, Nine Network 05/10/2018; Last Rites of Ang Rita Sherpa, Nepal Tourism TV 23/09/2020; Slate: Shirley Bassey, BBC One Wales 16/09/1993; Saturday Live, Radio 1 06/04/1985.
10/16/2020 • 28 minutes, 1 second
Kenzo Takada, Colonel John Waddy, Frank Windsor, Ann Getty
Pictured: Kenzo Takada
Matthew Bannister on:
Kenzo Takada, the Japanese-born fashion designer who made Paris his home and was known for his bold use of colour.
Colonel John Waddy, the former head of the SAS who was wounded at the Battle of Arnhem.
Frank Windsor, the actor best known for playing Detective Sergeant Watt in Z Cars and Softly Softly.
Ann Getty, who married into the Getty family and used her fortune to rescue a publishing house, support the arts and start an interior design company.
Interviewed guest: Dana Thomas
Interviewed guest: John O’Reilly
Interviewed guest: Niall Cherry
Interviewed guest: Amanda Windsor
Interviewed guest: Bill Fellows
Interviewed guest: Diane Dorrans Saeks
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Flower by Kenzo, directed by Patrick Guedj 2018; The Clothes Show: Catwalk Special, BBC One 23/10/1994; Kenzo Takada – Renegades of Fashion, Fashion Industry Broadcast 01/03/2020; Red Devils of Arnhem (1944), British Pathe 13/04/2014; Today, Radio 4 08/05/2020; A Bridge Too Far, directed by Richard Attenborough, Joseph E Levine Productions 1977; Oosterbeek Battlefield Tour 2011, Bart H 18/03/2016; Woman’s Hour, Radio 2 24/03/1971.
10/9/2020 • 28 minutes
Sir Harold Evans, Ruth Bader-Ginsburg, Alan Minter, Helen Taylor-Thompson
Julian Worricker on:
The campaigning journalist and editor, Sir Harold Evans, voted the greatest of all time by his peers....
Ruth Bader-Ginsburg, US Supreme Court Justice, who served in that role for 27 years and became something of a judicial celebrity....
The charity worker Helen Taylor-Thompson, who co-founded Europe's first AIDS hospice at a time of great hostility towards those with the disease....
And the boxer, Alan Minter, who became the undisputed middleweight champion of the world.
Presenter: Julian Worricker
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Jessica Levinson
Interviewed guest: Brenda Feigen
Interviewed guest: Roy Greenslade
Interviewed guest: Dr. Veronica Moss
Interviewed guest: John McDonald
Archive clips from: Archive on 4 - Harold Evans at 90, Radio 4 23/06/2018; Desert Island Discs, Radio 4, 07/04/2000; John Dunn Show, Radio 2, 04/09/1980
10/6/2020 • 27 minutes, 55 seconds
Juliette Greco, Bob Gore, Dame Georgina Mace, Jiri Menzel
Pictured: Juliette Greco
Julian Worricker on the French singer and actor, Juliette Greco, who rose to fame on the famous Left Bank in Paris after the war....
Bob Gore who revolutionised outdoor clothing with his invention of the waterproof fabric, Gore-Tex....
The ecologist Dame Georgina Mace, who changed the way threatened species were classified and reshaped worldwide conservation policies....
And the Czech director, Jiri Menzel, who won an Oscar for his 1966 film 'Closely Observed Trains'.
Interviewed guest: Agnes Poirier
Interviewed guest: David Cole
Interviewed guest: Professor Kate Jones
Interviewed guest: Professor Ian Christie
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: In Town Today, Radio 4 24/03/1962; ‘Vive Paris’: The Liberation of Paris in 1944, British Movietone 29/06/2015; Roots of Heaven, directed by John Huston, Darryl F Zanuck Productions / Twentieth Century Fox 1958; Moon Landing Live, BBC America 20/07/2019; Perseverance Launch to Mars, NASA 30/07/2020; The Life Scientific, Radio 4 12/07/2016; Closely Watched Trains, directed by Jiri Menzel, Filmove Studio Barrandov 1966; The Film Programme, Radio 4 09/05/2008.
Pictured: Sir Terence Conran
Matthew Bannister on:
Sir Terence Conran, the designer and businessman who transformed the UK’s approach to home décor and eating out.
Dame Diana Rigg, the actor who combined a critically acclaimed stage career with stardom on TV and film.
Shere Hite, who wrote the Hite Report which changed attitudes to female sexuality.
Toots Hibbert, the Jamaican singer often called “the man who invented reggae".
Interviewed guest: Deyan Sudjic OBE
Interviewed guest: Michael Quinn
Interviewed guest: Matthew Sweet
Interviewed guest: Lola Atkins
Interviewed guest: Dame Jenni Murray
Interviewed guest: David Katz
Interviewed guest: Glady Wax
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Profile, Radio 4 22/04/1983; The Festival of Britain, British Pathe 07/05/1951; Desert Island Discs, Radio 4 01/09/1996; Game of Thrones Series 7 Episode 3, directed by Mark Mylod, HBO 30/07/2017; Front Row, Radio 4 10/09/2020; Today, Radio 4 11/09/2020; Private Passions, Radio 3 3/12/2012; The Avengers, ABC 1965; Woman’s Hour, Radio 4 02/05/2006; The First Time With Toots Hibbert, 6 Music 17/01/2019.
9/18/2020 • 28 minutes, 5 seconds
Stuart King, Comrade Duch, Deirdre Le Faye, David Bryant CBE
Pictured: Stuart King
Julian Worricker on:
Stuart King, who co-founded a humanitarian charity which involved perilous flights to southern Africa in light aircraft straight after the war....
The Khmer Rouge executioner, known as Comrade Duch, found guilty of some of the worst atrocities carried out by that regime in Cambodia....
Deirdre Le Faye, a scholar and professor, whose knowledge of the life and works of Jane Austen has been described as 'unparalleled'.....
And the man with the pipe whose success on the bowling greens raised the profile of his sport, David Bryant.
Interviewed guest: Max Grove
Interviewed guest: Jonathan Head
Interviewed guest: Nic Dunlop
Interviewed guest: Dr Gillian Dow
Interviewed guest: David Rhys Jones
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: 70 Years of MAF, MAF 2020; Remembering D-Day, MAF 2020; Today, Radio 4 30/03/2009; Comrade Duch Dies, Bloomberg Quick Take News 02/09/2020; Duch Statements Apology, Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia 15/08/2012; Jane Austen’s iPod, Radio 4 06/06/2010; 11th Commonwealth Games 1978, BBC Sound Archive, 10/08/1978; David Bryant Interviewed by Brian Roberts, Today, Radio 4 01/11/1966; Bowling Tips From David Bryant, Bowls UK 18/09/2016.
9/11/2020 • 28 minutes, 9 seconds
Chadwick Boseman, Sir Kenneth Robinson, Lord Renton of Mount Harry, Doreen Davies
Pictured: Chadwick Boseman
Matthew Bannister on
Chadwick Boseman, whose portrayal of the King of the fictional African kingdom of Wakanda in the movie Black Panther made him a global star.
Sir Kenneth Robinson, the charismatic education expert whose TED talk “Do Schools Kill Creativity?” has been viewed online more than 67 million times.
Lord Renton, the Tory politician who was Chief Whip when Margaret Thatcher was forced to step down as leader.
Doreen Davies, who presided over the music policy and daytime output of BBC Radio 1 during its heyday in the 1970s and 80s.
Interviewed guest: Amon Warmann
Interviewed guest: Chris Anderson
Interviewed guest: Dr Andy Hargreaves
Interviewed guest: Julia Langdon
Interviewed guest: Simon Mills
Interviewed guest: Johnny Beerling
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Marshall, directed by Reginald Hudlin, Chestnut Ridge Productions 2017; Get On Up, directed by Tate Taylor, Imagine Entertainment 2014; Jo Whiley, Radio 2 14/10/2014; 42, directed by Brian Helgeland, Warner Bros 2013; Trevor Nelson's Rhythm Nation, Radio 2 19/11/2019; Black Panther, directed by Ryan Coogler, Marvel Studios / Walt Disney Pictures 2018; Front Row, Radio 4 09/02/2018; Chadwick Boseman – A Tribute from Marvel Studios, JoBlo Movie Trailers 31/08/2020; Sir Ken Robinson: Do Schools Kill Creativity?, TED February 2006; Sir Ken Robinson: How To Escape Education’s Death Valley, TED Talks Education April 2013; The Radio One Story, BBC Two 09/05/2010; Jimmy Young, Radio 2 13/06/1978; John Lennon Dies, Today Archives / NBC News 09/12/1980.
9/4/2020 • 28 minutes, 7 seconds
Dr James Partridge OBE, Sally Jacobs, Angela Buxton, Philip Horniblow OBE
Pictured: Dr James Partridge OBE (c) Paul Chambers Photography
Julian Worricker on:
The theatre designer, Sally Jacobs, whose work included a groundbreaking production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, set in a white box on stage….
James Partridge, whose life was transformed by facial burns suffered in a car accident, and who went on to campaign for equal treatment for all, irrespective of appearance….
The tennis player Angela Buxton, who faced discrimination in the sport because of her Jewish heritage, and who formed a winning doubles partnership with Althea Gibson….
And Philip Horniblow, variously described as a mountaineer, soldier, spy and doctor, who spent thirty years of his working life in the Middle East.
Interviewed guest: Anna Furse
Interviewed guest: Phyllida Swift
Interviewed guest: Richard Evans
Interviewed guest: Dawn Robertson
Interviewed guest: Nigel Gifford
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: A Midsummer Night’s Dream, directed by Peter Brook 1970, RSC / MIT Global Shakespeare; The Reunion, Radio 4 08/05/2015; Turandot: Puccini’s Final Opera, Royal Opera House 25/09/2013; ITV News 17/08/2020; About Face, Radio 4 18/07/1993; North West Tonight, BBC One 02/07/2004; Angela Buxton on Althea Gibson, BET News 2004; Fry v Buxton, Wimbledon Ladies’ Finals, BBC Sound Archive 07/07/1956; Nationwide, BBC One 15/06/1981.
8/28/2020 • 28 minutes, 6 seconds
Julian Bream CBE, Elizabeth Ward OBE, Chris Graham-Bell, Stuart Christie
Pictured: Julian Bream
Matthew Bannister on
Julian Bream, said by many to be the greatest classical guitarist of all time.
Elizabeth Ward, who campaigned for the introduction of the kidney donor card after her son went through three transplants.
Chris Graham-Bell, the founding publisher of the Gay Times magazine.
Stuart Christie, the anarchist who was involved in a plot to blow up the Spanish dictator General Franco.
Interviewed guest: Lord Michael Berkeley CBE
Interviewed guest: Andrew Green
Interviewed guest: Sally Taber
Interviewed guest: Nigel Bell
Interviewed guest: Robert Hanwell
Interviewed guest: Branwen Christie
Interviewed guest: Duncan Campbell
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Julian Bream: My Life in Music, Avie 2006; Man With A Guitar, BBC Sound Archive 25/09/1961; East Midlands Today, BBC One 22/05/1997; Man Alive, BBC Two 14/02/1980; Newsroom South East, BBC One 17/06/1991; Profile: Stuart Christie, Radio 4 10/07/1981; By Fair Means or Foul, Radio 4 20/11/1973; Angry Brigade Trial, Sound Archive, Radio 4 06/12/1972.
8/21/2020 • 28 minutes, 3 seconds
Hawa Abdi, Clive Ponting, President Lee Teng-hui, Richard Brooke
Matthew Bannister on
Hawa Abdi, the Somali doctor who set up a clinic for pregnant women at her home that eventually became a sanctuary for thousands during violence in the country.
Clive Ponting, the civil servant who leaked details of the sinking of the Argentine cruiser the General Belgrano during the Falklands War, but was acquitted of breaching the Official Secrets Act.
Lee Teng-hui, the first democratically elected President of Taiwan.
Richard Brooke, the mountaineer who played a leading role in the Commonwealth Trans Antarctic Expedition of 1957.
Interviewed guest: Cindy Sui
Interviewed guest: David Brooke
Interviewed guest: Sarah J. Robins
Interviewed guest: David Leigh
Producer: Neil George
8/14/2020 • 28 minutes, 4 seconds
John Hume, Stan Mellor MBE, Paulette Wilson, Sir Alan Parker
Pictured: John Hume
Matthew Bannister on:
John Hume, the politician widely credited with driving through the Northern Ireland peace process.
Stan Mellor, who became the first jump jockey to ride one thousand winners.
Paulette Wilson, who was wrongly threatened with deportation and went on to campaign for justice for others affected by the Windrush scandal.
And the film director Sir Alan Parker, who brought us 'Bugsy Malone', 'Fame' and 'Midnight Express'. His friend and colleague Lord Puttnam pays tribute.
Interviewed guest: Denis Murray OBE
Interviewed guest: Barry Turley
Interviewed guest: Brough Scott MBE
Interviewed guest: Patrick Vernon
Interviewed guest: Lord David Puttnam CBE
Producer: Paula McGinley
Archive clips from: The Signing of the Good Friday Agreement April 1998, Irish Foreign Ministry 16/01/2014; Northern Ireland Peace Agreement, BBC Sound Archive 10/04/1998; Bill Clinton on John Hume, The Pat Kenny Show, Newstalk 04/08/2020; When I'm 64: John Hume, Radio 4 21/08/2001; Londonderry Riots 1969, Pathe News 13/04/2014; Bono introduces Hume and Trimble, AP Archive 21/05/2015; 1966 Hennessy Gold Cup, The Racing Post 01/08/2020; Paulette Wilson’s Visit to Jamaica, The Guardian 07/10/2019; Midlands Today, BBC News 26/10/2017; Theresa May Apologises to Caribbean Leaders, ITV News, 17/04/2018; Desert Island Discs, Radio 4 09/07/2000; Melody, directed by Waris Hussein, Hemdale Productions 1971; Bugsy Malone, directed by Alan Parker, The Rank Organisation 1976.
8/7/2020 • 28 minutes, 3 seconds
Stuart Wheeler, Josephine Cox, Miloš Jakeš, Peter Green
Pictured: Stuart Wheeler
Matthew Bannister on
Stuart Wheeler, the spread betting tycoon who used his millions to fund anti-EU political parties and campaigns.
Josephine Cox, the multi-million selling author whose novels often drew on her working class childhood in Blackburn.
Miloš Jakeš, the General Secretary of the Czech Communist Party at the time of the Velvet Revolution.
Peter Green, the revered guitarist who founded Fleetwood Mac, but later suffered severe mental health problems.
Interviewed guest: Philip Collins
Interviewed guest: Kimberley Young
Interviewed guest: Professor Mary Heimann
Interviewed guest: Bernie Marsden
Producer: Steven Williams
Archive clips from: HARDtalk, BBC News 24 11/10/2019; General Election, ITN 24/05/2001; Nigel Farage on Stuart Wheeler, VoteLeaveMedia 02/04/2009; A Woman’s Fortune by Josephine Cox, read by Carole Boyd, Audible/HarperCollins 2018; Woman's Hour, Radio 4 02/09/1999; Woman’s Hour, Radio 4 09/10/2001; The Lion’s Den by Josephine Cox, read by Robert Glenister, Radio 4 Extra 24/04/2011; The Soviet Invasion of Czechoslovakia 1968, BBC News 21/08/2018; Miloš Jakeš speech, Radio Free Europe 17/07/1989; People’s Century: 1989: People Power, BBC One 16/02/1997; BBC News, BBC One 10/12/1989; Peter Green: Man of the World, BBC Four 04/02/2011; The Works: Peter Green: A Hard Road, BBC Two 03/10/1996.
7/31/2020 • 28 minutes, 12 seconds
John Lewis, Tony Elliott CBE, Wendy Cooling, Dr Alan Howard
Matthew Bannister on
John Lewis, the leading American civil rights campaigner who was beaten and imprisoned in the 1960s when he marched with Martin Luther King and later served as a Congressman.
Tony Elliott CBE, who founded the listings magazine Time Out and oversaw its transformation into a global brand.
Wendy Cooling, the former teacher who, through the Bookstart scheme, gave millions of babies and toddlers their first books.
Dr Alan Howard, the nutritionist who came up with the Cambridge Diet which became an international commercial success.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed Guest: Bob Harris
Interviewed Guest: Alan Yentob
Interviewed Guest: Michael Carlson
Interviewed Guest: Justin Somper
Interviewed Guest: Jon Howard
Interviewed Guest: Julio Bruno
Archive clips from: Tomorrow's People, BBC 15/04/1972; Woman's Hour, Radio 4, 01/02/2008; The Perfect Diet?, BBC 2 28/11/1987
7/24/2020 • 27 minutes, 36 seconds
Jack Charlton, Zindzi Mandela, Charles Webb, Ida Haendel
Pictured: Jack Charlton
Matthew Bannister on
The footballer Jack Charlton, who went from a pit village in Northumberland to become a Leeds United stalwart and member of England’s 1966 World Cup winning team – and then a successful manager of the Republic of Ireland.
Zindzi Mandela, the youngest daughter of Nelson Mandela who was an anti-apartheid activist and later South Africa’s ambassador to Denmark.
Charles Webb, the author of the novel The Graduate which became a classic film starring Dustin Hoffman. Charles was anti-materialism and gave away his royalties and even his homes.
Ida Haendel, the Polish-born violinist known for her interpretations of Walton, Britten and Sibelius, who appeared at the BBC Proms 68 times.
Interviewed guest: John Murray
Interviewed guest: Milton Nkosi
Interviewed guest: Jack Malvern
Interviewed guest: Norman Lebrecht
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Football Daily, 5 Live 11/07/2020; England v Scotland, BBC Sound Archive 10/04/1965; Desert Island Discs: Jack Charlton, Radio 4 20/10/1996; Ireland pays tribute to Jack Charlton, RTE Sport 11/07/2020; Sports Personality of the Year, BBC One 14/12/2008; Talk to Al Jazeera: Zindzi Mandela, Al Jazeera 18/07/2008; Zindzi Mandela reads her father’s speech in 1985, BBC News Africa 13/07/2020; Book at Bedtime: The Graduate, Radio 4 05/06/2000; Front Row, Radio 4 29/05/2007; The Graduate, directed by Mike Nichols, Lawrence Truman Productions 1967; Woman's Hour, Radio 4 22/06/2000; EBU Interval Talk: Ida Haendel, Radio 3 26/11/1973; BBC Proms, Radio 3 1994.
7/17/2020 • 28 minutes, 1 second
Ennio Morricone, Sir Everton Weekes, Baroness Maddock, Earl Cameron CBE
Pictured: Ennio Morricone
Matthew Bannister on:
Ennio Morricone, the Italian composer best known for his scores for films like The Good, The Bad and the Ugly and The Mission, but keen to be remembered also for his avant garde classical works.
Sir Everton Weekes, the outstanding batsman who played a key role in West Indian cricket’s success in the 1940s and 50s.
Baroness Maddock, the Liberal Democrat politician who won a stunning victory in the Christchurch by-election in 1993.
Earl Cameron, the Bermuda-born actor whose long career included roles in many hit TV series as well as films like Pool of London, Thunderball and Guns at Batasi.
Interviewed guest: David Willey
Interviewed guest: David Temple
Interviewed guest: Donna Symmonds
Interviewed guest: BC Pires
Interviewed guest: Lord Alan Beith
Interviewed guest: Baroness Jenny Randerson
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Outlook, World Service 07/01/2015; Everton Weekes in his own words, Sky Sports January 2019; England v West Windies 1950 Test Match, Pathe News; England v West Indies at Lords 1950, BBC News; British Politics, Radio 4 30/07/1993; Black on Screen, Radio 4 08/01/2001; Front Row, Radio 4 14/10/2016; Pool of London, directed by Basil Dearden, Ealing Studios 1951; The Heart Within, directed by David Eady, Penington Eady Productions 1957; Guns at Batasi, directed by John Guillermin, Twentieth Century Fox 1964; Thunderball, directed by Terence Young, Eon Productions 1965.
7/10/2020 • 28 minutes, 3 seconds
Milton Glaser, Terry Dicks, Professor Tom Arie, Else Blangsted
Pictured: Milton Glaser
Matthew Bannister on
The graphic designer Milton Glaser who came up with the iconic “I heart New York” logo – but didn’t make a penny from it.
Terry Dicks, the controversial right wing Tory MP who went out of his way to challenge political correctness.
Professor Tom Arie, the psychiatrist who helped to transform mental health treatment for older people.
Else Blangsted, the Hollywood music editor whose own life story reads like the script for a dramatic film.
Interviewed guest: Christopher Bonanos
Interviewed guest: Arianne Wack
Interviewed guest: Julia Langdon
Interviewed guest: Dr Claire Hilton
Interviewed guest: Angie Errigo
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: I Heart Milton Glaser, Radio 4 10/02/2011; File on Four, Radio 4 24/07/1984; Sound Archive: Libyan Terrorism and U.K. Deportations, Radio 4 22/04/1986; File on Four, Radio 4 09/06/1993; The Week in Westminster, Radio 4 24/02/1990; Looking for Else, directed by Sandy Kopitopoulos and Daniel Maurer, Amka Films 2007; The Bonfire of the Vanities, directed by Brian De Palma, Warner Bros 1990; Olympic Sports in Berlin 1936, British Pathe 13/04/2014; Samson and Delilah, directed by Cecil B. DeMille, Paramount Pictures 1949.
7/3/2020 • 28 minutes, 3 seconds
Sir Ian Holm, Jean Kennedy Smith, Felicity Bryan MBE, Lily Lian
Pictured: Sir Ian Holm
Matthew Bannister on
Sir Ian Holm, the respected actor best known for playing Bilbo Baggins in the Lord of the Rings films and for his interpretation of Shakespeare and Pinter.
Jean Kennedy Smith, the last survivor of nine children of Joseph Kennedy. She was US ambassador to Dublin at a significant time in the Northern Ireland peace process.
Felicity Bryan the literary agent who steered the careers of many leading writers, including James Naughtie who pays tribute.
And Lily Lian, thought to be the last traditional Parisian street singer.
Interviewed guest: Steven Jacobi
Interviewed guest: Shane Harrison
Interviewed guest: Laurence Leamer
Interviewed guest: James Naughtie
Interviewed guest: Agnes Poirier
Producer: Paula McGinley
Archive clips from: Richard III, Radio 3 26/08/1985; Woman’s Hour, Radio 4 16/09/1970; The Iceman Goeth, Radio 4 23/04/2009; Chariots of Fire, directed by Hugh Hudson, Allied Stars/Goldcrest Films 1981; The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, directed by Peter Jackson, New Line Cinema 2001; The Borrowers, BBC Two 1992; Be My Guest, Radio Ulster 24/09/1994; Today, Radio 4 17/03/1995; The Good Friday Agreement April 1998, Irish Foreign Ministry 16/01/2004; Agents During Lockdown: Felicity Bryan, FBA 14/04/2020.
6/26/2020 • 27 minutes, 39 seconds
Dame Vera Lynn, Professor Geoffrey Burnstock, Larry Kramer, Pierre Nkurunziza
Pictured: Dame Vera Lynn
Matthew Bannister on:
Professor Geoffrey Burnstock, the eminent neurobiologist who identified the function of a neurotransmitter called ATP with important implications for the treatment of many conditions including strokes, cancer and cystic fibrosis.
Larry Kramer, the outspoken gay rights campaigner who organised direct action to force the US government to confront the AIDS crisis.
Pierre Nkurunziza, the President of Burundi who used violence to hold on to power after his constitutional term ended.
Dame Vera Lynn, the singer known as “the forces’ sweetheart” for her songs of hope during the second world war.
Interviewed guest: Professor Mike Spyer
Interviewed guest: Professor Timothy Arnett
Interviewed guest: Peter Tatchell
Interviewed guest: Vava Tampa
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Interview with Geoffrey Burnstock, Queen Mary, University of London 10/03/2008; Meridian, Radio 4 20/06/1995; Arena, BBC Two 05/02/1993; The Late Show, BBC Two 10/10/1989; Pierre Nkurunziza Interview, Woodrow Wilson Center 16/04/2013; Burundi’s Football President, Journeyman Pictures 17/11/2015; Nkurunziza Wins Disputed Election, Al Jazeera 25/07/2015; Burundi Coup Attempt, BBC News 13/05/2015; Desert Island Discs: Dame Vera Lynn, Radio 4 03/09/1989; The Emma Freud Show, Radio 1 01/01/2000.
6/19/2020 • 28 minutes, 3 seconds
Christo Javacheff, Cathie Sabin OBE, Dorothy Wakely, Jonathan Whitehead
Pictured: Christo Javacheff
Matthew Bannister on:
The artist Christo Javacheff, best known for his extremely ambitious projects to wrap significant buildings and landscapes in fabric. They included the Reichstag in Berlin and the coastline of Australia.
Cathie Sabin, who was the first woman to be President of the Lawn Tennis Association.
Dorothy Wakely, who served as a Signals Planner with the Special Operations Executive during the second world war.
Jonathan Whitehead, the versatile musician who provided the soundtracks for many TV comedies including Green Wing, Smack the Pony and The Day Today. His friend and colleague Chris Morris pays tribute.
Interviewed guest: Will Gompertz
Interviewed guest: Ben Sabin
Interviewed guest: Vicky Williams
Interviewed guest: Simon Wakely
Interviewed guest: Clare Mulley
Interviewed guest: Chris Morris
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Christo interview: London Mastaba floating installation, Dezeen 08/08/2018; Public Art Enhancing Cities, Bloomberg Philanthropies 26/06/2018; Christo & Jeanne-Claude put Berlin’s Reichstag under wraps, CBS Sunday Morning 25/06/1995; Christo on ‘Wrapped Coast’, Art Gallery of NSW 03/08/2011; Front Row, Radio 4 16/11/2004; Highlights: Davis Cup, Davis Cup 29/11/2015; Andy Murray wins Wimbledon, Wimbledon 07/07/2013; Andy Murray wins Olympic Gold, Olympic 24/08/2016; Cathie Sabin: The Lawn Tennis Association, Shrewsbury U3A 15/03/2019; VE Day – 70 Years Ago, British Pathe 08/05/2015; Brass Eye: Drugs, Channel 4 1997.
6/12/2020 • 28 minutes, 3 seconds
Dr Stanley Ho, Roger Fellows, Margaret Meek Spencer, Mory Kanté
Pictured: Stanley Ho
Julian Worricker on:
The man praised by both Tony Blair and Gordon Brown for being the architect of the national minimum wage, Roger Fellows….
One of Asia’s richest men - the gambling tycoon, Stanley Ho, who transformed the economy of Macau….
The educationist Margaret Meek Spencer, who influenced a generation of children and teachers by emphasising the joy of reading...
And the musician who wrote and performed the first African single to sell a million copies around the world, Mory Kanté.
Interviewed guest: Chris Pond
Interviewed guest: Liz Barclay
Interviewed guest: Jill McGivering
Interviewed guest: Julia Eccleshare
Interviewed guest: Robin Denselow
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Labour Party Conference, BBC News 1995; Tokyo Celebrates Victory in China, Pathé News 1938; The Money Makers: Betting On A Certainty, BBC Two 18/03/1986; Stanley Ho interview, CNN 26/05/2020; Today, Radio 4 07/06/1997; Macau handover to China, AP Archive 23/07/2015; Correspondent: Hong Kong, BBC Two 07/06/1997; Reading Between The Lines, Radio 4 03/06/2012; Ted Hughes reads The Iron Man, Iconic, 24/10/2011; Mory Kanté interview, L’invité, 03/07/2012.
6/5/2020 • 28 minutes, 4 seconds
Margaret Maughan, John Cumming OBE, Jerry Givens, John Langdon, Eric Weissberg
Pictured: Margaret Maughan
Julian Worricker on Britain’s first Paralympic gold medallist, Margaret Maughan; Tanni Grey-Thompson compares the games of 1960 and now….
The music promoter and producer, John Cumming, co-founder of the London Jazz Festival….
Jerry Givens, once a state executioner….but then a leading campaigner in the United States for the abolition of the death penalty….
And the comedy writer, John Langdon; his friend and colleague Rory Bremner, recalls some of his best lines….
Interviewed guest: Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson DBE
Interviewed guest: Peter White
Interviewed guest: Nod Knowles
Interviewed guest: Abraham Bonowitz
Interviewed guest: Rory Bremner
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Rome Olympics 1960, Pathe News; No Triumph, No Tragedy, Radio 4 29/04/2013; Cerys on 6, 6 Music 05/11/2017; John Cumming interview, Jazz FM 17/11/2013; Former executioner opposes death penalty, Washington Post 11/02/2013; Week Ending, Radio 4 21/03/1980; Two Decades of Week Ending, Radio 4 07/09/1990; The News Quiz, Radio 4 03/09/1994; Bremner, Bird and Fortune: Silly Money, Vera Productions Ltd / Channel 4 02/11/2008.
5/29/2020 • 28 minutes, 9 seconds
Lord Robert May of Oxford, Dr Judith Darmady OBE, Mark Barkan, Saroj Lal
Pictured: Lord Robert May of Oxford
Matthew Bannister on
Lord May, a former Chief Scientific Advisor to the UK government and President of the Royal Society. He developed the concept of the R value in tracking the spread of infectious diseases and laid down key principles for scientific advice to politicians.
Judith Darmady, the paediatrician who travelled to Romania to help thousands of children who had been abandoned in so-called orphanages.
Mark Barkan, the songwriter and record producer who wrote “Pretty Flamingo” which was a hit for Manfred Mann and many other artists. Singer Paul Jones pays tribute.
Saroj Lal, the Indian-born teacher who played a leading role in campaigning for racial equality in Scotland.
Interviewed guest: Lord John Krebs of Wytham
Interviewed guest: Jane Waldron
Interviewed guest: John Illman
Interviewed guest: Bridget Barkan
Interviewed guest: Paul Jones
Interviewed guest: Vineet Lal
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Desert Island Discs: Lord Robert May, Radio 4, 05/06/2012; Ceausescu's Children, BBC News, 30/01/2010; Heaven and Hell, National Museum of Scotland, 2000; The Usual Suspects, Radio Scotland, 13/12/1996; I Believe, You Believe, BBC One Scotland, May 1984.
5/22/2020 • 28 minutes, 5 seconds
Little Richard, Dr Janet Carr OBE, Professor John Horton Conway, Florian Schneider
Matthew Bannister on
The rock 'n' roll pioneer Little Richard, whose flamboyant performances and powerful vocal style influenced many who came after him.
Janet Carr, the psychologist whose long-running study changed attitudes to people with Down’s Syndrome.
John Horton Conway, the playful mathematician who invented the Game of Life.
Florian Schneider, the co-founder of the mould-breaking German electronic band Kraftwerk.
Interviewed guest: Geoff Barker
Interviewed guest: Sally Carr
Interviewed guest: Penny Warren
Interviewed guest: Sir Roger Penrose OM FRS
Interviewed guest: Colm Mulcahy
Interviewed guest: Adam Sweeting
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Little Richard In His Own Words, 6 Music 11/05/2020; Little Richard - A Whop Bop A Lua A Whop Bam Boom, Radio 2 05/12/2012; John Horton Conway: Life, Death and the Monster, Numberphile 09/05/2014; Florian Schneider Interview, Silverstar Club 1998; Florian Schneider, Parley x COP21: Oceans, Climate, Life 08/12/2015.
5/15/2020 • 28 minutes, 5 seconds
Catherine Hamlin, Irrfan Khan, Denis Goldberg, Ann Sayer
Pictured: Catherine Hamlin
Matthew Bannister on
Catherine Hamlin the obstetrician who, with her husband, set about tackling the devastating effects of obstetric fistulae in the women of Ethiopia.
Irrfan Khan, the actor whose career brought stardom in both Indian and Hollywood films, like Jurassic World, Slumdog Millionaire and The Amazing Spiderman.
The South African anti-apartheid activist Denis Goldberg who stood trial alongside Nelson Mandela.
Anne Sayer, the long distance walker who was the first British woman to cover 100 miles in less than 24 hours.
Interviewed guest: Julia Langdon
Interviewed guest: Asjad Nazir
Interviewed guest: Sir Nicholas Stadlen
Interviewed guest: Julie Welch
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: The Oprah Winfrey Show, Syndication/Harpo Studios 2014; Asian Network's Big Debate, Asian Network 29/04/2020; The Lunchbox, directed by Ritesh Batra, Sikhya Entertainment 2013; Jurassic World, directed by Colin Trevorrow, Universal Pictures 2015; Piku, directed by Shoojit Sircar, MSM Motion Pictures 2015; Slumdog Millionaire, directed by Danny Boyle and Loveleen Tandan, Celador Films/Film 4 2008; Pienaar’s Politics, 5 Live 24/01/2016.
5/8/2020 • 28 minutes, 14 seconds
Ronan O'Rahilly, Sir John Houghton CBE, Sue Davies OBE, Barbara Smoker
Pictured: Ronan O’Rahilly
Matthew Bannister on
Ronan O’Rahilly, the Irish businessman who ran the pirate radio station Radio Caroline on a ship off the coast of Essex.
Sir John Houghton, the atmospheric physicist who was Director of the Met Office and co-chair of the Inter-Governmental Panel on Climate Change.
Sue Davies, who founded and ran the Photographers' Gallery in London, supporting the careers of many leading photographers.
Barbara Smoker, the outspoken atheist and anarchist who was President of the National Secular Society.
Interviewed guest: Ray Clark
Interviewed guest: Hannah Malcolm
Interviewed guest: Dave Roberts
Interviewed guest: Paul Hardaker
Interviewed guest: Amanda Hopkinson
Interviewed guest: Chris Steele-Perkins
Interviewed guest: Professor Anthony Costello
Interviewed guest: Denis Cobell
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Arena: Caroline 199: A Pirate's Tale, BBC Two 01/03/1991; The Story of Pop, Radio 1 26/01/1974; Ray Clark on Radio Caroline 1987; Belief, Radio 3 10/06/2012; Interview with Sue Davies, courtesy of The Photographers’ Gallery; Seeds of Faith, Radio 4 14/07/1996; Today, Radio 4 16/12/2002.
5/1/2020 • 27 minutes, 56 seconds
Dame Jocelyn Barrow DBE, Keith Critchlow, Leonard ‘Nipper’ Read, John Prine
Pictured: Dame Jocelyn Barrow
Matthew Bannister on
The artist, professor of architecture and expert on sacred geometry Keith Critchlow. He was a key figure in the Prince’s School of Traditional Arts and advised on the design of Islamic-influenced buildings all over the world.
Dame Jocelyn Barrow who was an educator and leading campaigner against racial discrimination. She was the first black woman to be a Governor of the BBC.
Leonard 'Nipper' Read, the respected detective who doggedly pursued the Kray twins.
John Prine, the American country singer known for writing songs which offer a wry commentary on the human condition.
Interviewed guest: Jon Allen
Interviewed guest: Ian Skelly
Interviewed guest: Baroness Valerie Amos
Interviewed guest: Professor Dick Hobbs
Interviewed guest: Bob Harris
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Britain's Best Buildings, BBC Two 16/11/2002; Night Waves, Radio 3 07/12/2004; Analysis, Radio 4 28/10/1976; It’s a Fair Cop: Leonard ‘Nipper’ Read, Radio 4 07/12/1976; BBC News, BBC One 13/10/1969.
4/24/2020 • 28 minutes, 9 seconds
Sir Stirling Moss OBE, Professor Margaret Burbidge, Mahmoud Jibril, Tim Brooke-Taylor OBE
Pictured: Sir Stirling Moss OBE
Matthew Bannister on
Sir Stirling Moss, the iconic British racing driver, noted for his courage and patriotism. Although he never won the world championship, he stormed to victory in many Formula 1 and sports car races.
Professor Margaret Burbidge, the pioneering astronomer who carried out extensive work on quasars.
Mahmoud Jibril, who became interim Prime Minister of Libya after the fall of Colonel Gaddafi.
Tim Brooke-Taylor, the comic actor best known for his parts in The Goodies and I’m Sorry I Haven’t A Clue. Bill Oddie and Graeme Garden pay tribute.
Interviewed guest: Simon Taylor
Interviewed guest: Lord Martin Rees
Interviewed guest: Amira Fathalla
Interviewed guest: Chris Serle
Interviewed guest: Graeme Garden OBE
Interviewed guest: Bill Oddie OBE
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: HardTalk: Stirling Moss, BBC News 23/12/2010; The World Tonight, Radio 4 18/11/1971; HardTalk: Mahmoud Jibril, BBC News 23/10/2011; Woman’s Hour, Radio 4 03/08/1977; I’m Sorry I Haven’t A Clue, Radio 4 04/01/2016; Front Row, Radio 4 26/09/2018; I’m Sorry I’ll Read That Again, Radio 2 02/11/1977.
4/17/2020 • 28 minutes, 11 seconds
Dr Bill Frankland MBE, John Tydeman OBE, The Marquess of Bath, Honor Blackman
Pictured: Dr Bill Frankland
Julian Worricker on:
Dr Bill Frankland, who survived three years in a Japanese prisoner of war camp, studied under Alexander Fleming, and brought the pollen count into the public arena….
The radio drama producer, John Tydeman, whose work contributed to the success of Joe Orton and Sue Townsend….
Alexander Thynne, better known as the Marquess of Bath, an artist and aristocrat, whose home was the Longleat estate in Wiltshire….
And the actress, Honor Blackman, remembered most for her portrayals of Cathy Gale in The Avengers and Pussy Galore in Goldfinger.
Interviewed guest: Paul Watkins
Interviewed guest: Sir John Tusa
Interviewed guest: Enyd Williams
Interviewed guest: Nesta Wyn Ellis
Interviewed guest: Dr Josephine Botting
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Desert Island Discs: Bill Frankland, Radio 4 09/08/2015; See You Sunday, BBC One Wales 17/03/1991; BBC Oral Histories: John Tydeman; The Mole Truth, Radio 4 20/12/2008; Desert Island Discs: The Marquess of Bath, Radio 4 07/01/2001; The Thynne Blue Line, BBC TV 11/07/1971; Jools Holland, Radio 2 16/05/2011; The Avengers, ABC 1961.
Interviews in this programme with John Tydeman were taken from his contribution to the BBC Oral History Collection, an archive of more than 600 interviews with former BBC staff. For more information see: https://www.bbc.com/historyofthebbc/100-voices/
4/10/2020 • 27 minutes, 34 seconds
Albert Uderzo, Valerie Pettit OBE, Reverend Joseph Lowery, Julie Felix
Pictured: Albert Uderzo
Matthew Bannister on
Valerie Pettit OBE, the senior MI6 officer in charge of the daring operation to get Soviet double agent Oleg Gordievsky out of Russia after his cover was blown.
Albert Uderzo – the French cartoonist who created Asterix the Gaul.
Reverend Joseph Lowery – the leading American civil rights activist who worked alongside Martin Luther King in the campaign for black equality.
Julie Felix – the American-born singer who became known as the first lady of British folk.
Interviewed guest: Ben Macintyre
Interviewed guest: Agnes Poirier
Interviewed guest: Dr Paul Smith
Interviewed guest: Henrietta Giles
Interviewed guest: Fran Collier
Producer: Neil George
4/6/2020 • 28 minutes, 14 seconds
Betty Williams, Dr Fuad Nahdi, Sol Kerzner, Kenny Rogers
Picture Betty Williams
Matthew Bannister on:
Fuad Nahdi, the journalist, commentator and campaigner named as one of the world’s 500 most influential Muslims.
Sol Kerzner, the South African businessman who made a fortune from hotels and casinos and built the controversial Sun City resort under apartheid.
Betty Williams, the office receptionist from Belfast who teamed up with Mairead Corrigan to campaign for peace and won the Nobel Peace Prize.
Kenny Rogers, one of America’s greatest country singers known for hits like “Lucille” and “Ruby Don’t Take Your Love To Town.”
Interviewed guest: Abdul-Rehman Malik
Interviewed guest: Bishop Toby Howarth
Interviewed guest: Paul Martin
Interviewed guest: Chris Ryder
Interviewed guest: Garth Cartwright
Interviewed guest: Bob Harris
Producer: Neil George
3/27/2020 • 27 minutes, 45 seconds
Michel Roux, Sammy McCarthy, Lilian Mohin, Roy Hudd
Pictured: Michel Roux
Matthew Bannister on
Michel Roux, the French chef who, with his brother Albert, transformed the British restaurant scene in the 1970s
Sammy McCarthy, the British featherweight champion boxer who became an armed robber.
Lilian Mohin, the lesbian feminist activist who co founded the OnlyWomen Press.
Roy Hudd, the versatile entertainer whose career took him from the music hall stage to TV and radio stardom.
Interviewed guest: William Sitwell
Interviewed guest: John McDonald
Interviewed guest: Anna Marslen -Wilson
Interviewed guest: Tim Mohin
Producer: Neil George
3/20/2020 • 28 minutes, 12 seconds
Javier Pérez de Cuéllar, Max von Sydow, Professor Hannah Steinberg, Charles Portis
Pictured: Javier Pérez de Cuéllar
Matthew Bannister on
The United Nations Secretary-General Javier Pérez de Cuéllar. The Peruvian diplomat faced major challenges including the Iran-Iraq war and the Falklands War.
Max von Sydow the Swedish-born actor whose film roles ranged from Ingmar Bergman to James Bond and, more recently, Game of Thrones.
Professor Hannah Steinberg - a pioneer of psychopharmacology - the study of the effects of drugs on the human mind.
Charles Portis, the American writer best known for his novel "True Grit" which was twice adapted for the big screen.
Interviewed guest: Richard Gowan
Interviewed guest: Angela Errigo
Interviewed guest: Sandra Fraser
Interviewed guest: Professor Clare Stanford
Interviewed guest: Michael Carlson
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Witness, BBC World Service 12/01/2012; Interview with Cuellar, The Classic Sports 17/11/1991; Iran/Iraq War, TV Eye 1980; Meeting Of The U.N. Security Council (Falklands Conflict), BBC Sound Archive 23/05/1982; Perez De Cuellar Admits Defeat, BBC Sound Archive 31/05/1984; UN 40th Anniversary: J. Perez De Cuellar, BBC Sound Archive 31/05/1984; Virendra Dayal on Cuellar, UN News 05/03/2020; The Seventh Seal, directed by Ingmar Bergman, Svensk Filmindustri 1957; The Film Programme, Radio 4 19/02/2012; The Greatest Story Ever Told, directed by George Stevens, George Stevens Productions 1965; Never Say Never Again, directed by Irvin Kershner, TaliaFilm II Productions/Woodcote/Producers Sales Organization (PSO) 1983; The Exorcist, directed by William Friedkin, Warner Bros/Hoya Productions 1973; Liv Ullmann on Working with Max von Sydow, Criterion Collection 11/02/2019; The Simpsons: The War of Art, Fox Broadcasting Company 23/03/2014; Games of Thrones Season 6, HBO 24/04/2016; True Grit, directed by Henry Hathaway, Wallis-Hazen 1969; True Grit, Radio 4 Extra 26/09/2016; True Grit, directed by Joel and Ethan Coen, Paramount Pictures/Skydance Media/Scott Rudin Productions/Mike Zoss Productions 2010.
3/13/2020 • 28 minutes, 17 seconds
Katherine Johnson, Nexhmije Hoxha, Sir Michael Berridge, Diana Serra Cary (Baby Peggy)
Pictured: Katherine Johnson
Matthew Bannister on
Nexhmije Hoxha, the wife of the Albanian dictator Enver Hoxha. The couple ran a repressive Stalinist regime and she was known in the West as the Lady Macbeth of Albania.
Katherine Johnson, the best known of a small group of African American mathematicians who carried out crucial calculations for the American space programme. Their story was told in the 2017 film "Hidden Figures".
Sir Michael Berridge, whose pioneering research into the saliva of blowflies revealed the process of cell signalling, with major implications for humans.
And Diana Serra Cary, who, under the screen name "Baby Peggy" Montgomery, was a celebrated child star of silent cinema.
Interviewed guest: Professor James Pettifer
Interviewed guest: Albana Kasapi
Interviewed guest: Dr Martin Bootman
Interviewed guest: Tom Lamont
Interviewed guest: Pamela Hutchinson
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Invasion Of Albania 1939, British Pathé 13/04/2014; Bugajksi Hour, Rezart Taci 23/03/2012; The World Tonight, Radio 4 11/04/1985; Newsnight, BBC Two 11/04/1985; President Obama Awards the Presidential Medal of Freedom, The Obama White House 24/11/2015; Hidden Figures, directed by Theodore Melfi, Fox 2000 Pictures/Chernin Entertainment/Levantine Films/TSG Entertainment 2016; Katherine Johnson: Math Interest, visionaryproject 08/03/2010; 5 Live Breakfast, Radio 5 Live 25/02/2020; What Matters - Katherine Johnson: NASA Pioneer and "Computer", WHRO Public Media 25/02/2011; John Glenn's Historic Space Flight 1962, CNN 08/12/2016; Lewis Wolpert Conversations, Radio 3 01/04/1993; Front Row, Radio 4 18/01/2006; Summer of Silents, Oscars 21/03/2014.
3/6/2020 • 28 minutes, 7 seconds
Hosni Mubarak, Andrew Weatherall, Mary Higgins Clark, John Bevan
Matthew Bannister on
Andrew Weatherall, a hugely influential figure in the dance music scene of the 1990s, who revolutionised what a DJ could be and produced many hit albums and remixes. Radio 1's Annie Nightingale explains how he changed her life.
President Hosni Mubarak who ruled Egypt for thirty years before being ousted by mass protests.
The best selling mystery writer Mary Higgins Clark. Her fellow writers Harlan Coben and Alafair S. Burke pay tribute.
John Bevan, the record breaking deep sea diver who was a respected expert on the history of diving.
Interviewed Guest: Annie Nightingale CBE
Interviewed Guest: Dina Rezk
Interviewed Guest: Paul Martin
Interviewed Guest: Harlan Coben
Interviewed Guest: Alafair Burke
Interviewed Guest: Rosemary E Lunn
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: The First Time With..., 6 Music, 22/11/2017; Panorama, BBC One, 06/10/1981; BBC News, BBC One, 28/01/2011; BBC News, BBC One,03/08/2011; Woman's Hour, Radio 4, 14/06/2000; Woman's Hour, Radio 4, 31/05/2006;
2/28/2020 • 27 minutes, 39 seconds
Heather Couper CBE, Leonard Woodley QC, Joseph Shabalala
Pictured: Heather Couper
Matthew Bannister on
Heather Couper, the astronomer who used her engaging media appearances to enthuse a generation about space. We talk to her co-author and business partner Nigel Henbest.
Leonard Woodley, the Trinidad-born barrister who played a leading role in many high profile race trials and became Britain's first Afro-Caribbean Queen's Counsel.
Joseph Shabalala, the South African musician who founded the singing group Ladysmith Black Mambazo. They became global stars after collaborating with Paul Simon on his album Graceland.
Interviewed guest: Nigel Henbest
Interviewed guest: Baroness Helena Kennedy QC
Interviewed guest: Robin Denselow
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Inside Parliament, Radio 4 31/03/1980; PM, Radio 4 25/09/1995; World Routes, Radio 3 18/03/2001; Under African Skies, directed by Joe Berlinger, RadicalMedia 2012; A Brief History of Infinity, BBC World Service 20/09/2006; With Great Pleasure, Radio 4 24/07/1987; Woman’s Hour, Radio 4 11/10/1995; The Planets: Are We Alone?, Channel 4 1985.
2/21/2020 • 28 minutes, 15 seconds
Daniel arap Moi, Feng Huiyan, Professor Donald West, Colonel ‘Mad Mike’ Hoare
Pictured: Daniel arap Moi
Julian Worricker on:
Daniel arap Moi, who led Kenya for 24 years, but did so amidst corruption scandals and the repression of political opponents...
The teacher Feng Huiyan, who taught millions of Chinese people how to speak English via textbooks and broadcasting...
The pioneering criminologist and clinical scientist Donald West, who wrote a ground-breaking study of homosexuality in the 1950s...
And the mercenary leader, known as 'Mad Mike' Hoare, who inspired the film 'The Wild Geese'....
Interviewed guest: Victoria Brittain
Interviewed guest: Vivian Yang
Interviewed guest: Dr Adrian Grounds
Interviewed guest: Professor Jeffrey Weeks OBE
Interviewed guest: Chris Hoare
Interviewed guest: Tim Ecott
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Daniel arap Moi’s funeral, NTV Kenya 12/02/2020; Weekend, BBC World Service 08/02/2020; Final Attack on Shanghai 1937, British Pathe 13/04/2014; Controversy: Criminology Is Obscuring The Causes Of Crime, BBC Two 23/08/1973; PM, Radio 4 11/03/1996; Homosexuality: Its Nature and Causes by Donald West, Aldine Transaction 22/05/2008; Gay Life, Straight Work by Donald West, Paradise Press 01/03/2012; Mike Hoare Talks Africa, Emma Goldman 15/04/2017; The Wild Geese, directed by Andrew V. McLaglen, Richmond Film Productions/Victory Films/Varius Entertainment Trading A.G. 1978; Last Word, Radio 4 10/03/2019; Breakfast Time, BBC One 20/08/1986.
2/14/2020 • 28 minutes, 21 seconds
Kirk Douglas, Terry Hands CBE, Hazel Murphy, Seamus Mallon
Pictured: Kirk Douglas
Julian Worricker on:
Terry Hands, long serving artistic director of the RSC, who co-founded the Liverpool Everyman theatre and revived the Clwyd theatre Cymru...
The wine marketer, Hazel Murphy, who's credited with spearheading Australia's wine invasion of Europe....
The nationalist Northern Ireland politician, Seamus Mallon, whose negotiating skills helped secure the Good Friday Agreement...
And the actor Kirk Douglas, whose career in film spanned seven decades, and involved memorable portrayals of all-action if not always likeable characters...
Interviewed guest: Paul Allen
Interviewed guest: Jancis Robinson OBE
Interviewed guest: Barry Turley
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Desert Island Discs, Radio 4 08/08/1981; Australian Table Wines, Monty Python’s Previous Record, Charisma 1973; BBC News, 03/02/2000; 1800 News, Radio 4 14/10/1999; The Vikings, directed by Richard Fleischer, Brynaprod S.A./ Bavaria Film/ Curtleigh Productions 1958; Kirk Douglas: I am Issur Danielovitch, Eyes On Cinema 21/10/2016; Parkinson, BBC One 16/04/1979; The Strange Love of Martha Ivers, directed by Lewis Milestone, Hal Wallis Productions 1946; Lust for Life, directed by Vincente Minnelli, MGM 1956; Woman’s Hour, Radio 4 26/09/1988; The Oscars, ABC 1996.
2/7/2020 • 28 minutes, 1 second
Nicholas Parsons CBE, Mary Craig, Lord Maclennan of Rogart, Kobe Bryant
Pictured: Nicholas Parsons
Matthew Bannister on The Just A Minute host, TV presenter and actor Nicholas Parsons. Sheila Hancock and Tony Hawks pay tribute - in just a minute!
Mary Craig who wrote the best selling book "Blessings" after struggling to care for her severely disabled son.
Lord Maclennan of Rogart, formerly the MP for Caithness and Sutherland, who negotiated the merger between the SDP and the Liberal Party.
Kobe Bryant, the LA Lakers basketball star, who gave himself the nickname The Black Mamba.
Interviewed guest: Sheila Hancock
Interviewed guest: Matt Stronge
Interviewed guest: Tony Hawkes
Interviewed guest: Mark Craig
Interviewed guest: Brain Taylor
Interviewed guest: Michael Carlson
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Desert Island Discs, BBC Radio 4, 04/11/2007; Don't Raise The Bridge, Lower The River, Columbia Pictures Industries,1967; The Arthur Haynes Show, ATV, 1957-65; Just a Minute Series 64 Ep. 2, BBC Radio 4, 13/08/2012; Just a Minute Series 64 Ep. 3, BBC Radio 4, 20/08/2012; Sale of The Century, Anglia TV, 08/01/1972; 50 years of Just a Minute: Nicholas Parsons in Conversation with Paul Merton, Radio 4, 01/01/2018; Woman’s Hour Radio 4, 1976; The World at One, BBC Radio 4, 31/01/1988; Dear Basketball, Believe Entertainment Group Kobe Inc, 2017; LA Lakers and Minnesota Timberwolves, BBC 5 Live Extra, 04/10/2010; Toronto Raptors v LA Lakers, Kobe Bryant 81 Points Game Highlights, 2006; USA VS CHINA at the Beijing Olympics, X9Highlights, 2008; Newsbeat, BBC Radio 1, 06/08/2003; 10 o'clock news, BBC One, 05/08/2003;
1/31/2020 • 27 minutes, 57 seconds
Tony Garnett, Joy Rainey, Professor Cuchlaine King, Terry Jones
Pictured: Terry Jones
Matthew Bannister on Tony Garnett, the TV and film producer whose tragic childhood inspired him to make influential films like Up The Junction, Cathy Come Home and Kes.
Joy Rainey, the racing driver whose restricted growth meant she needed specially adapted cars.
Professor Cuchlaine King, the geomorphologist known for her studies of beaches, coasts and glaciers.
Terry Jones, best known as a member of the Monty Python team, but also a medieval historian of distinction.
Interviewed guest: Andreas Campomar
Interviewed guest: Eddie Walder
Interviewed guest: Professor Brian Whalley
Interviewed guest: Betsey Everett
Interviewed guest: Professor Alan Ereira
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Free Thinking, Radio 3 28/06/2020; Afternoon Edition, 5Live 11/07/2016; Front Row, Radio 4 27/05/2013; Kes, directed by Ken Loach, United Artists 1970; The Wednesday Play: Up The Junction, BBC One 03/11/1965; The Wednesday Play: Cathy Come Home, BBC One 16/11/1966; This Life Series 1, Episode 3, BBC Two 01/04/1996; Front Row, Radio 4 22/01/2020; Desert Island Discs, Radio 4 02/07/1983; Monty Python’s Flying Circus, ‘The Funniest Joke in The World’ Sketch, BBC Two 05/10/1969; Life of Brian, directed by Terry Jones, Cinema International Corporation, 1979; 5Live Drive, 5Live 22/01/2020; Medieval Lives - The Peasant, BBC Two, 03/01/2004; The Story of 1, BBC Two, 28/09/2005.
1/24/2020 • 27 minutes, 49 seconds
Sir Roger Scruton FBA, FRSL, Sultan Qaboos bin Said of Oman, Bobby Neame CBE, Elizabeth Sellars
Pictured: Sir Roger Scruton
Matthew Bannister on Sir Roger Scruton, the leading conservative philosopher of his generation, known for his work on aesthetics. His outspoken views made him a controversial figure for some on the left.
Sultan Qaboos bin Said of Oman who overthrew his father in a coup and transformed his country.
Bobby Neame, the Chairman of Shepherd Neame - the country's oldest brewing company based in Kent.
Elizabeth Sellars, the British actress who appeared alongside Humphrey Bogart in "The Barefoot Contessa" and Marlon Brando in "Desiree".
Interviewed guest: Lord Maurice Glasman
Interviewed guest: Douglas Murray
Interviewed guest: Calvin Allen
Interviewed guest: Jonathan Neame
Interviewed guest: Dr Melanie Williams
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: The English Fix, Radio 4 14/09/2017; On Your Farm, Radio 4 28/10/2001; Best of Today Podcast, Radio 4 26/04/2019; Profile: Sultan Qaboos Of Oman, Radio 4 11/01/1980; Sultan Of Muscat and Oman Interview, Radio 4 02/08/1970; Oman Civil War, Thames TV 22/03/2017; Slang: Spitfire Ale advert 27/06/2013; Newsroom South East, BBC One 21/01/1998; Forbidden Cargo, directed by Harold French, J. Arthur Rank Organisation/ London Independent Producers 1954; Hunted, directed by Charles Crichton, Independent Artists/ British Film Makers 1952; Desiree, directed by Henry Koster, Twentieth Century Fox 1954; The Barefoot Contessa, directed by Joseph L. Mankiewicz, Transoceanic Film /Figaro 1954; A Voyage Round My Father, directed by Alvin Rakoff, Thames Television 1982.
1/17/2020 • 28 minutes, 2 seconds
General Qasem Soleimani, M.C. Beaton, George Laurer, Dr Sidney Holt
Pictured: General Qasem Soleimani
Matthew Bannister on
Iranian General Qasem Soleimani, who was killed by an American drone strike. We try to uncover the motivation of the man who spread Iran's military influence throughout the Middle East.
M.C. Beaton who wrote more than 250 books which sold in their millions, including romantic fiction and murder mysteries featuring PC Hamish Macbeth and Agatha Raisin.
George Laurer, the American engineer who played a pivotal role in the invention of the barcode.
Dr. Sidney Holt, the biologist credited with saving the blue whale from extinction.
Interviewed guest: Kasra Naji
Interviewed guest: Mike Ripley
Interviewed guest: Chris Stokel-Walker
Interviewed guest: Vassili Papastavrou
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Profile, Radio 4 08/03/2015; TV Eye, Thames TV 1979; September 11 Attacks, CNN 07/09/2011; President Trump on Soleimani, The Telegraph 05/01/2020; Soleimani on Trump, MEMRI TV 30/07/2018; Soleimani’s funeral, The Sun 06/01/2020; Front Row, Radio 4 16/08/2010; The Chocolate Debutante by MC Beaton, read by Patience Tomlinson, Hachette Audio UK 2019; Hamish Macbeth, BBC Four 23/03/2008; Agatha Raisin and the Quiche of Death by MC Beaton, read by Penelope Keith, Chivers Audiobooks 05/07/2012; Woman’s Hour, Radio 4 10/12/2014; George Laurer: CSCMP Supply Chain Hall of Fame, CSCMPTube 02/10/2017; Sidney Holt: In His Own Words, Stephen Best May 2010; Britain's Whale Hunters: The Untold Story, BBC Four 27/10/2016; Newsnight, BBC Two 07/04/2000; Today, Radio 4 29/05/1995; Front Row, Radio 4 10/04/2006.
1/10/2020 • 28 minutes
Neil Innes, Steve Sawyer, Sheila Mercier, Alasdair Gray
Pictured: Neil Innes
Matthew Bannister on
Neil Innes, the talented musician who was a member of the Bonzo Dog Doo Dah Band, worked with Monty Python and satirised the Beatles. Roger McGough and Michael Palin pay tribute.
Steve Sawyer, the Greenpeace activist who helped to evacuate the Pacific Islanders of the Rongelap Atoll after they were affected by nuclear testing.
Sheila Mercier, the actress best known for playing Annie Sugden in the TV soap Emmerdale.
Alasdair Gray, the Scottish novelist and painter who created the acclaimed novel Lanark.
Interviewed guest: Roger McGough
Interviewed guest: Michael Palin
Interviewed guest: Brian Fitzgerald
Interviewed guest: Anthony Hayward
Interviewed guest: Jean Rogers
Interviewed guest: Frazer Hines
Interviewed guest: Alan Riach
Producer: Paula McGinley
Archive clips from: Chain Reaction, Radio 4 20/04/2016; Innes Own World, Radio 4 Extra 29/06/2018; All You Need is Cash, directed by Eric Idle and Gary Weis, Broadway Video 22/03/1978; The Reunion, Radio 4 14/09/2003; Rainbow Warrior's Rongelap Voyage, 25/06/2015, Pacific Media Centre; Breakfast Time, Radio 4 10/07/1985; Open To Question, Radio 4 15/10/1985; 1800 News Bulletin, Radio 4 26/08/1997; Emmerdale, ITV 31/10/1972; Emmerdale, ITV 16/07/1973; Emmerdale, ITV 19/05/1988; The Late Show: Alasdair Gray, BBC Two 18/10/1993; Artworks Scotland: Alasdair Gray, BBC 2S 14/11/2004; Alasdair Gray at Eighty, BBC 2S 27/12/2014; Reporting Scotland 2018: Alasdair Gray, 05/04/2018.
1/3/2020 • 27 minutes, 58 seconds
Andrew Graham-Yooll OBE, Andrea Newman, Peter Davis, Olly Croft OBE
Julian Worricker on:
The journalist, Andrew Graham-Yooll OBE, who risked his life to tell the story of the so-called 'disappeared' in Argentina in the 1970s.
The writer Andrea Newman, best known for 'Bouquet of Barbed Wire', the sexually charged family drama that pushed the boundaries of television.
Ornithologist and conservationist, Peter Davis, who dedicated much of his working life to saving the red kite.
And Olly Croft OBE who founded the British Darts Organisation, and is credited with making the sport more popular and more professional.
Producer: Paula McGinley
12/27/2019 • 28 minutes, 14 seconds
Kenny Lynch OBE, Chris Moncrieff CBE, Kate Figes, Branko Lustig
Pictured: Kenny Lynch OBE
Matthew Bannister on
Chris Moncrieff, the journalist who covered parliament for the Press Association for more than 50 years. He even has a bar named after him in the House of Commons.
Kate Figes, the writer who captured the nuances of human relationships in books like "Couples" and "Our Cheating Hearts".
Branko Lustig, the holocaust survivor who won an Oscar as the producer of the film Schindler's List.
Kenny Lynch, the singer from London's East End who described himself as a black cockney and had hits including "Up On The Roof".
Interviewed guest: Pete Clifton
Interviewed guest: Lennie Goodings
Contributor: Michael Goldfarb
Interviewed guest: Garth Cartwright
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Labour Party Conference, BBC Sound Archive 01/10/1993; Loose Ends, Radio 4 20/09/2008; Thatcher Resigns as Prime Minister, The Telegraph Archive 08/04/2013; Backstage In Parliament, Radio 4 10/11/1985; Woman’s Hour, Radio 4 22/01/2013; Woman’s Hour, Radio 4 11/05/2013; Gladiator, directed by Ridley Scott, Dreamworks/Universal Pictures/Scott Free Productions 2000; Branko Lustig: Drawing Against Oblivion, Final Frame 22/03/2019; Schindler’s List, directed by Steven Spielberg, Universal Pictures/Amblin Entertainment 1993; Branko: Return to Auschwitz, The New York Times 15/04/2013; Jools Holland, Radio 2 28/10/2013.
12/20/2019 • 28 minutes, 1 second
David Bellamy, Nell Gifford, Yasuhiro Nakasone, Mariss Jansons
Pictured: David Bellamy
Matthew Bannister on
David Bellamy, the botanist who became a household name through his popular TV programmes, but fell from prominence after describing man-made global warming as "poppycock".
Nell Gifford, who founded and ran a circus company known for its retro styling and creativity.
Yasuhiro Nakasone, the Japanese Prime Minister who formed a strong bond with US President Ronald Reagan and UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher.
Mariss Jansons, the Latvian-born conductor noted for his interpretation of Mahler and Strauss.
Interviewed guest: David Shreeve
Interviewed guest: Chris Baines
Interviewed guest: Cal McCrystal
Interviewed guest: Dr Christopher Hood
Interviewed guest: Norman Lebrecht
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Desert Island Discs, Radio 4 01/01/1978; Profile, Radio 4 16/09/1983; Torrey Canyon and the Toxic Tides, Radio 4 18/03/2017; Today, Radio 4 12/12/2019; Backyard Safari, BBC One 09/07/1981; Bard on the Box, BBC Two 23/10/1994; Midweek, Radio 4 08/06/2011; Nell Gifford: Behind the Curtain, directed by Gem Hall, July 2019; The World Tonight, Radio 4 11/06/1984; Nippon: Risen Sun, BBC Two 09/12/1990; Reagan/Nakasone arrival ceremony, Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, 30/04/1987; Mariss Jansons interviewed by Norman Lebrecht, Radio 3 29/08/2007.
12/13/2019 • 28 minutes, 8 seconds
Bob Willis MBE, Gary Rhodes OBE, Dr Shuping Wang, Sir Stephen Cleobury CBE
Pictured: Bob Willis
Matthew Bannister on
Bob Willis, the former England cricket captain, who was seen as one of the finest fast bowlers of his generation.
Gary Rhodes, the spiky-haired TV chef who won Michelin stars for his re-invention of classic British recipes.
Shuping Wang, the Chinese doctor who lost her job and her marriage after blowing the whistle on a trade in blood products that was spreading HIV through Henan province.
Sir Stephen Cleobury, the musical director of King's College Cambridge for thirty-seven years. He commissioned a new carol every year for the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols.
Interviewed guest: Jonathan Agnew MBE
Interviewed guest: Fiona Pitcher
Interviewed guest: Thane Prince
Interviewed guest: Sir Michael Boyd
Interviewed guest: The Reverend Dr Stephen Cherry
Interviewed guest: Peter Lindsay
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Today, Radio 4 05/12/2019; Test Match Special, 5 Live 04/12/2019; Rhodes Around Britain, BBC Two 08/06/1995, 25/05/1995, 05/07/1994, 07/06/1994; Top of the Class, Radio 4 18/08/2008; Great British Food Revival, BBC Two 17/11/2011; Woman’s Hour, Radio 4 19/09/2019; CD Review, Radio 3 25/12/2004.
12/6/2019 • 28 minutes, 8 seconds
Sir Jonathan Miller, Field Marshal Lord Bramall, Clive James AO, CBE
Pictured: Jonathan Miller
Matthew Bannister on
Sir Jonathan Miller, who hated the term polymath - but undoubtedly was one. He came to fame in the satirical revue Beyond the Fringe, was a celebrated opera and theatre director and sometimes regretted his decision not to concentrate on his first calling as a doctor.
Field Marshal Lord Bramall, the Chief of the Defence Staff who saw action in the D Day landings, predicted the threat of terrorism and was wrongly accused of sexual abuse late in his life.
Clive James, whose memorable turns of phrase made TV criticism an art form. He presented programmes dissecting TV from around the world, but was also a literary critic, essayist and poet who wrote acclaimed memoirs.
Interviewed guest: William Miller
Interviewed guest: Kate Bassett
Interviewed guest: Lieutenant Colonel Jan-Dirk von Merveldt
Interviewed guest: Lieutenant-General Sir Peter Royson Duffell KCB CBE MC
Interviewed guest: Russell Davies
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Saturday Night Clive, BBC TV 11/11/1989; The Tingle Factor, Radio 4 Extra 02/08/2016; Desert Island Discs, Radio 4 23/01/2005; Arena, BBC Two 31/03/2012; The Complete Beyond the Fringe, Parlophone Records Ltd 21/10/1996; The Body in Question, BBC TV 06/11/1978; D-Day: The Last Heroes, BBC One 08/06/2019; Today, Radio 4 06/06/1994; The Report: Lord Bramall, Radio 4 04/02/2016; Desert Island Discs, Radio 4 16/06/2000; A Point of View, Radio 4 26/04/2009; The Clive James TV Show, ITV 1996; Front Row, Radio 4 03/04/2015.
11/29/2019 • 26 minutes, 23 seconds
Vladimir Bukovsky, Alison Prince, Keith Schellenberg, Robert Ponsonby
Pictured: Vladimir Bukovsky
Matthew Bannister on
The Russian dissident Vladimir Bukovsky, a long term opponent of the Soviet regime who revealed the use of psychiatric hospitals as political prisons.
Alison Prince, the children's writer who scripted Trumpton.
Keith Schellenberg, the eccentric millionaire who was a bobsleigh champion and keen powerboat racer. He bought the Scottish Isle of Eigg - and was accused of treating his tenants badly.
Robert Ponsonby, the BBC Controller of Music who ran the Proms and faced a strike by musicians in the Corporation's orchestras.
Interviewed guest: Alyona Kojevnikov
Interviewed guest: Julia Eccleshare
Interviewed guest: Ray Bulman
Interviewed guest: Camille Dressler
Interviewed guest: Professor David Hendy
Interviewed guest: Peter Donohoe CBE
Reader: Ian Conningham
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Vladimir Bukovsky interviewed by Bernard Levin, BBC Sound Archive 26/04/1980; Soviet Propaganda Film 1972, Periscope Film 17/08/2014; PM, Radio 4 04/01/1977; Watch with Mother: Joe and a Horse, BBC One 03/10/1966; Trumpton, BBC One, 03/01/1967; Spud by Alison Prince, Young Corgi, 07/08/2003; Jackanory, BBC One 1965; Radio Scotland News, 09/02/2006; Upfront, BBC Scotland 03/02/1994; Music Now, Radio 3 29/11/1974; Radio 3 continuity announcement, BBC Sound Archive 23/11/1978.
11/22/2019 • 27 minutes, 53 seconds
Nik Powell OBE, James Le Mesurier OBE, Frank Dobson, Hazel Vincent Wallace OBE
Pictured: Nik Powell
Matthew Bannister on
James Le Mesurier, the former British Army Officer who set up the organisation that trained the White Helmet volunteers who rescue people from bomb sites in Syria.
Nik Powell, the businessman who helped Richard Branson to start Virgin Records and went on to produce a string of acclaimed British films.
Frank Dobson, the Labour M.P. who became Health Secretary under Tony Blair and embarked on an ambitious hospital building programme.
Hazel Vincent Wallace, who founded the Thorndike Theatre at Leatherhead in Surrey, which became known as one of the finest venues outside London.
Interviewed guest: Stephen Woolley
Interviewed guest: Jon Wardle
Interviewed guest: Julia Langdon
Interviewed guest: Michael Gaunt
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: PM, Radio 4 13/11/2014; Today, Radio 4 12/11/2019; The White Helmets, directed by Orlando von Einsiedel, Grain Media / Violet Films 2016; PM, Radio 4 11/11/2019; Masterclass with Nik Powell, Australian Film Television and Radio School 22/03/2017; The Evil Dead, directed by Sam Raimi, Renaissance Pictures 1981; The Company of Wolves, directed by Neil Jordan, Incorporated Television Company / Palace Pictures 1984; The Film Programme, Radio 4 01/09/2013; Who Wants to be a London Mayor? Carlton/ITV 25/04/2000; The World Tonight, Radio 4 02/06/1995; Labour Party Conference, BBC Sound Archives, 30/09/1997; Theatre and Stage Stars, Huntley Film Archives 26/01/2015; Sybil Thorndike Theatre, British Pathé 1969; Thorndike Theatre, British Movietone / AP 09/22/1969; Theatrical Balance Of Payments, Radio 3 01/12/1968.
11/15/2019 • 27 minutes, 59 seconds
Gay Byrne, Sadako Ogata, Robert Evans
Pictured: Gay Byrne
Matthew Bannister on
Gay Byrne, the Irish TV and radio presenter who occupied a unique place in the nation's culture and public life. He presented the Late Late Show for thirty-seven years, often causing controversy when he covered changing social issues.
Sadako Ogata, the Japanese academic who served as UN High Commissioner for Refugees in the 1990s. She was noted for her fearless approach and for putting the refugee crisis on the political map. The current Commissioner recalls his time working with her.
And the Hollywood producer Robert Evans, who was behind classic films like The Godfather, Love Story and Chinatown, but was almost as well known for his colourful private life as his on-screen hits. The actor and director Simon McBurney pays tribute.
Interviewed guest: Joe Duffy
Interviewed guest: Jurek Martin OBE
Interviewed guest: Filippo Grandi
Interviewed guest: Angie Errigo
Interviewed guest: Simon McBurney OBE
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Gay Byrne RTE tribute, RTE News 04/11/2019; The Gay Byrne Show, RTE Radio 1 14/06/1996; The Late Late Show RTE One 01/02/1966; The Meaning of Life, RTE One October 2010; The Meaning of Life, RTE One February 2015; The World Tonight, Radio 4 14/07/1993; Special Report on the Rwandan Genocide, SABC 1994; Sadako Ogata Expresses the Need to Prevent Future Genocide, AP Archive 21/07/2015; BBC News 1991; Today, Radio 4 21/06/1999; 1800 News Bulletin, Radio 4 02/08/1994; Brian Linehan's City Lights: Robert Evans Interview 1977, Reelin’ In The Years Productions; Man of a Thousand Faces, directed by Joseph Pevney, Universal International Pictures 1957; The Sun Also Rises, directed by Henry King, Twentieth Century Fox 1957; The Godfather, directed by Francis Ford Coppola, Paramount Pictures / Alfran Productions 1972; The Cotton Club, directed by Francis Ford Coppola, Zoetrope Studios / Producers Sales Organization / Totally Independent / Robert Evans Company 1984.
11/8/2019 • 28 minutes, 9 seconds
Charles Jencks, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, Irene Shubik, Raymond Leppard
Pictured: Charles Jencks
Matthew Bannister on
The architectural historian Charles Jencks, who was known as the godfather of postmodernism. He also involved leading architects in designing cancer treatment centres named after his wife Maggie. Lord Foster pays tribute.
Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, the fanatical leader of ISIS who was behind the killing and torture of thousands of victims.
Irene Shubik, the TV producer who created "Rumpole of the Bailey" and "The Jewel in the Crown".
Raymond Leppard, the conductor and arranger who revived interest in baroque Italian opera with acclaimed productions at Glyndebourne.
Interviewed guest: Dame Laura Lee DBE
Interviewed guest: Lord Norman Foster
Interviewed guest: Oliver Wainwright
Interviewed guest: Andrew Hosken
Interviewed guest: Judith Burnley
Interviewed guest: Sir Nicolas Kenyon
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Desert Island Discs, Radio 4 06/07/2012; Look North, BBC One 29/12/11; Islamic State Leader, Wall Street Journal 05/07/2014; In Tune, Radio 3 15/11/2013; In Tune, Radio 3 13/12/2010; Rumpole of the Bailey, BBC One 1975; The Jewel in the Crown, Granada Television 1984; Edna, the Inebriate Woman, BBC One 21/10/1971.
Pictured: Alicia Alonso
Matthew Bannister on
Alicia Alonso, the Cuban ballerina who went on dancing when her sight began to fail. She also set up the National Ballet Company of Cuba.
Deborah Orr, the witty columnist who also edited the Guardian Weekend magazine.
Joyce Cansfield, the British Scrabble champion and 1983 Brain of Mensa who set more than a thousand crossword puzzles for the Times.
Clora Bryant, the American trumpeter who overcame sexism to forge a career in jazz.
Interviewed guest: Mike Lanchin
Interviewed guest: Sarah Crompton
Interviewed guest: Louisa Young
Interviewed guest: Nigel Williamson
Interviewed guest: Alyn Shipton
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Witness: The First Lady of Cuban Ballet, BBC World Service 28/10/2015; Off the Page, Radio 4 19/07/2010; Carrie Fisher: Guardian column by Deborah Orr, 04/01/2017; Motherwell by Deborah Orr, Orion January 2020; Woman's Hour, Radio 4 26/12/2017; Catchword, BBC Two 02/02/1988; Cross Talk, Radio 4 07/01/2001; Countdown, Channel 4 1982; Central Avenue Sounds Part 3, Radio 3 24/02/2001.
Pictured: Alexei Leonov
Matthew Bannister on
The Soviet cosmonaut Alexei Leonov who was the first person to walk in space.
Sally Soames, the photographer who made portraits of many leading politicians and celebrities as well as working in war zones. Her niece Claudia Winkleman and sister in law Eve Pollard pay tribute.
Kary Mullis, the Nobel Prize-winning biochemist who invented PCR - a revolutionary technique for speeding up the process of analysing DNA. He also enjoyed surfing and experimented with LSD.
Reg Watson, the TV producer behind the successful soap operas Crossroads and Neighbours.
Interviewed guest: Doug Millard
Interviewed guest: Claudia Winkleman
Interviewed guest: Eve Pollard
Interviewed guest: Nancy Mullis
Interviewed guest: Anthony Liversidge
Interviewed guest: Anthony Hayward
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Soviet Astronaut Leaves Spacecraft During Flight, BBC Sound Archive 21/03/1965; Two Sides of the Moon, Radio 4 13/04/2004; Today, Radio 4 12/10/2019; South East At Six, BBC One 30/09/1983; Kary Mullis: Google Tech Talk 17/09/2010; Horizon: Psychedelic Science, BBC Two 27/02/1997; The Kary Mullis Nobel Prize, Bonhams Auctioneers 19/01/2016; Crossroads, ITV 1985; Eyewitness with Reg Watson, Daily Motion; Neighbours, BBC One 1987; Harry Enfield and Chums, BBC One 1997; The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, Radio 4 September 2004.
10/18/2019 • 27 minutes, 57 seconds
Ginger Baker, Su Beng, John Haylett, Diahann Carroll
Pictured: Ginger Baker
Matthew Bannister on
Su Beng, the activist known as the father of Taiwan independence.
Ginger Baker, the legendary drummer with rock super group Cream who struggled with drug addiction and an unpredictable temper.
John Haylett who was editor of the socialist paper the Morning Star at a crucial time in its history.
Diahann Carroll, the African American actress who starred in many films and stage shows as well as her own TV comedy "Julia" and the soap opera "Dynasty".
Interviewed guest: Felicia Lin
Interviewed guest: Cindy Sui
Interviewed guest: Adam Sweeting
Interviewed guest: Ben Chacko
Interviewed guest: Matt Wolf
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Chiang Rattles The Sabre, Pathe News 1957; The Seven Ages of Rock, 6 Music 10/03/2015; Nationwide, BBC One 11/05/1978; Julia, 20th Century Fox Television/ Hancarr Productions / Savannah Productions 17 September 1968; Claudine, directed by John Berry, Third World Cinema / Twentieth Century Fox 1974; Dynasty, Aaron Spelling Productions 1 May 1982; One on One: Sir David Frost, BBC One 21/10/2002.
10/11/2019 • 28 minutes, 4 seconds
Jessye Norman, Peter Sissons, Al Alvarez, Marita Lorenz
Pictured: Jessye Norman
Julian Worricker on:
The multiple award-winning American soprano, Jessye Norman, whose performances wowed audiences around the world....
Peter Sissons, the acclaimed television journalist, who moved from ITN to the BBC to present Question Time and the main evening news....
The author, Al Alvarez, poetry editor of the Observer newspaper, and renowned poker player....
And Marita Lorenz, who survived Bergen-Belsen as a child, and went on to become a spy involved in a near-assassination of Fidel Castro....
Interviewed guest: Sir Clive Gillinson CBE
Interviewed guest: Norman Lebrecht
Interviewed guest: Iain Dale
Interviewed guest: Alexandra Pringle
Interviewed guest: Michael Carlson
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: International Profile, Radio 4 29/07/1988; Jessye Norman Interview, Radio 3 06/08/2000; CD Review, Radio 3 23/08/2014; ITN News 21/11/84; Question Time, BBC One 09/12/1993; BBC News, BBC One 30/03/2002; Desert Island Discs, Radio 4 19/03/2000; The World Of Books, Radio 4 25/05/1978; Timewatch, BBC Two 07/10/1992; Geraldo Rivera interviews Marita Lorenz, 23 Sep 2013; Archive Hour: Something Is Terribly Wrong, Radio 4 22/11/2003.
10/4/2019 • 28 minutes, 19 seconds
Jacques Chirac, Sir Michael Edwardes, Cokie Roberts, Pat Cavendish O’Neill
Pictured: Jacques Chirac
Julian Worricker on:
Jacques Chirac, mayor of Paris for eighteen years, who served twice as French Prime Minister and twice as French president....
The man who took on the toughest of managerial assignments - running British Leyland in the late 1970s - Sir Michael Edwardes....
US television journalist and presenter, Cokie Roberts, credited with changing the role of women in the newsroom....
Pat Cavendish O'Neill, the racehorse trainer and breeder, who built up a menagerie of rescue animals in Kenya and South Africa.
Interviewed guest: Agnes Poirier
Interviewed guest: Nick Jones
Interviewed guest: Michael Goldfarb
Interviewed guest: Mark McGinness
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from:
9/27/2019 • 28 minutes, 2 seconds
Chester Williams, Sheikh Yusuf Motala, Jan Ruff O’Herne, Ric Ocasek
Pictured: Chester Williams
Matthew Bannister on
Sheikh Yusuf Motala who founded the first traditional Islamic seminary in the UK, and trained hundreds of Imams.
Chester Williams, the only black rugby player in the South African team that won the World Cup in 1995.
Jan Ruff O'Herne who was forced to work in a brothel by the Japanese army during the war. She kept her story secret for fifty years, but ended her life campaigning against the use of rape as a weapon of war.
Ric Ocasek, the singer who wrote many hits for the American rock band The Cars, including 'Drive' and 'My Best Friend's Girl'.
Interviewed guest: Innes Bowen
Interviewed guest: Dr Riyaz Timol
Interviewed guest: Carol Ruff
Interviewed guest: Garth Cartwright
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Sunday, Radio 4 15/09/2019; Australian Story: Australian Comfort Woman Jan Ruff O'Herne, ABC 2001; Chester Williams - Champion of a New South Africa, Real Rugby 10/08/2016; Outlook, BBC World Service 14/10/2015; South Africa win the 1995 RWC, World Rugby 04/05/2016; Speedster Williams bags four tries on debut, World Rugby 14/09/2015; Invictus, directed by Clint Eastwood, Warner Bros 2009; Nelson Mandela & Francois Pienaar moment at RWC 1995, World Rugby 24/06/2015; Entertainment Tonight, Syndicated 1985.
9/20/2019 • 28 minutes, 9 seconds
Hans Rausing, Sir Dawda Jawara, Sue Crockford, Terrance Dicks
Matthew Bannister on
Hans Rausing, the Swedish-born industrialist who led the Tetra Pak company. In the 1990s he topped the Sunday Times Rich List ahead of the Queen. His daughter Sigrid pays tribute.
Sir Dawda Jawara the first President of independent Gambia who faced two coup attempts.
Sue Crockford, a feminist campaigner who made influential films about the social history of North London.
Terrance Dicks, who was screenwriter and script editor for Dr Who and also wrote novelisations of the series.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed Guest: Esau Williams
Interviewed Guest: Matthew Sweet
Interviewed Guest: Sigrid Rausing
Interviewed Guest: Margaret Dickinson
Interviewed Guest: Anna Davin
9/13/2019 • 28 minutes, 5 seconds
Robert Mugabe, Alla Verber, Ciaran McKeown, Bill Anderson MBE
Pictured: Robert Mugabe
Matthew Bannister on
The former President of Zimbabwe Robert Mugabe. He was once hailed as a hero of the liberation struggle but later seen by many as a tyrant.
Alla Verber, the Russian socialite who brought high fashion to the newly wealthy in the post-Soviet society.
Ciaran McKeown, who joined Mairead Corrigan and Betty Williams to found the Peace People of Northern Ireland.
Bill Anderson, described as Scotland's greatest ever Highland Games heavyweight athlete. He held countless records for throwing the hammer and tossing the caber.
Interviewed guest: Stanley Kwenda
Interviewed guest: Viv Groskop
Interviewed guest: Patrick Corrigan
Interviewed guest: Jack Davidson QC
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Today, Radio 4 06/09/2019; Alla Verber: Leading Russia's Fashion Revolution, ABC News 09/04/2010; BBC Sound Archive, 13/08/1976; PM, Radio 4 27/11/1976; The World This Weekend, Radio 4 28/11/1976; The Heavies, BBC 2S 04/01/1982; Scotland on Film: Aberdeen And Grampian, BBC 2S 05/03/2006; Braemar Games Commentary, AP 1970; Interview with Bill Anderson, BBC Sound Archive, 05/09/1963.
9/6/2019 • 28 minutes, 1 second
Lord Bell, Paule Marshall, David Koch, Richard Booth
Matthew Bannister on
Lord Bell, the advertising and public relations executive who helped Margaret Thatcher to win three elections.
Paule Marshall, the novelist who wrote about the experiences of black Americans of Caribbean origin.
David Koch, the American billionaire who poured money into right wing political causes.
Richard Booth, the second hand bookseller who was the self-styled King of Hay-on-Wye.
Interviewed guest: David Hopper
Interviewed guest: Michael Cockerell
Interviewed guest: Bonnie Greer
Interviewed guest: Lyn Innes
Interviewed guest: Daniel Schulman
Interviewed guest: Lucia Stuart
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Tim Bell, Booktalk, BBC Parliament 04/12/2012; Coming Soon, Saatchi & Saatchi, 1979; PM, BBC Radio 4 4/05/1979; Newsnight, BBC Two 04/09/2017. Paule Marshall, A stranger in a strange land, Radio 3, 9/04/1993; Praisesong for the widow, Radio 4, 17/05/1993. Richard Booth, Down the River Wye, Radio 4 16/08/1987; BBC Wales News 27/05/88, Jamie Owen’s Wales, Radio Wales, 06/11/2013.
8/30/2019 • 28 minutes, 6 seconds
Peter Fonda, Princess Christina of the Netherlands, Geoffrey Paul OBE, Jim Bouton
Pictured: Peter Fonda
Matthew Bannister on
Peter Fonda, the actor who became a hero of the 1960s counterculture, by riding his Harley Davidson across America in the classic film Easy Rider.
Princess Christina of the Netherlands who was born nearly blind. When her mother Queen Juliana consulted a soothsayer, a constitutional crisis followed.
Geoffrey Paul the respected long serving editor of the Jewish Chronicle.
Jim Bouton, the baseball player whose memoir caused a scandal by revealing the behind the scenes antics of his colleagues.
Interviewed guest: Roger Corman
Interviewed guest: Diane Ladd
Interviewed guest: Tim Bullamore
Interviewed guest: Jenni Frazer
Interviewed guest: Michael Carlson
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Easy Rider, directed by Dennis Hopper, Pando Company Inc./Raybert Productions 1969; The Wild Angels, directed by Roger Corman, American International Pictures 1966; The Trip, directed by Roger Corman, American International Pictures 1967; The Big Fix, directed by Joshua Tickell, Big Picture Ranch/Green Planet Productions 2012; Holland Aka New Princess 1947, Pathe News 1947; Huwelijk Prinses Christina en Jorge Guillermo (1975), Nederlands Instituut voor Beeld en Geluid 27/06/2013; Sunday Night, BBC One 16/01/1983; The Long Goodbye, directed by Robert Altman, Lion's Gate Films 1973; Jim Bouton: MLB All-Star, EaglesTalent 13/02/2012.
8/23/2019 • 27 minutes, 57 seconds
Julia Farron OBE, Nuon Chea, June Fraser, Marcel Berlins
Pictured: Julia Farron
Julian Worricker on:
The Cambodian political leader, Nuon Chea, who was found guilty of genocide and crimes against humanity during his time as a member of the Khmer Rouge....
Julia Farron, a dancer with the Royal Ballet, who's been described as a great performer of virtuoso roles....
The pioneering graphic designer, June Fraser, whose work has influenced so many of the logos and packaging we're familiar with today....
And Marcel Berlins, lawyer, broadcaster and critic who presented Law in Action on Radio 4 for sixteen years....
Interviewed guest: Rob Lemkin
Interviewed guest: Jane Pritchard
Interviewed guest: Zoe Cull
Interviewed guest: Mike Ripley
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Enemies of the People, directed by Rob Lemkin, Old Street Films 2009; Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia 05/12/2011; BBC News 19/09/2007; John Pilger, Radio 4 16/10/1989; Dancing in the Blitz, BBC Four 05/03/2014; Compulsion, directed by Richard Fleischer, Darryl F. Zanuck Productions 1959; Quote Unquote, Radio 4 15/02/2010; Law in Action, Radio 4 14/07/1989; Round Britain Quiz, Radio 4 05/07/2014; Puzzling Passions, Radio 4 03/10/2000.
8/16/2019 • 28 minutes, 13 seconds
Toni Morrison, Hal Prince, Dr Elizabeth Killick, Li Peng, Barrington Pheloung
Pictured: Toni Morrison
Matthew Bannister on
The Nobel Prize-winning author Toni Morrison, acclaimed for her novels which put the experience of black women centre stage.
Hal Prince, the successful theatre producer and director behind West Side Story, Phantom of the Opera and Evita.
The pioneering radar and sonar engineer, Dr Elizabeth Killick.
Li Peng, the Chinese Premier who ordered troops to fire on unarmed students in Tiananmen Square.
Barrington Pheloung, the TV and film composer who wrote the theme music for Inspector Morse.
Interviewed guest: Dr Tessa Roynon
Interviewed guest: Margaret Busby OBE, FRSL
Interviewed guest: David Benedict
Interviewed guest: Ed Gorman
Interviewed guest: Isabel Hilton OBE
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Start The Week, Radio 4 08/12/2003; Toni Morrison reads Song of Solomon, Penguin / PRH Audio; World Book Club, Radio 4 Extra 12/06/2016; Toni Morrison’s Nobel Prize Lecture, 07/12/1993; Desert Island Discs, Radio 4 16/11/1986; Broadcasting House, Radio 4 04/08/2019; Elaine Paige on Sunday, Radio 2 04/08/2019; Workers Join Pro-Democracy Protests, BBC Sound Archive 23/05/1989; Tiananmen Square protesters battle Chinese troops, BBC News 04/06/1989; Today, Radio 4 08/11/1997; The Radio 2 Arts Show, 30/03/2016.
8/9/2019 • 27 minutes, 58 seconds
Russi Taylor, Beji Caid Essebsi, Jane Hubert, Iván Erőd
Pictured: Russi Taylor
Matthew Bannister on
Beji Caid Essebsi who became the first democratically elected President of Tunisia in the aftermath of the Arab Spring.
Russi Taylor the versatile voice artist best known for playing Minnie Mouse. She married the man who did the voice for Mickey Mouse.
Jane Hubert, the anthropologist and psychologist who studied young people with severe learning disabilities and transformed the academic study of archaeology.
Ivan Erod who fled persecution and, in exile, became one of Hungary's leading composers.
Interviewed guest: Mohamed El Aassar
Interviewed guest: Martin Anderson
Interviewed guest: Peter Stone
Interviewed guest: Brian Sibley
Producer: Neil George
Archive Clips from: The White House video archive, 07/10/2011; Actuality of Tunisian Uprising, RT, 14/01/2011; BBC News, 30/06/ 2015; Beji Caid Essebsi inauguration ceremony, AP archive 03/08/2015; Tunisian Television -al watania, 27/07/2019; The Voice Behind The Mouse, Walt Disney Home Video; The Spirit of Mickey, Buena Vista Home Entertainment
8/2/2019 • 28 minutes, 8 seconds
Andrea Camilleri, Johnny Clegg OBE, OIS, Christopher Kraft, Paul Krassner, Professor Rolf Gehlhaar
Pictured: Andrea Camilleri
Matthew Bannister on
Andrea Camilleri, the Sicilian writer who created the Inspector Montalbano novels. His literary success began in his late sixties.
Johnny Clegg, the white South African singer and guitarist who confronted the apartheid government by embracing Zulu music and culture.
Christopher Kraft, the founder of mission control for the NASA space programme.
Paul Krassner, the controversial American satirist who coined the word "Yippie".
Professor Rolf Gehlhaar, the electronic music composer and technician who co-founded the Paraorchestra.
Interviewed guest: John Hooper
Interviewed guest: Audrey Brown
Interviewed guest: Ellin Stein
Interviewed guest: Vahakn Matossian-Gehlhaar
Interviewed guest: Nouritza Matossian
Interviewed guest: Adrian Lee
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Foreign Bodies: Inspector Montalbano, Radio 4 02/11/2012; Newsday, BBC World Service 17/07/2019; 13 Minutes to the Moon, BBC World Service, May 2019 (archive courtesy of the Johnson Space Center Oral History Project); Paul Krassner on George W. Bush and Abu Ghraib, MediaBurnArchive 22/07/2019; Paul Krassner on Political Satire in America (2005), Manufacturing Intellect, 22/07/2016; Paul Krassner February 1967 interview by Joe Pyne, 02/04/2013; Stockhausen at 70, Radio 3 21/08/1998.
7/26/2019 • 28 minutes, 5 seconds
Audrey Eyton, Arthur Ryan, Jack Bond, Rip Torn
Pictured: Audrey Eyton
Matthew Bannister on
Arthur Ryan, the Irish retailer who created Primark - known for selling fast fashion at low prices.
Audrey Eyton, who devised the F-Plan diet, which encouraged people to eat fibre to lose weight.
Jack Bond, the Lancashire cricket captain who led his team to success in the one-day game.
Rip Torn, the film and stage actor known for his violent temper who appeared in DodgeBall, Men In Black and latterly The Larry Sanders Show.
His daughter Angelica Page, who is also an actor, pays an emotional tribute.
Interviewed guest: Paul Marchant
Interviewed guest: Teresa Wickham
Interviewed guest: Carole Stone
Interviewed guest: David Lloyd
Interviewed guest: Angelica Page
Producer: Paula McGinley
Archive clips from: Profile, Radio 4 22/06/2008; Midnight News, Radio 4 25/04/2013; Enterprise: Audrey Eyton, Radio 4 24/12/1981; See You Sunday, BBC 1 Wales, 05/05/1991; Breakfast Time, BBC One 14/10/1983; North West Tonight, BBC One 11/07/1996; 5 Live cricket commentary, 14/07/2019; 30 Rock, NBC 2009; The Larry Sanders Show, HBO 1998; Maidstone, directed by Norman Mailer, Supreme Mix Productions 1971; DodgeBall, directed by Rawson Marshall Thurber, Twentieth Century Fox / Red Hour Films / Mediastream Vierte Film GmbH & Co. Vermarktungs KG 2004; Rip Torn on InnerVIEWS, Houston PBS, 05/02/2010.
7/19/2019 • 28 minutes, 18 seconds
Eva Kor, Christopher Booker, João Gilberto, John McCririck
Pictured: Eva Kor
Matthew Bannister on
Eva Kor who, with her twin sister, was the subject of experiments by the Nazi doctor Josef Mengele in Auschwitz. She later publicly forgave her tormentors.
Christopher Booker, the founding editor of Private Eye and Telegraph columnist.
João Gilberto, the Brazilian pioneer of bossa nova music whose hits included The Girl From Ipanema.
And John McCririck, the eccentric TV racing pundit who was criticised for his sexist views.
Interviewed guest: Alex Kor
Interviewed guest: Penny Tierney
Interviewed guest: Tim Stanley
Interviewed guest: Robin Denselow
Interviewed guest: Alastair Down
Interviewed guest: Cornelius Lysaght
Producer: Paula McGinley
Archive clips from: Outlook, World Service 13/05/2015; Dirty Years Of Satire, Radio 4 06/10/1991; That Was The Week That Was, BBC One 19/12/1963; Today, Radio 4 04/07/2019; New Names Making News, Radio 4 18/12/1962; John McCririck Interview, Star Sports April 2018; Celebrity Big Brother, Channel 4 2005; Big Brother's Big Mouth, Channel 4 18/08/2006.
7/12/2019 • 28 minutes, 2 seconds
Brenda Maddox, Ivan Cooper, Min Hogg, John Gunther Dean, Dave Bartholomew
Pictured: Brenda Maddox
Matthew Bannister on
Ivan Cooper, the human rights campaigner and politician from Northern Ireland who played a key role in the protests on Bloody Sunday.
Min Hogg, the colourful founding editor of World of Interiors magazine. Her friend Nicky Haslam pays tribute.
John Gunther Dean, the last US diplomat to be evacuated from Cambodia as war loomed.
Brenda Maddox, author of many books including The Half Parent and a biography of James Joyce's wife Nora Barnacle.
Dave Bartholomew, the New Orleans musician who wrote four thousand songs including many of Fats Domino's greatest hits.
Interviewed guest: Dr Simon Prince
Interviewed guest: Enda McClafferty
Interviewed guest: Nicky Haslam
Interviewed guest: Bronwen Maddox
Interviewed guest: Fiammetta Rocco
Interviewed guest: Garth Cartwright
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Against the Grain, Radio 4 22/02/2011; News Special: Bloody Sunday, BBC Northern Ireland 30/01/1972; Bloody Sunday, directed by Paul Greengrass, Granada Television/Irish Film Board/Portman Entertainment Group/Bórd Scannán na hÉireann/Hell's Kitchen Films 2002; Arena, BBC Two 21/02/1984; Veteran US diplomat John Gunther Dean dies age 93, AP Archive, 16/06/2019; Cambodia War US Embassy Evacuation AP 12/04/1975; Vietnam helicopter pilots describe the war from the cockpit, Military Times 18/04/2018; John Gunther Dean, former U.S. Ambassador to Cambodia, 1974-75, Documentation Center of Cambodia 12 Jun 2019; Happily Ever After? Radio 4 29/11/1983; Nora, directed by Pat Murphy, Natural Nylon Entertainment/Road Movies Filmproduktion/Volta Films/GAM 2000; Night Waves, Radio 3 16/06/2009; Margaret, directed by James Kent, Great Meadows Productions, BBC Two 26/02/2009; Fats Domino's Longtime Collaborator, American Masters PBS 24/02/2016; Dancing In The Street: A Rock And Roll History: Whole Lotta Shakin', BBC Two 15/06/1996.
7/5/2019 • 28 minutes, 1 second
Dr Henry Lynch, Judith Krantz, Lord Patel of Blackburn, Anthony Hedges
Pictured: Judith Krantz
Matthew Bannister on
Dr. Henry Lynch whose painstaking medical research revealed the causes of hereditary cancers.
Judith Krantz, the American author who made a huge commercial success from her sex and shopping novels.
Lord Patel, the Indian-born businessman who became a key figure in community relations in his adopted town of Blackburn.
Anthony Hedges, the British composer whose prolific output ranged from light music to symphonies and choral works.
Interviewed guest: Professor Patrick M Lynch
Interviewed guest: Penny Warren
Interviewed guest: Sarah Hughes
Interviewed guest: Jack Straw
Interviewed guest: Julia Langdon
Interviewed guest: Paul Conway
Interviewed guest: Colin Bayliss
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Horizon, BBC Two 04/11/2000; Genetic Mutations as Causes of Cancer, Ecancer/Vimeo; Remembering Dr Henry Lynch, KETV NewsWatch 7 03/06/2019; Princess Daisy, directed by Waris Hussein, National Broadcasting Company/ Steve Krantz Productions 1983; Scruples, directed by Alan J. Levi, Lou Step Productions/Warner Bros. Television 1980; Judith Krantz, BBC Sound Archive 01/05/1979.
Pictured: Franco Zeffirelli
Matthew Bannister on
Franco Zeffirelli, the stage and film director known for his opulent designs and flamboyant personality.
Gloria Vanderbilt, the heiress who overcame personal tragedy and was the first to market designer jeans.
Mohamed Morsi, Egypt's first democratically elected President, who was ousted from office after only a year.
Philomena Lynott, who ran a hotel frequented by rock stars and footballers and was the proud Mum of Thin Lizzy lead singer Phil Lynott.
Interviewed guest: Rupert Christiansen
Interviewed guest: Reverend Richard Coles
Interviewed guest: Rosemary Feitelberg
Interviewed guest: Dr Hisham Hellyer
Interviewed guest: Jackie Hayden
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Desert Island Discs, Radio 4 07/01/1978; Romeo and Juliet, directed by Franco Zeffirelli, Old Vic 1960; Romeo and Juliet, directed by Franco Zeffirelli, Verona Produzione/ BHE Films /Dino de Laurentiis Cinematografica 1968; The Taming of the Shrew, directed by Franco Zeffirelli, Columbia Pictures, Royal Films International, F.A.I. 1967; Gloria Vanderbilt in Studio Q, Q on CBC 30/07/2012; The Love Boat, ABC 1977; The Risk Business, BBC One 22/04/1981; 2012 CGI Annual Meeting, Clinton Global Initiative; 15/10/2012; Analysis, Radio 4 06/10/2013; Outlook, BBC World Service 24/09/2012.
6/21/2019 • 28 minutes, 6 seconds
John Tidmarsh OBE, Sylvia Denman, Paul Darrow, Sheila Turner, Leon Redbone
Pictured: John Tidmarsh
Matthew Bannister on
John Tidmarsh, who presented Outlook on the BBC World Service for thirty years and brought comfort to the Beirut hostages. John McCarthy pays tribute.
Sylvia Denman, the Barbados-born lawyer who campaigned for better race relations in the UK and fought to improve educational outcomes for young black people.
Paul Darrow, the actor best known as Avon, the anti-hero of the cult sci-fi TV show Blake's 7.
Sheila Turner, who campaigned for better treatment for patients who, like her, suffered from thyroid disorders.
And the mysterious singer Leon Redbone, who specialised in music from the Tin Pan Alley era of the 20s and 30s.
Interviewed guest: Bob Chaundy
Interviewed guest: John McCarthy
Interviewed guest: Daniel Stilitz QC
Interviewed guest: Lincoln Crawford OBE
Contributor: Matthew Sweet
Interviewed guest: Marian Reed
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Outlook, BBC World Service 27/07/1974; Outlook, BBC World Service 15/06/1978; BBC News 12/10/1960; Outlook, BBC World Service 04/07/1996; Newsnight, BBC Two 26/07/2001; Blake's 7, BBC One 25/02/1980; Blake's 7, BBC One 21/12/1981; Dr Who, BBC One 09/03/1985; Kaleidoscope Extra, Radio 4 22/05/1990.
Please refer to the following websites if you would like further information about thyroid disorders:
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/overactive-thyroid-hyperthyroidism/
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/underactive-thyroid-hypothyroidism/
6/15/2019 • 28 minutes, 7 seconds
Edward Seaga, Binyavanga Wainaina, Mary Stopes-Roe, Gloria Schiff, Dr John
Pictured: Edward Seaga
Julian Worricker on:
The Jamaican politician, Edward Seaga, who led his country as prime minister throughout the 1980s
Binyavanga Wainaina, one of Kenya's most prominent writers and LGBTQ activists
The Vogue fashion editor and Manhattan socialite, Gloria Schiff
Archivist, Mary Stopes-Roe, daughter of the bouncing bomb developer Barnes Wallis
And the Grammy Award-winning, New Orleans born singer, Dr John.
Interviewed guest: David Katz
Interviewed guest: Ellah Wakatama Allfrey
Interviewed guest: Jenny Guinness
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: International Profile, Radio 4 20/11/1987; The World Tonight, Radio 4 17/12/1976; BBC Sound Archive, Jamaican Labour Party Victory 03/11/1980; One Day I Will Write About This Place by Binyavanga Wainaina, read by Freddy Macha, Radio 4 07/11/2011; HardTalk, BBC World Service 21/02/2014; Regional Extra, Radio 4 16/04/1968; Interview with Mary Stopes-Roe, University of Huddersfield Research 19/07/2013; The First Time With Dr John, 6 Music 22/01/2018.
6/7/2019 • 28 minutes, 15 seconds
Professor Murray Gell-Mann, Nan Winton, James McCord, Gregory Gray
Pictured: Nan Winton
Matthew Bannister on
Murray Gell-Mann, the American physicist who won the Nobel Prize for his work on the theory of elementary particles. He coined the name "quarks" for the fundamental building blocks of matter.
Nan Winton, the first woman to read the TV news on the BBC. She faced discrimination in the male-dominated BBC newsroom.
James McCord, the CIA agent who was involved in the Bay of Pigs and the Watergate break in.
Gregory Gray, the Irish singer who went from boy band to cult musician.
Interviewed guest: Professor Geoffrey West
Interviewed guest: Graham Farmelo
Interviewed guest: Tina Ellen Lee
Interviewed guest: Maggie Brown
Interviewed guest: Michael Carlson
Interviewed guest: Tom Robinson
Interviewed guest: Noel McLaughlin
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: The Key To The Universe: The Search For The Laws Of Creation, BBC Two 27/01/1977; Horizon, BBC Two 25/07/1964; Panorama, BBC One 21/09/1959; Panorama, BBC One 09/03/1959; Arena, BBC Two 15/03/1997; U.S. Senate Select Committee On The Watergate Affair, BBC Sound Archive 18/05/1973; Watergate: Inside The Scandal That Took Down A Presidency, ABC News 17/06/2017.
5/31/2019 • 27 minutes, 53 seconds
Niki Lauda, Judith Kerr, IM Pei, Herman Wouk
Pictured: Judith Kerr
Matthew Bannister on
Niki Lauda, the fearless racing driver who survived a terrible crash to make a dramatic comeback on the track.
Judith Kerr, the author of much-loved children's books including the Mog series and The Tiger Who Came to Tea.
I.M. Pei, the architect best known for the glass pyramid outside the Louvre in Paris.
Herman Wouk, the American novelist and screenwriter who won the Pulitzer Prize for The Caine Mutiny.
Interviewed guest: Simon Taylor
Interviewed guest: Julia Eccleshare
Contributor: Michael Goldfarb
Interviewed guest: Professor Eric Homberger
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: South African Grand Prix 1976, BBC Sound Archives; Rush, directed by Ron Howard, Working Title Films/Imagine Entertainment/Cross Creek Pictures/DNEG/Revolution Films/ Exclusive Media Group 2013; Hunt/Lauda, Radio 4 24/03/2013; The World At One, Radio 4 12/11/1981; BBC News, 28/05/1991; Desert Island Discs, Radio 4 29/02/2004; When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit, read by Rosemary Leach, Radio 4 Extra 02/10/2017; The 60 Minutes Interview: I.M. Pei, CBS News 1987; Readings by Herman Wouk, University of California TV 24/01/2008.
5/24/2019 • 27 minutes, 31 seconds
Doris Day, Brian Walden, Dorothy Rowe, Lorraine Warren
Pictured: Doris Day
Julian Worricker on:
One of Hollywood's top box-office stars of the 50s and 60s, actress and singer Doris Day.
The Labour MP who became one of television's most exhaustive political interviewers, Brian Walden.
Dorothy Rowe, one of the earliest figures in psychology to build a bridge between clinical practice and the general public.
And the paranormal investigator, Lorraine Warren, whose best-known case focused on the house at the centre of the film, The Amityville Horror.
Interviewed guest: David Benedict
Interviewed guest: Matthew Parris
Interviewed guest: Tim Lott
Interviewed guest: Tony Spera
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: The Gloria Hunniford Show, Radio 2 10/02/1995; The Man Who Knew Too Much, directed by Alfred Hitchcock, Paramount Pictures/Filwite Productions 1956; A Point of View, Radio 4 18/03/2005; Weekend World, Radio 4 09/05/1982; Today, Radio 4 13/05/2019; The Walden Interview, BBC London Weekend Television 29/10/1989; Desert Island Discs, Radio 4 24/03/2002; The Successful Self by Dorothy Rowe read by Frances Jester, Radio 4 03/01/2007; The Amityville Horror, directed by Stuart Rosenberg, American International Pictures/Cinema 77/Professional Films 1979; The Conjuring, directed by James Wan, New Line Cinema/The Safran Company/Evergreen Media Group 2013.
5/17/2019 • 28 minutes, 4 seconds
Winnie Jordan, Richard Green, Karol Modzelewski, Liz Howe, John Singleton
Pictured: John Singleton
Andrea Catherwood on:
British Athlete Winnie Jordan who won a silver medal in the Empire Games in 1938 and became a celebrated British Champion after the war.
American psychiatrist and lawyer, Richard Green, who advanced acceptance and understanding of gay and trans people.
Founder of Poland's Solidarity movement, Karol Modzelewski.
Liz Howe, the ecologist who spearheaded a modern environmental Domesday book for Wales.
And John Singleton, US film director of the LA gang classic Boyz N the Hood.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Peter Tatchell
Interviewed guest: Faye Jordan
Interviewed guest: John Brant
Interviewed guest: John Ratcliffe
Interviewed guest: Dr Stanley Bill
Archive from: Front Row, Radio 4, 25.10.2016
5/10/2019 • 28 minutes, 8 seconds
Grand Duke Jean of Luxembourg, Terry Rawlings, Neus Català, Heather Harper CBE, Peter Mayhew
Pictured: Peter Mayhew
Matthew Bannister on
Grand Duke Jean of Luxembourg, who served with the Irish Guards during the war, liberated his own country and then presided over its prosperity.
Terry Rawlings, the film editor who worked on Alien, Chariots of Fire and the Bond film Goldeneye.
Neus Català, the Spanish communist who fought Franco, joined the French resistance and survived a Nazi death camp.
Heather Harper, the operatic soprano who was called up at the last minute to perform in the premiere of Benjamin Britten's War Requiem.
Peter Mayhew, the actor best known for playing Chewbacca in the original Star Wars films.
Interviewed guest: Patricia Treble
Interviewed guest: Major General Sir Robert Corbett, KCVO, CB
Interviewed guest: Ridley Scott
Interviewed guest: Michael Eaude
Interviewed guest: Eduardo Bennaroch
Reader: Helen Clapp
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Passing Out Parade: HRH Prince Jean of Luxembourg, BBC Sound Archive, 29/07/1943; Alien, directed by Ridley Scott, Brandywine Productions/Twentieth Century-Fox Productions 1979; Blade Runner, directed by Ridley Scott, The Ladd Company/Shaw Brothers/Warner Bros./Blade Runner Partnership, 1982; Heather Harper: A Musical Portrait, BBC Two 30/08/1984; Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope, directed by George Lucas, Lucasfilm/Twentieth Century Fox 1977.
5/3/2019 • 28 minutes, 1 second
Lyra McKee, Una-Mary Parker, Mira Markovic, Doreen Spooner, Edward Kelsey
Pictured: Lyra McKee
Matthew Bannister on
Lyra McKee, the 29 year old Northern Irish journalist who was shot dead by the New IRA.
Una-Mary Parker who was the social editor of Tatler, a commentator on the Royal family and the author of best-selling novels.
Mira Markovic, the wife of the Serbian President Slobodan Milosevic, who denied her husband's responsibility for atrocities during the Bosnian war.
Doreen Spooner, the first woman to work as a staff photographer on a Fleet Street newspaper.
And Edward Kelsey, the actor who played Joe Grundy in The Archers for 34 years.
Interviewed guest: Sarah Kay
Interviewed guest: Baba Hobart
Interviewed guest: Adam Lebor
Interviewed guest: Cathy Vandeputte
Interviewed guest: Felicity Green
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: BBC News, 24/04/2019; Stephen Nolan, 5 Live 19/04/2019; TEDxStormont Women, November 2017; Just A Nimmo: Gossip and Gossip Columnists, BBC Two 03/02/1977; Best Behaviour, Radio 4 25/09/1991; HARDtalk, BBC News 10/09/2001; BBC News 28/06/2001; The World Tonight, Radio 4 01/11/1996; Breakfast Time, BBC One 29/01/1988; PM, Radio 4 13/10/1986; Woman's Hour, Radio 4 15/02/1988; BBC News, 02/10/1983; The Archers, Radio 4 17/03/2015; Breakfast Time, BBC One 26/03/1985; The Archers, Radio 4 18/07/2018.
4/26/2019 • 28 minutes
David Thouless, Nadja Poderegin, Ian Cognito, Dr Michael O’Donnell, Les Reed
Pictured: Nadja Poderegin
Julian Worricker on:
David Thouless, whose work in the world of quantum mechanics earned him a share of the Nobel Prize for Physics.
The Serbian actress, Nadja Poderegin, who went from 'Bond girl' on screen to be a publisher and novelist.
Stand-up comedian, Ian Cognito, whose act was much loved on the comedy circuit but never allowed on TV.
Michael O'Donnell, who combined a medical background with a career in journalism and broadcasting, notably on Radio 4.
And the songwriter Les Reed, who co-wrote memorable songs for the likes of Englebert Humperdinck and Tom Jones.
Interviewed guest: Michael Thouless
Interviewed guest: Professor Andy Schofield
Interviewed guest: Tanya Firth
Interviewed guest: Toby Hadoke
Interviewed guest: Dr Harvey Marcovitch
Interviewed guest: Laurie Taylor
Producer: Paula McGinley
Archive clips from: Profile, Radio 4 09/10/2016; From Russia With Love, directed by Terence Young, Eon Productions 1963; Goldfinger, directed by Guy Hamilton, Eon Productions 1964; Comic To Comic: Ian Cognito, Radio 4 Extra 07/04/2012; Stop The Week, Radio 4 14/11/1987; O'Donnell Investigates, BBC Two 19/09/1988; Midweek, Radio 4 11/12/2002; Relative Values, Radio 4 30/08/1988; The Songwriters: Les Reed, Radio 2 18/11/1975; Les Reed Interviewed By Debbie Greenwood, Radio 2 29/03/1988.
4/19/2019 • 28 minutes, 4 seconds
Sydney Brenner, Dan Robbins, Edda Tasiemka, Ian McDonald
Pictured: Sydney Brenner
Matthew Bannister on
Sydney Brenner, the Nobel Prize-winning biologist who worked with Francis Crick to map DNA.
Dan Robbins, the artist who invented painting by numbers.
Edda Tasiemka, the archivist who kept a comprehensive newspaper and magazine cuttings collection in her North London home.
Ian McDonald, the Ministry of Defence spokesman during the Falklands War who became a familiar face on TV and was known for his sonorous delivery.
Interviewed guest: Professor Jonathan Hodgkin
Interviewed guest: Larry Robbins
Interviewed guest: Robert Lacey
Interviewed guest: Ian Mather
Interviewed guest: Revel Barker
Producer: Paula McGinley
4/12/2019 • 28 minutes, 18 seconds
Michel Bacos, Agnes Varda, Victor Hochhauser CBE, Barbara Low, Ranking Roger
Pictured: Agnès Varda
Matthew Bannister on
Michel Bacos, the pilot of the Air France jet that was hi-jacked to Entebbe in 1976. He was offered the chance to leave, but chose to stay with the hostages until they were freed in a dramatic raid by the Israelis.
The film director Agnès Varda, known as the mother of the French New Wave.
The impresario Victor Hochhauser who specialised in bringing top Russian artists to the UK.
The biochemist Barbara Low who used X-ray crystallography to identify the structure of penicillin.
Ranking Roger, the singer and frontman of the 70s ska revival band The Beat.
Interviewed guest: Rosemary Bacos
Interviewed guest: Paul Martin
Interviewed guest: Terri White
Interviewed guest: Norman Lebrecht
Interviewed guest: Helen Berman
Interviewed guest: Pauline Black
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Raid on Entebbe, directed by Irvin Kershner, 20th Century Fox Television, Edgar J. Scherick Associates, 1977; La Pointe Courte, directed by Agnès Varda, Ciné Tamaris, 1956; Cléo from 5 to 7, directed by Agnès Varda, Ciné Tamaris, Rome Paris Films, 1962; Front Row, Radio 4 13/07/2018; Today, Radio 4 30/03/2019; In Tune, Radio 3 17/11/2017; Liz Kershaw, 6 Music 09/07/2016.
4/5/2019 • 27 minutes, 44 seconds
Baroness Warnock, William Hucklesby QPM, Rose Hilton, Professor Lord Bhattacharyya CBE FRS, Scott Walker
Pictured: Baroness Warnock
Matthew Bannister on
Baroness Warnock, the philosopher who set down the principles which govern human fertilisation treatment and embryo research.
William Hucklesby, the Police Commander who led the anti-terrorist branch at the time of the Hyde Park and Brighton bomb attacks.
Rose Hilton, the artist who put her career on hold to support her husband, but gained recognition after his death.
Professor Lord Bhattacharyya, who brought together academics and industrialists at the Warwick Manufacturing Group.
And Scott Walker, the chart-topping singer who moved into experimental music later in life.
Interviewed guest: Baroness Onora O’Neill
Interviewed guest: Sally Cheshire
Interviewed guest: Alex Hucklesby
Interviewed guest: Christopher Burke
Interviewed guest: Ian Collins
Interviewed guest: Professor Dave Mullins
Interviewed guest: Sir Vince Cable
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Meeting Myself Coming Back: Mary Warnock, Radio 4 12/07/2014; Desert Island Discs, Radio 4 04/12/1988; The World Tonight, Radio 4 20/04/1984; PM, Radio 4 06/09/1982; BBC News 19/12/1983; Sound Archive: Brighton Press Conference, Radio 4 13/10/1984; Rose Hilton interviewed by Susan Marling, 2017 (not broadcast); Woman's Hour, Radio 4 05/04/2011; The Politics Show: West Midlands, BBC One 11/12/2011; Midlands Today, BBC One 09/12/2011; Scott Walker talks to Jarvis Cocker, 6 Music 2017; The Late Show, BBC Two 10/05/1995.
3/29/2019 • 28 minutes, 13 seconds
Gillian Freeman, Sir Peter Hutchison, Sister Dorothy Bell, Dick Dale
Pictured: Dick Dale
Matthew Bannister on
Gillian Freeman, the novelist and screenwriter whose books include The Leather Boys, a story of a gay love affair between two working class men in the 1960s.
Sir Peter Hutchison who travelled to remote parts of the world to collect rare plants.
Sister Dorothy Bell, the nun who after a career devoted to education, turned her attention to AIDS awareness.
And the King of the Surf Guitar Dick Dale.
Interviewed guest: Michael Arditti
Interviewed guest: Edward Thorpe
Reader: Mathilda Thorpe
Reader: Harriet Thorpe
Interviewed guest: James Hutchison
Interviewed guest: Simon Milne
Interviewed guest: Sister Dr Bernadette Porter
Interviewed guest: Emma Cole
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Woman's Hour, Radio 4 22/03/1978; In Search Of The Golden Pleione, Radio 4 30/04/1982; Losing the Habit, Radio 4 29/04/2009.
3/22/2019 • 28 minutes, 8 seconds
Professor Mike Oliver, Jacques Loussier, Professor Richard Lacey, The Reverend Ruth Scott
Pictured: Jacques Loussier
Matthew Bannister on
Mike Oliver, who was paralysed from the neck down after diving into a swimming pool as a teenager. He became the UK's first Professor of Disability Studies and transformed the debate about disabled people's rights.
Jacques Loussier, the French pianist and composer best known for his jazz arrangements of the works of J.S. Bach.
Professor Richard Lacey, the microbiologist who warned of the dangers to humans of mad cow disease.
The Reverend Ruth Scott, the Anglican vicar known for her appearances on Radio 2's Pause for Thought and Radio 4's Thought for the Day.
Interviewed guest: Colin Barnes
Interviewed guest: Peter White
Interviewed guest: Alyn Shipton
Interviewed guest: Dr John Heritage
Interviewed guest: The Reverend Chris Scott
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from:
3/15/2019 • 28 minutes, 13 seconds
France-Albert Rene, Simon Norton, Belle Tutaev, Dr Ian Adamson OBE, Keith Flint
Pictured: Simon Norton
Matthew Bannister on
France-Albert René, the Seychelles President who came to power in a coup and stayed in office for more than 25 years.
Simon Norton, the brilliant but eccentric mathematician who became fascinated by public transport.
Belle Tutaev who campaigned for better early learning provision for the UK's children.
Ian Adamson, the Northern Ireland doctor who wrote many learned history books and became Lord Mayor of Belfast.
And Keith Flint, the flamboyant lead singer of The Prodigy.
Interviewed guest: Tim Ecott
Interviewed guest: Alexander Masters
Interviewed guest: Professor Marcus du Sautoy
Interviewed guest: Mary Tutaev
Interviewed guest: Neil Leitch
Interviewed guest: Professor Wesley Hutchinson
Interviewed guest: Helen Brooker
Interviewed guest: Andrew Harrison
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Seychelles Daily TV, 17/04/18; World at One, Radio 4 03/12/81; Early Years Alliance, 23/02/12; Lifetimes: Ian Adamson, Radio Ulster 2002; Keith Flint Interview, Radio 1 09/05/96.
3/8/2019 • 27 minutes, 53 seconds
André Previn KBE, John Haynes OBE, Tony Mendez, Lady Grantchester
Pictured: André Previn
Matthew Bannister on
André Previn, the conductor and pianist whose repertoire ranged from the classics to film and jazz music. He took part in a celebrated sketch with Morecambe and Wise.
John Haynes, publisher of the Haynes manuals which gave amateur mechanics a step by step guide to repairing their cars.
Tony Mendez, the CIA operative who smuggled American diplomatic staff out of Tehran disguised as a film crew. The story later became the Hollywood film Argo.
Lady Grantchester, who played a key role in the success of the Littlewoods retail and football pools empire.
Interviewed guest: Edward Seckerson
Interviewed guest: Annette Haynes
Interviewed guest: Peter Earnest
Interviewed guest: Professor Peter Toyne
Interviewed guest: John Suenson-Taylor, Lord Grantchester
Interviewed guest: James Suenson-Taylor
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Desert Island Discs, Radio 4 18/08/1996; How to Write an Instruction Manual, Radio 4 21/08/2009; Argo, directed by Ben Affleck, Warner Bros./GK Films/Smokehouse Pictures 2012.
3/1/2019 • 28 minutes, 9 seconds
Lady Falkender, Karl Lagerfeld, John Stalker, Andrea Levy, Peter Tork
Matthew Bannister on
Lady Falkender who was the controversial political secretary to Harold Wilson for twenty seven years.
Karl Lagerfeld, the designer who re-vitalised Chanel, developed Fendi and became an icon in his own right.
John Stalker, the Deputy Chief Constable of Greater Manchester Police who led an investigation into allegations of a shoot to kill policy in Northern Ireland.
Andrea Levy, the award winning novelist who reflected the experience of children of the Windrush generation.
Peter Tork who played bass with one of the first manufactured boy bands, The Monkees.
Interviewed guest: Michael Cockerell
Interviewed guest: Julia Langdon
Interviewed guest: Miles Socha
Interviewed guest: Kim Winser OBE
Interviewed guest: Duncan Campbell
Producer: Neil George
2/22/2019 • 28 minutes, 10 seconds
Gordon Banks OBE, Vikki Orvice, David Garman OBE, Mary Oliver, Albert Finney
Matthew Bannister on
Gordon Banks, the goalkeeper in England's 1966 World Cup winning team, who made one of the greatest saves of all time in 1970.
Vikki Orvice, the first woman to work as a football writer on a national tabloid newspaper.
David Garman, the inventor of the portable bath lift and many other devices to help people with disabilities.
Mary Oliver, the American poet known for her works about animals and the natural world.
The acclaimed actor Albert Finney who was nominated for an Oscar five times but never attended the ceremony.
Interviewed guest: Jacqui Oatley
Interviewed guest: Suji Kwock Kim
Interviewed guest: Ruth Franklin
Interviewed guest: Andrew Macphail
Producer: Neil George
2/15/2019 • 28 minutes, 23 seconds
Rosamunde Pilcher OBE, Hugh Lewin, Lamia Al-Gailani, Dr Stewart Adams OBE, Dr Adam Watson
Pictured: Rosamunde Pilcher
Andrea Catherwood on:
Activist Hugh Lewin who was jailed for his stand against apartheid in South Africa,
Iraqi archaeologist Lamia Al-Gailani who helped rebuild the National Museum of Iraq after looting,
Dr Stewart Adams, the Boots pharmacist who invented Ibuprofen,
Scottish ecologist Adam Watson who devoted his life to protecting the Cairngorms,
and author Rosamunde Pilcher, the mistress of the British Family Saga.
Interviewed guest: Lord Peter Hain
Interviewed guest: Jane Arraf
Interviewed guest: Sophie Clapp
Interviewed guest: Iain Cameron
Interviewed guest: Derek Pyper
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: The Whites Who Fought Apartheid, Radio 4 23/05/2010; ISIL's Destruction of Antiquities, Al Jazeera English 26/02/2015; Dan Cruickshank's Civilisation Under Attack, BBC Four 08/07/2015; Saturday Live, Radio 4 22/12/2007; Afield, Radio 4 03/01/1971; Bookshelf: Rosamunde Pilcher, Radio 4 03/01/1992.
2/8/2019 • 28 minutes, 13 seconds
Jeremy Hardy, Diana Athill OBE, Sir Conrad Swan, Michel Legrand
Pictured: Jeremy Hardy
Julian Worricker on:
Comedian Jeremy Hardy, a mainstay of The News Quiz and I'm Sorry I Haven't a Clue on Radio 4....
Editor and author, Diana Athill, who wrote candidly about her personal life especially in her later years...
Sir Conrad Swan, who, as Garter King of Arms, was the senior heraldic authority of England...
Oscar-winning composer, pianist, conductor and arranger, Michel Legrand....
Interviewed guest: Mark Steel
Interviewed guest: Jeremy Corbyn
Interviewed guest: Damian Barr
Interviewed guest: Gordon Casely
Interviewed guest: Patrick Dickinson
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: The News Quiz, Radio 4 01/06/2018; The News Quiz, Radio 4 01/05/2012; Desert Island Discs, Radio 4 20/06/2004; Midsummer Night in the Workhouse: A Weekend in the Country, Radio 4 16/10/2011; BBC Breakfast News, BBC One 18/11/1994; Kaleidoscope, Radio 4 15/04/1974; Carte Blanche, Radio 2 08/01/2019; The Music Never Ends: The Michel Legrand Story episode 6, Radio 2 09/05/2003.
2/1/2019 • 28 minutes, 9 seconds
Hugh McIlvanney, Jennie Buckman, John Beavis, David Pritchard
Pictured: Hugh McIlvanney
Matthew Bannister on
Hugh McIlvanney, the respected sports writer known for his love of language and combative approach to life.
Jennie Buckman, the theatre practitioner who trained a generation of famous actors and founded a company to give voice to the disadvantaged.
John Beavis, the surgeon who was forced to retire from the NHS through ill health but then spent the next 25 years training medical professionals in war zones around the world.
And David Pritchard, the TV producer who created mould-breaking food programmes featuring Keith Floyd and Rick Stein.
Producer: Neil George
Interviewed guest: Roddy Forsyth
Interviewed guest: Sir Michael Parkinson
Interviewed guest: Tess Woodcraft
Interviewed guest: Adrian Lester
Interviewed guest: Colin Green
Interviewed guest: Tom Jaine
Archive clips from: Life Behind the News, Radio Scotland 18/01/2009; The Final Curtain, Radio Wales 28/08/2004; Today, Radio 4 14/09/1993; Giants Vlog, Tips for Actors, 23/10/2017; Jennie Buckman’s Beginnings Workshop, 18/06/2012; Westway, BBC World Service 03/04/2000; Piece of Silk by Jennie Buckman, The Hope Theatre, Giants Theatre Co 08/07/2016; Midweek, Radio 4 19/05/2010; Midweek, Radio 4 27/05/2009; Floyd’s American Pie: San Francisco, BBC Two 14/11/1989; The Food Programme, Radio 4 01/06/2015; Rick Stein’s Taste of the Sea, BBC Two 1995.
1/25/2019 • 27 minutes, 46 seconds
Joe Casely-Hayford, Judge Nicholas Crichton, Professor Sophie Oluwole, Professor Paul O’Brien CBE, Carol Channing
Pictured: Joe Casely-Hayford
Matthew Bannister on
Joe Casely-Hayford, the fashion designer whose creations ranged from punk to Savile Row tailoring. His children, who followed him into fashion, pay tribute.
Nicholas Crichton, the judge who pioneered specialist family drug and alcohol courts in the UK.
Professor Sophie Oluwole, who was a powerful advocate for African philosophy.
Professor Paul O'Brien, the pioneer of nanotechnology who developed new ways of producing the quantum dots which lie behind our HDTVs and barcode scanners.
And Carol Channing, the colourful Broadway star of 'Hello Dolly' and 'Gentlemen Prefer Blondes'.
Interviewed guest: Charlie Casely-Hayford
Interviewed guest: Alice Casely-Hayford
Interviewed guest: Claire Wilcox
Interviewed guest: Sophie Miller
Interviewed guest: Professor Muyiwa Falaiye
Interviewed guest: Professor Richard Winpenny
Producer: Neil George
Archive clips from: Ebony People, BBC Two 09/06/1989; Inside the Family Court episode 1, Radio 4 08/06/2006; Importance of the Mother Tongue, Tunde Kelani TV 13/01/2016; Oro Isiti with Professor Sophie Oluwole, Tunde Kelani TV 17/02/2016; North West Tonight, BBC One 30/10/2008; What is Professor Paul O'Bri