Plot Twist

In this week's episode of Plot Twist, Tom is joined by one of Britain's most beloved comedy actors, Nick Frost. Best known for his iconic roles in the Three Flavours Cornetto Trilogy (Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz, The World's End) alongside Simon Pegg, as well as cult favorites like Spaced and Cuban Fury, Nick is back with his latest project: Get Away. This new comedy-horror film, premiering on Sky Cinema on January 10th, sees Nick not only starring alongside Aisling Bea but also stepping into the role of writer. He gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the hilarious inspirations behind this quirky tale set on a fictional Swedish island. Plus, Nick shares some of the unexpected plot twists from his own life — from the serendipitous friendship with Simon that shaped his career, to his transformative years working on an Israeli kibbutz and at a Mexican restaurant in London.Contains spoilers for Get Away! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From Del Boy in Only Fools and Horses, to Detective Inspector Jack Frost in A Touch of Frost, and Granville in Open All Hours – Sir David Jason has been a staple of British television since the 1970s, ranging everything from slapstick comedy, to police drama, and animated hits. Speaking about a life of Plot Twists on screen, he pays tribute to his mentor Ronnie Barker and shares how “The Guv'nor” ceremoniously passed on the baton. David also talks about his enduring love for creating characters (think of the voices of Dangerous, or Mr. Toad) and pitches a new Mission Impossible spin-off to Tom Cruise, in response to the fact that Hollywood is the last thing on his list to conquer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From his cult role as Simon in Misfits to playing one of Game of Thrones' most evil characters, Ramsay Bolton, actor Iwan Rheon joins Tom to share his plot twist journey and behind-the-scenes gems. Starting out in a Welsh language soap opera, Iwan describes how his rise to international fame followed a series of “I can't believe I'm here” moments, including a first day on set where he became Sir Ian McKellen's “hero” after saving him from an accident. Today, Iwan is back with an exciting new series set in the underbelly of Ancient Rome called Those About to Die, starring alongside Anthony Hopkins. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a career that has spanned TV-soap fame on Eastenders, films roles including The Football Factory, theatre stints under the mentorship of Nobel Prize winning dramatists Harold Pinter, and even Celebrity Gogglebox (alongside his Love Island star daughter Dani) - it seemed that Danny Dyer had pretty much done it all. That was until actor and writer Ryan Sampson (Plebs/Brassic), suggested he play the lead role in a bombastic new Sky Original comedy, Mr Bigtsuff. Telling the story of two estranged brothers, Sampson and Dyer explore themes of "broken families, fragile masculinity and… carpet sales” in a hilarious and at times poignant romp. Joining Tom, they discuss some of the biggest plot twists in their careers including a wild first meeting in Bulgaria filming Plebs, with limoncello shots in tow. All six episodes of Mr Bigstuff are available to watch on NOW and Sky. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Set 200 years before Game of Thrones, the first series of House of the Dragon was lauded as an unmissable prequel by fans. Ahead of the highly anticipated release of series two on Sky and Now, Tom sat down with Ewan Mitchell, aka Aemond Targaryen, to discuss his experiences at the heart of the new storyline. Ewan, who also recently featured in the box-office hit Saltburn, shares his insights on working alongside stars like Matt Smith and how he channels the spirit of iconic actors like James Gandolfini (of The Sopranos) to bring depth and detail to his performances.House of the Dragon Season 2 is streaming weekly on Sky and Now, and the whole of Season 1 is available to watch on demand. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Tom as he delves into the Hollywood journey of the talented Melanie Lynskey, from her breakthrough in Heavenly Creatures to unforgettable roles in Two and A Half Men and The Last of Us. In this episode, Lynskey shares her experiences navigating showbiz, offering insights into the highs and lows of acting. Plus, hear about her latest project, the gripping Sky series The Tattooist of Auschwitz - a six-part series based on the international bestselling novel by Heather Morris, inspired by the real-life story of Holocaust prisoners Lali and Gita Sokolov. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Discover the incredible life of Hollywood legend Danny Trejo. From battling addiction and prison time to rising as a household name in film, Danny's journey is truly inspiring. In this episode, Tom and Danny delve into his iconic roles in movies like 'Heat' and 'Machete,' his transition from ex-convict to celebrated actor, and his latest venture with 'Trejos Tacos' restaurant. Tune in for a captivating conversation on resilience, redemption, and the power of second chances with the remarkable Danny Trejo. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Get ready for laughs as Tom sits down with British comedy icons Josh Widdicombe and Nish Kumar! Known for their work on shows like The Last Leg, Mock the Week, and The Mash Report, they're experts in stand-up and satire. In this episode, discover their journey to success, from chance encounters at University to derailed trains. And don't miss a sneak peek into Season 2 of Hold The Front Page on Sky, where Josh and Nish embark on a hilarious quest to land their articles on the front page of local newspapers across the UK. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fresh from her acclaim at the 2023 Edinburgh Fringe Festival, where her show "Man'oushe" was nominated for Best Show, Janine Harouni is making waves in comedy. Tom sits down with Janine for a candid chat, tracing her comedic path from humble beginnings in Staten Island to global recognition. Through resilience and determination, Janine has overcome numerous challenges to reach where she is today. Join us for an inspiring conversation as we delve into Janine's journey and plot twist moments. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From the depths of the Amazon rainforest to the peaks of the Himalayas, Steve Backshall has explored some of the most remote and dangerous corners of our planet. Who would have guessed his passion for adventure started from buying a 10p bag of manure…. This week on the podcast, Steve Backshall sits down with Tom to share gripping stories of his encounters with deadly creatures, his passion for conservation, and the importance of protecting our natural world. He also talks about his latest shows for Sky Nature ‘Whale' and ‘Shark', which offer a fascinating insight into life beneath the waves. Definitely not one to miss for you adventurers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Tom as he chats with Teddy Swims, the viral singing sensation from Georgia, Atlanta. In this episode, Teddy discusses his rise in the music industry, from posting covers on Youtube to collaborating with stars like Meghan Trainor, Kelly Clarkson and performing alongside comedian Dave Chappelle. As Teddy prepares for his I've Tried Everything But Therapy Music Tour, listeners get an inside look at his remarkable journey and the unexpected turns that have shaped his career. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eric Stonestreet, renowned for playing Cameron Tucker in Modern Family, has charmed audiences for decades with his comedic talent. His roles as Duke in The Secret Life Of Pets and the antagonist Mad Santa in The Santa Clauses have also left a lasting impression on many. In this episode, Tom sits down with Eric to talk about his journey from raising pigs in Kansas City to achieving Hollywood stardom, uncovering the story behind the laughter. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Giancarlo Esposito gained international acclaim as Gus Fring in Breaking Bad, now considered one of the top TV villains of all time – a surprising choice for someone who once aspired to be a priest. Since then, he's embraced antagonistic roles, reprising Gus Fring again in Better Call Saul, portraying Stan Edgar in The Boys, and embodying Moff Gideon in The Mandalorian. Now, he stars in Guy Ritchie's Netflix special, The Gentlemen, a spin-off from the 2019 film. In this episode Giancarlo talks with Tom about his own plot twists, his love for Muhammad Ali and how running your own race leads to the sweetest victories. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Multi-talented actor, queer icon, and Fendi ambassador, Nicholas Galitzine joins Tom for this week's Plot Twist. As a rising star he's already shared the screen with huge names such as Anne Hathaway, Uma Thurman and Pierce Brosnan – an extraordinary journey for someone who initially looked set to become a professional rugby player. Nicolas also lifts the curtain on his most recent project, Mary and George, the raunchy historical Sky Original drama directed by Oliver Hermanus, in which he stars opposite Julianne Moore. It unravels the true tale of a mother and son who, through cunning schemes, strategically navigate their way into the heart of the British Monarchy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From starting out as a child actor in Coronation Street to gaining huge worldwide recognition as Anna Bates in Downton Abbey, the Golden Globe winning actress Joanne Froggatt joins Tom this week to share the plot twist moments from her career so far. Known for her ability to play a wide range of roles, Joanne also discusses the things that draw her to a script and the processes she goes through to get into character – including her new 3-part ITVX drama Breathtaking, depicting the incredible circumstances endured by health workers during the pandemic. Plus, why a comedy series might just be her next move. TW: This episode includes discussion around storylines involving sexual assault. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The multi-Oscar winning actress Jodie Foster (nominated again for the fifth time at this year's Academy Awards) joins Tom on Plot Twist to discuss her much loved role in True Detective: Night Country available on Sky and Now. With over 50 years in the business, including iconic movies like Taxi Driver and The Silence of the Lambs, she discusses the influences and sliding door moments that have guided her through an iconic career – sometimes against the odds and not feeling like a "natural born actor”. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Whilst he's known around the world for playing the king of hell in the hit-series Lucifer, actor Tom Ellis turns out to be a rather charming bloke in real life – which is fitting this Valentines week as he joins presenter Tom Pauc to discuss his latest rom-com Players, in which he stars opposite Gina Rodriguez. He also shares the plot twist stories that have taken his career from Sheffield to LA. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From Lucius Malfoy in Harry Potter, to Captain Hook, The Patriot with Mel Gibson, theatre alongside Daniel Craig, and most recently starring as Hollywood hero Cary Grant in Archie (ITVX) – Jason Isaacs has had an esteemed and wide ranging career spanning over 35 years. Speaking with Tom he shares the reasons why taking roles as a villain will always appeal, as well as the plot twist audition that sealed his fate (alongside some swear words from a posh lady). Plus, Jason reveals a Harry Potter film nugget you may not have realised, relating to his brilliant ability as a voice actor. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From the Royal Shakespeare Company to I May Destroy You and now The Lazarus Project (Sky Original) – Paapa Essiedu's rise has earned him attention as one of the hottest actors to watch from the British scene – even landing him on lists as a favourite for the next James Bond role. Speaking with Tom he shares the plot twist moments and influences that have shaped this incredible career. Plus on the subject of Paapa's new series of the Lazarus Project, they get philosophical on the idea of time travel. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The much-loved comedian, musician, and Strictly Come Dancing champion Bill Bailey (of Black Books/QI/Never Mind The Buzzcocks fame) joins Tom this week ahead of his new stand-up tour, to talk about his life in performance. He shares tales of late-night escapades with colleague Sean Lock, empty Edinburgh gigs, paddle boarding, and the big moment at Glastonbury he realised he'd received his flowers. Bill Bailey's Master Crafter's is available to watch on NOW and Sky. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In 2012 singer-songwriter James Arthur's life changed forever as he shot to stardom after winning the X Factor – a rags to riches tale that played out in front of the country on reality TV's most famous music show. Speaking to Tom he shares the plot twist moments, highs and lows that have followed, from building a fiercely loyal fan base, to coming to terms with mistakes, and finding a new peace through fatherhood. Ahead of the release of his forthcoming album, Bitter Sweet Love, he also shares insights into his creative process and explains why music will always be the centre point of his life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From Spooks to Robin Hood, The Hobbit and Obsession, Richard Armitage's varied career on screen has won the hearts of many around the world. But alongside TV and film, he's is also a seasoned theatre actor, audiobook narrator and now, author. Speaking with Tom he shares the origins and inspirations behind Geneva, his debut thriller as a writer – plus the plot twist moments from throughout his life and career. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ashley Benson shot to fame in the early 2010s as star of the American teen-thriller Pretty Little Liars – a series that has had an enduring fanbase and has gained her a cool 24 million followers along the way. Having started in show-business at the tender age of three, she shares with Tom the plot twists that have taken her through work as an actress, singer, dancer, businesswoman and a social media sensation. Plus they discuss her latest project, Wilderness – a gripping story following a dark and complicated love triangle – a performance in which Ashley explains she felt emotionally connected to. This interview was recorded prior to the SAG-AFTRA strike. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jay Pharoah is one of the hottest impressionist talents on the American scene right now. Shooting to fame as a writer and performer on NBC's long running sketch show, Saturday Night Live, he's no stranger to the likes of Barak Obama, Denzel Washington, Jay Z and The Rock – and in fact has over 200 voices in his repertoire! Speaking with Tom he shares the plot twist moments from throughout his life, the sacrifice and dedication it took to initially get noticed, the influence of the likes of Steve Harvey and Charlie Murphy – and why getting dissed by Kanye West was a big win. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gemma Whelan of Game of Thrones fame (as the formidable Yara Greyjoy) joins Tom this week to discuss the career plot twists that have taken her from dancing, to Edinburgh fringe comedy, and now big screen acting success. She shares the influences that have shaped her work, and how a chance encounter at an extras audition changed everything. Plus excitement from the release of her second series starring as DS Sarah Collins in The Tower (ITVX) - a cop-drama that fans of Line of Duty and Happy Valley will find equally as arresting. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The award winning standup comedian Maisie Adam is loved for her appearances on Live at The Apollo, A League of Their Own, Mock The Week, and The Last Leg – and her rise to fame has been nothing short of stratospheric. With Tom, she discusses the plot twist moments that have catapulted her to the forefront of British comedy, including the tenacity that helped her land her very first gigs and the people that have helped her along the way. Maisie also shares stories about her love of football, including recently playing Soccer Aid hungover the day after her wedding, and spending time alongside Katherine Ryan training with the Lionesses to record a League Of Their Own special (available to watch on Sky Max) ahead of the Women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As an actor and comedian Kerry Godliman has conquered roles ranging from the serious to the hilarious, and is perhaps best known for work alongside Ricky Gervais in Derek (as Hannah) and Afterlife (as Lisa). Top that off with stand up comedy tours (Bosh), panel show appearances, and series like Adult Material and Whitstable Pearl – you might wonder how she's forged such a varied career. With Tom she speaks about the Plot Twist moments that have inspired the journey – as well as thoughts on social media, and some strange graffiti happening in a woodland in South London. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Whether it's his hilarious roles in Afterlife or in Derek alongside Ricky Gervais, his appearances on 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown, or writing and starring in his own series The Cockfields – Joe Wilkinson has become a much loved fixture of British comedy for his often dishevelled and off-the-wall characters. Speaking with Tom, he shares appreciation for the people who have influenced his career and the Plot Twist moments that have given him the courage to "to go down in a blaze of glory". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On a stratospheric rise to stardom Letitia Wright has won the hearts of fans and critics alike as the iconic Shuri in Marvel's Black Panther, alongside a range of other cult roles in everything from Top Boy, to Steve McQueen's Small Axe, Black Mirror, Doctor Who, and working with Steven Spielberg in Ready Player One. She's done this all before the age of 30. Speaking with Tom, she explains how she's always gravitated towards stories that in turn have had an impact on her own life and internal growth – including her new film, Surrounded – and shares the plot twist moments and people that have inspired this incredible journey. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Actor, comedian and former gardener, David Earl, joins us on the show this week! Tom has been a huge fan of David's work since he first developed his stand-up comedy character ‘Brian Gittens' - his dry humour and unique randomness has captured the attention of many across the country, including Ricky Gervais himself. After a career change, David appeared in hit shows such as ‘Derek', 'Afterlife' and recently released his first feature film ‘Brian and Charlie' which picked him up an award at the Sundance festival. This episode is full of laughs, unique perspectives and AI generated robot love. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Queen's last laugh, defeating Robokeeper, being grabbed in the nether regions by Oliver Reed, and becoming a favourite of Whoopi Goldberg… these are just some of the topics covered in this week's Plot Twist with comedian and actor Omid Djalili. Discussing an incredible career that's taken him from the British comedy circuit to Hollywood (in titles including Gladiator and The Mummy), Omid shares the sliding door moments that have peppered his life so far – including why he's now chosen to use his platform to talk about human rights in Iran. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From being thrown in at the deep end as the face of MTV, to working on huge series including Love Island and I'm A Celebrity – Laura Whitmore's life has been full of plot twist moments that have led her to become the much-loved presenter she is today. Talking to Tom she explains how she actually started out as a journalist in a newsroom, and it was only after a chance opportunity that everything changed. Bringing things up to date, Laura also shares what life feels like after Love Island, and why she's as excited as ever to be exploring new projects on her own terms – ranging from true crime, to documentaries, and a new Sunday morning chat show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From About A Boy, to Harry Potter, Game of Thrones, The Mandalorian and now John Wick: Chapter 4 – Natalia Tena has proven herself as an actor with an immense range, loved by directors and superfans alike. Talking with Tom she explains how getting caught smoking at school, and falling in love at an audition in her twenties, contributed to her unexpected journey into the film world. Plus they discuss her latest role as Katia, the deadly matriarch in the latest instalment of the John Wick franchise, opposite Keanu Reeves. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You might have first met him in the early naughties sitcom Scrubs as the lovable “JD” alongside Donald Faison's “Turk", but today actor Zach Braff continues to gain esteem behind the lens as respected writer and filmmaker too. Meeting with Tom on the launch of his new film A Good Person – he explains the personal inspiration for the story which was brought to life by Florence Pugh and Morgan Freeman in characters that find an unexpected kinship in the face of tragedy. Zach also shares Plot Twist moments from throughout his career ranging from his high school beginnings, to directing “gruff" Harrison Ford, and funny tales of a certain beloved taxidermy dog. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

80s Spain, South-London gangsters and the crazy things you do for love – it's all to come in week's Plot Twist as Tom is joined by Jack Rowan, the star of a new series called A Town Called Malice (available on Sky and NOW). Whilst you might know Jack from roles in Peaky Blinders and Noughts + Crosses, he shares the plot twist moment in his career that took him from the boxing ring to our screens – and explains his excitement at entering a show dubbed as a "high-octane, neon Western... a musical love letter to the 1980s." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From Elf, to Iron Man and now the Star Wars franchise with The Mandalorian – Jon Favreau has acted in, produced and directed some of the biggest TV and film hits of the past 30 years. Speaking with Tom shortly after his star being added to the Hollywood Walk of Fame, he shares the biggest plot twist moments of his career, including stories about working with Pedro Pascal and Robert Downey Jr. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From Quantum of Solace, to St. Trinian's and Clash of the Titans, Gemma Arterton has seen huge success on the big screen. But aside from being in front of the camera, Gemma is increasingly focussed on the process of making of TV and film from all angles. As well as acting, she's also producing, writing, and now running her own production company, allowing her to champion the stories she wants to tell – including her latest series Funny Woman – recently released on NOW and Sky. As she explains to Tom, learning to take control of her own journey came as a plot twist moment, and it's an interesting parallel with her character Barbara Parker, who find herself on a mission to make a mark in the world of show-business in the height of the swinging 60s. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Vampires, romance, politics and magic... no wonder fans are already obsessed with the latest adaptation of the Vampire Academy. Keen to sink his teeth into more, Tom sits down with actors Kieron Moore and Mia Mckenna-Bruce - who play Dimitri Belikov and Mia Karp - to learn about the epic fantasy world built by author Richelle Mead. They describe what it was like living and filming in Spain for 7 months, training to become vampires and wanting to make fans of the book proud. From professional boxing to your grandad pretending to be James Cameron, this one is full of many exciting plot twists... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

To mark the release of the second series of the hit gang-drama, Gangs of London, Fran catches up with Ṣọpẹ Dìrísù who plays Elliot Finch in the show. Ṣọpẹ describes GoL as an "athletic ballet of violence”, but as much as his physical performance has attracted calls for him to be Daniel Craig's successor in Bond, Ṣọpẹ is is as equally in touch with his softer side as Fran discovers his deep connection to a certain childhood animated film. Plus, they discuss some of the plot twist people in his life and why it's important to always keep grounded. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week Tom meets two stars of the hilarious paramedic comedy, Bloods – Kevin 'KG' Garry and Sam Campbell – who play the duo Darryl and Darrell. Aside from acting, both are forces on the UK stand-up circuit, and in fact, Sam has just returned from Edinburgh Fringe after winning the coveted award for Best Comedy Show. And it shows. We couldn't have prepared for this interview – it's disruptive, random and full of plot twists. Expect stories about including Jane Horrocks table tennis serve, a covert alien invasion, and Timothy Spall's ability to method act as a moustache. We can't guarantee everything is true.All episode of Bloods are available to stream on NOW. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From a criminal barrister, to TV judge, presenter and Strictly Come Dancing contestant – Rob Rinder's career is full of plot twist moments. But as he shares with Tom, his life in TV actually started out from a hobby as a scriptwriter, inspired by giving his "jobless" actor friends something to be in. Despite his scripts being deemed as "really rubbish" by TV execs, he left an impression which would eventually change his life. And the art of negotiation continues in his new show, Rob Rinder's Interrogation Secrets – in which he takes a unique look at the battle of wits between police and suspects in some of the most disturbing US and UK criminal cases. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Game of Thrones prequel House of the Dragon is without doubt the most eagerly anticipated release of the year. Exploring the the Targaryen reign nearly 200 years before the birth of Daenerys – Tom speak to actors Eve Best and Steve Toussaint who play power-couple Rhaenys Targaryen and Corlys Velaryon at the centre of the series. They discuss what it's like to be one of Westeros' only relationships based on genuine love and respect, rather than convenience. Plus, they also share some surprising career plot twist stories, and give insight into their lengthy costume process. House of the Dragon is available to stream on NOW. Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Phil Rosenthal was the creator, writer, and executive producer of the sitcom Everybody Loves Raymond - a show loved across the world, and synonymous of a golden age in American TV comedy. Today he's the star in something with a different flavour completely – a food-travel series called Somebody Feed Phil. But his journey to both of these gigs, was longwinded and roundabout, with a few breakdowns and terrible "grey meat" suppers along the way. Speaking with Tom and Fran, Phil shares a hilarious look back at his own life and loves (mostly food), a life-changing partnership with Ray Romano, and finding the funny in everyday interactions. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

From Professor Sprout in Harry Potter, to potty-mouthed talkshow appearances, an esteemed career in theatre, and a BAFTA winning hit in The Age of Innocence (alongside Daniel Day-Lewis, Michelle Pfeiffer and Winona Ryder) – Miriam Margolyes' career has continued to surprise and delight at every opportunity. Shortly after her 81st birthday she sat down to talk with Tom to discuss her bewilderment at her new-found popularity with the Tik Tok generation, thoughts on love, her biggest regrets, and how she's never stop being herself. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

As office manager Joan Holloway, Christina Hendricks catapulted to international fame at the centre of AMC's Mad Men – the 60s styled ad-agency drama – alongside Jon Hamm (Don Draper) and Elizabeth Moss (Peggy Olson). Speaking with Tom, Christina sheds light on what it was like to be part of a show that, seven years after its finale, continues to feature in best-of-all-time lists. They also talk about recent work in Good Girls and Tin Star, sources of inspiration, and how different Christina is from her characters in real life. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

From The Office, to Extras, live stand up, sitcoms and his latest series The Outlaws – Stephen Merchant's inimitable brand of humour has permeated the best of British TV for over 20 years as a writer, director and actor. On Plot Twist, he joins Tom to speak about his comedy heroes, the "nourishment" that he finds in writing, the "untapped gold" of Karl Pilkington, and what it's been like to work alongside the likes of Christopher Walken in The Outlaws. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Indira Varma's credits read like a bucket list – from Game of Thrones, to Luther, the Star Wars franchise, and even an Olivier Award for her work in the theatre – there's not much she hasn't conquered. Speaking with Tom, she shares the plot twists that have driven her career from an unusual start in the (slightly risqué) film Kama Sutra: A Tale Of Love, to landing her most famous role as Ellaria Sand by chance, and the joy of working with stormtroopers and lightsabers in the hotly anticipated new Obi-Wan Kenobi TV series. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

As CIA counter-terrorism boss David Estes in Homeland, and the Martian Manhunter in DC's Super Girl, David Harewood is an actor known for characters that ooze strength and confidence. But off-screen David is a true thespian and – as he explains to Tom – has lived a life of twists and turns that he channels into his work. He touches on growing up in Birmingham with racism in the air, being down to his last £80 (twenty years into his career) before getting his big American break, and the pivotal moment where he suffered a serious psychotic breakdown.This episode contains explicit language, discussion of racism, and mental illness. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Since his iconic role as Grant Mitchell in Eastenders 20 years ago, Ross Kemp's career has taken many unexpected turns. He explains how a chance opportunity to meet an American gang leader sparked a whole new career as a documentary journalist – visiting some of the world's most dangerous places from war-zones, to drug factories, pirate waters and high security prisons. Speaking with Tom and Fran, he explains why he feels compelled to tell the stories of people living on the darkest edges of society – and the perspective it's given to his own life (“...a Porsche and swimming pool at home are meaningless when rounds are zipping past your head”). Plus he shares news of his latest adventure, Ross Kemp: Shipwreck Treasure Hunter, coming soon to NOW. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Lockdown hero Joe Wicks (The Body Coach) won world's hearts with 'PE with Joe' by inspiring millions to get active and feel good. But through YouTube, social media and a lot of hard graft, his route to our screens has been somewhat unconventional. Tom and Fran meet him to hear how he got there and what drives his unrelenting ambition to continue to help others. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

From her catchphrase-famous role in Game of Thrones (“Shame!”), to a longstanding career in the West End, and more recently as football club owner Rebecca Walton in Ted Lasso – there are a lot of reasons to love Hannah Waddingham. Speaking with Tom and Fran the actress explains what it was like to grow up in and around the stage, before herself making a transition from musical theatre to TV. She also shares how success has hit her at unexpected moments, and a life changing decision that nearly changed everything whilst on the other side of the world. All series of Game of Thrones are available to watch on NOW. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.