Saturday Live

Ashley Walters, the powerhouse actor, producer and rapper, who's delivered unforgettable performances in Top Boy and the recent global Netflix hit Adolescence, his memoir unveils a tapestry of his inner workings, woven with candour and introspection.Rhys Darby is one of New Zealand's finest comedy exports. Famous for his boundless curiosity and for blending quirky wit and brilliance he'll tell us about being a real-life soldier and on-screen pirate. Plus his current stand-up tour. And Helen Lederer joins us. The actor-writer-comedian who is busy rehearsing for her performance in Fawlty Towers on stage. Plus we have the Inheritance Tracks of the broadcaster and writer Georgia Mann. Presenters: Nikki Bedi and Jon KayProducer: Gareth Nelson-Davies

Fresh from her recent BAFTA success – the award-winning actress, writer and producer - Ruth Jones is with us. Ruth's latest book of fiction is a story where the main character embarks on one last investigation for a council's Unclaimed Heirs Unit... and along the way, the character discovers the importance of holding onto friendship and community.He's the architectural alchemist who has guided us through communities around the UK, where people who turn their creative dreams into homes. The TV presenter and writer - Kevin McCloud – is with us under the canvas of this delightful Hay Festival tent. And GT Karber is the mastermind behind the phenomenon – Murdle – a series of murder mystery puzzle books. Greg is the son of a judge and a civil rights attorney who grew up in the community of Arkansas in the United States. But he's taken a break from conjuring up his puzzling and logical creations to join us in the Hay-on-Wye countryside. Plus the Inheritance Tracks of the comedian Ivo Graham. Presenters: Huw Stephens and Kiri Pritchard-McLeanProducer: Gareth Nelson-Davies

Writer Francesca Simon swapped Californian sunshine for life in the UK, where she created one of the most iconic characters in children's literature — Horrid Henry. She joins us to talk fairy folklore, presidential ambitions, and the stories that shaped her.Jude Kelly, founder of Women of the World and one of the UK's most influential cultural figures, shares her journey from Toxteth to the South Bank.Writer Sophie Pierce and artist Alex Murdin open up about how the wild beauty of Dartmoor helped them process the loss of their son, Felix — and how grief, love, and nature are deeply connected.We'll spin the wheel with potter Caitlin Jenkins, whose love of ceramics is rooted in family history.And the landscape-loving writer and environmentalist Professor Robert Macfarlane brings us his Inheritance Tracks.Presenters: Nikki Bedi and Jon Kay Producer: Catherine Powell

Radio 4's Saturday morning show brings you extraordinary stories and remarkable people.

Radio 4's Saturday morning show brings you extraordinary stories and remarkable people.

Broadcaster Jeremy Vine, who disappointingly didn't make his way to the studio on a penny farthing is here in his capacity as an Agatha Christie loving author.Poppy Okotcha, the model-turned-horticulturist, has swapped Vivienne Westwood runways for an edible and medicinal garden. Dr. Jack Mosley, son of the late Michael Mosley, has shut out the food noise to continue his father's legacy. All that plus the Inheritance Tracks of Nigel Havers.Presenters: Nikki Bedi and Huw Stephens Producer: Ben Mitchell This programme has been changed for music rights reasons.

One of Britain's best former art forgers, ‘brushstroke alchemist' David Henty, has been called a Master Craftsman of his art with over 30 years' experience, producing near original copies.Sophie Pierce didn't think she'd live to thirty but has just become the first person with cystic fibrosis to complete a world record breaking rowing challenge across the Atlantic. The writer and illustrator Nick Butterworth, who was raised above a corner shop in Essex full of sweets, wasn't able to read until he was 8 - 70 years later and his Percy the Park Keeper book series has sold almost 9 million copies worldwide.All that, plus we have the Inheritance Tracks of Archers icon Charles Collingwood as he celebrates 50 years in Ambridge. Presenters: Nikki Bedi and Adrian Chiles Producer: Ben Mitchell

Oscar-winning lyricist Sir Tim Rice is the man behind some of the world's most beloved musicals. From Evita to The Lion King, he's currently on tour bringing his own life story and hit-filled career to a stage near you. Novelist Sareeta Domingo joins Saturday Live. She faced her own life-altering plot-twist, when she was diagnosed with cancer. It proved to be more than a chapter to endure, it became a catalyst to re-examine who she is. And Alan Toyne joins the programme, a former zookeeper and now writer with a gorilla-sized love for primates. He discusses his passion for understanding them and what it is like to live with one. Presenters: Nikki Bedi and Huw Stephens Producer: Lowri Morgan

The writer and broadcaster Gyles Brandreth discusses his love of words and language.Lorna Tucker is the fearless and celebrated filmmaker who rose from homelessness and a life of crime on the streets of Soho to Sundance glory.And Paul Lamb the wagon-living-hedge-laying wizard, who weaves living masterpieces from nature's tangle, restoring ancient countryside hedgerows and keeping alive a vanishing ancient craft.Plus we have the Inheritance Tracks of the stand-up comedian and writer Sophie Duker.Presenters: Nikki Beddi and Huw Stephens Producer: Gareth Nelson-DaviesAnd if you've been affected by any of the things discussed in our conversation...there's information, help and support available at bbc.co.uk/actionline

Radio 4's Saturday morning show brings you extraordinary stories and remarkable people.

Radio 4's Saturday morning show brings you extraordinary stories and remarkable people.

The career of BAFTA winning actor and funny woman Rebecca Front spans the stage, screen and now podcasting - she brings her unique blend of irreverence and being a ‘bit of a Pollyanna' to the studio.Natalie Chandler swapped her boots for the pen as a former professional rugby player who's now tackling the world as a thriller writer – guided by her dreams and her ancestors. And a living example of her work, curator and historian of textiles, dress and design Amber Butchart is currently making a 'Splash' by focusing on a century of swimming and style.All that plus we drop the hammer on one of TVs best antique experts, Christina Trevanion, as she shares her Inheritance Tracks.Presenters: Niki Bedi and Jon Kay Producer: Ben Mitchell

Actor Sally Lindsay has gone from stealing scenes as Shelley Unwin in Coronation Street to creating and starring in The Madame Blanc Mysteries - and is passionate about fighting for working class talents in her industry.Lorraine Kelly has been brightening our screens in the morning for decades with warmth, wit and her ability to put absolutely anyone at ease - and now can add debut novelist to her achievements. After suffering with long covid, Alice Watkins swapped her job as a scenic artist in the theatre and became a ceramicist, letting clay take centre and making pieces made from kitchen waste!.All that plus the Inheritance Tracks of the West End star who boasts a sublime vocal range and 25 percent of McFly as a brother – Carrie Hope Fletcher. Presenters: Nikki Bedi and Jon Kay Producer: Ben Mitchell

Lindsey Burrow who inspired the nation caring for her late husband, the rugby league legend Rob Burrow, as he lived with MND, shares her story of love, loss, resilience and advocacy. At the age of sixteen, Connor Allen attacked his own mum and she reported him to police, but his life turned around thanks to support from his teachers at trial to become the Welsh Children's Laureate and multi-disciplinary artist. Multi-disciplinary is something I could add to John McFall's description too; former Paralympian, surgeon, and now the first person with a physical disability to be cleared to take part in a mission to the International Space Station. All that plus the Inheritance Tracks of The Crown and Chernobyl actor Jared Harris. Presenters: Nikki Bedi and Jon Kay Producer: Ben Mitchell

Steven Frayne, better known as the illusionist and magician Dynamo, has made the impossible look effortless: walking on water, levitating above London and somehow keeping his secrets. His new show marks a new chapter, where he uses his magic to spotlight everyday heroes across the UK, returning to the street magic that first launched his career.From backing vocals for Wham! to pop stardom with Pepsi & Shirlie, Pepsi Demacque-Crocket has now woven her St Lucian roots into her writing, with a memoir, a debut novel, and a lifetime of stories to tell. Comedian writer and mental health advocate Harriet Dyer sees comedy as just one of her superpowers and shares how she died not once, but twice with her trademark unfiltered honesty.All that plus the Inheritance Tracks of broadcaster and Irish dance child prodigy Steph McGovern.Presenters: Nikki Bedi and Jon Kay Producer: Ben Mitchell

Internationally lauded, bestselling novelist, Kate Mosse is celebrating big this year, with both the 20th anniversary of her iconic novel Labyrinth, and the 30th edition of the Women's Prize for Fiction announced later this year.Maher Fattouh, a football loving student who was blinded by an explosion as he fled Syria in 2014 but discovered that true vision comes from resilience not sight.Photographer Dola Posh has an eye for beauty, truth and the spaces in between, she explores themes of motherhood, identity and Black women's experiences. All that plus the Inheritance Tracks of actor, musician and Eurovision contestant Olly Alexander. Presenters: Nikki Bedi and Huw Stephens Producer: Ben Mitchell

Nisha Katona, former barrister now Mistress of Spices, Mowgli restaurant mogul, TV presenter and host of new show Home Kitchen - she's described herself as a culinary Womble.Astronomer Mark Thompson is famous for unravelling the mysteries of the universe and the world of STEM., on TV and on tour, telescope in one hand and a sense of wonder in the other. Phoebe ‘Wander Woman' Smith is with us, adventurer, author, extreme sleeper and podcaster whose latest book weaves together her personal journey with insights into the ancient pilgrim paths of Britain. All that plus the Inheritance Tracks of Oscar nominated auteur Jesse Eisenberg. Presenters: Nikki Bedi and Huw Stephens Producer: Ben Mitchell

Former Children's Laureate Malorie Blackman who's transformed the literary landscape, broken boundaries and redefined storytelling, brings her brand of honesty and unfiltered storytelling to the stage with Pig Heart Boy.Cat Burford, aka The Molar Explorer, navigates both teeth and tundras, balancing dentistry with daring polar expeditions - and has returned from Antarctica to join us.The mythological author Claire Fayers isn't scared by lions, tigers and bears...she deals with Giants, Ghosts and Goblins. All that plus the Inheritance Tracks of Oscar nominated actor Felicity Jones. Presenters: Nikki Bedi and Jon Kay Producer: Ben Mitchell

Cook, author, broadcaster and former Great British Bake Off winner Nadiya Hussain knows how to turn up the heat in the kitchen and how to quietly contemplate life. Her new book is a love letter to her food and her religion.Dr Kate Hays helps us keep our cool under pressure, as the FA's performance psychologist currently working with the Lionesses, she's seen the highs and lows that sport has to offer.Tim Sullivan is the film and tv writer turned crime author who has swapped My Little Pony for the criminal underbelly in his DS Cross series.All that plus the Inheritance Tracks of Radio 2 star, The Good Groove's DJ Spoony.Presenters: Nikki Bedi and Jon Kay Producer: Ben Mitchell

Gardening Guru Monty Don, who's sown seeds of sustainability, cultivated lawns of loyal fans, travelled the world and has grown his wise and warm reputation by sharing personal experiences. Beth Jones is a tattooist whose body-art is empowering breast cancer survivors, proving that inking can be therapeutic and transformative.Danny Gray has not only redefined men's grooming with his makeup brand but is also on a mission to break down stigmas in beauty and in men's mental health. All that plus the Inheritance Tracks of actor and yellow waterproof trendsetter Eve Myles. Presenters: Nikki Bedi and Jon Kay Producer: Ben Mitchell

The literary alchemist Jackie Kay, poet, author and playwright, whose words dance between the very personal and the universal - she wants us to Coorie Doon. We've scored a bullseye in getting darts referee and LGBT+ ambassador Huw Ware on the show...so…game on! Sir Peter Murray, the visionary sculptor of landscapes and minds alike reveals how he went from an educationalist to founder of the Yorkshire Sculpture Park. All that plus the Inheritance Tracks of Professor Alice Roberts are dug up.Presenters: Nikki Bedi and Huw Stephens Producer: Ben Mitchell

Radio 4's Saturday morning show brings you extraordinary stories and remarkable people.

Tiffany Murray grew up watching legendary rock stars eat her mother's food...David Bowie, Freddie Mercury, Ozzie Osbourne and Siouxsie Sioux, to name but a few. She shares what it was like to grow up at the iconic Rockfield Studios. Actor Sam Oladeinde gave up a career in law to become Aaron Burr, Sir, in the UK and Ireland tour of Hamilton. But what has he taken from his previous profession into life on the stage.Mared Pugh Evans is the seventh official harpist to His Majesty the King, her sound is so sublime it could summon the angels but she's also an innovator...and passionate music evangelist for in the community.All that, plus the Inheritance Tracks of Sophie Ellis Bextor as she prepares to sing us into the New Year. Presenters: Nikki Bedi and Huw Stephens Producer: Ben Mitchell

Radio 4's Saturday morning show brings you extraordinary stories and remarkable people.

Gordon Buchanan, the world-renowned wildlife filmmaker, takes us through the mud, sweat and tears, and lions, tigers and bears that have shaped his extraordinary career.Abby Furness, the singer-songwriter and social media influencer, has become an advocate for resilience after her harrowing experience with a cyber-stalker... Imam Emad Choudhary, the UK's only spiritual leader and police detective, whose dual roles allow him to build bridges between diverse communities. All that, and the Inheritance Tracks of a cheesemonger, winemonger and musicmonger, Blur bassist Alex James. Presenters: Nikki Bedi and Huw Stephens Producer: Ben Mitchell

The hypnotic charmer and master of psychological illusion Derren Brown blurs the line between magic, psychology, and theatre and he's won two Olivier Awards for that showmanship - as well as his latest show 'Only Human' Derren steps into Springfield for the Simpsons Christmas special.As a child, Abigail Tinnion was brought up on folk-stories and horror films, that inspired her art-work where myth, legend, and imagination collide. Rob Parsons, founder of the charity Care for the Family, lives his life reminding us that the heart of society begins with hearth and home after a knock at the door 45 years ago reconnected him with a lost friend from the past. All that, plus we have the Inheritance Tracks of actor, writer and real-life detectorist Mackenzie Crook. Presenters: Nikki Bedi and Jon Kay Producer: Ben Mitchell

The actress Tracy Ann Oberman is back playing Shylock in 'The Merchant of Venice: 1936' - a version inspired by the life of her great-grandmother who stood on the frontline against the fascists at the Battle of Cable Street. Laura Henry-Allain also tells us how she was inspired by her Gran Gran and the stories she shared that helped Laura create the UK's first animated series about a Black British family…'JoJo and Gran Gran'. Ben Branson joins, the maverick behind the non-alcoholic spirits company Seedlip, hosts the podcast 'The Hidden 20%' where he shares conversations with fellow neuro-divergent people. All that, plus we have the I-Ts of K-J-T – that's the Inheritance Tracks of Olympic medallist Katarina Johnson-Thompson. Presenters: Nikki Bedi and Jon Kay Producer: Ben Mitchell

Amar Latif, the trailblazing adventurer who as a blind rambler and fearless globetrotter, treks paths that many of us wouldn't dare, proving that vision is about perspective, not sight. Dirt detective Professor Lorna Dawson is armed with her trowel and cutting-edge forensic science, she's revolutionised crime-solving from the ground up.James Middleton, entrepreneur, ideas man and brother to the Princess of Wales. From crafting bespoke marshmallows to creating a pet wellness brand, a champion of good mental health and animal welfare, his late dog Ella saved his life. All that, plus the Inheritance Tracks of Hollywood actor and West End musical star, Luke Evans.Presenters: Nikki Bedi and Jon Kay Producer: Ben Mitchell

Actor Martin Clunes, who although now has hung up his stethoscope, will forever be Doc Martin for some. But, these days he's busy meeting remarkable animals; from search-and-rescue dogs to mine-sniffing rats and therapy horses. The mighty Sabrina Pace-Humphreys is here, she's a trailblazing ultra-runner, author and activist, who not only tackles gruelling terrain but also breaks down barriers; encouraging diversity every step of the way. Richard Armitage is an actor, author and voice-over artist who has thrilled us for over two decades - from Spooks, The Hobbit and North & South to Harlan Coben's hit Netflix dramas - making him the only man on the programme for whom spying, dragons and Victorian etiquette are all in a day's work.All that, plus we have the Inheritance Tracks of the comedian, broadcaster and soon to be celebrity gladiator contestant...Ellie Taylor. Presenters: Nikki Bedi and Huw Stephens Producer: Ben Mitchell

Celebrated chef, restaurateur and TV star Rick Stein, is more than a master of seafood - he's a well-travelled storyteller with a deep-seated love for food that transcends borders. He has a new heart and a fresh outlook on life.Andy Cato, best known as one half of the pioneering electronic duo Groove Armada, is equal parts DJ, musician and forward-thinker - and now mostly a pioneering sustainable agriculture farmer. Lady Anne Glenconner is an aristocrat, author, former lady-in-waiting to Princess Margaret. She's lived a life that reads like a dramatic novel - from royal escapades and tumultuous relationships to personal tragedies; but always with glamour and grit. All that, plus we have the Inheritance Tracks of the author, broadcaster and lover of the outdoors, Kate Humble. Presenters: Nikki Bedi and Huw Stephens Producer: Ben Mitchell

Phil Wang, who says he wouldn't be a comedian if he wasn't of mixed heritage, Malaysian and British, his latest Netflix special opens on the subject of reheating rice and how in the west we're afraid to do that…so what does his dual heritage allow him to do A question we could also put to Chitra Soundar, the award-winning children's writer, who grew up in India, and whose books have inspired the new BBC animated sitcom Nikhil & Jay which is about two Indian/British dual heritage brothers. Nigel McCrery, the man who created the hit TV series Silent Witness and who's written over a dozen novels, reveals the details about his involvement in the DNA identification of the Russian Royal family. All that, plus we have the Inheritance Tracks of the former Time Lord and master of spin Peter Capaldi.Presenters: Nikki Bedi and Nihal Arthanayake Producer: Ben Mitchell

The global explorer, TV presenter and author Simon Reeve makes programmes around the world which focus on people's lives...and he's been arrested by the KGB, chased by cheetahs and nearly died from malaria.Liz McConaghy spent seventeen years as a Chinook crewman with the RAF, the longest serving woman to do so, her deployments left scars on her soul but has now found a way to soothe them.Lalage Snow, photojournalist and filmmaker, has covered war and unrest in the in Gaza, The West Bank, Israel, Eastern Ukraine - but has now found that the peaceful act of people gardening brings out the best stories. All that, plus we have the Inheritance Tracks of the broadcaster and proud Brummie – Adrian Chiles. Presenters: Nikki Bedi and Jon Kay Producer: Ben Mitchell

Lindsay Nicholson, who, after studying astrophysics, chose journalism as a career, became Good Housekeeping's editor for two decades and is now a grief counsellor, equestrian coach and writer... none of which are rocket science. She talks about the loss of her husband and daughter to cancer, and the car accident that led to her life's third act. Skiing and climbing up and down mountains are Alpinist Fay Manners' life. But, recently in the Himalayas she experienced the indiscriminate power of Mother Nature and was stranded for three days. Thankfully she survived and lives to tell the tale. Jon Sopel, formerly the BBC's North America Editor, now a co-presenter of The News Agents, discusses the familial sacrifices that allowed him to further his career and reveals what he took from Air Force One.All that, plus the Inheritance Tracks of the comedy power couple and podcasters, Chris and Rosie Ramsey. Presenters: Nikki Bedi and Jon Kay Producer: Ben Mitchell

Radio 4's Saturday morning show brings you extraordinary stories and remarkable people.

One of the world's best known and bestselling authors Jodi Picoult is no stranger to controversy, some of her books have been banned in the US, and her latest novel might just ruffle a few ruffs here too as she looks to bust the myths we hold about the truth behind who wrote Shakespeare's plays. The actor and DJ Kristian Nairn, perhaps best known as the gentle giant Hodor in Game of Thrones, has written a memoir sharing stories about his life coming of age as a gay man during The troubles in Northern Ireland and finding his confidence as a drag queen called Revvlon. And Sam Evans and Shauna Guinn reveal what happened when they quit their 9-5 jobs, went on a pilgrimage around the Southern US states, and learned the dark art of American BBQ. All that, plus we have the Inheritance Tracks of actor, author and the voice of Danger Mouse and Hey Dugge - Alexander Armstrong.Presenters: Nikki Bedi and Jon Kay Producer: Ben Mitchell

Radio 4's Saturday morning show brings you extraordinary stories and remarkable people.

Lindsey Hilsum, who brings us stories from current wars as the International Editor for Channel 4 News and her latest book mixes memoir with powerful poems.Bestselling author Robert Harris who writes imaginatively about past wars. Also, chef Jon Watts whose life changed forever when he signed up for the Duke of Edinburgh Awards whilst serving time as a teenager. He'll be sharing his story.All that, plus the Inheritance Tracks of actor and author Celia Imrie.Presenters: Nikki Bedi & Huw StephensProducer: Gareth Nelson-Davies

Frenchman Fred Sirieix who's gone from front of house at the crème de la crème of London's restaurants, to fronting TV shows, to now writing a book on his love of Britain.We hear what sort of urge it was that took Shetland raised journalist Jen Stout over to Russia to study, then onto Ukraine to cover the war.Plus, screenwriter and playwright Jeff Young joins us to tell us why he quit his job as a filing clerk to hitchhike to Paris. Presenters: Nikki Bedi & Huw Stephens Producer: Lowri Morgan

Culinary maestro Yotam Ottolenghi, the man who's transformed the way we think about Middle Eastern flavours, vegetables, and the art of home cooking joins us to chat 'Comfort' food. We welcome Livi Deane, a model and beautician, who's written a book about living with lifechanging impaired vision and a prosthetic eye, as a result of a rare form of eye cancer. And historian siblings David and Yinka Olusoga join us to discuss their new book 'Black History for Every Day of the Year' and will be share some of their own life story with us All that, plus we have the Inheritance Tracks of comedian, presenter, actor and creator of Keith Lemon, Leigh Francis. Presenters: Nikki Bedi and Huw Stephens Producer: Ben Mitchell

Who better to kick-off Saturday Live's return than the historian by day and superstar DJ by night Dan Jones, who chats all things Henry the fifth and lay down a few beats as well. From Ace to Grace, Warren Furman reveals how his life has drastically changed from being homeless, to becoming a Gladiator and now a fully-fledged man of the cloth. And the multi-award-winning folk musician Cara Dillon shares how her love of home and how telling stories through music has helped her connect to family members she never even met. All that, plus the Inheritance Tracks of musician, comedian and the lyricist who brought us Matilda the Musical – Tim Minchin. Presenters: Huw Stephens and Kiri Pritchard-McLean

Carol Kirkwood shares the secret behind not only being the UK's favourite weather presenter, but a bestselling author as well - and reveals where her lifelong love of fast cars comes from.The Antipodean singing-comedian Michelle Brasier reveals how she survived a house fire, grieved for the loss of her father and brother to cancer, befriended her scammer...and turned it all on it's head for comedic purposes.Clive and Jo Bailey, the married balloonists who have seen just about everything in their airborne basket, and Olympic torch balloons aside - there's a good chance they'll have been had a hand in pretty much any other hot-air balloon you'll have seen on screen. All that plus...as the Olympics get underway in Paris, we'll get your blood pumping with the Inheritance Tracks of our double-gold medal-winning boxer Nicola Adams.Presenters: Nikki Bedi and Jon Kay Producer: Ben Mitchell

Welcome to the brightest and boldest of Saturday Lives as fashion-designer Dame Zandra Rhodes arrives. Perhaps as famous as the garments which have adorned the likes of Princess Diana and Freddie Mercury as she is for her neon-pink hair - She has now published her memoir through the prism of 50 of her most precious items.Matt Forde has, I think it's safe to say, had a tough year health-wise, he'll explain how he's still able to see the funny side of life – and take inspiration from Taylor Swift as he heads back out on tour for the first time since his cancer treatment. Anyone who dreams of living on a deserted island needs to hear the story of Simon Parker. His island is in the Bristol Channel, it's owned by the local council, and it used to be home to Vikings and cholera victims. Simon will tell us why he has chosen to call Flat Home “home”. All that, plus the Inheritance Tracks of the musical power couple, Carrie and David Grant. Presenters: Jon Kay and Kiri Pritchard-McLean Producer: Ben Mitchell