Podcasts about inheritance tracks

Actor, director and playwright Kwame Kwei-Armah on the big decisions he's faced from changing his name to the Herculean task of writing a super-hero musical.Mohammed Belal... Who became England's first paralysed surgeon after a cycling accident. He faced years of rehabilitation to return to work.George Egg who mixes comedy and cooking and says good nosh doesn't have to be posh and how cooking helped him after the death of his father.Inheritance Tracks are picked by DJ-turned-novelist Fearne Cotton...Presenters: Kiri Pritchard-MCLean and Jon Kay Producer: Catherine Powell

A man who serves up laughs and heart in equal measure - teller of stories David Baddiel is a comedian, author, screenwriter and presenter who has most recently taken inspiration from the humble burger.Mikey Please is the BAFTA winning short film maker. His stop-motion magic with Aardman Studios conjured the Oscar-nominated Robin Robin and has just won the Waterstones Children's Book Prize. And fresh from one of her many eating sprees, the globe-trotting foodie and sustainability sage Leyla Kazim joins us. The Food Programme presenter and judge on MasterChef reveals why she is relocating to Portugal for some ‘purposeful living'. All that plus we have the supreme Inheritance Tracks of comedian - and now memoirist - Suzi Ruffell.Presenters: Nikki Bedi and Jon Kay Producer: Catherine Powell

The broadcaster and writer Georgia Mann has been making and presenting arts programmes at the BBC since 2008. After studying English Literature at Cambridge University, she began her career as a local BBC radio reporter before entering the arts arena of broadcasting. She has presented the BBC Proms and has said that she's “committed to getting classical music out of its traditional locations and into the lives of those who might not have experienced it before”. So with that in mind we wondered what her Inheritance Tracks would be…and, to start with, she's taking us back to school.Producer: Gareth Nelson-Davies

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

Robert Macfarlane's lyrical musings explore and celebrate our relationship with landscape and nature. He's a prize-winning author, a lyricist, librettist and spoken-word performer and he's collaborated with artists, musicians and actors, including Willem Dafoe. At the heart of his latest book is the idea that a river is a living being…will that then inspire his Inheritance Tracks?Inherited: River Man by Nick Drake Pass on: Monkey Gone to Heaven by PixiesProducers: Catherine Powell and Minnie Harrop

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

The actor Rory Kinnear has won two Olivier Awards, played Bill Tanner (M's chief of staff) in four Bond Movies and his wide acting range has also seen him play Frankenstein's monster and a fictional British Prime Minister. Born in London, educated at Oxford and the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art, if there is such a thing as an inherited performer's gene, Rory got it. Both his parents were actors…his father was Roy Kinnear and his mother is Carmel Cryan. With that kind of lineage - what then will he have chosen as his Inheritance Tracks? Inherited: Little Green Apples by Roger Miller Pass on: I Will (Take You Forever) by Christopher CrossProducers: Ben Mitchell and Ribika Moktan

Comedian, actor, screen-writer, voice-artist, podcaster - Jason Mantzoukas can do it all. He's gone from improvised stand-up to starring in films and shows including Parks and Recreation, Brooklyn Nine-Nine and The League. Born into a family of Greek-Americans in the early 1970s, he studied religion at college, drummed in a marching band, riffed in jazz clubs and moved to Morrocco to immerse himself in local rhythms. So, what will this self-confessed music obsessive select as his Inheritance Tracks....Inherited: When Problems Arise by Fishbone Passed on: Vocalise My Love by Florence Adooni Producer: Ben Mitchell

The actor and presenter Nigel Havers was born in Middlesex in 1951 to a barrister father and an author mother. His screen roles have been varied, from His portrayal of Lord Andrew Lindsay in the film Chariots of Fire in 1981 which earned him a BAFTA nomination, to Lewis Archer in Coronation Street for over a decade and a guest spot in Downton Abbey amongst other. He was the face of Nescafe for many years, and is now seen presenting The Bidding Room on BBC television. With such a varied life and career – what then will he choose for his Inheritance Tracks? Inherited: I've Got You Under My Skin by Mel Tormé Pass on: Still Crazy After All These Years by Paul Simon Producers: Ben Mitchell and Anna BaileyThis programme has been changed for music rights reasons.

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.

The Canadian born actor Charles Collingwood has, since 1975, been defined by his role as Brian Aldridge, the upper-class charmer in The Archers. Over the last fifty years…Brian's had affairs, illegitimate children and ventures into the sausage business. But in real life Charles is very happily married to Judy Bennett, who played Shula in the show. Away from Ambridge he's appeared on TV in Morse and Midsomer Murders, Roger Roger and Noel Edmunds' Telly Addicts...but will always be Brian to me. We asked Charles, with that resonant, slightly gravelly and textured voice of his, to share his Inheritance Tracks with us...Inherited: My Blue Heaven by Fran Sinatra / and sung by Peter Skellern Passed on: The Hungry Years by Neil SedakaProducers: Ben Mitchell and Anna Bailey

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

Dame Penelope Wilton is an actress whose versatility has shone across stage, screen and television. Penelope won the Olivier Award for her role in Taken at Midnight, on TV she's played the witty Ann in Ever Decreasing Circles, Isobel Crawley in Downton Abbey, and another Ann in Ricky Gervais' After Life. On film she has appeared in the historic Shaun of the Dead, Pride and Prejudice and The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel. Penelope shares her very lovely Inheritance Tracks.Inherited: Que reste-t-il de nos amours? - Charles Trenet Pass on: I'll Remember April - Erroll Garner - Concert by the sea Producer: Gareth Nelson-Davies & Lowri Morgan

The stand-up comedian and writer Sophie Duker has appeared in venues around the UK and she's also been seen on TV, popping up on the likes of 'Taskmaster', ‘Live at the Apollo' and 'Celebrity Mastermind'. She has also hosted programmes for BBC Sounds including the ‘Obsessed' strands – which accompany hit television shows – ‘I May Destroy You' and ‘Everything I Know About Love.' And there's still a chance to see Sophie on her current stand up tour “But Daddy I Love Her” - including a date at London's Bloomsbury Theatre in May 2025. Born in London, her foray in comedy began during her time as an undergraduate studying French and English at university. Following her love of language and laughter – we wondered what her musical inspirations would be in this week's Inheritance Tracks?Inherited: Nelson Mandela by The Specials Pass on: Gansta by Kojey Radical Producers: Ribika Moktan and Gareth Nelson-Davies

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

Rachel Burden is a familiar voice on the BBC airwaves, she's been a regular on BBC Radio 5 Live's Breakfast programme, regularly brings us the news on the television, and hosts Cafe Hope - Radio 4's virtual coffee shop where guests pop in for a brew and a chat to tell us what they're doing to make the world a better place. Born in Buckinghamshire, she graduated from Trinity College Dublin and studied broadcast journalism at Cardiff University. One of five children and a mother of four herself, music has always been something they've shared, what then has she chosen for her Inheritance Tracks... Inherited: "Overture" from The Marriage of Figaro by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart Pass on: "Days" by Kirsty MacCollProducers: Catherine Powell and Ben Mitchell

Time for some radio gold...or silver? Christina Trevanion is an internationally-recognised jewellery expert whose work as an auctioneer has led her to a sparkling role presenting TV antiques shows like Antiques Road Trip, Bargain Hunt and Flog It. After studying Fine Art at University, Christina worked at Christies in London before setting up her own auction house in her home county of Shropshire. So, let's see what musical treasures she can offer us in today's Inheritance Tracks...

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

Carrie Hope Fletcher is a true triple threat: a powerhouse performer, a bestselling writer and an inspiring voice off stage too.She's been in the spotlight since she was seven years old and has made her name as a West End star playing iconic roles…Éponine and Fantine in Les Misérables, Veronica Sawyer in the original West End production of Heathers: The Musical, and she originated the role of Cinderella in Andrew Lloyd Webber's Cinderella. Beyond the theatre, Carrie's a big social media personality and has a massive YouTube following and she's also a bestselling author. Her older brother Tom Fletcher is lead vocalist and guitarist of the band McFly but will any of their hits make it into her Inheritance Tracks?Inherited: Sophia by Nerina Pallo Passed on: Dancing in the Moonlight by ToploaderProducers: Ben Mitchell and Ribika Moktan

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

From playing Lane Price in Mad Men to King George VI in the Crown, and now Claudius in the Royal Shakespeare Company's production of Hamlet, performing is in Jared Harris' blood.His earliest memory is being in Hawaii while his late father – the actor Richard Harris – was filming a movie with Julie Andrews. But as a child, he wanted to be an astronaut...which might explain his Inheritance Tracks.Inherited: Fly Me to the Moon by Tony Bennett Passed on: The Galaxy Song by Monty PythonProducers: Ben Mitchell and Jack Lee

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

The journalist and broadcaster Steph McGovern is one of the most recognisable faces and voices and is currently on the run from Bear Grylls in new Netflix show Celebrity Bear Hunt.She grew up in Middlesbrough and went to a truly egalitarian school which believed that all children have skills, whatever their family's background. A classic swot but also the class clown, she just wanted people to like her; ‘standard TV presenter syndrome' - her words, not ours! Steph began her career as an engineer before moving into financial journalism, becoming a business correspondent for BBC News, and has always been discreet about her private life...but we do know that she's a former champion Irish dancer and still keeps her foot in. Will there be a flavour of that dance heritage in her Inheritance Tracks?Inherited: Starman by David Bowie Pass on: C'est La Vie by B*WitchedProducers: Ben Mitchell and Anna Bailey

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

The acclaimed actor Jesse Eisenberg was born in New York, and raised in New Jersey, in a secular Jewish home, by his parents and two sisters. His latest film A Real Pain, honours that heritage, and alongside Succession's Kieran Culkin they play Jewish American cousins who travel to former Nazi German-occupied Poland to honour their late grandmother. The film is tipped to do well at this years Oscars and Baftas, but it was his big break playing Mark Zuckerburg in the 2010 film The Social Network that brought him his first taste of fame and accolades, a role he recently told The Today Programme he's keen to distance himself from. He's gone onto use magic to perform an audacious heist, killed Bill Murray during a zombie apocalypse and even fought Superman. And his Inheritance Tracks are a charmingly unique insight into the man behind the roles. Inherited: Variations by Andrew Lloyd Webber Passed on: Étude Op. 25, No. 1 "Aeolian Harp" by ChopinProducers: Anna Bailey and Minnie Harrop

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

For some of you, before Wicked's Elphaba and Glinda entered our consciousness...there was Felicity Jones in the TV series The Worst Witch...the double Oscar nominee's first starring role before spending a decade as Emma Carter in The Archers. Born in Birmingham, down the road from Ambridge, it was in a galaxy far, far, away that she cemented her place in Hollywood in Rogue One: A Stars War Story Her most recent role in The Brutalist has earned her a supporting actress BAFTA and Oscar nomination and she credits her drive to being raised by a working single mother. As a mother herself now...her Inheritance Tracks have charmingly familial feel. Inherited: Love and Affection by Joan Armatrading Passed on: Pressure Drop by Toots and the MaytalsProducer: Ben Mitchell and Anna Bailey

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

Jonathan Joseph, DJ Spoony to his friends, is someone who spends his life selecting music – and has just taken over the late-night slot on Radio 2. Born in Hackney in the early 1970s to British West Indian parents, he loved music from an early age and quickly moved from underground pirate radio stations in the 90's before bringing garage music to Radio 1. At Christmas he revealed that he'd recently undergone emergency surgery for a bleed on the brain. He says music helped him recover.So what then has he chosen as his Inheritance Tracks.Inherited: Time is the Master by John Holt Pass on: Gabriel by Roy Davis Jr. Producers: Ben Mitchell and Catherine Powell

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

The double BAFTA Cymru winning Welsh actor Eve Myles was born to a Scottish father and a Welsh mother and grew up in Powys.Choosing three films from the video shop on a Saturday and watching them on repeat all week is how young Eve fell in love with the possibilities and escapism of acting. Her compelling role in Keeping Faith saw her not only having to learn Welsh, act alongside her real-life husband, but most importantly it inspired a trend for bright yellow waterproof coats. Her latest drama, The Crow Girl, is executive produced by Slash, but there's no Guns N' Roses in her Inheritance Tracks then.Inherited: Pearl's a Singer by Elkie Brooks Passed on: Faith's Song by Amy WadgeProducers: Ben Mitchell and Catherine Powell

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

Professor Alice Roberts is an anatomist, broadcaster and author famous for making science accessible and captivating. Initially she wanted to be a doctor and studied medicine and anatomy at Cardiff University and developed an interest in biological anthropology, looking at what ancient skeletons can tell us about human evolution…getting human remains to give up their secrets. The clavicle is her favourite bone in the body...but what else can we learn about Alice Roberts from unearthing her Inheritance Tracks?Inherited: A Whiter Shade Of Pale by Procol Harum Passed on: Girl from Mars by AshProducer: Ben Mitchell(This episode is a repeat from 15th June 2019)

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

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

Josh Widdicombe is a comedian who many will know from his hit parenting podcast with Rob Beckett – and as one of panellists on Channel 4's The Last Leg. Raised in a small village on Dartmoor, his love of all things Devon, Plymouth Argyle and the 90's has informed much of his work – and his new tour is sure to be steeped to perfection. Before becoming a comedian he worked as a bookseller, in a petrol station, and as a sports journalist. And much like Danny Dyer, he found out that he too was related to Royalty on ‘Who Do You Think You Are?' and Elizabeth the first no less. He's set to hit the Strictly dancefloor this Christmas for their festive special – so make sure there's some room around you to chachacha along to his Inheritance Tracks. Inherited: All Things Must Pass by George Harrison Passed on: Mis‐Shapes by PulpProducer: Ben Mitchell and Minnie Harrop

Alex James became famous as the bassist in Blur, indie rock icons who helped define the sound of English guitar music in the 1990's. Born in Bournemouth and now living in Oxfordshire with his wife and five children, Alex discovered a love of farming, and in particular, cheese, during a quiet period in Blur's history. The cheese he produces is award winning, among them Blue Monday and Good Queen Maude. His latest book is Over the Rainbow, recounting how Blur staged their comeback and surprised everyone, even themselves.But will his Inheritance Tracks surprise us?Inherited: Good King Wenceslas sung by the Choir of King's College, Cambridge Passed on: Rasputin by Boney M.Producer: Ben Mitchell and Lowri Rhiannon-Morgan

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

After working at Pizza Hut in his twenties, Mackenzie Crook suddenly shot to fame playing the hapless paper salesman Gareth Keenan in the smash-hit BBC comedy “The Office” Since then, he's starred in blockbuster franchises including Pirates of the Caribbean and Game of Thrones, as well as Shakespeare, Dickens and his beloved Worzel Gummidge. He also created, directed and starred in the charming comedy-drama Detectorists, playing one half of an eccentric metal-detecting duo, alongside Toby Jones, which prompted Mackenzie to take up the hobby and search for real-life treasure.So – headphones on – let's start scanning – and see what we can uncover among Mackenzie Crook's Inheritance Tracks... Inherited: Big Yellow taxi by Joni Mitchell Passed on: River Man by Nick DrakeProducers: Ben Mitchell and Anna Bailey

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

Two-time World Champion heptathlete, British record holder and Olympic medallist Katarina Johnson-Thompson, known affectionately as KJT, first came to international prominence at the 2012 London Olympics, where she competed as a teenager. She grew up in Liverpool with an English mother who was a dancer and a TV production assistant father from The Bahamas - and music was always part of her life...alongside a clear affinity for athletics. So what then will she choose for her Inheritance Tracks?Inherited: Little Ole Wine Drinker by Dean Martin Passed on: Proud Mary by Tina turnerProducers: Ben Mitchell and Minnie Harrop

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

Luke Evans says growing up in the South Wales valleys was tough at times. He was an only child in a family of Jehovah's Witnesses, bullied at school both for his religion – and for being gay. But, that quiet boy from the valleys who tried to blend into the background is now a huge international star. He shot to fame on the West End stage in the early 2000s – with roles in Rent, Miss Saigon and Les Mis. Since then, he's acted in Hollywood blockbusters like Beauty and the Beast, Fast & Furious Six and The Hobbit. Now in his mid-forties, Luke says he is happy, fulfilled and looking forward – so what songs has he chosen as his Inheritance Tracks.Inherited: Saturday Night at the Movies by The Drifters Passed on: The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face by Roberta FlackProducer: 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

Ellie Taylor is a comedian, actor, writer, award winning podcaster, host of Bake Off the Professionals and a reluctant mother - according to her book. You'll probably have caught her being clever and funny on any number of TV panel shows, here on Radio 4, and as Sassy Collins on Ted Lasso.She's about to take part in a celebrity Gladiators special and is going out on tour after four years.We asked her to take a break from writing punchlines and share her Inheritance Tracks with us.Inherited: Piano Man by Billy Joel Passed on: Sunflower Man by The WaifsProducer: 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

There's so much more to the actor Peter Capaldi than his brilliant, edgy and original Twelfth Doctor in Doctor Who…his career stretches far beyond the Tardis. He won a BAFTA, for playing the ferocious, foul-mouthed spin doctor Malcolm Tucker in The Thick of It, another BAFTA for the film spin off ‘In the Loop', and whilst we're on awards…He's also won an Oscar! A punk in his younger days…he's now writing and recording his own rock music…his debut solo album was released in 2021…so we're fascinated to hear what he's chosen as his Inheritance Tracks. Inherited: That's Life by Frank Sinatra Passed on: Waterloo Sunset by The KinksProducers: Ben Mitchell and Anna Bailey