Sue Holderness: Marlene, Only Fools and Horses & an Untold Family Tragedy

Tony Robinson: Blackadder, Time Team & Living with Cancer

Jun 30, 202649 minSummary

In this episode of A Night In With Sally Lindsay, host Sally Lindsay sits down with her close friend and longtime collaborator, the esteemed actor and presenter Tony Robinson. The conversation offers an engaging look back at Robinson’s storied career, spanning iconic comedy roles to his influential work in archaeology and historical television. The discussion begins with a lighthearted, quick-fire segment that captures the natural chemistry between the two. Robinson reflects on his early beginnings as a child actor in the original cast of Oliver!, providing a unique perspective on the evolution of the television industry. A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to his time on the classic sitcom Blackadder. Robinson shares anecdotes about the intense, collaborative writing process and his unforgettable professional rapport with Rowan Atkinson. Beyond acting, the pair delves into Robinson’s passion for history, specifically his long-running tenure on the archaeological series Time Team. He recounts both the rewarding discoveries and the unexpected challenges of the show. Finally, Robinson discusses his transition into authorship and the surprising success of his stage tours in Australia, highlighting his enduring connection with audiences globally.

Tessa Peake-Jones: Only Fools and Horses, Bipolar & a Life Changing Letter

Apr 7, 202642 minSummary

In this episode of A Night In With Sally Lindsay, actress Tessa Peake-Jones sits down for an intimate and wide-ranging conversation about her life, her career, and the fascinating, complex relationship she shared with her mother. Peake-Jones reflects on the unique upbringing she had being raised by her mother and godmother, describing them as strong, independent women who defied gender norms of the era. This childhood environment, coupled with the early influence of seeing strong women represented on television in shows like Coronation Street, helped shape her perspective on life and her acting career. A highlight of the discussion is the revelation of her mother’s extraordinary influence on her professional path. Peake-Jones shares a surprising anecdote about how her mother anonymously wrote to BBC producers to promote her daughter's talent while she was still at drama school, effectively launching her career. The conversation also explores her time on the iconic comedy Only Fools and Horses, her experiences working with legends like Sir David Jason, and her eventual role in the hit series Grantchester. Peake-Jones opens up about the emotional experience of caring for her mother during her later years, when her mother’s dementia would occasionally lead her to relive moments from her daughter’s acting career.

Joanna Page: Gavin & Stacey Secrets, Love Actually and Bullying at RADA

Mar 31, 202643 minSummary

In this episode of A Night In With Sally Lindsay, actress Joanna Page joins the host for a candid and humorous conversation covering her storied career and personal life. Page reflects on her formative years, including her time at drama school, which she describes as an incredibly difficult experience where she felt targeted for her Welsh accent and background. She discusses the resilience she built during those years, noting how it prepared her for the challenges of the acting industry. The conversation moves to her iconic roles, specifically in the beloved sitcom Gavin & Stacey and the Christmas classic Love Actually. Page shares the nervousness she felt during the audition process for both projects, recounting the surreal experience of filming intimate scenes and the protective, supportive nature of her co-stars like Liam Neeson. She also touches on the instant chemistry of the Gavin & Stacey cast, describing the set as a place filled with laughter and natural connection. Throughout the episode, the two hosts share personal anecdotes, discuss early television memories, and engage in lighthearted banter about their celebrity crushes and dream guests, providing an engaging look into Page's journey from a shy girl in Swansea to a household name.