Desert Island Discs

Peter Layton, artist

Renowned glass artist Peter Layton reflects on escaping Nazi-occupied Prague and his lifelong passion for molten art.

Guy Martin, presenter and former motorcycle racer

The motorcycle racer and TV presenter discusses his lifelong addiction to speed, danger, and engineering.

Emily Watson, actor

Actor Emily Watson reflects on her journey from a strict upbringing to finding freedom through the craft of storytelling.

Gary O'Donoghue, journalist

BBC North America correspondent Gary O'Donoghue shares how he navigated a career in journalism while being blind.

David Morrissey, actor

Actor David Morrissey reflects on how his childhood trauma and quest for independence shaped his long career on screen.

Dwayne Fields, explorer

In this episode of Desert Island Discs, explorer and the UK’s Chief Scout, Dwayne Fields, joins Lauren Laverne to share his remarkable life journey. Born in Jamaica and raised in north London, Fields recounts his early struggles with identity and the transformative sense of belonging he discovered through the Cub Scouts. He discusses how surviving life-threatening violence as a young man served as the catalyst for his pivot toward adventure and mentorship. Listeners will hear about his historic expedition to the Magnetic North Pole and his ongoing commitment to empowering underprivileged youth through the WeTwo Foundation. Beyond his professional achievements, Fields reflects on the music that has shaped him, selecting tracks ranging from reggae classics to pop anthems. This conversation offers an inspiring look at resilience, the power of nature, and a dedication to inspiring the next generation.

Roula Khalaf, journalist

In this episode of Desert Island Discs, host Lauren Laverne welcomes Roula Khalaf, the trailblazing journalist who serves as the first female editor of the Financial Times in its long history. Khalaf reflects on her formative years growing up in Beirut during the Lebanese civil war and her extensive career reporting from the front lines across the Middle East. Listeners gain insight into the experiences that shaped her professional journey, from her early days at Forbes to her award-winning coverage of the Arab Spring and regional politics. Beyond her impressive journalistic credentials, Khalaf shares a deeply personal selection of music that mirrors her life, heritage, and diverse cultural influences. Through her chosen tracks, book, and luxury item, she offers a thoughtful look at the resilience and curiosity that have defined her life and her rise to the top of international journalism.

Richard Young, photographer

In this episode of Desert Island Discs, acclaimed photographer Richard Young joins Lauren Laverne to reflect on an extraordinary career that spanned five decades. Once dubbed the king of the paparazzi, Young offers a candid look at his transition from a school dropout in Hackney to a celebrated chronicler of global icons. Listeners will hear fascinating stories from his high-octane life, including his early days in Soho, his time working at Electric Lady Studios in New York, and his unique evolution from an opportunistic freelancer to an invited guest at the most exclusive celebrity gatherings. Beyond his scoops and encounters with stars like Elizabeth Taylor and Bob Dylan, Young discusses his personal history and the resilience that defined his journey. He concludes the episode by sharing the eight tracks that provide the soundtrack to his life and reflect his enduring passions.

Tahra Zafar, costume and effects designer

In this episode of Desert Island Discs, host Lauren Laverne welcomes celebrated costume and creature effects designer Tahra Zafar. Born into a creative family with roots in West End choreography and ballet, Zafar recounts how her early passion for model making and theatre design evolved into a remarkable career. Listeners will hear about her time at the Jim Henson creature workshop, where she helped craft iconic characters for the Harry Potter film series, as well as her experience designing for the hit production Paddington: The Musical. Zafar also shares behind-the-scenes stories from her monumental role overseeing thousands of costumes for the London 2012 Olympic ceremonies, including a unique encounter involving the late Queen. Through a selection of music that spans from classical masterpieces to infectious pop, Zafar reflects on the inspirations and personal milestones that have defined her artistic journey.

Professor Michele Dougherty, scientist

In this episode, host Lauren Laverne welcomes Professor Michele Dougherty, a pioneering figure in space physics and the first woman in 350 years to hold the prestigious title of Astronomer Royal. Raised in South Africa, Professor Dougherty shares the remarkable journey that led her from academia to spearheading major international space missions, including the Cassini probe to Saturn and the current JUICE mission to Jupiter. Listeners get a fascinating look at the dedication required to explore our solar system and the scientific breakthroughs that have defined her career. Beyond her professional achievements, she discusses the personal experiences and influences that have shaped her life. Through her selection of music and literature, she offers a candid and reflective look at the passions that drive one of the world's leading scientists, providing an inspiring portrait of curiosity and exploration.

Kemi Badenoch MP, leader of the opposition

In this episode of Desert Island Discs, host Lauren Laverne welcomes Kemi Badenoch, the Leader of the Opposition and the first Black person to lead a major political party in Britain. The conversation traces Badenoch's unique journey, from her upbringing in Nigeria and her eventual move to London for her studies, to her transition from a successful career in IT to the front lines of British politics. Listeners will gain insight into the formative experiences that shaped her political philosophy, her path through various cabinet positions, and her recent rise to the leadership of the Conservative Party. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Badenoch discusses the music that has defined her life, selecting a diverse soundtrack that reflects her personal history. It is an intimate look at the person behind the political headlines, exploring her values, resilience, and identity.

Adeel Akhtar, actor

In this episode of Desert Island Discs, award-winning actor Adeel Akhtar joins host Lauren Laverne to share the story of his life and career. Born in Hounslow and raised in Buckinghamshire, Akhtar recounts his journey from studying law to following his true passion for performance at The Actors Studio in New York. The conversation highlights his impressive trajectory in the industry, from his breakthrough in the dark comedy Four Lions to his acclaimed, BAFTA-winning roles in Murdered by My Father and Sherwood. Throughout the interview, Akhtar reflects on his diverse portfolio of work across television, film, and stage, offering insight into the creative drive behind his performances. Listeners will hear the personal soundtrack that has shaped his life, including tracks by Aretha Franklin and The Flaming Lips, as he reveals the music, book, and luxury item he would take to a desert island.

Jesse Armstrong, writer

In this episode of Desert Island Discs, acclaimed writer and producer Jesse Armstrong joins host Lauren Laverne to reflect on his prolific career in television and film. Best known as the creator of the global phenomenon Succession, Armstrong discusses the creative process behind his hit series and the experiences that shaped his unique voice. From his early days at Manchester University and his formative time working in politics, to his celebrated collaborations on Peep Show, The Thick of It, and Fresh Meat, Armstrong shares insights into the writing partnerships and professional challenges that defined his path to success. Listeners will hear about the personal stories behind his musical selections, including tracks by The Beatles, Joy Division, and Billie Holiday, which reveal the inspirations and tastes of one of modern television’s most influential figures.

Jojo Moyes, writer

In this episode of Desert Island Discs, acclaimed British novelist and screenwriter Jojo Moyes joins presenter Lauren Laverne to discuss her remarkable journey from local journalist to international literary phenomenon. Moyes recounts the persistent dedication required during her early career, where she balanced grueling night shifts at the Independent with the tireless pursuit of her novel-writing ambitions. Listeners will hear about the transformative 2012 release of Me Before You, a story that captured hearts worldwide and propelled her to unprecedented success. Beyond her professional achievements, Moyes reflects on the personal experiences and inspirations that have shaped her writing. As she selects her eight musical tracks, she shares stories of love, resilience, and the emotional resonance of music. The episode offers an intimate portrait of a storyteller who has sold over fifty-seven million books, highlighting the woman behind the global bestsellers.

Kate Winslet, actor

In this episode of Desert Island Discs, Academy Award-winning actor Kate Winslet joins host Lauren Laverne to reflect on an extraordinary career that has spanned decades. From her breakout role in Peter Jackson’s Heavenly Creatures to the global phenomenon of Titanic and her more recent turn into directing, Winslet discusses the craft, challenges, and evolution of her professional journey. Beyond the screen, she offers a glimpse into her life in West Sussex, sharing stories about her family and the experiences that have shaped her perspective. As she selects the eight tracks that define her life and memories, listeners gain a personal and intimate look at the person behind the iconic performances. Through a mix of heartfelt conversation and eclectic musical choices, this episode provides a captivating portrait of one of the most versatile and celebrated actors of her generation.

Lee Child, writer

In this episode of Desert Island Discs, acclaimed author Lee Child joins the host to discuss his remarkable transition from television producer to one of the world's most successful thriller writers. Listeners gain insight into the creation of his iconic protagonist, Jack Reacher, and the journey that led to the global phenomenon of his record-breaking book series. Child reflects on his early life in Birmingham, his career at Granada Television, and his decision to start writing at age 40 after being made redundant. Beyond his professional achievements, including his transition to collaborating with his brother Andrew, Child shares the personal experiences and musical influences that have shaped his life. Through his selection of eight essential records, a book, and a luxury item, he paints an engaging portrait of the man behind the global bestseller.

Margaret Atwood, writer

In this episode of Desert Island Discs, host Lauren Laverne welcomes the legendary Canadian writer Margaret Atwood. Reflecting on a life defined by extraordinary creativity, Atwood discusses her unconventional upbringing in the remote forests of Canada, where her early isolation fostered a profound imagination and an enduring connection to nature. The conversation traces her journey from writing childhood stories about ants to becoming a two-time Booker Prize winner and a global literary icon. Listeners gain insight into the inspirations behind her most famous works, including The Handmaid’s Tale, and how she navigates the complexities of the modern world. Beyond her bibliography, Atwood shares personal reflections on love, loss, and the resilience required to thrive as a writer. To conclude her journey, she selects a poignant collection of music, a practical book for island survival, and a essential tool for her castaway kit.

Gordon Buchanan, cameraman and presenter

In this episode of Desert Island Discs, acclaimed wildlife filmmaker and presenter Gordon Buchanan joins host Lauren Laverne to share the remarkable story of his career. Born and raised in Tobermory on the Isle of Mull, Buchanan recounts how his childhood immersion in the outdoors evolved into a globe-trotting profession. He reflects on his early apprenticeship in the jungles of Sierra Leone and the subsequent path that led him to create immersive documentaries tracking bears, wolves, and elephants. Beyond the technical challenges of capturing wildlife in extreme environments, Buchanan offers insight into the personal experiences that shaped his conservation advocacy. Throughout the conversation, he selects the eight tracks that define his life, offering a musical window into his world. Listeners can expect an inspiring portrait of a man dedicated to showcasing the natural world and the experiences that fueled his lifelong curiosity.

Sir Salman Rushdie, writer

In this compelling episode of Desert Island Discs, acclaimed author Sir Salman Rushdie reflects on a life defined by extraordinary literary success, profound controversy, and immense personal resilience. Born in Bombay and educated in England, Rushdie discusses his journey from a career in copywriting to becoming one of the most celebrated writers of his generation, best known for his Booker Prize-winning masterpiece Midnight’s Children. The conversation candidly explores the harrowing decade he spent in hiding following the fatwa issued against him, as well as the 2022 attack that nearly claimed his life. Despite these immense challenges, Rushdie remains a steadfast advocate for the power of storytelling. Throughout the program, he shares the eight records that have soundtracked his life, revealing the deeply personal experiences and cultural influences that continue to shape his perspective as both a writer and a man.

Sir Tim Berners-Lee, Computer Scientist

In this episode of Desert Island Discs, host Lauren Laverne welcomes Sir Tim Berners-Lee, the visionary computer scientist responsible for inventing the World Wide Web. Listeners are offered a fascinating glimpse into the upbringing of a man born into a golden year for technological innovation. The conversation explores his early fascination with electronics, nurtured by his mathematician parents, and his transition from building teenage home intercoms to revolutionizing global communication at CERN. Sir Tim reflects on his principled decision to release his invention to the public for free, ensuring the web remained an open resource for everyone. Beyond his professional achievements, including his knighthood and the prestigious Turing Award, the episode highlights the personal side of a man who continues to shape our digital future while balancing life between the UK, the US, and Canada.