Renowned TV host Graham Norton has revealed his plans to revamp his talk show to prevent monotony. Having launched The Graham Norton Show back in 2007, the 62-year-old recently secured a three-year extension for the program.
Norton shared that a few years ago, he decided to alter the show’s filming schedule to inject freshness into his routine. Previously, filming was spread out across the year in sections, but now Norton opts to film the entire show in one continuous block from September to February.
Speaking on his Wanging On podcast with Maria McErlane, Norton explained, “I used to do a thing where we’d end in February and then we’d have a few weeks off and then we’d come back for eight weeks in April or May. About five or six years ago I got rid of that bit and now it’s lovely.” This new approach allows him to remain engaged and excited about the show, as he expressed, “So, we’re on for about half a year, off for about half a year. And it means that by the end of February, I’m still really enjoying it.”
Regarding his interactions with guests, Norton addressed the challenge of keeping the audience engaged, stating, “I can jolly it along but if a guest is boring, they’re boring. If what they’re saying isn’t funny or interesting, I can’t make it funny and interesting.” Despite this, Norton remains dedicated to his role as a host and entertainer.
When asked about his future on the show, Norton confirmed, “We’ve signed a thing saying three more.” Humorously envisioning his future on stage, Norton jokingly remarked, “They’ll have to get rid of those steps onto the stage. Just a little ramp, a low ramp to get me up there and I’ll have those shows with a wheel on the heel and I can just scooch on to the stage and go, ‘Hello, welcome’.”
In light of his illustrious guests over the years, including the likes of Taylor Swift, Daniel Radcliffe, and Sir Elton John, Norton humorously mentioned signing numerous NDAs. A playful exchange with Maria about attending Taylor Swift’s wedding added a lighthearted touch to their conversation.
Fans can catch The Graham Norton Show’s latest episode featuring Halle Berry, Chris Hemsworth, Rachel McAdams, and John Bishop, airing on BBC One this Friday at 10.40pm.