
Last Word
582 episodes — Page 7 of 12
Hamish MacInnes OBE, José Padilla, Anne Rasa
Matthew Bannister on:Hamish MacInnes, the mountaineer known as “The Fox of Glencoe”. He climbed the Matterhorn aged 16, made four trips to Everest and was a stalwart of the Glencoe Mountain Rescue team. He was also an inventor, coming up with an all metal ice axe and a collapsible stretcher for use in rescue operations. His services were much in demand as an advisor to big budget films like The Eiger Sanction, the Mission and even Monty Python and the Holy Grail. Professor Anne Rasa, an expert in animal behaviour who studied the matriarchal society of the dwarf mongoose and then set up a sanctuary for meerkats in the Kalahari region.The Spanish DJ Jose Padilla who pioneered chill out music by providing a soundtrack to the sunset on Ibiza. Producer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: Final Ascent: The Legend of Hamish MacInnes, BBC 4, 01/11/2020; Singular Scots, Radio 4, 12/09/1991; A Time to Talk, Radio Scotland, 10/01/1974; The Eiger Sanction, The Malpaso Company/ Universal Pictures; Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Python (Monty) Pictures / EMI Films; Natural Selection: Mongoose, BBC Bristol, 25/10/1985; Jóse Padilla – An Ibiza Original, A Fact Magazine Documentary; Moments in Love: A History of Chillout Music, Radio 2, 01.05.2004
Diego Maradona, Rosalind Grimshaw, Jan Morris CBE
Pictured: Diego MaradonaMatthew Bannister on:Diego Maradona, the flawed footballing genius who was worshipped by fans in Argentina and his adopted home city of Naples before drug abuse and scandal tainted his reputation. We speak to Asif Kapadia, director of the acclaimed film about Maradona’s life.Rosalind Grimshaw, the talented stained glass artist whose works include a spectacular window depicting the seven days of creation at Chester Cathedral.And Jan Morris, the author of more than 50 books chronicling her travels around the world and one describing her decision to undergo gender reassignment surgery. Interviewed guest: Asif Kapadia Interviewed guest: Chris King Interviewed guest: Patrick Costeloe Interviewed guest: Paul ClementsProducer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: Today, Radio 4 26/11/2020; 5 Live Breakfast, 26/11/2020; Diego Maradona, directed by Asif Kapadia, On The Corner/Film 4 14/06/2019; Match Commentary: World Cup 1990 Semi Final - Italy v Argentina, BBC Sound Archive 1990; Woman’s Hour, Radio 4 29/03/2003; Desert Island Discs, Radio 4 16/06/2002; Profile, Radio 4 01/06/1978; The Verb, Radio 4 14/02/2020.
Des O’Connor CBE, Richard Trim OBE, Dr Ataullah Siddiqui, Edith Raymond Locke
Pictured: Des O'ConnorMatthew Bannister onThe comedian Des O’Connor, an all-round entertainer equally at home telling jokes, hosting a chat show or recording an album. Richard Trim, the radar engineer who developed the technology that supports modern air traffic control systems.Dr Ataullah Siddiqui, the leading Muslim scholar who played a major role in creating inter-faith dialogue.Edith Raymond Locke, the editor of Mademoiselle Magazine who supported the early careers of fashion designers like Ralph Lauren and Donna Karan.Interviewed guest: David Steadman Interviewed guest: Fergus Trim Interviewed guest: Sughra Ahmed Interviewed guest: Canon Andrew Wingate OBE Interviewed guest: Ali MacGraw Interviewed guest: Rosemary Feitelberg Interviewed guest: Andrea RobinsonProducer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: Desert Island Discs, Radio 4 01/09/1969; Jimmy Tarbuck, The Daily Mail 17/11/2020; One Minute With Des O’Connor, Radio 1 01/01/2000; The Morecambe & Wise Show, BBC Two 25/12/1975; Front Row, Radio 4 06/10/2011; Jimmy Tarbuck, ITV News 16/11/2020; This Morning, ITV 16/11/2020; Countdown, Channel 4 29/09/2008; Good Morning Britain, ITV 16/11/2020; Tomorrow's World, BBC One 15/01/1997; Ataullah Siddiqui, Cardiff University/Islam UK 21/01/2019.
Lord Sacks, John Sessions, Joanna Harcourt-Smith, Jim Radford
Pictured: Lord SacksMatthew Bannister onThe former Chief Rabbi Lord Sacks, a respected scholar and broadcaster who reached out to other faiths, but had trouble reconciling the different strains of opinion in his own. John Sessions, the actor and comedian who used his gift for improvisation and mimicry in TV shows like Whose Line Is It Anyway, Spitting Image and Stella Street. Clive Anderson and Sir Kenneth Branagh pay tribute. Joanna Harcourt-Smith, the socialite who was friends with the Rolling Stones, campaigned to get Timothy Leary released from prison and struggled with addiction. Once she entered recovery she hosted an early podcast called Future Primitive. Jim Radford, the singer-songwriter and peace campaigner who took part in the D-Day landings aged 15 – and later performed his song based on the experiences at the Royal Albert Hall to mark the 70th Anniversary.Interviewed guest: Dr Rowan Williams Interviewed guest: Jenni Frazer Interviewed guest: Clive Anderson Interviewed guest: Sir Kenneth Branagh Interviewed guest: Lara TambacopoulouProducer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: Desert Island Discs, Radio 4 26/041991; Sunday, Radio 4 25/08/2013; Today, Radio 4 28/11/2019; Whose Line Is It Anyway, Channel 4 1988; Whose Line Is It Anyway, Radio 4 February 1988; Desert Island Discs, Radio 4 25/02/1990; Finding Your Feet, directed by Richard Loncraine, Eclipse Films 2017; Napoleon by John Sessions, directed by Sir Kenneth Branagh 1989; Margaret, directed by James Kent, Great Meadow Productions 2009; Future Primitive: Heartmending, 23/08/2020; My Psychedelic Love Story, directed by Errol Morris, Fourth Floor Productions 22/10/2020; Good Morning Britain, ITV 31/05/2019; D-Day Veteran Goes Back to the Beaches, BBC Three Counties Radio 06/06/2019; Jim Radford Goes Back to Normandy, Legasee Educational Trust 01/08/2017; BBC News 05/06/2019.
Sir Sean Connery, Eavan Boland, Nobby Stiles MBE, Bobby Ball
Pictured: Sir Sean ConneryMatthew Bannister onSir Sean Connery, seen by many as the definitive James Bond, he won an Oscar for The Untouchables and was a supporter of the Scottish National Party.Eavan Boland, who changed the course of Irish poetry by making women’s experiences central to her work.The footballer Nobby Stiles, one of only two Englishmen to have won both the World Cup and the European Cup.Bobby Ball, the comedian whose double act with Tommy Cannon was hugely popular on TV during the 1980s. His catchphrase was “Rock On Tommy”.Interviewed guest: Christopher Bray Interviewed guest: Professor Peggy Reynolds Interviewed guest: Mary Robinson Interviewed guest: Alex Stepney Interviewed guest: Gary Richardson Interviewed guest: Rob Harper Interviewed guest: Darren Harper Interviewed guest: Lee MackProducer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: Sean Connery In His Own Words, BBC 2 Scotland 18/08/2015; Dr No, directed by Terence Young, Eon Productions 1962; With Great Pleasure, Radio 4 09/11/2000; ‘Our Future Will Become The Past of Other Women’ by Eavan Boland, read by Fiona Shaw, The Royal Irish Academy 09/12/2018; Archive on 4: Four Women Poets Today, Radio 4 18/07/2020; My Top Ten: Bobby Ball, Radio 1 15/09/1985; Not Going Out, BBC One 30/12/2009.
David Toole OBE, Professor Valerie Curtis, Frank Bough, Jill Paton Walsh CBE
Pictured: David TooleMatthew Bannister onDavid Toole, the disabled dancer who starred in the opening ceremony of the 2012 Paralympics.Professor Val Curtis, who was known as the Queen of Hygiene for her expertise on sanitation and research in how to communicate public health messages.Frank Bough, the popular presenter of TV shows like 'Grandstand' and 'Nationwide' whose BBC career ended in disgrace after he was caught taking drugs with prostitutes.Jill Paton Walsh, the award winning children’s author who also wrote the first self-published novel to be shortlisted for the Booker Prize and completed an unfinished work by Dorothy L. Sayers.Interviewed guest: Jenny Sealey Interviewed guest: Oliver Cumming Interviewed guest: John Stapleton Interviewed guest: Sally Magnussen Interviewed guest: Julia Eccleshare Interviewed guest: Oliver Soden Reader: Emma HandyProducer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: Midweek, Radio 4 01/03/2017; The Cost of Living, directed by Lloyd Newson, DV8 Physical Theatre 2005; In Business, Radio 4 29/07/2010; Science Stories, Radio 4 28/08/2019; Off The Page, Radio 4 Extra 13/07/2016; Grandstand, BBC One 1960; Woman’s Hour, Radio 4 09/07/1975; Nationwide, BBC One 05/08/1983; Desert Island Discs, Radio 4 26/04/1987; PM, Radio 4 26/10/2020; BBC Breakfast Time, BBC One 17/01/1983; The John Dunn Show, Radio 2 17/10/1984; News 92, Radio 1 01/09/1992; Treasure Islands: Jill Paton-Walsh, Radio 4 20/11/1991; The Dolphin Crossing by Jill Paton Walsh, Faber & Faber 15/11/2012, read by Emma Handy; Private Passions, Radio 3 07/12/2014; Knowledge of Angels by Jill Paton Walsh, Black Swan 01/01/1995, read by Natasha Pyne, Radio 4 10/10/1994.
Herbert Kretzmer, James Nash, Tom Maschler, Sister Chiara Hatton Hall
Pictured: Herbert KretzmerMatthew Bannister onHerbert Kretzmer, the journalist turned lyricist, best known for writing the lyrics for the musical Les Misérables.James Nash, the flamboyant adventurer who came under fire as a Colonial Officer in the Middle East during the last days of the British Empire.Tom Maschler, the influential publisher who promoted the careers of many leading novelists and founded the Booker Prize.Sister Chiara Hatton Hall, known as 'The Galloping Nun'. She taught Princess Anne and many other students to ride before taking holy orders as a forty-two year old widow. Interviewed guest: Don Black Interviewed guest: Russell Davies Interviewed guest: John Harding Interviewed guest: Peter Straus Interviewed guest: Sister Jane Bertelsen Interviewed guest: Ginny Elliott MBE Interviewed guest: Steve AxonProducer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: The Reunion, Radio 4 17/10/2003; Desert Island Discs, Radio 4 17/10/2003; Gamal Abdel Nasser’s speech on Yemen 1962, IEPlus 27/03/2015; Everything You Need To Know About The Permissive Society, Radio 4 22/07/1971; Kaleidoscope: First Among Equals, Radio 4 22/10/1986; Burghley Horse Trials, AP / British Movietone 21/07/2015; Nuns’ Vows at Ladywell Convent 1962, British Pathe 13/04/2014.
Derek Mahon, Professor Gerta Vrbová, Ang Rita Sherpa, Helena Shenel
Pictured: Derek MahonMatthew Bannister on Derek Mahon, one of Ireland’s greatest poets of recent times, whose work 'Everything’s Going To Be Alright' was read on Irish TV and radio at the start of the Covid lockdown.Professor Gerta Vrbová, who spent her youth fleeing Nazi persecution, then carried out pioneering work on the interaction between muscles and nerves.Ang Rita Sherpa, the only person to have climbed Mount Everest ten times without using supplemental oxygen.Helena Shenel, the voice coach who helped many celebrated performers – including Shirley Bassey, Annie Lennox and Peter Gabriel – to overcome problems with their singing. Interviewed guest: Sean O’Brien Interviewed guest: Peter Hilton Interviewed guest: Uma Shahani Interviewed guest: Ang Tshering Sherpa Interviewed guest: Bhadra Sharma Interviewed guest: Nikki SladeProducer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: Derek Mahon, Radio Ulster 15/01/1984; Arts Extra Special - Derek Mahon: A Celebration, Radio Ulster 16/12/2008; Poetry Please, Radio 4 28/01/2007; New Poems, Radio 3 19/08/1974; Gerta Vrbová: Oral History, Imperial War Museum 15/04/2003; 60 Minutes Australia, Nine Network 05/10/2018; Last Rites of Ang Rita Sherpa, Nepal Tourism TV 23/09/2020; Slate: Shirley Bassey, BBC One Wales 16/09/1993; Saturday Live, Radio 1 06/04/1985.
Kenzo Takada, Colonel John Waddy, Frank Windsor, Ann Getty
Pictured: Kenzo TakadaMatthew Bannister on:Kenzo Takada, the Japanese-born fashion designer who made Paris his home and was known for his bold use of colour.Colonel John Waddy, the former head of the SAS who was wounded at the Battle of Arnhem.Frank Windsor, the actor best known for playing Detective Sergeant Watt in Z Cars and Softly Softly.Ann Getty, who married into the Getty family and used her fortune to rescue a publishing house, support the arts and start an interior design company.Interviewed guest: Dana Thomas Interviewed guest: John O’Reilly Interviewed guest: Niall Cherry Interviewed guest: Amanda Windsor Interviewed guest: Bill Fellows Interviewed guest: Diane Dorrans SaeksProducer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: Flower by Kenzo, directed by Patrick Guedj 2018; The Clothes Show: Catwalk Special, BBC One 23/10/1994; Kenzo Takada – Renegades of Fashion, Fashion Industry Broadcast 01/03/2020; Red Devils of Arnhem (1944), British Pathe 13/04/2014; Today, Radio 4 08/05/2020; A Bridge Too Far, directed by Richard Attenborough, Joseph E Levine Productions 1977; Oosterbeek Battlefield Tour 2011, Bart H 18/03/2016; Woman’s Hour, Radio 2 24/03/1971.
Sir Harold Evans, Ruth Bader-Ginsburg, Alan Minter, Helen Taylor-Thompson
Julian Worricker on:The campaigning journalist and editor, Sir Harold Evans, voted the greatest of all time by his peers....Ruth Bader-Ginsburg, US Supreme Court Justice, who served in that role for 27 years and became something of a judicial celebrity....The charity worker Helen Taylor-Thompson, who co-founded Europe's first AIDS hospice at a time of great hostility towards those with the disease....And the boxer, Alan Minter, who became the undisputed middleweight champion of the world.Presenter: Julian Worricker Producer: Neil GeorgeInterviewed guest: Jessica Levinson Interviewed guest: Brenda Feigen Interviewed guest: Roy Greenslade Interviewed guest: Dr. Veronica Moss Interviewed guest: John McDonaldArchive clips from: Archive on 4 - Harold Evans at 90, Radio 4 23/06/2018; Desert Island Discs, Radio 4, 07/04/2000; John Dunn Show, Radio 2, 04/09/1980
Juliette Greco, Bob Gore, Dame Georgina Mace, Jiri Menzel
Pictured: Juliette GrecoJulian Worricker on the French singer and actor, Juliette Greco, who rose to fame on the famous Left Bank in Paris after the war....Bob Gore who revolutionised outdoor clothing with his invention of the waterproof fabric, Gore-Tex....The ecologist Dame Georgina Mace, who changed the way threatened species were classified and reshaped worldwide conservation policies....And the Czech director, Jiri Menzel, who won an Oscar for his 1966 film 'Closely Observed Trains'.Interviewed guest: Agnes Poirier Interviewed guest: David Cole Interviewed guest: Professor Kate Jones Interviewed guest: Professor Ian ChristieProducer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: In Town Today, Radio 4 24/03/1962; ‘Vive Paris’: The Liberation of Paris in 1944, British Movietone 29/06/2015; Roots of Heaven, directed by John Huston, Darryl F Zanuck Productions / Twentieth Century Fox 1958; Moon Landing Live, BBC America 20/07/2019; Perseverance Launch to Mars, NASA 30/07/2020; The Life Scientific, Radio 4 12/07/2016; Closely Watched Trains, directed by Jiri Menzel, Filmove Studio Barrandov 1966; The Film Programme, Radio 4 09/05/2008.
Sir Terence Conran, Dame Diana Rigg CBE, Shere Hite, Toots Hibbert
Pictured: Sir Terence ConranMatthew Bannister on: Sir Terence Conran, the designer and businessman who transformed the UK’s approach to home décor and eating out.Dame Diana Rigg, the actor who combined a critically acclaimed stage career with stardom on TV and film.Shere Hite, who wrote the Hite Report which changed attitudes to female sexuality.Toots Hibbert, the Jamaican singer often called “the man who invented reggae".Interviewed guest: Deyan Sudjic OBE Interviewed guest: Michael Quinn Interviewed guest: Matthew Sweet Interviewed guest: Lola Atkins Interviewed guest: Dame Jenni Murray Interviewed guest: David Katz Interviewed guest: Glady WaxProducer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: Profile, Radio 4 22/04/1983; The Festival of Britain, British Pathe 07/05/1951; Desert Island Discs, Radio 4 01/09/1996; Game of Thrones Series 7 Episode 3, directed by Mark Mylod, HBO 30/07/2017; Front Row, Radio 4 10/09/2020; Today, Radio 4 11/09/2020; Private Passions, Radio 3 3/12/2012; The Avengers, ABC 1965; Woman’s Hour, Radio 4 02/05/2006; The First Time With Toots Hibbert, 6 Music 17/01/2019.
Stuart King, Comrade Duch, Deirdre Le Faye, David Bryant CBE
Pictured: Stuart KingJulian Worricker on: Stuart King, who co-founded a humanitarian charity which involved perilous flights to southern Africa in light aircraft straight after the war.... The Khmer Rouge executioner, known as Comrade Duch, found guilty of some of the worst atrocities carried out by that regime in Cambodia.... Deirdre Le Faye, a scholar and professor, whose knowledge of the life and works of Jane Austen has been described as 'unparalleled'..... And the man with the pipe whose success on the bowling greens raised the profile of his sport, David Bryant.Interviewed guest: Max Grove Interviewed guest: Jonathan Head Interviewed guest: Nic Dunlop Interviewed guest: Dr Gillian Dow Interviewed guest: David Rhys JonesProducer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: 70 Years of MAF, MAF 2020; Remembering D-Day, MAF 2020; Today, Radio 4 30/03/2009; Comrade Duch Dies, Bloomberg Quick Take News 02/09/2020; Duch Statements Apology, Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia 15/08/2012; Jane Austen’s iPod, Radio 4 06/06/2010; 11th Commonwealth Games 1978, BBC Sound Archive, 10/08/1978; David Bryant Interviewed by Brian Roberts, Today, Radio 4 01/11/1966; Bowling Tips From David Bryant, Bowls UK 18/09/2016.
Chadwick Boseman, Sir Kenneth Robinson, Lord Renton of Mount Harry, Doreen Davies
Pictured: Chadwick BosemanMatthew Bannister onChadwick Boseman, whose portrayal of the King of the fictional African kingdom of Wakanda in the movie Black Panther made him a global star.Sir Kenneth Robinson, the charismatic education expert whose TED talk “Do Schools Kill Creativity?” has been viewed online more than 67 million times.Lord Renton, the Tory politician who was Chief Whip when Margaret Thatcher was forced to step down as leader.Doreen Davies, who presided over the music policy and daytime output of BBC Radio 1 during its heyday in the 1970s and 80s.Interviewed guest: Amon Warmann Interviewed guest: Chris Anderson Interviewed guest: Dr Andy Hargreaves Interviewed guest: Julia Langdon Interviewed guest: Simon Mills Interviewed guest: Johnny BeerlingProducer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: Marshall, directed by Reginald Hudlin, Chestnut Ridge Productions 2017; Get On Up, directed by Tate Taylor, Imagine Entertainment 2014; Jo Whiley, Radio 2 14/10/2014; 42, directed by Brian Helgeland, Warner Bros 2013; Trevor Nelson's Rhythm Nation, Radio 2 19/11/2019; Black Panther, directed by Ryan Coogler, Marvel Studios / Walt Disney Pictures 2018; Front Row, Radio 4 09/02/2018; Chadwick Boseman – A Tribute from Marvel Studios, JoBlo Movie Trailers 31/08/2020; Sir Ken Robinson: Do Schools Kill Creativity?, TED February 2006; Sir Ken Robinson: How To Escape Education’s Death Valley, TED Talks Education April 2013; The Radio One Story, BBC Two 09/05/2010; Jimmy Young, Radio 2 13/06/1978; John Lennon Dies, Today Archives / NBC News 09/12/1980.
Dr James Partridge OBE, Sally Jacobs, Angela Buxton, Philip Horniblow OBE
Pictured: Dr James Partridge OBE (c) Paul Chambers PhotographyJulian Worricker on: The theatre designer, Sally Jacobs, whose work included a groundbreaking production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, set in a white box on stage…. James Partridge, whose life was transformed by facial burns suffered in a car accident, and who went on to campaign for equal treatment for all, irrespective of appearance…. The tennis player Angela Buxton, who faced discrimination in the sport because of her Jewish heritage, and who formed a winning doubles partnership with Althea Gibson…. And Philip Horniblow, variously described as a mountaineer, soldier, spy and doctor, who spent thirty years of his working life in the Middle East.Interviewed guest: Anna Furse Interviewed guest: Phyllida Swift Interviewed guest: Richard Evans Interviewed guest: Dawn Robertson Interviewed guest: Nigel GiffordProducer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: A Midsummer Night’s Dream, directed by Peter Brook 1970, RSC / MIT Global Shakespeare; The Reunion, Radio 4 08/05/2015; Turandot: Puccini’s Final Opera, Royal Opera House 25/09/2013; ITV News 17/08/2020; About Face, Radio 4 18/07/1993; North West Tonight, BBC One 02/07/2004; Angela Buxton on Althea Gibson, BET News 2004; Fry v Buxton, Wimbledon Ladies’ Finals, BBC Sound Archive 07/07/1956; Nationwide, BBC One 15/06/1981.
Julian Bream CBE, Elizabeth Ward OBE, Chris Graham-Bell, Stuart Christie
Pictured: Julian Bream Matthew Bannister onJulian Bream, said by many to be the greatest classical guitarist of all time. Elizabeth Ward, who campaigned for the introduction of the kidney donor card after her son went through three transplants.Chris Graham-Bell, the founding publisher of the Gay Times magazine.Stuart Christie, the anarchist who was involved in a plot to blow up the Spanish dictator General Franco.Interviewed guest: Lord Michael Berkeley CBE Interviewed guest: Andrew Green Interviewed guest: Sally Taber Interviewed guest: Nigel Bell Interviewed guest: Robert Hanwell Interviewed guest: Branwen Christie Interviewed guest: Duncan CampbellProducer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: Julian Bream: My Life in Music, Avie 2006; Man With A Guitar, BBC Sound Archive 25/09/1961; East Midlands Today, BBC One 22/05/1997; Man Alive, BBC Two 14/02/1980; Newsroom South East, BBC One 17/06/1991; Profile: Stuart Christie, Radio 4 10/07/1981; By Fair Means or Foul, Radio 4 20/11/1973; Angry Brigade Trial, Sound Archive, Radio 4 06/12/1972.
Hawa Abdi, Clive Ponting, President Lee Teng-hui, Richard Brooke
Matthew Bannister onHawa Abdi, the Somali doctor who set up a clinic for pregnant women at her home that eventually became a sanctuary for thousands during violence in the country.Clive Ponting, the civil servant who leaked details of the sinking of the Argentine cruiser the General Belgrano during the Falklands War, but was acquitted of breaching the Official Secrets Act.Lee Teng-hui, the first democratically elected President of Taiwan.Richard Brooke, the mountaineer who played a leading role in the Commonwealth Trans Antarctic Expedition of 1957.Interviewed guest: Cindy Sui Interviewed guest: David Brooke Interviewed guest: Sarah J. Robins Interviewed guest: David LeighProducer: Neil George
John Hume, Stan Mellor MBE, Paulette Wilson, Sir Alan Parker
Pictured: John HumeMatthew Bannister on:John Hume, the politician widely credited with driving through the Northern Ireland peace process.Stan Mellor, who became the first jump jockey to ride one thousand winners.Paulette Wilson, who was wrongly threatened with deportation and went on to campaign for justice for others affected by the Windrush scandal.And the film director Sir Alan Parker, who brought us 'Bugsy Malone', 'Fame' and 'Midnight Express'. His friend and colleague Lord Puttnam pays tribute.Interviewed guest: Denis Murray OBE Interviewed guest: Barry Turley Interviewed guest: Brough Scott MBE Interviewed guest: Patrick Vernon Interviewed guest: Lord David Puttnam CBEProducer: Paula McGinleyArchive clips from: The Signing of the Good Friday Agreement April 1998, Irish Foreign Ministry 16/01/2014; Northern Ireland Peace Agreement, BBC Sound Archive 10/04/1998; Bill Clinton on John Hume, The Pat Kenny Show, Newstalk 04/08/2020; When I'm 64: John Hume, Radio 4 21/08/2001; Londonderry Riots 1969, Pathe News 13/04/2014; Bono introduces Hume and Trimble, AP Archive 21/05/2015; 1966 Hennessy Gold Cup, The Racing Post 01/08/2020; Paulette Wilson’s Visit to Jamaica, The Guardian 07/10/2019; Midlands Today, BBC News 26/10/2017; Theresa May Apologises to Caribbean Leaders, ITV News, 17/04/2018; Desert Island Discs, Radio 4 09/07/2000; Melody, directed by Waris Hussein, Hemdale Productions 1971; Bugsy Malone, directed by Alan Parker, The Rank Organisation 1976.
Stuart Wheeler, Josephine Cox, Miloš Jakeš, Peter Green
Pictured: Stuart WheelerMatthew Bannister onStuart Wheeler, the spread betting tycoon who used his millions to fund anti-EU political parties and campaigns.Josephine Cox, the multi-million selling author whose novels often drew on her working class childhood in Blackburn.Miloš Jakeš, the General Secretary of the Czech Communist Party at the time of the Velvet Revolution.Peter Green, the revered guitarist who founded Fleetwood Mac, but later suffered severe mental health problems.Interviewed guest: Philip Collins Interviewed guest: Kimberley Young Interviewed guest: Professor Mary Heimann Interviewed guest: Bernie MarsdenProducer: Steven WilliamsArchive clips from: HARDtalk, BBC News 24 11/10/2019; General Election, ITN 24/05/2001; Nigel Farage on Stuart Wheeler, VoteLeaveMedia 02/04/2009; A Woman’s Fortune by Josephine Cox, read by Carole Boyd, Audible/HarperCollins 2018; Woman's Hour, Radio 4 02/09/1999; Woman’s Hour, Radio 4 09/10/2001; The Lion’s Den by Josephine Cox, read by Robert Glenister, Radio 4 Extra 24/04/2011; The Soviet Invasion of Czechoslovakia 1968, BBC News 21/08/2018; Miloš Jakeš speech, Radio Free Europe 17/07/1989; People’s Century: 1989: People Power, BBC One 16/02/1997; BBC News, BBC One 10/12/1989; Peter Green: Man of the World, BBC Four 04/02/2011; The Works: Peter Green: A Hard Road, BBC Two 03/10/1996.
John Lewis, Tony Elliott CBE, Wendy Cooling, Dr Alan Howard
Matthew Bannister on John Lewis, the leading American civil rights campaigner who was beaten and imprisoned in the 1960s when he marched with Martin Luther King and later served as a Congressman. Tony Elliott CBE, who founded the listings magazine Time Out and oversaw its transformation into a global brand. Wendy Cooling, the former teacher who, through the Bookstart scheme, gave millions of babies and toddlers their first books. Dr Alan Howard, the nutritionist who came up with the Cambridge Diet which became an international commercial success.Producer: Neil GeorgeInterviewed Guest: Bob Harris Interviewed Guest: Alan Yentob Interviewed Guest: Michael Carlson Interviewed Guest: Justin Somper Interviewed Guest: Jon Howard Interviewed Guest: Julio BrunoArchive clips from: Tomorrow's People, BBC 15/04/1972; Woman's Hour, Radio 4, 01/02/2008; The Perfect Diet?, BBC 2 28/11/1987
Jack Charlton, Zindzi Mandela, Charles Webb, Ida Haendel
Pictured: Jack CharltonMatthew Bannister onThe footballer Jack Charlton, who went from a pit village in Northumberland to become a Leeds United stalwart and member of England’s 1966 World Cup winning team – and then a successful manager of the Republic of Ireland.Zindzi Mandela, the youngest daughter of Nelson Mandela who was an anti-apartheid activist and later South Africa’s ambassador to Denmark. Charles Webb, the author of the novel The Graduate which became a classic film starring Dustin Hoffman. Charles was anti-materialism and gave away his royalties and even his homes.Ida Haendel, the Polish-born violinist known for her interpretations of Walton, Britten and Sibelius, who appeared at the BBC Proms 68 times.Interviewed guest: John Murray Interviewed guest: Milton Nkosi Interviewed guest: Jack Malvern Interviewed guest: Norman LebrechtProducer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: Football Daily, 5 Live 11/07/2020; England v Scotland, BBC Sound Archive 10/04/1965; Desert Island Discs: Jack Charlton, Radio 4 20/10/1996; Ireland pays tribute to Jack Charlton, RTE Sport 11/07/2020; Sports Personality of the Year, BBC One 14/12/2008; Talk to Al Jazeera: Zindzi Mandela, Al Jazeera 18/07/2008; Zindzi Mandela reads her father’s speech in 1985, BBC News Africa 13/07/2020; Book at Bedtime: The Graduate, Radio 4 05/06/2000; Front Row, Radio 4 29/05/2007; The Graduate, directed by Mike Nichols, Lawrence Truman Productions 1967; Woman's Hour, Radio 4 22/06/2000; EBU Interval Talk: Ida Haendel, Radio 3 26/11/1973; BBC Proms, Radio 3 1994.
Ennio Morricone, Sir Everton Weekes, Baroness Maddock, Earl Cameron CBE
Pictured: Ennio MorriconeMatthew Bannister on:Ennio Morricone, the Italian composer best known for his scores for films like The Good, The Bad and the Ugly and The Mission, but keen to be remembered also for his avant garde classical works.Sir Everton Weekes, the outstanding batsman who played a key role in West Indian cricket’s success in the 1940s and 50s.Baroness Maddock, the Liberal Democrat politician who won a stunning victory in the Christchurch by-election in 1993.Earl Cameron, the Bermuda-born actor whose long career included roles in many hit TV series as well as films like Pool of London, Thunderball and Guns at Batasi. Interviewed guest: David Willey Interviewed guest: David Temple Interviewed guest: Donna Symmonds Interviewed guest: BC Pires Interviewed guest: Lord Alan Beith Interviewed guest: Baroness Jenny RandersonProducer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: Outlook, World Service 07/01/2015; Everton Weekes in his own words, Sky Sports January 2019; England v West Windies 1950 Test Match, Pathe News; England v West Indies at Lords 1950, BBC News; British Politics, Radio 4 30/07/1993; Black on Screen, Radio 4 08/01/2001; Front Row, Radio 4 14/10/2016; Pool of London, directed by Basil Dearden, Ealing Studios 1951; The Heart Within, directed by David Eady, Penington Eady Productions 1957; Guns at Batasi, directed by John Guillermin, Twentieth Century Fox 1964; Thunderball, directed by Terence Young, Eon Productions 1965.
Milton Glaser, Terry Dicks, Professor Tom Arie, Else Blangsted
Pictured: Milton GlaserMatthew Bannister onThe graphic designer Milton Glaser who came up with the iconic “I heart New York” logo – but didn’t make a penny from it.Terry Dicks, the controversial right wing Tory MP who went out of his way to challenge political correctness.Professor Tom Arie, the psychiatrist who helped to transform mental health treatment for older people.Else Blangsted, the Hollywood music editor whose own life story reads like the script for a dramatic film.Interviewed guest: Christopher Bonanos Interviewed guest: Arianne Wack Interviewed guest: Julia Langdon Interviewed guest: Dr Claire Hilton Interviewed guest: Angie ErrigoProducer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: I Heart Milton Glaser, Radio 4 10/02/2011; File on Four, Radio 4 24/07/1984; Sound Archive: Libyan Terrorism and U.K. Deportations, Radio 4 22/04/1986; File on Four, Radio 4 09/06/1993; The Week in Westminster, Radio 4 24/02/1990; Looking for Else, directed by Sandy Kopitopoulos and Daniel Maurer, Amka Films 2007; The Bonfire of the Vanities, directed by Brian De Palma, Warner Bros 1990; Olympic Sports in Berlin 1936, British Pathe 13/04/2014; Samson and Delilah, directed by Cecil B. DeMille, Paramount Pictures 1949.
Sir Ian Holm, Jean Kennedy Smith, Felicity Bryan MBE, Lily Lian
Pictured: Sir Ian HolmMatthew Bannister on Sir Ian Holm, the respected actor best known for playing Bilbo Baggins in the Lord of the Rings films and for his interpretation of Shakespeare and Pinter. Jean Kennedy Smith, the last survivor of nine children of Joseph Kennedy. She was US ambassador to Dublin at a significant time in the Northern Ireland peace process. Felicity Bryan the literary agent who steered the careers of many leading writers, including James Naughtie who pays tribute. And Lily Lian, thought to be the last traditional Parisian street singer. Interviewed guest: Steven Jacobi Interviewed guest: Shane Harrison Interviewed guest: Laurence Leamer Interviewed guest: James Naughtie Interviewed guest: Agnes PoirierProducer: Paula McGinleyArchive clips from: Richard III, Radio 3 26/08/1985; Woman’s Hour, Radio 4 16/09/1970; The Iceman Goeth, Radio 4 23/04/2009; Chariots of Fire, directed by Hugh Hudson, Allied Stars/Goldcrest Films 1981; The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, directed by Peter Jackson, New Line Cinema 2001; The Borrowers, BBC Two 1992; Be My Guest, Radio Ulster 24/09/1994; Today, Radio 4 17/03/1995; The Good Friday Agreement April 1998, Irish Foreign Ministry 16/01/2004; Agents During Lockdown: Felicity Bryan, FBA 14/04/2020.
Dame Vera Lynn, Professor Geoffrey Burnstock, Larry Kramer, Pierre Nkurunziza
Pictured: Dame Vera LynnMatthew Bannister on: Professor Geoffrey Burnstock, the eminent neurobiologist who identified the function of a neurotransmitter called ATP with important implications for the treatment of many conditions including strokes, cancer and cystic fibrosis. Larry Kramer, the outspoken gay rights campaigner who organised direct action to force the US government to confront the AIDS crisis. Pierre Nkurunziza, the President of Burundi who used violence to hold on to power after his constitutional term ended. Dame Vera Lynn, the singer known as “the forces’ sweetheart” for her songs of hope during the second world war.Interviewed guest: Professor Mike Spyer Interviewed guest: Professor Timothy Arnett Interviewed guest: Peter Tatchell Interviewed guest: Vava TampaProducer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: Interview with Geoffrey Burnstock, Queen Mary, University of London 10/03/2008; Meridian, Radio 4 20/06/1995; Arena, BBC Two 05/02/1993; The Late Show, BBC Two 10/10/1989; Pierre Nkurunziza Interview, Woodrow Wilson Center 16/04/2013; Burundi’s Football President, Journeyman Pictures 17/11/2015; Nkurunziza Wins Disputed Election, Al Jazeera 25/07/2015; Burundi Coup Attempt, BBC News 13/05/2015; Desert Island Discs: Dame Vera Lynn, Radio 4 03/09/1989; The Emma Freud Show, Radio 1 01/01/2000.
Christo Javacheff, Cathie Sabin OBE, Dorothy Wakely, Jonathan Whitehead
Pictured: Christo JavacheffMatthew Bannister on:The artist Christo Javacheff, best known for his extremely ambitious projects to wrap significant buildings and landscapes in fabric. They included the Reichstag in Berlin and the coastline of Australia. Cathie Sabin, who was the first woman to be President of the Lawn Tennis Association.Dorothy Wakely, who served as a Signals Planner with the Special Operations Executive during the second world war.Jonathan Whitehead, the versatile musician who provided the soundtracks for many TV comedies including Green Wing, Smack the Pony and The Day Today. His friend and colleague Chris Morris pays tribute.Interviewed guest: Will Gompertz Interviewed guest: Ben Sabin Interviewed guest: Vicky Williams Interviewed guest: Simon Wakely Interviewed guest: Clare Mulley Interviewed guest: Chris MorrisProducer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: Christo interview: London Mastaba floating installation, Dezeen 08/08/2018; Public Art Enhancing Cities, Bloomberg Philanthropies 26/06/2018; Christo & Jeanne-Claude put Berlin’s Reichstag under wraps, CBS Sunday Morning 25/06/1995; Christo on ‘Wrapped Coast’, Art Gallery of NSW 03/08/2011; Front Row, Radio 4 16/11/2004; Highlights: Davis Cup, Davis Cup 29/11/2015; Andy Murray wins Wimbledon, Wimbledon 07/07/2013; Andy Murray wins Olympic Gold, Olympic 24/08/2016; Cathie Sabin: The Lawn Tennis Association, Shrewsbury U3A 15/03/2019; VE Day – 70 Years Ago, British Pathe 08/05/2015; Brass Eye: Drugs, Channel 4 1997.
Dr Stanley Ho, Roger Fellows, Margaret Meek Spencer, Mory Kanté
Pictured: Stanley HoJulian Worricker on:The man praised by both Tony Blair and Gordon Brown for being the architect of the national minimum wage, Roger Fellows….One of Asia’s richest men - the gambling tycoon, Stanley Ho, who transformed the economy of Macau….The educationist Margaret Meek Spencer, who influenced a generation of children and teachers by emphasising the joy of reading...And the musician who wrote and performed the first African single to sell a million copies around the world, Mory Kanté.Interviewed guest: Chris Pond Interviewed guest: Liz Barclay Interviewed guest: Jill McGivering Interviewed guest: Julia Eccleshare Interviewed guest: Robin DenselowProducer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: Labour Party Conference, BBC News 1995; Tokyo Celebrates Victory in China, Pathé News 1938; The Money Makers: Betting On A Certainty, BBC Two 18/03/1986; Stanley Ho interview, CNN 26/05/2020; Today, Radio 4 07/06/1997; Macau handover to China, AP Archive 23/07/2015; Correspondent: Hong Kong, BBC Two 07/06/1997; Reading Between The Lines, Radio 4 03/06/2012; Ted Hughes reads The Iron Man, Iconic, 24/10/2011; Mory Kanté interview, L’invité, 03/07/2012.
Margaret Maughan, John Cumming OBE, Jerry Givens, John Langdon, Eric Weissberg
Pictured: Margaret MaughanJulian Worricker on Britain’s first Paralympic gold medallist, Margaret Maughan; Tanni Grey-Thompson compares the games of 1960 and now….The music promoter and producer, John Cumming, co-founder of the London Jazz Festival….Jerry Givens, once a state executioner….but then a leading campaigner in the United States for the abolition of the death penalty….And the comedy writer, John Langdon; his friend and colleague Rory Bremner, recalls some of his best lines….Interviewed guest: Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson DBE Interviewed guest: Peter White Interviewed guest: Nod Knowles Interviewed guest: Abraham Bonowitz Interviewed guest: Rory BremnerProducer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: Rome Olympics 1960, Pathe News; No Triumph, No Tragedy, Radio 4 29/04/2013; Cerys on 6, 6 Music 05/11/2017; John Cumming interview, Jazz FM 17/11/2013; Former executioner opposes death penalty, Washington Post 11/02/2013; Week Ending, Radio 4 21/03/1980; Two Decades of Week Ending, Radio 4 07/09/1990; The News Quiz, Radio 4 03/09/1994; Bremner, Bird and Fortune: Silly Money, Vera Productions Ltd / Channel 4 02/11/2008.
Lord Robert May of Oxford, Dr Judith Darmady OBE, Mark Barkan, Saroj Lal
Pictured: Lord Robert May of OxfordMatthew Bannister onLord May, a former Chief Scientific Advisor to the UK government and President of the Royal Society. He developed the concept of the R value in tracking the spread of infectious diseases and laid down key principles for scientific advice to politicians.Judith Darmady, the paediatrician who travelled to Romania to help thousands of children who had been abandoned in so-called orphanages.Mark Barkan, the songwriter and record producer who wrote “Pretty Flamingo” which was a hit for Manfred Mann and many other artists. Singer Paul Jones pays tribute. Saroj Lal, the Indian-born teacher who played a leading role in campaigning for racial equality in Scotland. Interviewed guest: Lord John Krebs of Wytham Interviewed guest: Jane Waldron Interviewed guest: John Illman Interviewed guest: Bridget Barkan Interviewed guest: Paul Jones Interviewed guest: Vineet LalProducer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: Desert Island Discs: Lord Robert May, Radio 4, 05/06/2012; Ceausescu's Children, BBC News, 30/01/2010; Heaven and Hell, National Museum of Scotland, 2000; The Usual Suspects, Radio Scotland, 13/12/1996; I Believe, You Believe, BBC One Scotland, May 1984.
Little Richard, Dr Janet Carr OBE, Professor John Horton Conway, Florian Schneider
Matthew Bannister onThe rock 'n' roll pioneer Little Richard, whose flamboyant performances and powerful vocal style influenced many who came after him.Janet Carr, the psychologist whose long-running study changed attitudes to people with Down’s Syndrome.John Horton Conway, the playful mathematician who invented the Game of Life.Florian Schneider, the co-founder of the mould-breaking German electronic band Kraftwerk.Interviewed guest: Geoff Barker Interviewed guest: Sally Carr Interviewed guest: Penny Warren Interviewed guest: Sir Roger Penrose OM FRS Interviewed guest: Colm Mulcahy Interviewed guest: Adam Sweeting Producer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: Little Richard In His Own Words, 6 Music 11/05/2020; Little Richard - A Whop Bop A Lua A Whop Bam Boom, Radio 2 05/12/2012; John Horton Conway: Life, Death and the Monster, Numberphile 09/05/2014; Florian Schneider Interview, Silverstar Club 1998; Florian Schneider, Parley x COP21: Oceans, Climate, Life 08/12/2015.
Catherine Hamlin, Irrfan Khan, Denis Goldberg, Ann Sayer
Pictured: Catherine HamlinMatthew Bannister onCatherine Hamlin the obstetrician who, with her husband, set about tackling the devastating effects of obstetric fistulae in the women of Ethiopia.Irrfan Khan, the actor whose career brought stardom in both Indian and Hollywood films, like Jurassic World, Slumdog Millionaire and The Amazing Spiderman.The South African anti-apartheid activist Denis Goldberg who stood trial alongside Nelson Mandela.Anne Sayer, the long distance walker who was the first British woman to cover 100 miles in less than 24 hours.Interviewed guest: Julia Langdon Interviewed guest: Asjad Nazir Interviewed guest: Sir Nicholas Stadlen Interviewed guest: Julie WelchProducer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: The Oprah Winfrey Show, Syndication/Harpo Studios 2014; Asian Network's Big Debate, Asian Network 29/04/2020; The Lunchbox, directed by Ritesh Batra, Sikhya Entertainment 2013; Jurassic World, directed by Colin Trevorrow, Universal Pictures 2015; Piku, directed by Shoojit Sircar, MSM Motion Pictures 2015; Slumdog Millionaire, directed by Danny Boyle and Loveleen Tandan, Celador Films/Film 4 2008; Pienaar’s Politics, 5 Live 24/01/2016.
Ronan O'Rahilly, Sir John Houghton CBE, Sue Davies OBE, Barbara Smoker
Pictured: Ronan O’RahillyMatthew Bannister onRonan O’Rahilly, the Irish businessman who ran the pirate radio station Radio Caroline on a ship off the coast of Essex.Sir John Houghton, the atmospheric physicist who was Director of the Met Office and co-chair of the Inter-Governmental Panel on Climate Change.Sue Davies, who founded and ran the Photographers' Gallery in London, supporting the careers of many leading photographers.Barbara Smoker, the outspoken atheist and anarchist who was President of the National Secular Society.Interviewed guest: Ray Clark Interviewed guest: Hannah Malcolm Interviewed guest: Dave Roberts Interviewed guest: Paul Hardaker Interviewed guest: Amanda Hopkinson Interviewed guest: Chris Steele-Perkins Interviewed guest: Professor Anthony Costello Interviewed guest: Denis CobellProducer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: Arena: Caroline 199: A Pirate's Tale, BBC Two 01/03/1991; The Story of Pop, Radio 1 26/01/1974; Ray Clark on Radio Caroline 1987; Belief, Radio 3 10/06/2012; Interview with Sue Davies, courtesy of The Photographers’ Gallery; Seeds of Faith, Radio 4 14/07/1996; Today, Radio 4 16/12/2002.
Dame Jocelyn Barrow DBE, Keith Critchlow, Leonard ‘Nipper’ Read, John Prine
Pictured: Dame Jocelyn BarrowMatthew Bannister onThe artist, professor of architecture and expert on sacred geometry Keith Critchlow. He was a key figure in the Prince’s School of Traditional Arts and advised on the design of Islamic-influenced buildings all over the world.Dame Jocelyn Barrow who was an educator and leading campaigner against racial discrimination. She was the first black woman to be a Governor of the BBC.Leonard 'Nipper' Read, the respected detective who doggedly pursued the Kray twins.John Prine, the American country singer known for writing songs which offer a wry commentary on the human condition. Interviewed guest: Jon Allen Interviewed guest: Ian Skelly Interviewed guest: Baroness Valerie Amos Interviewed guest: Professor Dick Hobbs Interviewed guest: Bob HarrisProducer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: Britain's Best Buildings, BBC Two 16/11/2002; Night Waves, Radio 3 07/12/2004; Analysis, Radio 4 28/10/1976; It’s a Fair Cop: Leonard ‘Nipper’ Read, Radio 4 07/12/1976; BBC News, BBC One 13/10/1969.
Sir Stirling Moss OBE, Professor Margaret Burbidge, Mahmoud Jibril, Tim Brooke-Taylor OBE
Pictured: Sir Stirling Moss OBEMatthew Bannister on Sir Stirling Moss, the iconic British racing driver, noted for his courage and patriotism. Although he never won the world championship, he stormed to victory in many Formula 1 and sports car races. Professor Margaret Burbidge, the pioneering astronomer who carried out extensive work on quasars. Mahmoud Jibril, who became interim Prime Minister of Libya after the fall of Colonel Gaddafi. Tim Brooke-Taylor, the comic actor best known for his parts in The Goodies and I’m Sorry I Haven’t A Clue. Bill Oddie and Graeme Garden pay tribute.Interviewed guest: Simon Taylor Interviewed guest: Lord Martin Rees Interviewed guest: Amira Fathalla Interviewed guest: Chris Serle Interviewed guest: Graeme Garden OBE Interviewed guest: Bill Oddie OBEProducer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: HardTalk: Stirling Moss, BBC News 23/12/2010; The World Tonight, Radio 4 18/11/1971; HardTalk: Mahmoud Jibril, BBC News 23/10/2011; Woman’s Hour, Radio 4 03/08/1977; I’m Sorry I Haven’t A Clue, Radio 4 04/01/2016; Front Row, Radio 4 26/09/2018; I’m Sorry I’ll Read That Again, Radio 2 02/11/1977.
Dr Bill Frankland MBE, John Tydeman OBE, The Marquess of Bath, Honor Blackman
Pictured: Dr Bill FranklandJulian Worricker on:Dr Bill Frankland, who survived three years in a Japanese prisoner of war camp, studied under Alexander Fleming, and brought the pollen count into the public arena….The radio drama producer, John Tydeman, whose work contributed to the success of Joe Orton and Sue Townsend….Alexander Thynne, better known as the Marquess of Bath, an artist and aristocrat, whose home was the Longleat estate in Wiltshire….And the actress, Honor Blackman, remembered most for her portrayals of Cathy Gale in The Avengers and Pussy Galore in Goldfinger.Interviewed guest: Paul Watkins Interviewed guest: Sir John Tusa Interviewed guest: Enyd Williams Interviewed guest: Nesta Wyn Ellis Interviewed guest: Dr Josephine BottingProducer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: Desert Island Discs: Bill Frankland, Radio 4 09/08/2015; See You Sunday, BBC One Wales 17/03/1991; BBC Oral Histories: John Tydeman; The Mole Truth, Radio 4 20/12/2008; Desert Island Discs: The Marquess of Bath, Radio 4 07/01/2001; The Thynne Blue Line, BBC TV 11/07/1971; Jools Holland, Radio 2 16/05/2011; The Avengers, ABC 1961. Interviews in this programme with John Tydeman were taken from his contribution to the BBC Oral History Collection, an archive of more than 600 interviews with former BBC staff. For more information see: https://www.bbc.com/historyofthebbc/100-voices/
Albert Uderzo, Valerie Pettit OBE, Reverend Joseph Lowery, Julie Felix
Pictured: Albert UderzoMatthew Bannister onValerie Pettit OBE, the senior MI6 officer in charge of the daring operation to get Soviet double agent Oleg Gordievsky out of Russia after his cover was blown.Albert Uderzo – the French cartoonist who created Asterix the Gaul.Reverend Joseph Lowery – the leading American civil rights activist who worked alongside Martin Luther King in the campaign for black equality.Julie Felix – the American-born singer who became known as the first lady of British folk.Interviewed guest: Ben Macintyre Interviewed guest: Agnes Poirier Interviewed guest: Dr Paul Smith Interviewed guest: Henrietta Giles Interviewed guest: Fran CollierProducer: Neil George
Betty Williams, Dr Fuad Nahdi, Sol Kerzner, Kenny Rogers
Picture Betty WilliamsMatthew Bannister on: Fuad Nahdi, the journalist, commentator and campaigner named as one of the world’s 500 most influential Muslims. Sol Kerzner, the South African businessman who made a fortune from hotels and casinos and built the controversial Sun City resort under apartheid. Betty Williams, the office receptionist from Belfast who teamed up with Mairead Corrigan to campaign for peace and won the Nobel Peace Prize. Kenny Rogers, one of America’s greatest country singers known for hits like “Lucille” and “Ruby Don’t Take Your Love To Town.”Interviewed guest: Abdul-Rehman Malik Interviewed guest: Bishop Toby Howarth Interviewed guest: Paul Martin Interviewed guest: Chris Ryder Interviewed guest: Garth Cartwright Interviewed guest: Bob Harris Producer: Neil George
Michel Roux, Sammy McCarthy, Lilian Mohin, Roy Hudd
Pictured: Michel RouxMatthew Bannister onMichel Roux, the French chef who, with his brother Albert, transformed the British restaurant scene in the 1970sSammy McCarthy, the British featherweight champion boxer who became an armed robber.Lilian Mohin, the lesbian feminist activist who co founded the OnlyWomen Press. Roy Hudd, the versatile entertainer whose career took him from the music hall stage to TV and radio stardom.Interviewed guest: William Sitwell Interviewed guest: John McDonald Interviewed guest: Anna Marslen -Wilson Interviewed guest: Tim Mohin Producer: Neil George
Javier Pérez de Cuéllar, Max von Sydow, Professor Hannah Steinberg, Charles Portis
Pictured: Javier Pérez de CuéllarMatthew Bannister on The United Nations Secretary-General Javier Pérez de Cuéllar. The Peruvian diplomat faced major challenges including the Iran-Iraq war and the Falklands War. Max von Sydow the Swedish-born actor whose film roles ranged from Ingmar Bergman to James Bond and, more recently, Game of Thrones.Professor Hannah Steinberg - a pioneer of psychopharmacology - the study of the effects of drugs on the human mind. Charles Portis, the American writer best known for his novel "True Grit" which was twice adapted for the big screen.Interviewed guest: Richard Gowan Interviewed guest: Angela Errigo Interviewed guest: Sandra Fraser Interviewed guest: Professor Clare Stanford Interviewed guest: Michael Carlson Producer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: Witness, BBC World Service 12/01/2012; Interview with Cuellar, The Classic Sports 17/11/1991; Iran/Iraq War, TV Eye 1980; Meeting Of The U.N. Security Council (Falklands Conflict), BBC Sound Archive 23/05/1982; Perez De Cuellar Admits Defeat, BBC Sound Archive 31/05/1984; UN 40th Anniversary: J. Perez De Cuellar, BBC Sound Archive 31/05/1984; Virendra Dayal on Cuellar, UN News 05/03/2020; The Seventh Seal, directed by Ingmar Bergman, Svensk Filmindustri 1957; The Film Programme, Radio 4 19/02/2012; The Greatest Story Ever Told, directed by George Stevens, George Stevens Productions 1965; Never Say Never Again, directed by Irvin Kershner, TaliaFilm II Productions/Woodcote/Producers Sales Organization (PSO) 1983; The Exorcist, directed by William Friedkin, Warner Bros/Hoya Productions 1973; Liv Ullmann on Working with Max von Sydow, Criterion Collection 11/02/2019; The Simpsons: The War of Art, Fox Broadcasting Company 23/03/2014; Games of Thrones Season 6, HBO 24/04/2016; True Grit, directed by Henry Hathaway, Wallis-Hazen 1969; True Grit, Radio 4 Extra 26/09/2016; True Grit, directed by Joel and Ethan Coen, Paramount Pictures/Skydance Media/Scott Rudin Productions/Mike Zoss Productions 2010.
Katherine Johnson, Nexhmije Hoxha, Sir Michael Berridge, Diana Serra Cary (Baby Peggy)
Pictured: Katherine JohnsonMatthew Bannister onNexhmije Hoxha, the wife of the Albanian dictator Enver Hoxha. The couple ran a repressive Stalinist regime and she was known in the West as the Lady Macbeth of Albania. Katherine Johnson, the best known of a small group of African American mathematicians who carried out crucial calculations for the American space programme. Their story was told in the 2017 film "Hidden Figures".Sir Michael Berridge, whose pioneering research into the saliva of blowflies revealed the process of cell signalling, with major implications for humans. And Diana Serra Cary, who, under the screen name "Baby Peggy" Montgomery, was a celebrated child star of silent cinema.Interviewed guest: Professor James Pettifer Interviewed guest: Albana Kasapi Interviewed guest: Dr Martin Bootman Interviewed guest: Tom Lamont Interviewed guest: Pamela HutchinsonProducer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: Invasion Of Albania 1939, British Pathé 13/04/2014; Bugajksi Hour, Rezart Taci 23/03/2012; The World Tonight, Radio 4 11/04/1985; Newsnight, BBC Two 11/04/1985; President Obama Awards the Presidential Medal of Freedom, The Obama White House 24/11/2015; Hidden Figures, directed by Theodore Melfi, Fox 2000 Pictures/Chernin Entertainment/Levantine Films/TSG Entertainment 2016; Katherine Johnson: Math Interest, visionaryproject 08/03/2010; 5 Live Breakfast, Radio 5 Live 25/02/2020; What Matters - Katherine Johnson: NASA Pioneer and "Computer", WHRO Public Media 25/02/2011; John Glenn's Historic Space Flight 1962, CNN 08/12/2016; Lewis Wolpert Conversations, Radio 3 01/04/1993; Front Row, Radio 4 18/01/2006; Summer of Silents, Oscars 21/03/2014.
Hosni Mubarak, Andrew Weatherall, Mary Higgins Clark, John Bevan
Matthew Bannister onAndrew Weatherall, a hugely influential figure in the dance music scene of the 1990s, who revolutionised what a DJ could be and produced many hit albums and remixes. Radio 1's Annie Nightingale explains how he changed her life. President Hosni Mubarak who ruled Egypt for thirty years before being ousted by mass protests. The best selling mystery writer Mary Higgins Clark. Her fellow writers Harlan Coben and Alafair S. Burke pay tribute.John Bevan, the record breaking deep sea diver who was a respected expert on the history of diving.Interviewed Guest: Annie Nightingale CBE Interviewed Guest: Dina Rezk Interviewed Guest: Paul Martin Interviewed Guest: Harlan Coben Interviewed Guest: Alafair Burke Interviewed Guest: Rosemary E Lunn Producer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: The First Time With..., 6 Music, 22/11/2017; Panorama, BBC One, 06/10/1981; BBC News, BBC One, 28/01/2011; BBC News, BBC One,03/08/2011; Woman's Hour, Radio 4, 14/06/2000; Woman's Hour, Radio 4, 31/05/2006;
Heather Couper CBE, Leonard Woodley QC, Joseph Shabalala
Pictured: Heather CouperMatthew Bannister onHeather Couper, the astronomer who used her engaging media appearances to enthuse a generation about space. We talk to her co-author and business partner Nigel Henbest.Leonard Woodley, the Trinidad-born barrister who played a leading role in many high profile race trials and became Britain's first Afro-Caribbean Queen's Counsel.Joseph Shabalala, the South African musician who founded the singing group Ladysmith Black Mambazo. They became global stars after collaborating with Paul Simon on his album Graceland.Interviewed guest: Nigel Henbest Interviewed guest: Baroness Helena Kennedy QC Interviewed guest: Robin Denselow Producer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: Inside Parliament, Radio 4 31/03/1980; PM, Radio 4 25/09/1995; World Routes, Radio 3 18/03/2001; Under African Skies, directed by Joe Berlinger, RadicalMedia 2012; A Brief History of Infinity, BBC World Service 20/09/2006; With Great Pleasure, Radio 4 24/07/1987; Woman’s Hour, Radio 4 11/10/1995; The Planets: Are We Alone?, Channel 4 1985.
Daniel arap Moi, Feng Huiyan, Professor Donald West, Colonel ‘Mad Mike’ Hoare
Pictured: Daniel arap Moi Julian Worricker on:Daniel arap Moi, who led Kenya for 24 years, but did so amidst corruption scandals and the repression of political opponents...The teacher Feng Huiyan, who taught millions of Chinese people how to speak English via textbooks and broadcasting...The pioneering criminologist and clinical scientist Donald West, who wrote a ground-breaking study of homosexuality in the 1950s...And the mercenary leader, known as 'Mad Mike' Hoare, who inspired the film 'The Wild Geese'....Interviewed guest: Victoria Brittain Interviewed guest: Vivian Yang Interviewed guest: Dr Adrian Grounds Interviewed guest: Professor Jeffrey Weeks OBE Interviewed guest: Chris Hoare Interviewed guest: Tim EcottProducer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: Daniel arap Moi’s funeral, NTV Kenya 12/02/2020; Weekend, BBC World Service 08/02/2020; Final Attack on Shanghai 1937, British Pathe 13/04/2014; Controversy: Criminology Is Obscuring The Causes Of Crime, BBC Two 23/08/1973; PM, Radio 4 11/03/1996; Homosexuality: Its Nature and Causes by Donald West, Aldine Transaction 22/05/2008; Gay Life, Straight Work by Donald West, Paradise Press 01/03/2012; Mike Hoare Talks Africa, Emma Goldman 15/04/2017; The Wild Geese, directed by Andrew V. McLaglen, Richmond Film Productions/Victory Films/Varius Entertainment Trading A.G. 1978; Last Word, Radio 4 10/03/2019; Breakfast Time, BBC One 20/08/1986.
Kirk Douglas, Terry Hands CBE, Hazel Murphy, Seamus Mallon
Pictured: Kirk DouglasJulian Worricker on:Terry Hands, long serving artistic director of the RSC, who co-founded the Liverpool Everyman theatre and revived the Clwyd theatre Cymru...The wine marketer, Hazel Murphy, who's credited with spearheading Australia's wine invasion of Europe....The nationalist Northern Ireland politician, Seamus Mallon, whose negotiating skills helped secure the Good Friday Agreement...And the actor Kirk Douglas, whose career in film spanned seven decades, and involved memorable portrayals of all-action if not always likeable characters...Interviewed guest: Paul Allen Interviewed guest: Jancis Robinson OBE Interviewed guest: Barry TurleyProducer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: Desert Island Discs, Radio 4 08/08/1981; Australian Table Wines, Monty Python’s Previous Record, Charisma 1973; BBC News, 03/02/2000; 1800 News, Radio 4 14/10/1999; The Vikings, directed by Richard Fleischer, Brynaprod S.A./ Bavaria Film/ Curtleigh Productions 1958; Kirk Douglas: I am Issur Danielovitch, Eyes On Cinema 21/10/2016; Parkinson, BBC One 16/04/1979; The Strange Love of Martha Ivers, directed by Lewis Milestone, Hal Wallis Productions 1946; Lust for Life, directed by Vincente Minnelli, MGM 1956; Woman’s Hour, Radio 4 26/09/1988; The Oscars, ABC 1996.
Nicholas Parsons CBE, Mary Craig, Lord Maclennan of Rogart, Kobe Bryant
Pictured: Nicholas ParsonsMatthew Bannister on The Just A Minute host, TV presenter and actor Nicholas Parsons. Sheila Hancock and Tony Hawks pay tribute - in just a minute!Mary Craig who wrote the best selling book "Blessings" after struggling to care for her severely disabled son.Lord Maclennan of Rogart, formerly the MP for Caithness and Sutherland, who negotiated the merger between the SDP and the Liberal Party. Kobe Bryant, the LA Lakers basketball star, who gave himself the nickname The Black Mamba.Interviewed guest: Sheila Hancock Interviewed guest: Matt Stronge Interviewed guest: Tony Hawkes Interviewed guest: Mark Craig Interviewed guest: Brain Taylor Interviewed guest: Michael Carlson Producer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: Desert Island Discs, BBC Radio 4, 04/11/2007; Don't Raise The Bridge, Lower The River, Columbia Pictures Industries,1967; The Arthur Haynes Show, ATV, 1957-65; Just a Minute Series 64 Ep. 2, BBC Radio 4, 13/08/2012; Just a Minute Series 64 Ep. 3, BBC Radio 4, 20/08/2012; Sale of The Century, Anglia TV, 08/01/1972; 50 years of Just a Minute: Nicholas Parsons in Conversation with Paul Merton, Radio 4, 01/01/2018; Woman’s Hour Radio 4, 1976; The World at One, BBC Radio 4, 31/01/1988; Dear Basketball, Believe Entertainment Group Kobe Inc, 2017; LA Lakers and Minnesota Timberwolves, BBC 5 Live Extra, 04/10/2010; Toronto Raptors v LA Lakers, Kobe Bryant 81 Points Game Highlights, 2006; USA VS CHINA at the Beijing Olympics, X9Highlights, 2008; Newsbeat, BBC Radio 1, 06/08/2003; 10 o'clock news, BBC One, 05/08/2003;
Tony Garnett, Joy Rainey, Professor Cuchlaine King, Terry Jones
Pictured: Terry JonesMatthew Bannister on Tony Garnett, the TV and film producer whose tragic childhood inspired him to make influential films like Up The Junction, Cathy Come Home and Kes. Joy Rainey, the racing driver whose restricted growth meant she needed specially adapted cars.Professor Cuchlaine King, the geomorphologist known for her studies of beaches, coasts and glaciers.Terry Jones, best known as a member of the Monty Python team, but also a medieval historian of distinction.Interviewed guest: Andreas Campomar Interviewed guest: Eddie Walder Interviewed guest: Professor Brian Whalley Interviewed guest: Betsey Everett Interviewed guest: Professor Alan EreiraProducer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: Free Thinking, Radio 3 28/06/2020; Afternoon Edition, 5Live 11/07/2016; Front Row, Radio 4 27/05/2013; Kes, directed by Ken Loach, United Artists 1970; The Wednesday Play: Up The Junction, BBC One 03/11/1965; The Wednesday Play: Cathy Come Home, BBC One 16/11/1966; This Life Series 1, Episode 3, BBC Two 01/04/1996; Front Row, Radio 4 22/01/2020; Desert Island Discs, Radio 4 02/07/1983; Monty Python’s Flying Circus, ‘The Funniest Joke in The World’ Sketch, BBC Two 05/10/1969; Life of Brian, directed by Terry Jones, Cinema International Corporation, 1979; 5Live Drive, 5Live 22/01/2020; Medieval Lives - The Peasant, BBC Two, 03/01/2004; The Story of 1, BBC Two, 28/09/2005.
Sir Roger Scruton FBA, FRSL, Sultan Qaboos bin Said of Oman, Bobby Neame CBE, Elizabeth Sellars
Pictured: Sir Roger ScrutonMatthew Bannister on Sir Roger Scruton, the leading conservative philosopher of his generation, known for his work on aesthetics. His outspoken views made him a controversial figure for some on the left. Sultan Qaboos bin Said of Oman who overthrew his father in a coup and transformed his country.Bobby Neame, the Chairman of Shepherd Neame - the country's oldest brewing company based in Kent. Elizabeth Sellars, the British actress who appeared alongside Humphrey Bogart in "The Barefoot Contessa" and Marlon Brando in "Desiree".Interviewed guest: Lord Maurice Glasman Interviewed guest: Douglas Murray Interviewed guest: Calvin Allen Interviewed guest: Jonathan Neame Interviewed guest: Dr Melanie WilliamsProducer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: The English Fix, Radio 4 14/09/2017; On Your Farm, Radio 4 28/10/2001; Best of Today Podcast, Radio 4 26/04/2019; Profile: Sultan Qaboos Of Oman, Radio 4 11/01/1980; Sultan Of Muscat and Oman Interview, Radio 4 02/08/1970; Oman Civil War, Thames TV 22/03/2017; Slang: Spitfire Ale advert 27/06/2013; Newsroom South East, BBC One 21/01/1998; Forbidden Cargo, directed by Harold French, J. Arthur Rank Organisation/ London Independent Producers 1954; Hunted, directed by Charles Crichton, Independent Artists/ British Film Makers 1952; Desiree, directed by Henry Koster, Twentieth Century Fox 1954; The Barefoot Contessa, directed by Joseph L. Mankiewicz, Transoceanic Film /Figaro 1954; A Voyage Round My Father, directed by Alvin Rakoff, Thames Television 1982.
General Qasem Soleimani, M.C. Beaton, George Laurer, Dr Sidney Holt
Pictured: General Qasem SoleimaniMatthew Bannister on Iranian General Qasem Soleimani, who was killed by an American drone strike. We try to uncover the motivation of the man who spread Iran's military influence throughout the Middle East. M.C. Beaton who wrote more than 250 books which sold in their millions, including romantic fiction and murder mysteries featuring PC Hamish Macbeth and Agatha Raisin. George Laurer, the American engineer who played a pivotal role in the invention of the barcode.Dr. Sidney Holt, the biologist credited with saving the blue whale from extinction.Interviewed guest: Kasra Naji Interviewed guest: Mike Ripley Interviewed guest: Chris Stokel-Walker Interviewed guest: Vassili PapastavrouProducer: Neil GeorgeArchive clips from: Profile, Radio 4 08/03/2015; TV Eye, Thames TV 1979; September 11 Attacks, CNN 07/09/2011; President Trump on Soleimani, The Telegraph 05/01/2020; Soleimani on Trump, MEMRI TV 30/07/2018; Soleimani’s funeral, The Sun 06/01/2020; Front Row, Radio 4 16/08/2010; The Chocolate Debutante by MC Beaton, read by Patience Tomlinson, Hachette Audio UK 2019; Hamish Macbeth, BBC Four 23/03/2008; Agatha Raisin and the Quiche of Death by MC Beaton, read by Penelope Keith, Chivers Audiobooks 05/07/2012; Woman’s Hour, Radio 4 10/12/2014; George Laurer: CSCMP Supply Chain Hall of Fame, CSCMPTube 02/10/2017; Sidney Holt: In His Own Words, Stephen Best May 2010; Britain's Whale Hunters: The Untold Story, BBC Four 27/10/2016; Newsnight, BBC Two 07/04/2000; Today, Radio 4 29/05/1995; Front Row, Radio 4 10/04/2006.
Neil Innes, Steve Sawyer, Sheila Mercier, Alasdair Gray
Pictured: Neil InnesMatthew Bannister onNeil Innes, the talented musician who was a member of the Bonzo Dog Doo Dah Band, worked with Monty Python and satirised the Beatles. Roger McGough and Michael Palin pay tribute.Steve Sawyer, the Greenpeace activist who helped to evacuate the Pacific Islanders of the Rongelap Atoll after they were affected by nuclear testing. Sheila Mercier, the actress best known for playing Annie Sugden in the TV soap Emmerdale. Alasdair Gray, the Scottish novelist and painter who created the acclaimed novel Lanark.Interviewed guest: Roger McGough Interviewed guest: Michael Palin Interviewed guest: Brian Fitzgerald Interviewed guest: Anthony Hayward Interviewed guest: Jean Rogers Interviewed guest: Frazer Hines Interviewed guest: Alan RiachProducer: Paula McGinleyArchive clips from: Chain Reaction, Radio 4 20/04/2016; Innes Own World, Radio 4 Extra 29/06/2018; All You Need is Cash, directed by Eric Idle and Gary Weis, Broadway Video 22/03/1978; The Reunion, Radio 4 14/09/2003; Rainbow Warrior's Rongelap Voyage, 25/06/2015, Pacific Media Centre; Breakfast Time, Radio 4 10/07/1985; Open To Question, Radio 4 15/10/1985; 1800 News Bulletin, Radio 4 26/08/1997; Emmerdale, ITV 31/10/1972; Emmerdale, ITV 16/07/1973; Emmerdale, ITV 19/05/1988; The Late Show: Alasdair Gray, BBC Two 18/10/1993; Artworks Scotland: Alasdair Gray, BBC 2S 14/11/2004; Alasdair Gray at Eighty, BBC 2S 27/12/2014; Reporting Scotland 2018: Alasdair Gray, 05/04/2018.
Andrew Graham-Yooll OBE, Andrea Newman, Peter Davis, Olly Croft OBE
Julian Worricker on:The journalist, Andrew Graham-Yooll OBE, who risked his life to tell the story of the so-called 'disappeared' in Argentina in the 1970s.The writer Andrea Newman, best known for 'Bouquet of Barbed Wire', the sexually charged family drama that pushed the boundaries of television.Ornithologist and conservationist, Peter Davis, who dedicated much of his working life to saving the red kite.And Olly Croft OBE who founded the British Darts Organisation, and is credited with making the sport more popular and more professional.Producer: Paula McGinley