Chain Reaction: The Complete BBC Radio 4 Hostless Chat Show

The tag-team interview show where the celebrity guest becomes the interviewer. A complete collection of the talk show with a twist—the guest each week becomes the interviewer in the following episode. Focusing on the career and passions of a figure in the entertainment world whose work they admire, each interviewer gets to delve into the life of their hero as well as revealing hidden aspects of themselves. Featuring great British comedians, award-winning actors, and iconic musicians and writers, Chain Reaction serves you double helpings of amazing individuals like Johnny Vegas, Barry Cryer, Lenny Henry, David Tennant, Eddie Izzard, Lee Mack, Ruby Wax, Stephen Merchant, Caitlin Moran, Frankie Boyle, Bob Mortimer, Vic Reeves, Olivia Colman, Katherine Ryan, Ian Hislop, Victoria Coren-Mitchell, Joe Lycett, Sara Pascoe, Tim Vine, and many, many more.

A Conversation Carousel That Never Gets Old

"Chain Reaction," the brainchild of Richard Morris, is a unique interview show on BBC Radio 4 that has been captivating audiences since 2004. Its twist? Each week's interviewee becomes the interviewer for the next episode, creating a fascinating chain of conversations that delve into the lives and minds of some of the biggest names in British entertainment.

This audiobook, released in 2017, is a treasure trove of these insightful and often hilarious exchanges. From John Cleese's inaugural interview with Jennifer Saunders to Frankie Boyle's no-holds-barred interrogation of Bob Mortimer, the range of personalities and perspectives is nothing short of breathtaking.

More Than Just Interviews

What makes "Chain Reaction" so special is that it goes beyond the typical interview format. By giving the guest the reins in the next episode, the show creates a sense of intimacy and reciprocity that is rarely found in other media. We get to see these celebrated figures not just as performers or public figures, but also as curious and engaged individuals eager to learn from their own heroes.

For example, listening to Eddie Izzard grill Alan Moore about his creative process is an absolute treat. You can practically hear the wheels turning in Izzard's mind as he absorbs Moore's insights on magic, storytelling, and the power of the imagination. Similarly, Caitlin Moran's interview with Jarvis Cocker is a masterclass in witty banter and mutual admiration, as they share their love for music, literature, and the absurdity of life.

A Celebration of British Wit

But "Chain Reaction" is not just about intellectual heavyweights. The show also features hilarious exchanges between comedians, musicians, and actors who bring their own unique brand of humor to the table. From Jenny Eclair's razor-sharp wit to Harry Hill's absurdist musings, the laughs are guaranteed.

One particularly delightful episode is Lee Mack's interview with Tim Vine, a masterclass in one-liners and groan-worthy puns that will have you chuckling long after the episode ends. And who can forget the sheer joy of listening to Vic Reeves and Bob Mortimer bounce off each other in their own surreal and hilarious world?

A Must-Listen for Fans of Conversation and Comedy

Whether you're a fan of British comedy, a lover of insightful conversations, or simply looking for a good laugh, "Chain Reaction: The Complete BBC Radio 4 Hostless Chat Show" is a must-listen. With over 120 episodes to choose from, you're guaranteed to find hours of entertainment and thought-provoking discussions that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

Here are some additional thoughts on the audiobook:

The production quality is excellent, with clear audio and well-paced editing.
The inclusion of bonus material, such as outtakes and behind-the-scenes interviews, is a nice touch.
The audiobook is a great way to experience the best of "Chain Reaction" without having to track down individual episodes.

Overall, "Chain Reaction: The Complete BBC Radio 4 Hostless Chat Show" is a delightful and addictive listen that is sure to please fans of comedy, conversation, and British culture.