Distinct Nostalgia

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The extraordinary inside story of the most controversial decision in the history of modern warfare - the order to drop the atomic bomb. Drawn from first-hand accounts of those involved and declassified top secret American and Japanese documents from 1945, this documentary drama unfolds through the eyes of the two people at the centre of this world changing event - President Harry S. Truman and Showa Emperor Hirohito of Japan 

Episode 1: THE NEW COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF 

April 1945 and the new president, Harry S. Truman, is briefed for the first time on the Manhattan Project - America's top secret operation to build an atomic bomb. And as allied forces advance across the Pacific, Emperor Hirohito fears it will only be a matter of time before Japan is defeated.

The Cast 

Clifton Truman Daniel - President Harry S Truman 

Sadao Ueda - Emperor Hirohito 

Christopher Strauli - Secretary of War Henry Stimson

Mark Takeshi Ota - Lord Koichi Kido 

Mike Grady - General Leslie Groves 

Leo Ashizawa - Foreign Minister Shigenori Togo 

Samuel Barnett - Dr J Robert Oppenheimer 

Takatsuna Mukai - Prime Minister Kantaro Suzuki 

Jonathan Kydd - Dr Robert Stearns 

Samuel Barnett - English Radio announcer

Takatsuna Mukai - Studio Engineer

Jonathan Kydd - American Radio Announcer.

The narrator is Lorelei King 

The music is by Andy Street

The historian is Guy Walters
and historical observers were Kazuhiko and
Shigehiko Togo.

The President and the Emperor is written by
Guy Smith.

The director is Jonathan Kydd.

Produced by Ashley Byrne

Executive Producer is Kurt Brookes

Recorded at the Voices Sound Studio, Soho, London

A Made in Manchester production.

With thanks to:

The National Security Archive, Washington DChttps://nsarchive.gwu.edu

The Harry S Truman Library, Independence, MOhttps://www.trumanlibrary.gov

This drama has been made with the good will of everyone involved and not with huge funders behind it. If you would like to give something to the costs and to show your appreciation for all the work involved, please donate here https://buymeacoffee.com/presidentandemperor

Support the show

Let us know what you think of the latest episode of Distinct Nostalgia by clicking here and sending us a message

Ahead of the launch tomorrow (Sunday August 31st) of the epic new landmark drama about the decision to drop the first atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945, Sadao Ueda chats to Ashley Byrne about playing Emperor Hirohito. Sadao grew up in Japan and here he talks about what he was taught about the devastating events at school in the 1970s. He also reflects on taking on a part he's really wanted to play all his acting career. 

Sadao Ueda is in conversation with Ashley Byrne.

A Made in Manchester Production   

Coming soon ....The President and The Emperor  brings to life the story behind one of the most consequential decisions in modern history, the dropping of the atomic bomb eighty years ago.

Told in seven parts and produced by indie company Made in Manchester, the series draws on newly declassified US and Japanese documents, along with first-hand testimony, to present a dual-perspective account of the final days of the Second World War.

At the heart of the drama are two isolated but powerful figures, President Harry S. Truman and Emperor Hirohito. They navigate moral and political dilemmas as the world teeters on the brink of nuclear devastation.

In a unique casting move, Truman is portrayed by his real-life grandson, Clifton Truman Daniel, adding an intimate connection to a role few could approach with such personal insight.

He stars alongside acclaimed Japanese actor Sadao Ueda, who plays Hirohito with quiet intensity and emotional nuance.

“This drama is not about who was right or wrong in the war,” Ueda says. “It presents historical facts dramatically from two different points of view. I hope the listener will reflect on what global conflict might mean if it ever happened again.”

Samuel Barnett plays Robert Oppenheimer

The President and the Emperor is written by Guy Smith, directed by Jonathan Kydd and produced by Ashley Byrne. The Executive Producer is Kurt Brookes.

Guy Smith says: ''I wanted to find out what really took place behind the scenes in Washington and Tokyo in the weeks leading up to the most momentous - and controversial - decision in the history of modern warfare; the order to drop the atomic bomb on Japan.

And, just as importantly, I wanted to find out if that world changing event could have been avoided.  Was it inevitable?  Or could the conflict have been ended without the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki?

The more I dug into the archives and examined first hand accounts of those who were there at the White House and Imperial Palace, I discovered an extraordinary story full of intrigue, drama and turmoil.

Now, as the world once again moves closer to the threat of nuclear conflict than at any time since the Cold War, I hope The President and the Emperor provides listeners with a timely warning on the dangers of escalating tensions and failing to explore all possible opportunities to stop man's inhumanity to man.'

With thanks to:

The National Security Archive, Washington DChttps://nsarchive.gwu.edu

The Harry S Truman Library, Independence, MOhttps://www.trumanlibrary.gov

Support the show

Let us know what you think of the latest episode of Distinct Nostalgia by clicking here and sending us a message

First Look Trailer 2 for The President and the Emperor starring Clifton Truman Daniel as President Harry S Truman, Sadao Ueda as Emperor Hirohito and Samuel Barnett as Phillip Oppenheimer.

Episode 1 coming soon.....

The President and the Emperor Cast - Episode One 

Clifton Truman Daniel - President Harry S Truman 

Sadao Ueda - Emperor Hirohito 

Christopher Strauli - Secretary of War Henry Stimson

Mark Takeshi Ota - Lord Koichi Kido 

Mike Grady - General Leslie Groves 

Leo Ashizawa - Foreign Minister Shigenori Togo 

Samuel Barnett - Dr J Robert Oppenheimer 

Takatsuna Mukai - Prime Minister Kantaro Suzuki 

Jonathan Kydd - Dr Robert Stearns 

Samuel Barnett - English Radio announcer

Takatsuna Mukai - Studio Engineer

Jonathan Kydd - American Radio Announcer.

The narrator is Lorelei King 

The music is by Andy Street

The historian is Guy Walters
and historical observers were Kazuhiko and
Shigehiko Togo.

The President and the Emperor is written by
Guy Smith.

The director is Jonathan Kydd.

Produced by Ashley Byrne

Executive Producer is Kurt Brookes

A Made in Manchester production.

Support the show

Let us know what you think of the latest episode of Distinct Nostalgia by clicking here and sending us a message

A First Look Teaser for The President and the Emperor starring Clifton Truman Daniel as President Harry S Truman, Sadao Ueda as Emperor Hirohito and Samuel Barnett as Phillip Oppenheimer.

Episode 1 coming soon.....

The President and the Emperor Cast - Episode One 

Clifton Truman Daniel - President Harry S Truman 

Sadao Ueda - Emperor Hirohito 

Christopher Strauli - Secretary of War Henry Stimson

Mark Takeshi Ota - Lord Koichi Kido 

Mike Grady - General Leslie Groves 

Leo Ashizawa - Foreign Minister Shigenori Togo 

Samuel Barnett - Dr J Robert Oppenheimer 

Takatsuna Mukai - Prime Minister Kantaro Suzuki 

Jonathan Kydd - Dr Robert Stearns 

Samuel Barnett - English Radio announcer

Takatsuna Mukai - Studio Engineer

Jonathan Kydd - American Radio Announcer.

The narrator is Lorelei King 

The music is by Andy Street

The historian is Guy Walters
and historical observers were Kazuhiko and
Shigehiko Togo.

The President and the Emperor is written by
Guy Smith.

The director is Jonathan Kydd.

Produced by Ashley Byrne

Executive Producer is Kurt Brookes

A Made in Manchester production.

Support the show

Let us know what you think of the latest episode of Distinct Nostalgia by clicking here and sending us a message

Ahead of the launch of the epic new landmark drama about the decision to drop the first atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945, Clifton Truman Daniel chats to Ashley Byrne about playing his grandfather in The President and the Emperor. Clifton talks candidly about his relationship with his grandpa and how he learned about his family history when he was growing up. He also reflects on the impact the decision his grandfather made has had on the world and on the work he's done to foster peace the region.

Clifton Truman Daniel is in conversation with Ashley Byrne.

A Made in Manchester Production   

Coming soon ....The President and The Emperor  brings to life the story behind one of the most consequential decisions in modern history, the dropping of the atomic bomb eighty years ago.

Told in seven parts and produced by indie company Made in Manchester, the series draws on newly declassified US and Japanese documents, along with first-hand testimony, to present a dual-perspective account of the final days of the Second World War.

At the heart of the drama are two isolated but powerful figures, President Harry S. Truman and Emperor Hirohito. They navigate moral and political dilemmas as the world teeters on the brink of nuclear devastation.

In a unique casting move, Truman is portrayed by his real-life grandson, Clifton Truman Daniel, adding an intimate connection to a role few could approach with such personal insight.

He stars alongside acclaimed Japanese actor Sadao Ueda, who plays Hirohito with quiet intensity and emotional nuance.

“This drama is not about who was right or wrong in the war,” Ueda says. “It presents historical facts dramatically from two different points of view. I hope the listener will reflect on what global conflict might mean if it ever happened again.”

Samuel Barnett plays Robert Oppenheimer

The President and the Emperor is written by Guy Smith, directed by Jonathan Kydd and produced by Ashley Byrne. The Executive Producer is Kurt Brookes.

Guy Smith says: ''I wanted to find out what really took place behind the scenes in Washington and Tokyo in the weeks leading up to the most momentous - and controversial - decision in the history of modern warfare; the order to drop the atomic bomb on Japan.

And, just as importantly, I wanted to find out if that world changing event could have been avoided.  Was it inevitable?  Or could the conflict have been ended without the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki?

The more I dug into the archives and examined first hand accounts of those who were there at the White House and Imperial Palace, I discovered an extraordinary story full of intrigue, drama and turmoil.

Now, as the world once again moves closer to the threat of nuclear conflict than at any time since the Cold War, I hope The President and the Emperor provides listeners with a timely warning on the dangers of escalating tensions and failing to explore all possible opportunities to stop man's inhumanity to man.'

With thanks to:

The National Security Archive, Washington DChttps://nsarchive.gwu.edu

The Harry S Truman Library, Independence, MOhttps://www.trumanlibrary.gov

Support the show

Let us know what you think of the latest episode of Distinct Nostalgia by clicking here and sending us a message

Ashley had the pleasure of interviewing the legendary Andy Peebles just weeks before he died for a programme about Steve Strange. Though the interview was about Steve, the conversation included many anecdotes related to Andy's long career overall including his famous interview with John Lennon. Here we play most of the interview in tribute to Andy and his memory. 

Enjoy and RIP Andy!

Support the show

Let us know what you think of the latest episode of Distinct Nostalgia by clicking here and sending us a message

In the fourth episode of Distinct Nostalgia's EastEnders at 40 series, Ashley sits down with former Albert Square storyliner David Payne. David, who worked on the show from 2015 to 2017, offers a fascinating glimpse into the creative process behind some of EastEnders' most gripping storylines. From the homophobic murder of Paul Coker to Stacey Fowler's postpartum psychosis, David shares the challenges and triumphs of crafting compelling narratives for one of Britain's most beloved soaps. Tune in to hear behind-the-scenes stories and gain a deeper understanding of how the drama of Walford is brought to life. Look out for more episodes celebrating EastEnders' 40 years over the weekend. And don't forget, there are dozens of EastEnders and other soap interviews and reunions in the Distinct Nostalgia archive 

Produced by Ashley Byrne

Research by Andrew Edwards

An Made in Manchester Production

And don't forget we need your support. Distinct Nostalgia has no budget. You can buy us a coffee by clicking this link. 

buymeacoffee.com/distinctnostalgia

Support the show

Let us know what you think of the latest episode of Distinct Nostalgia by clicking here and sending us a message

Join us for the third episode of Distinct Nostalgia's special series celebrating EastEnders at 40. In this episode, Dame Sheila Hancock, who brought the unforgettable Barbara Owen to life in 2000 and 2001, sits down with Ashley to discuss her time on the show. Barbara, a complex character with a troubled relationship with her children, especially her son Steve, left a lasting impact on Walford. Sheila shares behind-the-scenes stories, her thoughts on Barbara's dramatic storylines, and what it was like to be part of such a beloved soap. Don't miss this fascinating conversation with one of EastEnders' most memorable guest stars.

Look out for more episodes celebrating EastEnders' 40 years over the weekend. And don't forget, there are dozens of EastEnders and other soap interviews and reunions in the Distinct Nostalgia archive.

Produced by Ashley Byrne

Research by Andrew Edwards

An Made in Manchester Production

And don't forget we need your support. Distinct Nostalgia has no budget. You can buy us a coffee by clicking this link. 

buymeacoffee.com/distinctnostalgia

Support the show

Let us know what you think of the latest episode of Distinct Nostalgia by clicking here and sending us a message

In the second episode of Distinct Nostalgia celebrating EastEnders' 40th birthday, Ashley sits down with Rob Gittins, the show's longest-serving writer. Rob has been a pivotal figure in the EastEnders writing team since its early days, contributing to over 300 episodes. His extensive experience and deep understanding of the show's characters and storylines have made him an invaluable asset to the series. During the interview, Rob shares his journey as a key player in one of the UK's most beloved drama serials. He reflects on the evolution of EastEnders, the challenges of keeping the storylines fresh, and the memorable moments that have defined the show. The interview offers listeners a unique insight into the creative process behind EastEnders and the dedication required to maintain its success over four decades. 

More episodes marking EastEnders' 40 years in coming days. And scroll through the DN archive for many many more interviews and reunions celebrating the show over the years.

Produced by Ashley Byrne

Research by Andrew Edwards

An Made in Manchester Production

And don't forget we need your support. Distinct Nostalgia has no budget. You can buy us a coffee by clicking this link. 

buymeacoffee.com/distinctnostalgia

Support the show

Let us know what you think of the latest episode of Distinct Nostalgia by clicking here and sending us a message

In celebration of EastEnders' 40th birthday, Distinct Nostalgia kicks off with an exclusive interview featuring Sophie Thompson, who portrayed the infamous Stella Crawford. Sophie sits down with Ashley to reminisce about her time on the show and her character's dramatic storyline. Stella, introduced as Phil Mitchell's new lawyer, quickly became one of the soap's most memorable villains. Her relationship with Phil took a dark turn as she began to mentally and physically abuse his son, Ben. The tension culminated on their wedding day when Ben revealed Stella's torment, leading to her tragic demise. Sophie shares behind-the-scenes anecdotes and reflects on the impact of playing such a complex character. 

The interview with Sophie is one of several to mark the show's 40th birthday, keep tuning in for more.

Produced by Ashley Byrne

Research by Andrew Edwards

An Made in Manchester Production

And don't forget we need your support. Distinct Nostalgia has no budget. You can buy us a coffee by clicking this link. 

buymeacoffee.com/distinctnostalgia

Support the show