Ian Smith: Finding Your Feet in a Foot Spa Half Empty🎙️Episode Overview

In this episode, Steve Otis Gunn chats with comedian, writer, and actor Ian Smith. From the unlikely inspiration behind his new show, Foot Spa Half Empty, to the surreal experience of debuting on Have I Got News For You. Ian relives his early sitcom work on Popatron, his acting turn in The Ark, and his fleeting appearance on Siblings. Expect talk of mouth-guards, Foot Spas, Reality TV, and the fate of the short-lived digital channel - BBC Switch

🎬 Episode Highlights

• The Awkward Reality of Filming Panel Shows
• Why the Audience of Deal or No Deal Shouldn’t Be Allowed to Vote
• Writing Original Work in the Age of Streaming

This episode is perfect for anyone who loves British comedy that’s equal parts clever, chaotic, and catastrophically relatable — or just wants to know where Carl’s gone.

🎭 About Ian

Ian Smith is an award-winning stand-up comedian, writer, and actor from Yorkshire. He’s appeared on Have I Got News for You, The News Quiz, and 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown, as well as starring in Popatron and The Ark. Ian’s acclaimed work includes his Edinburgh Fringe shows Crushing and Foot Spa Half Empty, and the popular podcast Northern News, which he co-hosts with Amy Gledhill.

🔗 Connect with Ian

• Instagram
• YouTube
• TikTok

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Podcast: Television Times with Steve Otis Gunn

Host: Steve Otis Gunn

Guest: Ian Smith – Comedian, Podcaster & Writer

Duration: 48 minutes

Release Date: October 16, 2025

Season: 4, Episode 22

All music written and performed in this podcast by Steve Otis Gunn

Please buy my book, You Shot My Dog and I Love You, available in all good bookshops and online.

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