This week on Channel Hopper, things take a delightfully unexpected turn for a special Easter episode packed with reflection, nostalgia, and a few surprises along the way.

For once, host John Mabey steps out from behind the mic as interviewer and into the hot seat himself. Swapping roles for the episode, John opens up about his lifelong love of film and television — from the shows that shaped his childhood to the movies that continue to inspire his passion today. Expect personal stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and a deeper look at the voice you hear every week.

Taking over hosting duties is a very special guest: actor Keith Jayne, beloved for his roles in classic series such as The Onedin Line, Murphy’s Mob, and Stig of the Dump. With warmth, wit, and plenty of curiosity, Keith guides the conversation through John’s journey as a fan, a critic, and a storyteller.

It’s a relaxed, candid, and often funny episode that celebrates not just great television and film, but the people who love them. Whether you're a long-time listener or tuning in for the first time, this Easter special offers a fresh perspective on Channel Hopper — and a rare chance to get to know its host like never before.

In a brand new episode of Channel Hopper, host and TV & film historian John Mabey welcomes a truly iconic guest: legendary actor and voice artist Tim Bentinck. Best known for his extensive work across stage, screen, and radio, Tim brings his unmistakable voice and wealth of experience to a fascinating and deeply personal conversation.

In this edition, Tim takes listeners on a nostalgic journey through some of his favourite television themes—those unforgettable pieces of music that have shaped viewing experiences across generations. From sweeping orchestral openings to instantly recognisable jingles, each selection opens the door to stories from Tim’s career and reflections on the power of sound in storytelling.

Beyond the music, the conversation turns to Tim’s lifelong relationship with film. He shares insights into what cinema means to him, how the industry has evolved over the decades, and the moments that left a lasting impression both as a performer and as a viewer. John and Tim explore the emotional resonance of film, the craft behind great performances, and the enduring magic of the medium.

Looking ahead, the discussion also touches on the future—of film, television, and audio storytelling. In an era of rapid change, from streaming platforms to AI-generated voices, Tim offers thoughtful perspectives on where the industry might be heading and what that means for artists and audiences alike.

Warm, insightful, and filled with behind-the-scenes anecdotes, this episode of Channel Hopper is a must-listen for anyone who loves television, film, and the voices that bring stories to life.

This week on Channel Hopper, host and TV & film historian John Mabey welcomes a familiar face from British screens for over four decades — the ever-reliable and quietly brilliant Gerard Horan.

Best known to millions as the lovable Terry in the acclaimed BBC sitcom Detectorists, Gerard joins John for a warm and insightful conversation that spans the breadth of his long and varied career as one of Britain’s finest “jobbing actors.” From period dramas and gritty crime series to comedy classics, Gerard reflects on the realities of working consistently in the industry, sharing stories from sets, auditions, and the changing landscape of British television.

Along the way, Gerard reveals some of the films and TV shows that have shaped him — the performances he admires, the stories that have stayed with him, and the moments that made him fall in love with acting in the first place. It’s a thoughtful and often humorous look at a life spent on screen, filled with behind-the-scenes anecdotes and genuine affection for the craft.

Whether you know him as Terry or recognise him from countless roles across the years, this episode offers a rare chance to hear from a true stalwart of British acting — candid, reflective, and as engaging as ever.

In this week’s episode of Channel Hopper, host TV and film historian John Mabey is joined by legendary composer and silent film expert Neil Brand for a fascinating deep dive into music, cinema, and cultural history.

Neil reflects on his remarkable career, including his work with the BBC Symphony Orchestra and his long-standing relationship with the BFI, offering behind-the-scenes insights into how music brings classic films to life. The conversation also explores his enduring passion for silent cinema, and why its storytelling power continues to captivate audiences today.

Plus, Neil shares details of his brand-new UK tour celebrating 100 years of Laurel and Hardy, revealing what makes the iconic duo’s work so timeless—and how live music plays a vital role in keeping their legacy alive.

A must-listen for film lovers, music enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the magic where sound and screen meet.

In this brand new episode of Channel Hopper, host and TV and film historian John Mabey is joined by legendary voice-over artist and master impressionist Steve Nallon. Best known for his iconic work on the groundbreaking political satire Spitting Image, Steve brought to life unforgettable characters including Margaret Thatcher, Roy Hattersley, and the Queen Mother.

John and Steve dive into the creative chaos behind Spitting Image, exploring how those razor-sharp impressions helped define an era of British comedy and political commentary. Steve also shares insights into his remarkable career in voice acting, the craft of impersonation, and the stories behind some of his most famous performances.

Plus, the conversation turns to Steve’s latest writing projects, including his new books—among them The Ultimate Guide to Time Travel, available now.

It’s a fascinating, funny, and nostalgic journey through television history, packed with behind-the-scenes anecdotes and expert insight. Don’t miss it.

In this episode of Channel Hopper, host and TV & film historian John Mabey sits down with actress Clare Clifford for a heartfelt and fascinating conversation about her life on screen.

Clare is best known to many viewers for her role in the beloved BBC medical drama Angels and for appearing in the classic 1982 Doctor Who serial Earthshock, alongside James Warwick, Beryl Reid, and the iconic Cybermen. In this episode, she reflects on those memorable productions, sharing behind-the-scenes memories and what it was like working in television during a remarkable era of British drama.

But this conversation goes beyond credits and career highlights. Clare opens up about her journey as an actress and speaks candidly about what television and film have meant to her personally and professionally. The discussion becomes deeply reflective at times, making for an emotional and moving listen.

Join John and Clare for an honest, nostalgic, and often touching exploration of a life in television.

🎙️ New Episode – Channel Hopper Podcast

This week on Channel Hopper, host and TV & film historian John Mabey sits down with legendary writer Richard Sparks. Richard looks back on his time at the sharp end of British comedy, working on the groundbreaking sketch show Not the Nine O’Clock News alongside icons Rowan Atkinson, Ruby Wax and Mel Smith.

He also revisits his work on the classic 1970s children’s adventure series The Famous Five, adapted from the beloved Enid Blyton novels, and talks about his brand new fantasy novel series New Rock, out now.

Plus, Richard shares some of his all-time favourite TV themes, including The Prisoner and Star Trek. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, TV history, and plenty of nostalgia in another unmissable episode of Channel Hopper. 📺✨

In this brand new episode of Channel Hopper, host and TV & film historian John Mabey sits down with British actor Tom Roberts — best known to many viewers for his appearances in the beloved 90s sitcom 2 Point 4 Children and the long-running British soap Coronation Street.

Tom reflects on his career in television, shares memories from working in some of Britain’s most recognisable shows, and discusses how the industry has evolved since the 1990s. The conversation also explores Tom’s passion for live events celebrating the world of James Bond, where he now brings fans together with live music and special guest appearances from stars connected to the legendary spy franchise.

From sitcom sets to the spectacle of Bond, John and Tom dive into the shows and films that shaped his life, the magic of performing for audiences, and what television and cinema truly mean to him.

Channel Hopper is the podcast where the stories behind the screen take centre stage.

In a brand new episode of Channel Hopper, host and TV & film historian John Mabey sits down with celebrated writer Stephen Wyatt for a wide-ranging and deeply enjoyable conversation.

Stephen reflects on his remarkable career with the BBC, including his work on much-loved series such as House of Elliott and Casualty, as well as two standout Doctor Who serials, Paradise Towers and The Greatest Show in the Galaxy. Along the way, he selects some of his favourite film and television themes, sharing the music that has stayed with him throughout a lifetime of writing for the screen.

The conversation also turns to Stephen’s brand new book, Hurst on Film, a celebration of prolific director Brian Desmond Hurst, whose films include The Malta Story, Dangerous Moonlight, and the perennial Christmas classic Scrooge (1951) starring Alastair Sim.

Insightful, nostalgic, and packed with stories from behind the scenes of British film and television, this is an essential listen for fans of classic drama and screen history.
Stephen Wyatt’s book Hurst on Film is available now via Amazon.

This week on Channel Hopper, host and TV & film historian John Mabey sits down with the truly amazing Rosemary Crowson, aged 89, whose remarkable career at the BBC spanned from the late 1960s through to the early 1990s. Starting as a production assistant and rising to production manager, Rosemary worked behind the scenes on some of British television’s most iconic shows, including The Brothers, Blake’s 7, Doctor Who and EastEnders.

Packed with insider knowledge, industry gossip, and invaluable advice for anyone hoping to break into the world of acting or television, this episode is a genuine treasure trove of TV history. And yes — we couldn’t let her go without sharing an obligatory (and slightly chilling) ghost story. A must-listen for TV fans, aspiring creatives, and lovers of behind-the-scenes stories alike.