Intelligence Squared
Sam McAlister on Scandals, Scoops, and the Prince Andrew Interview (Part One)
Mar 2, 2025
Sam McAlister, a BAFTA and Emmy-nominated interviews producer renowned for the Prince Andrew interview, shares behind-the-scenes insights into this pivotal moment in media history. She discusses the intense challenges of interviewing powerful figures and the ethical dilemmas faced in today’s journalism. McAlister also reflects on the far-reaching implications of the royal interview on public perception and accountability, as well as the creative process behind adapting her book into a Netflix film featuring talented actors.
27:44
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Quick takeaways
- The Newsnight interview with Prince Andrew underscored journalism's vital role in holding powerful individuals accountable and shaping public perception.
- Sam McAlister's journey from securing the interview to having her story adapted into a film illustrates the profound personal impact of journalistic endeavors.
Deep dives
The Impact of the Prince Andrew Interview
The interview with Prince Andrew on Newsnight marked a pivotal moment in the discourse surrounding accountability for powerful individuals. It provided an extraordinary opportunity for honest discussion about serious allegations, as Prince Andrew was confronted about his friendship with Jeffrey Epstein and claims made by Virginia Giuffre. The fallout from this interview was significant, resulting in both legal repercussions and a shift in public perception of the royal family. This event highlighted the essential role of journalism in holding public figures accountable and prompted discussions about transparency and consequence in positions of power.
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