Daisy Ridley discusses her experiences in the film industry, highlighting the preparation required for her acting roles and collaborations.
The podcast announces new live shows, indicating its rising popularity and the desire for a deeper connection with listeners through in-person events.
Ridley's dream menu selections showcase her emotional ties to food, particularly through nostalgic dishes that remind her of family gatherings.
Deep dives
Live Show Announcement
The episode announces two additional live shows for the Off Menu series, scheduled for March 15, 2026, at the Royal Albert Hall. This exciting news reinforces the popularity of the podcast as they cater to a growing audience interested in live events. Tickets for the shows can be purchased through the Royal Albert Hall and CTickets websites. The live format allows fans to experience the podcast in person, enhancing their connection with the hosts and guests.
Guest Introduction: Daisy Ridley
This week’s guest is actress Daisy Ridley, known for her roles in films like Star Wars and the upcoming Sky original movie, Cleaner. The hosts express their enthusiasm about having her on the podcast, noting her impressive acting career and the excitement surrounding her latest project. Ridley shares interesting insights about her experiences in the film industry and the preparation that goes into her roles. The conversation highlights her passion for acting and the dynamics of working with industry professionals.
The Secret Ingredient: Rabbit
The episode features a secret ingredient for Ridley to consider during her meal choices: rabbit. This selection has a humorous twist, as Ridley voiced a character named Cottontail in a children’s film, making the ingredient particularly ironic. The hosts joke about how it might be inappropriate for her to choose rabbit given her past role, which adds a playful dynamic to the conversation. This setup sets the stage for a lighthearted discussion about the significance of the ingredient in relation to the guests' preferences.
Daisy Ridley's Dream Menu
Ridley shares her dream menu, starting with a vegan starter option from a restaurant in LA called Crossroads, featuring impossible cigars. Her main course includes a nostalgic dish of vegan sausages and mash with bistro gravy and peas, tying back to her fond memories of family meals. For a side dish, she selects crispy Brussels sprouts and maple miso carrots, showcasing her culinary interests. This reveals how food plays a role in her emotional connections to home and personal history.
Discussion of Cooking and Baking
The conversation shifts to cooking and baking, where Ridley opens up about her experience in the kitchen and the challenges she faces. She recounts a humorous anecdote about participating in a cooking show where things didn’t go as planned, leading to some self-deprecating humor. The hosts also share their own quirks and preferences when it comes to washing dishes, revealing the dynamics of their culinary habits. This exchange offers a glimpse into Ridley's personality, showcasing her relatability and humor.
Drink and Dessert Choices
For her drink, Ridley chooses a lychee martini, preferring it sweet rather than strong, which reflects her taste for enjoyable and light beverages. She also discusses a nostalgic dessert option of lemon polenta cake, reminiscent of family celebrations. This blend of sweet and familiar flavors highlights Ridley’s appreciation for dishes that evoke cherished memories. The hosts engage in further banter about food and drink preferences, maintaining the episode's fun and engaging vibe.
The force is strong with this week’s guest, as ‘Star Wars’ actor and star of James’s favourite film ‘Cleaner’ Daisy Ridley joins us in the Dream Restaurant.
(And that restaurant in Liverpool Daisy couldn't remember the name of was called Buyers Club.)
Daisy Ridley stars in ‘Cleaner’, a Sky Cinema release on 2nd May. Watch it here.
