The Louis Theroux Podcast

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S5 EP6: Ed Sheeran on squeezing Stormzy into his Mini, having breakfast with Van Morrison, and remaining normal

whatshot 11 snips

Jun 9, 2025

Guest

Ed Sheeran

In this chat, pop megastar Ed Sheeran shares his journey from school dropout to chart-topping artist. He recounts the hilarious moment of squeezing Stormzy into his Mini and a surprising breakfast with Van Morrison. Ed opens up about balancing fame while striving for normalcy, navigating complex friendships in the music industry, and his insights on the impact of AI on creativity. He also reflects on performing live, the thrill of new music, and maintaining genuine connections in a rapidly evolving landscape.

01:24:59

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Episode notes

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ANECDOTE

Protecting Children’s Privacy

Ed Sheeran struggles to maintain privacy for his children in public places due to paparazzi and fans.
He mourns not being able to push his kids on swings without attention and films private moments.

question_answer

ANECDOTE

Jamal Edwards’ Crucial Support

Ed met Jamal Edwards at 18 and stayed at his house several days per week while struggling in London.
Jamal's support through SBTV helped Ed establish his music career despite financial hardships.

question_answer

ANECDOTE

Breakfast with Van Morrison

Ed was surprised by early morning hotel calls to have breakfast with Van Morrison in Belfast.
They discussed Spotify, with Ed explaining its impact to the legendary artist.

Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode

Generational Connection and Celebrating Fame

05:01 • 2min

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Navigating Fame and Normalcy

06:35 • 6min

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Navigating Life and Music

12:53 • 19min

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From Fan to Collaborator: A Grime Journey

32:17 • 4min

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The Journey of Musical Growth and Performance

36:20 • 19min

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The Thrills and Challenges of Live Performance

55:47 • 3min

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Navigating AI's Impact on Creativity and Fame

58:36 • 18min

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Navigating Fame: The Balancing Act of Success in Music

01:16:36 • 2min

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A Humorous Exploration of Eltons and Personal Reflections

01:18:39 • 4min

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All Along the Watchtower: Bob Dylan

The Hidden History

Geoffrey Giuliano

This audiobook by Geoffrey Giuliano delves into the turbulent life of Bob Dylan, offering insights into his career and personal experiences. It is not a book written by Bob Dylan himself but rather a biographical exploration of his life.

Deliver Me from Nowhere

Warren Zanes

Warren Zanes' book delves into the making of Bruce Springsteen's 1982 album 'Nebraska', a stark and personal work that marked a significant departure from Springsteen's previous output. The book explores the cultural influences and personal struggles that shaped the album, featuring interviews with Springsteen and other key figures involved in its creation.

St Dominic's Preview

None

Van Morrison

Veedon Fleece

None

Van Morrison

Irish Heartbeat

Paul Ferris

Mule variations

Tom Waits

Astral Weeks

A Secret History of 1968

Van Morrison

This book by Ryan H. Walsh is a comprehensive account of the cultural and historical context of 1968, particularly in Boston, and how it influenced the creation of Van Morrison's album 'Astral Weeks'. While it touches on Morrison's time in Boston and the preparation for the album, it extensively covers the broader countercultural scene, including figures like Mel Lyman, Timothy Leary, and the Velvet Underground. The book paints a vivid portrait of the interconnected countercultural sects and events that defined 1968 in Boston[3][4][5].

Law at the Movies

Stanley Fish

Moondance

Frank Asch

In this charming picture book, Bear wants to dance with the moon but is unsure if the moon will want to dance with him. With the help of his friend Little Bird, Bear finds ways to dance with various elements like the clouds, rain, and eventually the moon's reflection in a puddle. The story features simple and captivating illustrations by Frank Asch, making it perfect for young readers[1][3].

In this episode, Louis speaks to pop megastar Ed Sheeran. Joining Louis in the studio, Ed describes squeezing Stormzy into his Mini, a surprising breakfast with Van Morrison, and how to be normal when you’re one of the most famous people in the world.

Warning: Strong language, as well as some adult themes.

Links/Attachments:

Album: ‘Play’, Ed Sheeran (2025)

https://open.spotify.com/prerelease/096l4VGKXhhUHyjD8gh1tf

Album: ‘Autumn Variations’, Ed Sheeran (2023)

https://open.spotify.com/album/5LXOgcszGvUkYzYL4v6wYg

Album: ‘Subtract’, Ed Sheeran (2023)

https://open.spotify.com/album/2WFFcvzM0CgLaSq4MSkyZk

SBTV – Online Platform

https://sbtv.co.uk/home/

Album: ‘Astral Weeks’, Van Morrison (1968)

https://open.spotify.com/album/4pG3bKkbmReDt5QTDn3JDz