Intelligence Squared The Thick of It: 20 Years On, with Armando Iannucci, Peter Capaldi, Chris Addison and Rebecca Front (Part Two)
Oct 4, 2025
Armando Iannucci, the genius behind The Thick of It, joins actors Peter Capaldi and Chris Addison to revisit the show's wild ride through political satire. They share hilarious behind-the-scenes anecdotes, exposing the unconventional filming techniques that brought iconic scenes to life. The panel reflects on Malcolm Tucker's unforgettable persona and the show's real-world political impact. They also debate the challenge of engaging young people in politics today and consider which current figures could stand up to the satirical bite of their beloved series.
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Radical Filming Method For The Inquiry
- Armando described filming the Inquiry episode with isolated actors and no rehearsal to capture genuine uncertainty.
- The cast were marched individually onto set and kept apart to create authentic reactions and tension.
No Conventional 'Wrap' On Final Day
- Peter and Chris recalled feeling terrified and sad on the last day because there was no typical wrap moment.
- They described furtive meetings and a subdued atmosphere as cast members drifted away after the final scenes.
Malcolm Became An Aspirational Figure
- Armando noted politicians sometimes aspire to be Malcolm Tucker after seeing the show and film access to 10 Downing Street increased the effect.
- He observed people asked to be photographed as if being punched, showing the character's cultural reach.