Single Malt History with Gareth Russell

I am joined by internationally best-selling author Dr Philippa Gregory, author of the new play "Richard, My Richard" and two of its stars, Richard III (Kyle Rowe) and Margaret Beaufort (Laura Smithers), for an exclusive interview about the new royal play garnering rave reviews in England.

Jay Britton is setting the world of immersive history alight and I'm thrilled she's joining me here for the Christmas - and season finale - of Single Malt History.

I'm joined by the Marquess of Anglesey to discuss his fascinating new book "The Great Survivor of the Tudor Age," about his ancestor Sir William Paget. Paget was Jane Seymour's secretary, and Anne of Cleves', an adviser to Henry VIII, Edward VI made him a baron, he supported Lady Jane Grey but then served Mary I, and died in the reign of Elizabeth. 

I am joined this week by Robert Child, author of “Immortal Valor: The Black Medal of Honor Winners of World War II,” to discuss his acclaimed research into the remarkable story of the seven African American soldiers who were awarded the World War II Medal of Honor – and the 50-year campaign by some to deny them the heroes’ recognition.

PUBLICATION DAY EPISODE - to celebrate the American release of my new book, "The Palace," I am reading an exclusive extract from the book - the prologue, describing the 1953 coronation ball of Queen Elizabeth II.

Nestled in the English countryside, Harvington Hall is an extraordinarily well-preserved Elizabethan manor house, with many secrets - some, quite literally, hidden within its walls. I'm joined by Phil Downing, Harvington Hall's manager, to explore the role Harvington played in a dark yet fascinating chapter of English history.

This week, I'm joined by two guests: Kleio CEO, Siobhán O'Shaughnessy, to talk about how she created her new Catherine Howard and Hampton Court candles, and counter-terrorism expert Anthony Tucker-Jones, who's here to discuss his book, "Churchill: Master and Commander".

In the Middle Ages, the Mongols created one of the world's largest empire, fuelled by their religious belief that they had been given the Mandate of Heaven to rule the world. I'm joined in this episode by Dr Nicholas Morton, author of an exciting study of this staggeringly large empire, "The Mongol Storm".

Dame Penelope Wilton is beloved by millions for her role as Isobel Crawley in "Downton Abbey". Now, she is playing a very different kind of matriarch - Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother - opposite Luke Evans in the new West End play, "Backstairs Billy." Ahead of opening night, Penelope stops by Single Malt History to talk about her latest role with Queen Mother biographer, and Single Malt host, Gareth Russell.

Dan Jones, a Sunday Times bestselling historian, TV presenter, and author, dives into his latest novel, "Wolves of Winter," exploring the lives of ordinary soldiers during the Hundred Years' War. He discusses his shift from nonfiction to historical fiction, aiming to humanize warfare. Dan shares insights on researching everyday struggles of soldiers and how he characterizes real historical figures through small yet significant details. He also reveals his favorite characters from the novel, highlighting their unique traits and appeal.