Friday Night Comedy from BBC Radio 4

Joining Andy Zaltzman, Andrew Maxwell—a sharp-witted author and journalist—takes listeners through a comedic rollercoaster of politics. They hilariously navigate the local elections, tackling voter disillusionment and quirky British nationalism. The fun continues as they speculate on the whimsical possibilities during a Papal Conclave, along with a satirical look at Trump's upcoming UK visit. Expect laughs and insightful commentary as they intertwine humor with current events, proving that comedy and politics make a lively mix!

Andy Zaltzman is joined by Zoe Lyons, Mark Steel, Athena Kugblenu and Hugo Rifkind to unpack bin workers strikes in Birmingham, pop stars popping to the stars, talks of tariffs, steeling oneself in Scunthorpe, and how Toby took his carvery one step too far.Written by Andy Zaltzman.With additional material by: Mike Shephard, Christina Riggs, Eve Delaney and Ben Pope. Producer: Rajiv Karia Executive Producer: Pete Strauss Production Coordinator: Jodie Charman Production Coordinator: Beanna Olding Sound Editor: Marc WillcoxA BBC Studios Audio Production for Radio 4

This week, journalist Freya Parker brings her sharp wit to the forefront as she dissects the absurdities of tariffs and the fading charm of globalization. The conversation takes a whimsical turn with a comedic tour of a proposed theme park celebrating political chaos. They also engage in a hilariously insightful game of Twister that mocks impartiality in elections. Amid laughter, Parker navigates the quirks of political funding, highlighting its absurdities with a satirical flair that keeps listeners both entertained and informed.

This week, the satirical team tackles the outrage of political retaliation and the overreach of the Thought Police. They humorously analyze a proposed 10% tariff on everyday items while poking fun at Trump's antics and U.S.-Russia dynamics. Absurd incidents involving police and public antics highlight the clash between authority and civil liberties. The hosts dive into whimsical news, celebrity feuds, and the revolving door of government officials to private sector jobs. Local elections and Birmingham's budget blunders provide fresh material for laughter and critique.

Bethany Reeves, a talented music teacher known for transforming complex political statements into catchy tunes, joins the discussion. They dive into the absurd satire of budget allocations for pothole repairs, critiquing the celebrations surrounding such minimal achievements. Political lobbying is humorously dissected, revealing the peculiar absurdities in rhetoric. Plus, Bethany brings a musical twist by adapting educational budget cuts into engaging songs, making serious topics surprisingly delightful. Expect laughter and insightful commentary throughout!

The team delivers sharp satire on modern politics, playfully critiquing youth unemployment and the absurd job application process. A whimsical game contrasts former Prime Minister Liz Truss with amusement park rides, showcasing clever banter and political wit. They creatively utilize haikus to address pressing issues, while tackling the ethical dilemmas of lobbying with humor. Expect a blend of nostalgia and comedy that sets the stage for a future exploration of history, revealing the quirky intersections of current events and entertainment.

Join Paul Dunphy, Naked Week's witty concussion correspondent, as he delivers sharp satirical insights on current events. The hosts humorously dissect the chaos around the Reform Party, likening it to a bedazzled 90s boy band. They also explore government inefficiencies through a whimsical woodworking analogy, competing for the 'Deadwood Trophy.' Quirky royal playlists and a haiku summary of the news add an extra layer of fun. Tune in for a clever blend of laughter and critique!

This week, a blend of humor and satire explores the bewildering world of politics, from Trump's antics to TikTok's troubling algorithms targeting youth. A guest correspondent radicalizes children, while at the same time, they playfully navigate corporate influences in politics. An unconventional chat with a young boy linked to Hamas adds unexpected depth. As they dissect military priorities and young perspectives on defense, the team balances serious topics with comical insights, revealing the absurdities of contemporary life.

Andy Zaltzman is joined by Scott Bennett, Sara Barron, Alex Massie and Lucy Porter for The News Quiz recorded from Scarborough. In the last of the current series, the panel unpack the Prime Minister's Washington visit, aid cuts and defence pastes, silent albums and AI-generated essays.Written by Andy Zaltzman.With additional material by: Simon Alcock, David Duncan, Laura Major, Christina Riggs and Peter Tellouche. Producer: Rajiv Karia Executive Producer: James Robinson Production Coordinator: Jodie Charman Sound Editor: Marc WillcoxA BBC Studios Audio Production for Radio 4 An Eco-Audio certified Production.

Comedian Zoe Lyons joins the discussion with her sharp observational humor. They tackle the absurdities of global politics, poking fun at Trump and Putin's recent talks. The episode delves into the hilarity of Britain's defense spending, balancing military ambitions with budget realities. They also explore prison overcrowding, proposing unconventional solutions with comedic flair. The conversation highlights the struggle between honesty and the comfort of lies, making for an engaging and entertaining take on serious topics.