Friday Night Comedy from BBC Radio 4
BBC Radio 4
Topical comedy from the sharpest satirical minds in the business. Listen first on BBC Sounds, every Friday.Is the news driving you up the wall? You’re not alone. Let the comedians take the strain and work out what’s been funny this week. Features BBC Radio 4’s The News Quiz, Dead Ringers, The Naked Week and Too Long; Didn’t Read. Listen on BBC Sounds, seven days earlier than anywhere else, and subscribe to make sure that you don’t miss an episode.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jan 19, 2024 • 28min
Dead Ringers - 22nd December
Guests include businesswoman Baroness Mone, classical singer Katherine Jenkins, and actor Ncuti Gatwa. Topics covered: Sunak and King Charles give end of year speeches, surprise guest on Naked Attraction, Doctor Who Christmas special, humorous retelling of biblical Christmas story, royal family comedy, Catherine Jenkins's Christmas album, new medication for hot flushes, and a Roman series advertisement.
Jan 12, 2024 • 29min
Dead Ringers - 15th December
Regenerations in Doctor Who and political regenerations, corrupt politicians and scandals, conflict surrounding the Wombles' recycling efforts, radical action to save the planet, Foul-mouthed WhatsApp messages, Yvette Cooper's new podcast, challenges with not saying 'Christmas', and haunted encounters with comedic situations.
Jan 5, 2024 • 29min
The Now Show - 8th December
Stand-up and sketches on topics such as UK immigration policies, government announcements and cybersecurity threats, male suicide and the idea of a minister for men, importance of male friendships, women taking a stand for the environment, controversy over Keir Starmer praising Margaret Thatcher, and a satirical rap about controversial figures.
Dec 29, 2023 • 29min
The Now Show - 1st December
David Eagle unpacks the Advent, Jessica Fostekew explores the repeal of the NZ smoking ban, and Archie Henderson performs an original song. Topics covered include Rishi Sunak's rebranding attempt, climate change summit criticisms, the repeal of the smoking ban in New Zealand, a contentious quarrel over Revels chocolates, and a humorous dialogue introducing the 'Fed' podcast.
Dec 22, 2023 • 29min
The Now Show - 24th November
Ria Lina discusses changes in the NHS, Fin Taylor talks about the Royals, and Ed MacArthur performs an original song. They discuss contradictions in the government's statements on inflation, the recommendation for cognitive behavior therapy for menopausal women, positive developments in women's health, conspiracy theories about Doctor Who, understanding science, Santa's chimney skills, and manipulating British culture.
Dec 15, 2023 • 29min
The Now Show - 17th November
Zoe Lyons talks about recent rare sightings, Pierre Novellie explores middle class crazes and Jess Robinson sings about 10 Downing Street. Discussion on cabinet reshuffle, accountability with Zoom meetings, surprising ventures of David Cameron and Nigel Farage, unusual sightings around the world, the trend of pet chicken boarding, sheep's legs and Larry the cat.
Dec 8, 2023 • 29min
The Now Show - 10th November
Alasdair Beckett-King mourns his political heroes, Desiree Burch deep dives into fast fashion, and Huge Davies gives a musical take on AI. Topics include the divisive political discourse, the absence of political heroes, the significance of Shakespeare's first folio, and the negative impacts of fast fashion. The speaker also discusses the potential impact of AI on various industries.
Dec 1, 2023 • 28min
The Now Show - 3rd November
Ken Cheng uses air fryers to vent his frustration with the housing market. Helen Bauer argues for affordable school uniforms. Rachel Parris gives a musical take on Halloween fears.
Nov 24, 2023 • 28min
The News Quiz - 27th October
The panel discusses problematic protests, the looming general election, and BRITS IN SPACE! They play a game to distinguish real and fake headlines, talk about resignation, election possibilities, and Tory strategies. They also discuss a scandalous bishop resignation, plans for British astronauts, retirement and return to space, and announce winners along with humorous stories.
Nov 17, 2023 • 28min
The News Quiz - 20th October
Andy Zaltzman quizzes the week's news with guests Ian Smith, Lucy Porter, Anushka Asthana, and Simon Evans. Topics include the language of war, crumbling infrastructure, massive rats, Joe Biden's speeches, drone deliveries, UK infrastructure report, and Rishisunak's election strategy.
