

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

21 snips
Dec 13, 2024 • 29min
The Naked Week: Ep2. Spin, Milestones, and Monopoly (Qatar edition)
Jordan Greenaway, Director of Transmission Private, dives deep into the world of celebrity PR and crisis management. He shares tips on how celebrities can effectively apologize after social media mishaps, navigating the tricky waters of public perception. The conversation humorously critiques the impact of political narratives on celebrity crises, while exploring the shadowy world of lobbying and foreign influence in the UK. The hosts also present a satirical twist on Monopoly that highlights serious issues like migrant worker treatment in Qatar, blending comedy with real-world consequences.

24 snips
Dec 6, 2024 • 29min
The Naked Week: Ep1. Lobbying, art, soup, and farms
Dive into a comedic exploration of political absurdities, from whimsical farm plans to the gritty realities of lobbying. Enjoy satirical takes on the intricacies of UK lawmakers and the gambling industry, alongside critiques of art protests and climate summits. The humor continues with absurd comparisons of liquids to cats, and heartfelt tales of unexpected family revelations from DNA testing. It's a laughter-filled commentary on how the news is packaged and presented!

15 snips
Nov 29, 2024 • 29min
Dead Ringers: Ep4. Revolting Farmers
Join the laughter as notable voices tackle a new land tax debate with Jeremy Clarkson and Nigel Farage adding their unique spins. From a clumsy defense by Rachel Reeves to Donald Trump's outrageous turkey talk, satire flows freely. Immerse yourself in whimsical skits featuring absurd appointments and clever jabs at identity politics. The humor dances between playful banter and sharp critiques of modern life, ushering listeners through a creatively chaotic world where political caricatures reign supreme.

Nov 22, 2024 • 29min
Dead Ringers: Ep 3. New World Disorder
Surprising political twists unfold as Donald Trump adds oddball members to his team. Meanwhile, COP29 hosts unexpected guests and Nigel Farage admits climate change is a reality. The chaos of cryptocurrency bubbles bursts with satirical takes on its societal effects. Football fans get a nostalgic send-off as hosts reflect on the future amid humorous commentary. A satirical Etsy shop emerges from election losses, while adapted hymns hilariously critique modern issues, bringing laughter through absurd character roles.

Nov 15, 2024 • 29min
Dead Ringers: Ep 2. America Went There
In this lively discussion, Joe Biden, the current president of the United States with decades of political experience, and Kemi Badenoch, a British politician and former Secretary of State for International Trade, delve into the chaotic aftermath of the recent U.S. elections. Expect hilarious satire on voter dynamics and the absurdity of political responses. From election night shenanigans to playful jabs at political figures, the conversation is packed with comedic insights, showcasing the bizarre intersection of politics and pop culture.

Nov 8, 2024 • 28min
Dead Ringers: Ep1. Budget Politicians
Discover the quirks behind budget politics as inspirations, from literature to absurdity, collide. Laugh as a mock interview reveals government misconceptions about 'working people' and fictional robots dominate future debates. Political satire shines with witty dialogues, tackling the absurdities of campaign tactics and the blurry lines between generosity and manipulation. Amidst it all, humor highlights the ironic reality of politicians getting paid, regardless of their performance, creating a blend of laughter and critique in the political landscape.

Nov 1, 2024 • 29min
The News Quiz: Ep 8. Interference, Incentives and Interruptions
Join Geoff Norcott, a stand-up comedian known for his witty takes, along with political satirist Amy Hoggart, and fellow panellists Alasdair Beckett-King and Susie McCabe. The discussion humorously tackles international election interference, highlighting Trump's Big Mac antics and Labour's door-knocking woes. King Charles and Queen Camilla's kava experiences reveal royal quirks, while the hosts engage in a hilariously insightful quiz on regional quirks in England, blending laughs with sharp political commentary.

Oct 25, 2024 • 29min
The News Quiz: Ep 7. Inflation and Incinerators
In this lively discussion, comedians Ria Lina, Deliso Chaponda, and Andrew Maxwell delve into the quirky world of economic woes and humor. They dissect the recent drop in inflation while playfully critiquing government strategies and public health solutions. The trio provides a comedic spin on serious topics like waste incineration and sewage problems. They even touch on the unusual appointment of a German football manager, all while celebrating the eccentric British game of conkers, bringing lightness to complex issues.

Oct 18, 2024 • 29min
The News Quiz: Ep 6. Cleverly Timed Exits
Anoushka Astana, Andrew Maxwell, and Athena Kablenu bring their comedic prowess to dissect the latest political mishaps. They dive into Sue Gray's dramatic cabinet exit and mock the quirky campaign tactics of Morgan McSweeney. The trio hilariously contrasts the chaos of Labour under Keir Starmer with absurd political personas. Expect witty critiques on James Cleverley's missteps, unexpected Tory leadership twists, and some laugh-out-loud stories that blend humor with current events, including a whimsical nod to a puppet series on climate change.

Oct 11, 2024 • 28min
The News Quiz: Ep 5. Peace & Peaks
Join comedians Zoe Lyons and Scott Bennett, alongside Cindy Yu and Alasdair Beckett-King, as they humorously tackle global issues. From whimsical ideas for world peace led by women and children to witty critiques of UK political absurdities, the conversation is vibrant and satirical. They discuss extravagant political figures, poke fun at bizarre protests, and celebrate the quirks of parenthood in politics. Expect laughter and insightful commentary, wrapping up with Team Optimism emerging victorious!


