

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

Feb 16, 2024 • 29min
The News Quiz - 19th January
Comedians Lucy Porter and Robin Morgan, along with political commentators Tadiwa Mahlunge and Ayesha Hazarika, join host Andy Zaltzman for a hilarious discussion on broken New Year's resolutions, difficulties passing the Rowanda bill, bombing Red Sea pirates, a discovery of an ancient creature linked to Wales, Tatar Steel job cuts, controversies around speed limits, and the Welsh Labour leader. Featuring witty comments and jokes throughout, the panel provides entertaining insights into current news topics.

12 snips
Feb 9, 2024 • 29min
The News Quiz - 12th January
Confidential briefing notes, TV license scandals, post office drama, lack of accountability, outdated technology, perception of politicians, rivalry, media coverage, false accusations, potential benefits, reluctance of Tory prime minister, return of David Cameron and Liz Truss, speculation about train time.

5 snips
Feb 2, 2024 • 29min
The News Quiz - 5th January
The podcast discusses various interesting topics including Rishi Sunak's five-point plan, three-digit numbers and Zaha'u'i in the cabinet, current events and news stories, scandals, migration, Covid inquiry, personal life, gender roles, and pay inequality.

Jan 26, 2024 • 28min
Dead Ringers - 29th December
The hosts discuss the impressions of party leaders and their stance on the migrant crisis. They explore the unique voices and character portrayals of political figures. The challenges of making Jeremy Corbyn funny while addressing the risk of him dampening comedy are discussed. The different personas of Boris Johnson are explored through a humorous sketch. Duncan, a beleaguered geography supply teacher, and a member of the Tory party are discussed. The character of Rishi and the significance of content in the digital realm are explored.

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.