British Scandal
Wondery
In a country obsessed with gossip, the great and the good fear one thing more than any other - scandal.British scandals change the course of history. They bring down governments, overthrow the rich and cause the mighty to fall. Some are about sex, others about money. In the end, they’re all about power. But often at the heart of a scandal, there are ordinary human stories. Stories of those caught up in the swirl of outrage. Who was really to blame for what happened? Why did they do it? And when all is said and done, did anything really change? From the creators of Business Wars, American Scandal and Ghost Story, comes British Scandal. Each week, hosts Alice Levine and Matt Forde delve into the murkier side of the British elite, from Phone Hacking to Profumo to the short-lived premiership of Liz Truss. Because sometimes the truth doesn’t set everyone free…Listen to British Scandal on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts. You can listen early and ad-free on Wondery+. Join Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Start your free trial by visiting wondery.com/links/british-scandal/ now.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Oct 1, 2025 • 53min
The Birmingham Six | Bombshell | 3
In a desperate gamble, journalist Chris Mullin tracks down the real Birmingham bombers and tries to convince them to confess on camera. Can he get the scoop of his life, and finally force the police to reopen the case into the Birmingham Six?Do you have a suggestion for a scandal you would like us to cover? Or perhaps you have a question you would like to ask our hosts? Email us at britishscandal@wondery.comBe the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletterThis episode comes out for free on (WIDE DATE), and is available early and ad-free for Wondery+ subscribers.Sign up on http://wondery.fm/applepodcasts and stay up-to-date on the latest new podcasts and more from Wondery.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Sep 23, 2025 • 52min
The Birmingham Six | House of Cards | 2
Journalist Chris Mullin uncovers disturbing evidence he hopes will free the Birmingham Six after a decade in prison. The more he digs, the more he learns of dodgy forensics and police brutality. But bringing this proof to light will mean taking on the most powerful institutions in Britain.Do you have a suggestion for a scandal you would like us to cover? Or perhaps you have a question you would like to ask our hosts? Email us at britishscandal@wondery.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Sep 17, 2025 • 56min
The Birmingham Six | Funeral for a Friend | 1
When IRA bombs tear through two pubs in Birmingham and kill 21 innocent people, Detective Superintendent George Reade knows he has to act fast to find the perpetrators. But for Paddy Hill and five friends - on their way to Ireland for a funeral - this is the start of a torturous nightmare that will become the biggest miscarriage of justice in British history.Do you have a suggestion for a scandal you would like us to cover? Or perhaps you have a question you would like to ask our hosts? Email us at britishscandal@wondery.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
10 snips
Sep 10, 2025 • 22min
April Ashley | The Secret That Could Have Saved April | 4
Zoe Playdon, an Emeritus Professor specializing in medical humanities and a strong advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, joins to shed light on a little-known yet pivotal trans rights case from the 1960s. She discusses how the secrecy surrounding this case overshadowed April Ashley's legal battles, impacting trans rights significantly. Playdon connects historical injustices to contemporary challenges, emphasizing the urgent need for inclusive representation in law. The podcast contrasts this past with current media portrayals and legal definitions of gender, revealing ongoing struggles.
Sep 3, 2025 • 54min
April Ashley | Corbett vs Corbett | 3
The couple must meet again in court, as their divorce case becomes a landmark battle over what defines a woman. As the pressure mounts, who will crack first: April, or Arthur?Please vote for us in the British Podcast Awards: https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/votingDo you have a suggestion for a scandal you would like us to cover? Or perhaps you have a question you would like to ask our hosts? Email us at britishscandal@wondery.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
7 snips
Aug 27, 2025 • 52min
April Ashley | A Place of Her Own | 2
The podcast reveals the tensions in April Ashley's life as she navigates her impending marriage to aristocrat Arthur Corbett. As Arthur's drinking grows heavier, April confronts the true dangers lurking within their relationship. She experiences a pivotal moment of escape with the help of her Great Dane, Mr. Blue, while grappling with identity and familial expectations. The emotional turmoil intensifies as jealousy and control plunge their marriage into chaos, making April question her decisions and seek a new beginning in London.
9 snips
Aug 20, 2025 • 52min
April Ashley | Becoming April | 1
Explore the extraordinary journey of a pioneering trans woman in 1960s Britain. From her transformative surgery to her rise as a fashion model, the narrative highlights her struggles with identity and public scrutiny. Unravel the complexities of love and scandal as she navigates a turbulent relationship with an aristocrat. Delve into the emotional challenges of transitioning, acceptance, and the societal impact of her story that paved the way for future generations. This tale of resilience and authenticity resonates through time.
Aug 15, 2025 • 37min
Noel and Liam | Radio legend Steve Lamacq on the most chaotic interview of his career | 4
Steve Lamacq, a seasoned Six Music presenter and former Radio 1 DJ, shares a behind-the-scenes look at his chaotic 1997 interview with Oasis's Liam and Noel Gallagher. The unexpected and alcohol-fueled confrontation between the brothers turns into radio history, blending hilarity and tension. Lamacq also discusses the fierce rivalry between Oasis and Blur during the Britpop era, reflecting on who actually won the battle, and shares insights into the evolving music scene leading up to this iconic moment.
Aug 13, 2025 • 49min
Noel and Liam | Look Back in Anger | 3
Tension escalates as Liam reacts fiercely to Noel's abrupt announcement of leaving Oasis. The podcast dives into their tumultuous brotherly feud and the darker sides of fame, including addiction and chaotic moments during their tours. Listeners get an inside look at a pivotal press conference amid the emotional turmoil of band dynamics. The complexity of their relationship unfolds through violent confrontations and introspections, ultimately revealing the lasting impact of their legacy on music and each other.
5 snips
Aug 10, 2025 • 4min
Introducing The Mystic and The Mayor... | 1
In a small French coastal town, chaos erupts as the local mayor seeks supernatural help from a mystic to connect with his late father. Their psychic sessions spiral into controversy, sparking a debate about power, manipulation, and vulnerability. Is the mayor genuinely seeking closure, or is he being exploited? As rumors swirl and the town's facade crumbles, the intersection of faith and politics takes center stage, turning a sleepy tourist trap into a sensational story that captivates audiences worldwide.
