

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

Aug 28, 2024 • 50min
Encore: Gazza | Gazzamania | 1
All Paul 'Gazza' Gascoigne has ever wanted to do is play football. So when he’s taken on by Newcastle United, he’s determined to impress. His talent is undeniable and he quickly becomes the most talked-about player in England. But as his fame grows, so too do his inner demons - and the doubts. Now he's playing for his country on the greatest stage of all: the 1990 World Cup. Fans are holding their breath. The world is watching. England expects. Can Gazza deliver?If you or someone you know is struggling with issues like those touched on in this episode, here are some UK resources:For eating disorder support, call Beat on 0808 801 0677 or email help@beateatingdisorders.org.ukFor mental health support, call Samaritans on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.orgListen 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.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.

Aug 21, 2024 • 34min
Suffragette DNA: Helen Pankhurst on being Emmeline's Great-Granddaughter | 4
Walk into Dr Helen Pankhurst’s home and you’d know straightaway which famous family she’s a part of. From suffragette sashes to her purple, white and green colour scheme. Perhaps it’s no wonder she’s now a celebrated activist herself, winning a CBE for services to gender equality. Matt and Alice sat down with Helen to discuss the effect her family has had on Britain, her take on the climate change protestors of today, and how Labour’s new gender-balanced cabinet will change the country.Read about Helen's campaign to deliver a gender equal parliament by 2028: https://centenaryaction.org.uk/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.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.

Aug 14, 2024 • 54min
The Pankhursts | Cat and Mouse | 3
The struggles of the Suffragettes come alive as they challenge authority through radical acts in their fight for equality. Emily Davison's daring protest leads to tragic headlines, while the emotional turmoil of activists is palpable amidst chaotic confrontations. The legacy of Emmeline Pankhurst is explored, emphasizing both personal sacrifices and historical significance. Tensions rise as ethical dilemmas in activism unfold, highlighting the complexities of the women’s suffrage movement and its lasting impact on democracy.

Aug 7, 2024 • 53min
The Pankhursts | Women at War | 2
Discover the intense struggles of the Suffragettes as they battle for women's rights against a dismissive government. Hear about Christabel's harrowing prison experiences and the brutal realities of force-feeding. The unity and radical strategies of the movement come to life, showcasing inspiring moments of defiance like the dramatic march on Westminster. With escalating tensions and personal crises faced by political leaders, the fight for equality becomes an enthralling saga of resilience and activism.

Jul 31, 2024 • 53min
The Pankhursts | Deeds Not Words | 1
In a gripping narrative, the Pankhurst family's relentless fight for women's rights takes center stage. Tensions rise as Emmeline reveals a shocking secret to her followers. The moral dilemmas of activism are laid bare, highlighting women's sacrifices for suffrage. Personal struggles and political obstacles intertwine as Christabel and her mother rally for voting rights amidst societal resistance. The courtroom confrontations and family conflicts reveal the passionate, tumultuous journey of early 20th century suffragettes, forever changing the landscape of gender equality.

Jul 24, 2024 • 35min
Boris Becker | Tennis guru David Law on watching Becker grow up in the spotlight | 4
Former tennis star Boris Becker's 'addiction' to fame and loneliness of playing tennis. Tennis commentator David Law shares insights on interactions with Becker, parental influence on young prodigies, challenges faced by retired players, and elite athletes transitioning post-career. Discussion on rising tennis stars, legacy questions, and upcoming content on women's suffrage movement.

Jul 17, 2024 • 53min
Boris Becker | Dosh and Becks | 3
Former tennis star Boris Becker faces financial struggles amid a costly divorce and paternity issues. The podcast delves into his outlandish ways to stay afloat, legal battles, and controversies surrounding his lavish lifestyle and scandalous behavior. It also discusses his tense confrontations, escalating scandal involving frozen sperm, and his uncertain future post-conviction.

Jul 11, 2024 • 26min
How Liz Truss Lost her Seat | General Election Special | 1
What does the UK General Election mean for British Scandal? A bonus episode of course. We already have a whole series covering Liz Truss losing her Premiership. Now she has lost her seat altogether. The first former PM to do so since 1935! Matt and Alice speak to the man some would say is behind her recent loss, James Bagge. Last week, he stood against her as an independent candidate winning 6000 votes. Oh, and his brother, Sir Jeremy Bagge, featured in our Liz Truss series. James Bagge paints a picture of the negative reaction Liz Truss received on the doorsteps of Norfolk, and weighs in on Matt’s questionable impression of Sir Jeremy.Do you have a suggestion for a scandal you'd like us to cover? Or perhaps you have a question you would like to ask our hosts? Email us at britishscandal@wondery.comListen 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.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jul 10, 2024 • 54min
Boris Becker | Perfect Match | 2
Boris Becker is in love. His wife, Barbara is the woman of his dreams. He can’t bear to be apart from her, but he has to stay focused on his tennis. But when his career takes a knock, Boris makes a huge mistake which throws his marriage into jeopardy too.Do you have a suggestion for a scandal you'd like us to cover? Or perhaps you have a question you would like to ask our hosts? Email us at britishscandal@wondery.comListen 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.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jul 2, 2024 • 53min
Boris Becker | Boy King | 1
A Wimbledon win aged just 17 saw Boris Becker become the tennis tournament’s youngest ever winner and a global superstar. But the pressure of overnight fame sent his life into a tailspin. In this four-part series, Matt Forde and Alice Levine chart Becker’s meteoric rise and shocking fall from grace. A fall that took the player from the tennis court to the criminal court. And to a London prison.Do you have a suggestion for a scandal you'd like us to cover? Or perhaps you have a question you'd like to ask our hosts? Email us at britishscandal@wondery.comListen 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.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.