

Headliners with Nihal Arthanayake
BBC Radio 5 Live
Nihal Arthanayake presents in-depth interviews with headline guests across entertainment, sport, culture and politics.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jun 6, 2023 • 52min
Judy Murray
“It made me look really stupid.” Judy talks to Nihal about the media, mentoring and being a “grammar geek.”

May 31, 2023 • 44min
Mick Hucknall
: “I’m almost in tears now talking about it.” The Simply Red singer remembers Miles Davis, Tina Turner and George Harrison.

May 29, 2023 • 40min
Eddie Izzard
“People say you shouldn’t exist, well I do exist” The gender fluid actor, also known as Suzy talks to Nihal being a ‘serious’ actor, getting into politics and dyslexia.

May 18, 2023 • 30min
Kesha
"Seemingly I'm just a lot more emotional than other people." The US superstar talks to Nihal about her new album.

May 15, 2023 • 1h 1min
Ronnie O’Sullivan
“Snooker made me want to get myself sorted.” Ronnie talks to Nihal about the game, fame and family.

May 3, 2023 • 46min
Jack Whitehall
The comedian and TV star on sharing bathrooms, leaving home and Ray Mears.

Apr 20, 2023 • 52min
Everything But The Girl
“Live is not something we intend to do.” Tracey Thorn and Ben Watt on the duo’s first album since 1999.

Apr 19, 2023 • 39min
Richard Armitage
“We don’t just want the shirt, we want the trousers as well.” The Hobbit and Spooks actor on his new drama Obsession.

Mar 28, 2023 • 54min
Harlan Coben
Harlan Coben, an international bestselling author known for his thrilling novels and Netflix productions, shares fascinating insights about his writing journey. He candidly discusses how personal experiences shape his narratives, including his unconventional writing habits during the pandemic. Coben explores the emotional complexity of crafting relatable characters amidst challenging circumstances and reflects on the delicate balance between personal fulfillment and commercial success. With a touch of humor, he even recalls a dream involving a raccoon, highlighting the absurdities that inspire his plots.

Mar 21, 2023 • 26min
Mae Muller
“I want to look 10 out of 10.” The UK’s Eurovision entry tells Nihal how she’s preparing for the competition.