The Channel Hopper Podcast

John Mabey
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  • TV & Film
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Hop through the channels of cult TV and cinema with host and historian John Mabey as he sits down with a revolving cast of iconic guests from across the entertainment world. Each episode dives deep into the shows, films, and forgotten gems that shaped our screens—and our imaginations. From behind-the-scenes stories to cultural impact, from beloved classics to niche oddities, The Channel Hopper Podcast is your new destination for smart, engaging, and joyfully geeky conversation about everything cult, curious, and wonderfully cinematic. Tune in, switch on, and start hopping.

  1. Episode 35 - Nigel Pivaro

    5h ago

    Episode 35 - Nigel Pivaro

    Welcome to a brand new episode of the Channel Hopper Podcast! This week, host, TV and film historian John Mabey, is joined by legendary Coronation Street bad boy Nigel Pivaro, best known for playing the iconic Terry Duckworth from 1983 onwards. Nigel looks back on his remarkable career, shares stories from his time on one of Britain's most beloved soaps, discusses some of his favourite films, and picks a selection of his all-time favourite television theme tunes. It's a fascinating conversation packed with nostalgia, behind-the-scenes memories, and great music choices from one of British television's most memorable stars. Enjoy!

    1h 20m
  2. Episode 34 - Su Pollard

    Jun 26

    Episode 34 - Su Pollard

    This week on Channel Hopper, host John Mabey is joined by one of Britain's most beloved television stars, the legendary Su Pollard. Best known for her unforgettable roles in classic sitcoms including Hi-de-Hi! and You Rang, M'Lord?, Su reflects on a remarkable career spanning decades in television, theatre and entertainment. She shares behind-the-scenes stories, fond memories from the sets of these much-loved shows, and reveals what it was like bringing some of Britain's most iconic comedy characters to life. As always on Channel Hopper, music plays a starring role too. Su chooses a selection of her all-time favourite television theme tunes, explaining why they hold such a special place in her heart and reminiscing about the programmes they introduced. Filled with laughter, nostalgia and fascinating stories from one of British TV's true legends, this is an episode that fans of classic television won't want to miss. Listen now on Channel Hopper!

    1h 3m
  3. Episode 33 - Jon Glover

    Jun 19

    Episode 33 - Jon Glover

    This week on Channel Hopper, host and TV and film historian John Mabey is joined by actor, impressionist, voice-over artist and writer Jon Glover for a fascinating look back at a remarkable career in entertainment. Jon shares fond memories of his early television days, including his work on the much-loved children's programme Play School, and reflects on the changing face of British television throughout the decades. He also discusses his later career successes, working alongside comedy legend Harry Enfield and contributing to some of the nation's best-loved productions. Along the way, Jon reveals some of his favourite television theme tunes, recalls the people and programmes that shaped his career, and talks about the films that have left a lasting impression on him. Packed with nostalgia, humour and behind-the-scenes stories from a lifetime in showbusiness, this is an episode not to be missed.

    1h 45m
  4. Episode 32 - Vaun Norman

    Jun 12

    Episode 32 - Vaun Norman

    This week on Channel Hopper, host and TV & film historian John Mabey is joined by comedian, writer and actor Vaun Norman for a wide-ranging and entertaining conversation covering the screen stories that shaped him. From favourite films and beloved television series to the realities of working in comedy and acting, Vaun reflects on his career with warmth, wit and plenty of behind-the-scenes insight. And, naturally, no episode would be complete without the obligatory ghost story — with Vaun sharing a spooky tale that might just leave listeners sleeping with the lights on.

    1h 16m
  5. Episode 31 - Stephen Brotherstone

    Jun 5

    Episode 31 - Stephen Brotherstone

    This week on Channel Hopper, host and TV & film historian John Mabey welcomes writer and artist Stephen Brotherstone, best known as co-author of the critically acclaimed Scarred For Life series. Together, they take a fascinating, and often unsettling journey through the films, television, public information films, adverts, comics and cultural moments that traumatised a generation of children growing up in Britain. From nightmare inducing kids’ TV to the strange darkness lurking beneath supposedly family-friendly entertainment, John and Ste explore why certain images and stories stayed with us long after childhood and what they reveal about the era that created them. Please note: this episode contains discussion of disturbing media, horror themes, trauma, and other adult subject matter. Listener discretion is strongly advised.

    1h 50m
  6. Episode 30 - Cathy Shipton

    May 29

    Episode 30 - Cathy Shipton

    This week on Channel Hopper, host and TV & film historian John Mabey welcomes actress Cathy Shipton, best known to millions as the much-loved Lisa “Duffy” Duffin from the iconic BBC medical drama Casualty. In a warm, funny and deeply honest conversation, Cathy reflects on her remarkable career in television, the lasting legacy of Casualty, and life both on and off screen. Along the way, she shares some of her all-time favourite TV themes, discusses the films that have stayed with her over the years, and reveals the stories behind some unforgettable moments from her acting career. The episode also explores more personal territory, with thoughtful and candid discussions on relationships, life experiences and the realities of working in the entertainment industry. Please note: this episode contains some deep discussions of an adult nature. Listener discretion is advised.

    1h 38m
  7. Episode 29 - Ed Bye

    May 21

    Episode 29 - Ed Bye

    This week on Channel Hopper, host and TV & film historian John Mabey is joined by legendary director Ed Bye for a fascinating look back at a remarkable career in British television comedy. From ground breaking favourites like Bottom, The Young Ones, French and Saunders, The Detectives and My Family, Ed reflects on the iconic shows, unforgettable moments and creative partnerships that helped shape generations of comedy fans. He also shares his thoughts on what television and film have meant to him throughout his life and career, working alongside legendary talents including Rik Mayall, Adrian Edmondson, Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders. Packed with stories from behind the scenes and heartfelt memories from one of British comedy’s most celebrated directors, this is an episode comedy fans won’t want to miss.

    1h 23m
  8. Episode 28 - Glyn Baker

    May 14

    Episode 28 - Glyn Baker

    This week on the Channel Hopper podcast, host and TV & film historian John Mabey sits down with acclaimed actor Glyn Baker for a fascinating look back at a remarkable career both on and off screen. Glyn reflects on appearing in a host of cult classic films, including James Bond: The Living Daylights, The Wild Geese alongside Richard Burton and Roger Moore, Who Dares Wins with Lewis Collins, and Return of the Jedi. Along the way, he shares behind-the-scenes stories, memories from the industry, and insights into working with some of cinema’s most iconic names. The conversation also turns personal as Glyn discusses his father, the legendary and greatly missed Stanley Baker, whose legacy continues to influence British film today. A warm, entertaining and nostalgic episode packed with stories from the golden age of film. Enjoy!

    1h 11m
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About

Hop through the channels of cult TV and cinema with host and historian John Mabey as he sits down with a revolving cast of iconic guests from across the entertainment world. Each episode dives deep into the shows, films, and forgotten gems that shaped our screens—and our imaginations. From behind-the-scenes stories to cultural impact, from beloved classics to niche oddities, The Channel Hopper Podcast is your new destination for smart, engaging, and joyfully geeky conversation about everything cult, curious, and wonderfully cinematic. Tune in, switch on, and start hopping.

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