Claudia Winkleman reveals all about The Claudia Winkleman Show and her star guests - "I imagine I'll ask them about their favourite biscuits and their dog and people will actually fall asleep"

Friday nights on BBC One and iPlayer are getting the Claudia Winkleman treatment. The charismatic host showcases her trademark warmth, charm and humour in a brand-new talk show, cleverly named The Claudia Winkleman Show.

Each episode will feature an eclectic mix of guests including Hollywood stars, the best of British, and laugh-out-loud comedians. And it's not just celebrities who are invited to join Claudia on this show because for her, the audience in the studio and at home are just as important as someone who has won an Oscar.

The Claudia Winkleman show begins Friday 13 March on BBC One and iPlayer

LW

Q&A with Claudia Winkleman

Tell us about the show... what can viewers expect?

I can’t tell you too much as we sort of don’t know what it is until we’ve done it, but the fantastic team are working really hard behind the scenes - they are brilliant and we’ve got some great guests lined up who will sit on a green sofa. I’m trying to dress like Michael Aspel with a touch of Michael Caine.

I realise this information is not terribly useful.

You've been a guest on chat shows a number of times, how does it feel being on the other side taking the reins?

Really scary. I know my job is to make sure the guests have a great time and feel relaxed - I imagine I'll ask them about their favourite biscuits and their dog and people will actually fall asleep. We’ll soon find out how it goes…

You've of course been interviewed by Graham Norton and stood in for him last year too, how does it feel being in a similar slot to him?

It’s an enormous honour. He is the king, the best of the best. He’s incredibly generous and charming and easy to talk to and that’s why he always has the best guests. To be in the same slot is a total privilege and also completely nerve wracking.

What was your first ever chat show experience?

I think I talked about how to flirt on the sofa for Good Morning with Anne and Nick when I was in my early 20’s. It was chronic.

Which chat show hosts inspire you, and why?

I love Graham (Norton) and Jonathan (Ross), I never missed a Chatty Man (Alan Carr) and I am actually in love with Chelsea Handler. But I always have Radio 2 or 4 on and love listening to people ask and answer questions.

What will you have in the dressing room/green room for your guests?

Beer, crisps and some biscuits I’ll have made, which will be both raw and burnt. I can break actual science in the kitchen.

The show starts on Friday 13th... lucky for some - how do you feel about that date?

All I can tell you is that if I see a single magpie I salute them and ask them about their husband or wife. I then think the day’s a write off and try and get back into bed with my eyes closed.

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