Stephen Fry on passion, privilege, and the power of storytelling

Stephen Fry on passion, privilege, and the power of storytelling

Author: Kate Thornton April 25, 2025 Duration: 58:04

Joining us today is one of the most celebrated thinkers and entertainers of our time – a writer, actor, comedian, and cultural icon whose voice and wit have been part of the fabric of British life for decades. From Blackadder and Wilde to QI and Harry Potter, he’s done it all – and now he’s back on our screens hosting Jeopardy! It’s the incomparable Stephen Fry.


In this captivating conversation, Stephen reflects on a career that’s spanned comedy, drama, literature and documentary, offering profound insight into his extraordinary life, both on and off the stage. He speaks candidly about the privileges and opportunities that shaped his early path, the importance of working hard once doors are opened, and the creative hunger that’s driven him for over 40 years.


Stephen also delves into his global activism through projects like Out There, explores the impact of Greek myths and the Harry Potter universe as moral compasses in turbulent times, and shares how his love of quizzes drew him to the iconic game show Jeopardy! From his Oxford days with Emma Thompson and Hugh Laurie to his belief in storytelling as a force for good, this is Stephen Fry at his most thoughtful, passionate, and utterly brilliant.


You can catch Stephen hosting Jeopardy! on ITV and stream it on ITVX. And if you haven’t yet, dive into all three volumes of his autobiographies – they’re essential reading!


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There’s a particular kind of conversation that happens after a glass or two of wine, where guards come down and real stories emerge. That’s the atmosphere White Wine Question Time captures so perfectly. Hosted by Kate Thornton, each episode gathers well-known friends for a relaxed yet revealing chat, structured around three thoughtful questions and, of course, a shared bottle. What unfolds is less a formal interview and more a glimpse into the genuine friendships behind the public personas. You’ll hear laughter, unexpected confessions, and perspectives on culture, society, and current events that rarely make the headlines. This podcast thrives in the space between entertainment and intimate disclosure, often veering into comedy as these candid discussions unfold. With a vast back catalogue of over 450 episodes, each one feels like pulling up a chair to a fascinating table. Whether you start with the latest release or browse the extensive archive, you’re guaranteed a listen that’s as engaging and relevant as it is genuinely enjoyable.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

White Wine Question Time
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