As 2024 comes to a close, we reflect on “The Graham Norton Show,” a beacon of joy and entertainment on BBC One, known for its unique blend of celebrity interviews, musical performances, and the infamous Big Red Chair. Here are some of the best moments that made this year’s episodes particularly memorable:
Saoirse Ronan Silences the Room
In an episode that became a highlight of the year, Saoirse Ronan managed to silence all the men on the couch with a witty remark, turning what could have been a typical banter into a moment of empowerment and humor. This clip went viral, with fans on X celebrating her for both her comedic timing and her subtle advocacy for women’s voices in entertainment.
The Big Red Chair’s Best Tales
- The Drug Bust Story: An audience member recounted a story involving Miriam Margolyes’ property, which was unwittingly used in a drug bust operation. The way the story was told, with humor and unexpected twists, made it one of the year’s most shared moments from the Red Chair, highlighting the show’s ability to turn everyday stories into comedic gold.
- The Olympic Gold Medal Mishap: When rowers Gary and Paul O’Donovan shared how they casually carried their Olympic medals in their back pockets, the audience was treated to a tale of Irish charm and Olympic glory, with Marion Cotillard’s struggle to understand their accents adding to the humor.
Celebrity Chemistry and Candid Moments
- Daniel Craig’s Dance Moves: Daniel Craig recounted his experience filming dance scenes, leading to an impromptu dance-off in the studio, showcasing a lighter, more jovial side of the usually stoic actor.
- Nicola Coughlan’s Realization: Bridgerton’s Nicola Coughlan shared a moment of self-reflection about never having played an adult role in her career until her 30s, which was both humorous and relatable, resonating with many in the audience and on social media.
Musical Highlights and Unexpected Performances
- FLO’s Festive Performance: The British girl group FLO brought holiday cheer with their performance of “In My Bag,” setting the mood for Christmas with their dynamic and infectious energy.
- Laufey’s Christmas Magic: Icelandic singer-songwriter Laufey’s performance of “Christmas Magic” was a serene and beautiful moment, perfectly capturing the essence of the holiday season.
Guest Line-Ups That Lit Up the Screen
- Lady Gaga Talks Harley Quinn: With her role in “Joker: Folie à Deux,” Lady Gaga’s candid discussion about stepping into the shoes of Harley Quinn was both insightful and engaging, giving fans a glimpse into her preparation for such an iconic role.
- Cher’s Career Retrospective: Cher’s appearance to promote her memoir was filled with stories from her decades-long career, offering a rare look at the life of a true pop icon.
The Infamous New Year’s Eve Show
The New Year’s Eve episode featured Robbie Williams and Rami Malek, sparking discussions due to the guests’ appearances and behavior. Speculation on X about whether the show was pre-recorded or live, given Williams’ simultaneous New Year’s celebration in Sydney, added an extra layer of intrigue to the night.
Conclusion
“The Graham Norton Show” in 2024 continued to be a source of laughter, surprise, and heartwarming moments, making Friday nights something special. Whether it was through the unscripted magic of the Big Red Chair, the deep dives into guests’ lives, or the infectious joy of musical performances, the show has once again solidified its place as a cornerstone of British entertainment, eagerly anticipated by fans worldwide for what 2025 might bring.
