Graham Norton has been blessing our TV screens for nearly twenty years. The first ever episode of the Graham Norton Show aired on the BBC in 2007, and it has been going strong ever since. Every week, celebrities from around the world gather on his red couch, sipping drinks and telling funny anecdotes about themselves, all the while promoting their upcoming works.
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The show has given us some memorable stories over the years, from Miriam Margolyes' first celebrity crush to Saoirse Ronan's viral comment about everyday life as a woman, millions have tuned in to watch the latest episodes. However, something this good can't last forever, right?
Graham Norton announces hiatus from his talk-show
On Friday, 10 January 2025, Graham Norton surprised his viewers with an unexpected announcement. Indeed, he told his guests and the public he would be taking a break from hosting the Graham Norton Show while he goes on tour in Australia next month. His comedy show, entitled Down Under, is heading to Australia in February 2025, with dates set in Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth and Melbourne. In March 2025, he is set to present An Evening with Graham Norton for the first time in Australia. The last time Graham Norton visited the country was in 1987, so the tour will probably be an emotional time for both the audience and the comedian.
The Irish comedian and actor will embark on a five-city tour of the country, during which he will reflect on his time interviewing celebrities. He is rumoured to share some exclusive anecdotes and tales from behind-the-scenes with the world's biggest television and movie stars. The nine-times BAFTA winner will also be sharing precious intimate moments with the audience, as the show will end in a Q&A session.
Who will replace him?
While Graham Norton will be busy performing overseas, another famous BBC presenter is set to step in to host the talk-show. Indeed, The Traitors' presenter Claudia Winkleman will replace him from 28 February onwards. The 53-year-old humorously responded to Graham Norton's announcement, saying 'I apologize in advance!'. Claudia Winkleman was among the guests on Graham Norton's infamous red couch on 10 January, along with Myles Smith, Tom Hiddleston, Brie Larson and Billy Porter. Speaking about her hosting career, she confessed:
I am always very nervous that people aren't watching and then incredibly grateful that they are. I feel about Traitors like people feel about an offspring you're so glad when people love it. I can't say much but the producers are so clever and there are lots of twists and turns coming.
The Traitors returned to our TV screens on 1 January, a year after Harry Clark became the nation's frenemy after his incredible stunt on the show, which led to his victory. Millions of fans have already gathered to watch everyday people play mind games for money, with the new nation's sweetheart Linda becoming viral for her acting skills, or lack thereof.
Read more:
What are the winners of The Traitors doing now? From standup comedian to social media influencer
Graham Norton reveals details about private wedding with husband Jonathan McLeod
Sources used:
Express: Graham Norton announces replacement for his chat show – and it's huge BBC star
Irish Examiner: Graham Norton to take temporary break from TV to tour in Australia
Ticketek: Graham Norton tickets
