Jonathan Ross has openly discussed the dynamic with his long-time counterpart, Graham Norton, acknowledging a subtle competition that has emerged in the world of British talk shows. The conversation arose as Ross transitioned his show to ITV, sparking renewed interest in how the two presenters stack up against each other.
Ross pinpointed a curious trend: Norton consistently secures American A-listers while his own show leans towards British talent. He admitted a slight bewilderment regarding this disparity, questioning the reasons behind it. It’s a distinction that has become increasingly noticeable as both shows vie for the biggest names in entertainment.
While initial viewing figures favor Norton’s program, Ross points to a different metric – catch-up viewing. He claims the gap narrows significantly when viewers watch on demand, suggesting a dedicated audience that actively seeks out his interviews. Recent data even showed his show briefly surpassing the BBC’s ratings before the news broadcast.
Ross attributes Norton’s success, in part, to a more accommodating relationship with the studios. He suggests a more conciliatory approach allows for easier access to high-profile guests. However, he firmly believes his show is thriving, maintaining a “healthy” position in the competitive landscape.
The rivalry may soon become a three-way contest with the arrival of Claudia Winkleman’s new chat show. Winkleman, known for her work on “The Traitors,” is poised to launch a late-night program featuring guests like Jeff Goldblum and Jennifer Saunders, adding another significant player to the mix.
Beyond the talk show arena, Ross is also venturing into uncharted territory with a unique social experiment titled “Handcuffed.” The show will pair 18 individuals from diverse backgrounds, physically linking them together as they compete for a £100,000 prize.
Ross views “Handcuffed” as more than just entertainment; he hopes it will foster understanding and bridge divides within British society. He expressed optimism that the experience will encourage participants – and viewers – to appreciate differing perspectives.
The premise of “Handcuffed” is designed to be a compelling test of resilience and cooperation. By forcing individuals with contrasting beliefs to rely on each other, the show aims to explore the complexities of modern Britain and potentially offer a path towards greater unity.
