Jonathan Ross has shed light on his rivalry with his fellow TV presenter Graham Norton and why he seems to get ‘bigger’ names.
For several decades now, the pair have cemented their names as two of the UK’s biggest personalities.
Jonathan is confronted BBC‘s Friday Night with Jonathan Ross (2001–2010) and ITV‘s The Jonathan Ross Show (2011–present), while Graham started The Graham Norton Show in 2007.
Interviewing a host of famous names from all walks of life, be it music, film or politics, each of their hit shows has routinely managed to attract large audiences.
Now, however, following Jonathan’s move to ITV, there seems to be a clear rivalry.
Asked who gets the ‘biggest’ names, Jonathan said Times: ‘He takes American names. And I’m not quite sure why that is.’
Discussing the viewing figures, the 65-year-old then claimed that while Graham is better than him at first glance, looking back afterwards makes him look more ‘equal’.
“They’re a bit better, but on recovery, we’re about the same. Last week, for example, our show beat the BBC until the news came on,” he added.
‘So it’s a healthy show. I don’t think his figures are much better than mine, but I think they have a better relationship with the studios, and by better I mean more conciliatory.’
Both presenters may have stiffer competition on their hands, however, with the imminent appearance of Claudia Winkleman.
What does Metro think of Jonathan Ross’ new show?
Adam Miller gives his thoughts on Jonathan’s Handcuffed series…
This new show, which started on Friday, March 13, was seen The traitors host interview Jeff Goldblum, Vanessa Williams, Jennifer Saunders and comedian Tom Allen.
Combining fun and humor in a classic talk show format, the BBC hopes it will quickly become a weekend favourite.
The first series will continue for seven episodes until spring, which will give Claudia a prime late-night spot for her first venture into hosting her own talk show.
Which do you prefer?
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The Jonathan Ross Show
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The Graham Norton Show
Jonathan comments on Graham as he introduces a brand new social experiment called Handcuffed.
The ventilation turns on Channel 4the show sees 18 brave Brits shackled together as they compete to win £100,000.
So what is the twist? Well, each of the guests comes from a different lifestyle and has different beliefs, which has already caused some friction.
Speaking about the show, Jonathan said: ‘I believe this experiment will go some way towards healing a broken Britain; after all, to know is to love. I’m looking for our couples to go the distance and not let our differences get the better of us.’
Meanwhile, Editor-in-Chief Tim Hancock added: “Bursting, intense and with a cast that reflects a truly diverse range of British characters, this is the kind of social experiment you’ll only see on Channel 4.
“The series aims to capture modern Britain by examining its divisions and hopefully help to mend some of them too.”
However, tonight Jonathan will be presenting ITV’s Oscars coverage.
Film buffs will be joined by Elle Osili Wood, Samson Kayo and Fred Asquith, and according to ITV, they will “provide unparalleled insight, commentary and analysis of Hollywood’s biggest night”.
This article was originally published on February 27.
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