The Louis Theroux Podcast

Laufey, a Grammy-winning Icelandic singer-songwriter known for blending bossa nova, classical jazz and pop. She recalls her viral rise on social media and Berklee beginnings. She talks about mixing genres, the influence of golden-age cinema and Chet Baker, partying with Bill Murray, and why boredom and offline time fuel creativity.

Stewart Lee, comedian, writer and director known for meticulous, politically sharp stand-up and Jerry Springer: The Opera, talks about his werewolf alter ego taking aim at Netflix-style comics. He recounts a sabotaged Royal Albert Hall set. He critiques Elon Musk’s grasp of comedy and warns about platform power. Improvisation, audience dynamics and the cost of touring also feature.

Lulu, Scottish singer and TV star with a six-decade career and hits like 'Shout', reflects on alcoholism and long sobriety. She recalls marrying Maurice Gibb and life inside the Bee Gees orbit. There are vivid stories about Bowie, Jimi Hendrix on her show, and navigating fame, TV work and authenticity through the swinging 60s and beyond.

Kyle MacLachlan, American actor and longtime David Lynch collaborator, chats about their creative shorthand and why Lynch kept casting him. He revisits working on Twin Peaks and Blue Velvet. He explains taking Showgirls to shift his image and laughs about unexpectedly becoming viral on TikTok and Instagram.

Boris Becker, former Wimbledon champion turned coach and commentator, reflects on a life of extremes. He recalls wild Miami parties and celebrity encounters. He reveals the psychological games played in locker rooms against rivals like Nadal. He also talks candidly about his time in prison and how it changed him.

People of Radioland...Louis's back with a brand new series of his podcast, 'The Louis Theroux Podcast'. Watch exclusively on Spotify, or listen wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this conversation, Jimmy Carr, a renowned comedian and panel-show host, dives into the edgy aspects of his comedy style and reflects on his late-starting journey, revealing he was a virgin until 26! He shares insights on the controversial comedy landscape, including his experience performing in Riyadh and navigating public backlash. Jimmy also discusses the craft of joke writing, the importance of audience interaction, and the delicate balance of humor in today's polarized climate, all while promoting his new film, Fackham Hall.

Marina Abramović, a pioneering performance artist known for her physically and emotionally charged works, shares her journey from a troubled childhood to the heights of artistic expression. She discusses the painful relationship between performance and pain, revealing how personal trauma has fueled her art. Marina also addresses being targeted by harmful internet conspiracies, including Pizzagate and the impact of online culture on her life. Her insights on resilience and the role of the audience in performance art make for a captivating conversation.

Florence Pugh, an acclaimed British actress known for her roles in films like Midsommar and Little Women, shares fascinating insights with Louis. She candidly discusses the role of intimacy coordinators in film and her evolving methods for getting into character. Florence reveals her thrill-seeking nature, including jumping off buildings for stunts. She reflects on the complexities of navigating fame, defending her relationships, and recognizing unhealthy dynamics. The conversation is a striking blend of vulnerability and industry wisdom.

David Byrne, musician and founding frontman of Talking Heads, shares insights on the band's dynamic and his creative journey. He dives into how his neurodivergence influences his music and performance style, discussing the beauty of social expression through his art. Byrne reflects on the impact of technology and streaming on the music landscape, emphasizing the importance of emotion over inspiration in songwriting. He also critiques the theatrics of modern politics and explores the complexities of cancel culture, all while maintaining a hopeful outlook on the world.