Great Lives

"One of the things that she claimed was that her mother had been impregnated by the sun god Amon-Ra." Elizabeth Day's interest in the female pharaoh Hatshepsut was sparked by a trip to Egypt less than a year ago. What intrigued her was how this woman survived and thrived as ruler in a traditionally male role. Joining her in discussion is Professor Joyce Tyldesley, recent winner of archaeologist of the year. She says that Hatshepsut changed her life when she wrote her biography. Matthew Parris presents.Elizabeth Day is the author of six novels and host of How to Fail. The producer for BBC Studios in Bristol is Miles Warde

Stewart Lee, a comedian and writer known for his clever and often subversive humor, dives deep into the world of free improvisation through the lens of Derek Bailey. Lee reveals how Bailey transformed his view on performance, emphasizing the beauty of mistakes in creativity. He shares anecdotes from Bailey's funeral, highlights his unique improvisation techniques, and discusses how Bailey reshaped musical expectations with his fearless approach. The conversation is enriched with archival clips and spirited debates about Bailey's impact on modern audiences.

Sir James MacMillan, a celebrated Scottish composer, and Archie MacPherson, a renowned football journalist, dive into the remarkable life of Jock Stein, the first British manager to win the European Cup. They explore Stein's mining roots, his tactical genius, and the emotional highs of Celtic's historic 1967 win. Their discussion touches on the fierce Rangers–Celtic rivalry, Stein’s distinctive managerial style, and his untimely collapse while coaching Scotland. MacMillan also reflects on how Stein's legacy inspired his musical works.

John Studzinski, a banker and philanthropist, chairs the board of the Benjamin Franklin House in London, while Kathleen Burk, a historian and author, dives into Franklin's impact. They discuss Franklin as an Enlightenment polymath and his journey from tradesman to statesman. Topics include his critical role in the American Revolution, securing French support, and his views on democracy versus monarchy. They also touch on Franklin's complicated personal life and enduring legacy, shining a light on his relevance today.

"I find his novels extraordinarily beautiful .. and they're an excellent length."Miles Jupp picks an author he loves, but knows little about. JL Carr was born in Yorkshire and was a teacher, mapmaker, and an eccentric. Joining the comedian in studio to discuss Carr is a man who knew him well - DJ Taylor - who paints a picture of a man who hated London literary parties and knew how to have fun with anyone sent to interview him. A delightful episode that includes archive of Carr himself, plus Kenneth Branagh reading from his biography, God's Englishman by Byron Rogers. Carr's novel - A Month in the Country - was shortlisted for the Booker and turned into a film starring Kenneth Branagh, Colin Firth and Natasha Richardson in 1987.The producer for BBC Studios in Bristol is Miles Warde

Today's great life is possibly more famous as a Shakespearean character - King Richard II who was deposed by his cousin Henry Bolingbroke in 1399. He's been chosen by historian Helen Castor, author of The Eagle and the Hart, who shines a light on what really happened towards the end of his reign. Also helping is Professor Emma Smith who explains why the play was a hit two hundred years later under Elizabeth I. With archive of John Hurt as Richard and David Suchet as his cousin and usurper, Henry Bolingbroke.The producer for BBC Studios Audio in Bristol is Miles Warde

DJ Deb Grant picks US mailman turned country-folk singer John Prine, whose beautiful songs captured the world in which he lived. Bob Harris, who first met him on the Old Grey Whistle Test, adds to the conversation."I came to know him through him speaking about his own music - it's his character, his personality and his attitude that I fell for," says Deb Grant. "When he died I was absolutely inconsolable."Programme includes archive of John and his wife, talking after her husband died of complications arising from covid. There's also a reading of the lyrics from Sam Stone, his tale of a Vietnam vet returning from the war. "There's a hole in daddy's arm where all the money goes," he sings.This is series 67 of Great Lives and future guests include Miles Jupp, Stewart Lee and Elizabeth Day.The producer for BBC Studios Audio in Bristol is Miles Warde

Seretse Khama was born in 1921 in Bechuanaland when it was still a British Protectorate. In 1966 he became Botswana's first president. In between he married a white Londoner, Ruth Williamson, was exiled by the British, and made to renounce his interest in succeeding as head of the Bangwato. It's an extraordinary and notable life, and he's been nominated by Professor Mike Bode, an astrophysicist and visiting professor to Botswana. As well as archive of Seretse Khama, the programme includes contributions from Bishop Trevor Mwamba and Susan Williams, author of Colour Bar: The Triumph of Seretse Khama and His Nation.The producer for BBC Studios Audio in Bristol is Miles Warde

Tessa Boase, an author who uncovered Emily Williamson's vital role in founding the RSPB, shares insights into Williamson's fierce opposition to the feather trade. Hannah Bourne-Taylor, who campaigns for swift conservation, illuminates the modern relevance of Williamson's legacy. They discuss bold protests for bird protection, the emotional ties humans have with nature, and the importance of acknowledging women's contributions to conservation history. The conversation is a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight to safeguard vulnerable bird species.

Maureen Mahon, a cultural anthropologist and music professor, joins actress and author Rebecca Humphries to celebrate Tina Turner's extraordinary life. They delve into Tina's rise from a challenging childhood in Tennessee to becoming a music icon known for her resilience. The discussion highlights her tumultuous relationship with Ike Turner, her powerful comeback, and her advocacy against domestic violence. Personal anecdotes reveal how Tina's music resonated during tough times, showcasing her unique talent and lasting impact on generations.