Page 94: The Private Eye Podcast

Ian, Helen, Andy and special guest Richard Brooks discuss the USA entering its 'insane absolute monarch' era, the ongoing mayhem in the world's oil and gas markets, and check in on the financial arrangements of 'Little Donald', AKA Nigel Farage, and his Reform UK colleagues. 

A rapid unpacking of the recent US strikes on Iran, the unclear motives and risks of wider escalation. Debate over regional actors, casualties, and whether restraint exists. Analysis of energy market reactions and why drilling is not a short‑term fix. Scrutiny of British press behaviour, shifting politics at home, and how a by‑election was sidelined by world events.

Two Andrews take center stage: one accused of using aggressive legal tactics to extract payments, the other linked to an arrest and allegations involving high-profile documents. They unpack alleged misuse of litigation, regulatory responses, and the human cost. Then the conversation shifts to royal accountability, evidence access and how the story became public.

Investigative reporting on payments made to witnesses connected to Prince Harry's legal action. A deep look at a publisher's links to ex-hackers and anti-press figures. A surprising reveal about a wealthy funder who bankrolled investigations into a major newspaper. Examination of how paid book work was kept separate from witness statements.

A panel unpacks a fresh revelation about Peter Mandelson and the controversy over his appointment. They dig into links between powerful figures and the Epstein files, including surprising buried stories. The conversation explores vetting failures, political fallout within Labour, and what the revelations mean for Britain’s political future.

A lively political roundtable on Andy Burnham’s blocked candidacy, his mayoral record and his place in Labour’s internal power play. A skeptical look at Trump’s new “Board of Peace,” its members, funding questions and commercial angles. A deep dive into AI in journalism, from slipups at major papers to fake experts, newsroom retraining and the risks of SEO-driven, low-cost content.

The discussion kicks off with the alarming rise of masked militias in the US, highlighting a lack of oversight. London politics comes under fire, especially candidates with a questionable love for the city. Prince Harry’s latest legal battles are delved into, raising questions about credibility and funding. Insights into ICE’s tactics reveal a troubling shift towards paramilitary operations, while corruption and oversight holes are scrutinized. The panel also analyzes the gap between London's crime rhetoric and the realities facing its voters.

Get ready for a festive quiz filled with the most outrageous news of the year! From Liz Truss's economic claims to a politician's new career in a Scottish drama, the banter is lively. Discover the absurdity of Tory conference oddities and even a questionable door renovation in Parliament. The hosts tackle everything from Musk's black eye to bizarre political quotes. Plus, there's a nod to celebrity couples in space and a tie-breaking finale that leaves everyone in stitches!

Join Ian Hislop, the sharp-witted Editor of Private Eye, along with the talented impressionist Jan Ravens and versatile voice artist Lewis Macleod, as they deliver a hilarious live Christmas special. They skewer the BBC's editing biases, mock a YouthGov survey about Gen Z, and present a Dumb Britain quiz with ridiculous answers. Their playful parodies include a fictional walking memoir and a critique of Trump's absurd peace plan. With sketches on everything from Prince Andrew scandals to a comical tribute to Jilly Cooper, the evening is a riot of satire and laughs!

Local government funding is in the spotlight as the panel dissects the Reform Party's controversial claims and the challenges of council cuts. They delve into leadership dynamics in places like Kent, revealing tensions over community fund reallocations. The discussion touches on the evolving roles of political leadership in both the UK and US, highlighting the implications of gerrymandering and internal party splits. Plus, there's a deep dive into media ownership battles that could reshape the landscape of political news.