Top 10 Awkward Moments On The One Show
For this list, we're looking at the weirdest and cringiest moments from the BBC's topical magazine show. From celebrity walkouts to toe-curling interviews, this programme has seen it all.
Special thanks to our user WordToTheWes for submitting the idea on our interactive suggestion tool: WatchMojo.comsuggest
#10: Richard Branson’s Dance Moves
When businessman Sir Richard Branson appeared on the show in 2017, he found himself sitting next to comedian and “Strictly Come Dancing” contestant Susan Calman. After Branson’s asked about his dance moves, viewers are treated to the surreal sight of the tycoon atop the coffee table. Earlier, Branson had admitted he didn’t have the skills to go on “Strictly” himself, and here we see why. Okay, Richard, you can stop now.
#9: Morrissey’s Job History
A divisive figure, Morrissey has never shied away from sharing his opinions in public. Whilst promoting his new album “Year of Refusal” in 2009, the former Smiths frontman was asked for his views on unemployment, and he gives an answer his hosts are clearly not expecting. Instead of quitting while he’s behind, presenter Adrian Chiles tries to get some sympathy from the singer. But, it’s classic Morrissey, all delivered with a smile that suggests he knows just how contentious his words are.
#8: Jeremy Corbyn’s Hobbies
In the middle of the 2017 general election campaign, Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn appeared on “The One Show” to provide a glimpse at the man behind the politics. During a trawl through his family’s photo albums, Corbyn’s asked how he came to leave school with just two E’s at A-level, and his explanation is less than convincing. Against a backdrop of awkward laughter from the studio, Corbyn talks about his interests in jam and allotments, but his most bizarre hobby is yet to come.
#7: Gary Barlow’s Walkout
In 2017, pop group Take That appeared on “The One Show” to plug their latest record, “Wonderland”. But Barlow survives just a couple of minutes on screen before this happens. The presenters try to keep the interview on the rails, but Mark and Howard clearly don’t know what to do next. Afterwards, parts of the media suggested there’d been more to the walkout then met the eye, despite Barlow explaining he’d simply been feeling faint because of a hot dressing room.
#6: Brian Cox’s Aliens
Professor Brian Cox is renowned for his record-breaking arena tours that bring science to the masses. But in early 2018, his “One Show” hosts wanted to know just how accessible his lectures really are. So a red-faced Cox is whisked off to the nearest pub to lecture an unsuspecting audience about aliens. It’s difficult to know who’s more bemused by the experience: Cox or his listeners. And whilst the crowd listens politely, we can’t help noticing that the only cheer they give him is when his talking-time runs out.
#5: Theresa and Philip May
In 2017, Theresa May took to the “One Show” sofa with her husband Phillip in an effort to show a more human face to the electorate. Unfortunately, it kind of backfired. Among other tedious insights, we learn about shoes, walking holidays and who takes the bins out in the May household. If you’re still awake at the end of the interview, there’s even time for a bout of face-pulling about the upcoming Eurovision Song Contest. Still, at least the panel on “Have I Got News for You” could find the funny side.
#4: Cliff Richard’s Lawsuit
In 2016, Sir Cliff Richard sued the BBC for their coverage of a police raid on his house. In court, the singer claimed that the BBC’s report had left him feeling “forever tainted”, so “The One Show’s” presenters appeared a tad surprised when he came on the programme to plug his album “Just... Fabulous Rock 'n' Roll”. Perhaps understandably, they asked him about the mixed messages he was sending. The singer seemed unhappy with presenter Alex Jones’ observation, but social media certainly wasn’t, with many accusing Cliff of hypocrisy for using the BBC as a promotional platform.
#3: David Cameron’s Sleep
Having locked horns with the likes of Jeremy Paxman, former Prime Minister David Cameron probably expected an easy ride when he came on “The One Show” in 2011. That was certainly the case at the start, with his interview covering topics such as the Downing Street mouse problem. But then presenter Matt Baker hits Cameron with a surprise final question that even TV detective Columbo would be proud of. An innocent enquiry or a dig at the PM? It’s clear from Alex Jones’ gasp which she thinks it is.
#2: May and Hammond Return to the BBC
Former “Top Gear” hosts James May and Richard Hammond appeared on “The One Show” in 2016 to promote their upcoming Amazon series “The Grand Tour”. And Angellica Bell sets the tone for the awkwardness that follows with this hostile introduction. It’s all downhill from there, with Bell asking May if he regrets leaving the BBC, and Alex Jones seemingly refusing to say Jeremy Clarkson’s name. If we didn’t know better, we might almost think the BBC was bitter about the duo’s departure.
#1: The Bruce Willis Interview
Bruce Willis is obviously famous for a lot of things, but this notorious interview earned him unique headlines in the UK. Back in 2013, while promoting the film “A Good Day To Die Hard”, he’s asked for his views on the movie. But, he isn’t exactly brimming with excitement. As Bruce continues to look disinterested, the hosts move the conversation onto some of his early roles. Surely the actor will be more enthusiastic about those? But, no. Afterwards, Willis actually apologised for the interview, blaming his performance on jetlag.
