Show Notes
Christmas Special: “Flying Again – The Wild Geese in 4K” It’s a festive treat on The Channel Hopper Podcast as TV and film historian John Mabey welcomes movie critic, writer, and journalist Tony Earnshaw for a warm, nostalgic Christmas conversation filled with cinema love and behind-the-scenes stories. In this holiday episode, Tony dives into his lifelong passion for film and television, sharing what first sparked his fascination with the screen and how it’s shaped his career. The spotlight then turns to the brand-new 4K restoration of the 1978 cult classic The Wild Geese, a project close to Tony’s heart. The release features his comprehensive book on the film, an in-depth exploration of its production, legacy, and enduring fandom. Expect rich film history, personal reflections, and plenty of festive cheer as John and Tony unwrap what makes The Wild Geese soar for a new generation of viewers. The Wild Geese – 4K edition and Tony Earnshaw’s accompanying book are available now. Tune in, get cosy, and celebrate Christmas with a cinematic classic—and two passionate film lovers ready to talk all things movies and TV.
More from The Channel Hopper Podcast
In this episode of The Channel Hopper Podcast John sits down with esteemed actor of TV & Film Alex Hyde-White, son of Wilfred Hyde-White (star of a 1000 movies). Alex discusses his career working with such people as Tom Hanks, Stephen Spielberg, Charles Bronson and Sean Connery. He also chooses some of his favourite films to discuss and TV themes. Alex's new book "In the Volume, My Life In Film and TV" is available now, link below. Enjoy! https://amzn.eu/d/0hrlknhi
As a change to the existing routine I am delighted to welcome Lucy Briers to the fold of Channel Hopper alumni. In this edition Lucy talks about her career, chooses her favourite TV themes and discusses her favourite films. We do also spend some time honouring her acting royalty parents in the form of Ann Davies and Richard Briers. Lucy Will be appearing in a new play called "The Sea" alongside Jennifer Saunders at the Theatre Royal Bath from 22 October - 7 November 2026. Link below. Enjoy The Sea — Theatre Royal Bath
This week John has a little natter with his old mate Jeff Bernstein, writer, composer, musician and 80s pop star. They discuss their love of film and tv themes whilst going on a bit of jaunt down the paranormal path. To find more of Jeff's work head on over to Music | Jeff BernsteinDon't forget to like share and subscribe.
In this week's episode John sits down with talented actor and writer Tony Gardner to find out what TV and film means to him, they also discuss Tony's career, including his performances in cult BBC comedy Lead Balloon with Jack Dee and his leading role in children's CITV classic My Parents Are Aliens. We hope you enjoy. Don't forget to like share and subscribe.
This week on The Channel Hopper Podcast John sits down with actor Karl Davies, many of you may remember Karl from British soap Emmerdale where he played wayward youth Robert Sugden. He later went on to play Stephen Fry's assistant in the charming and overlooked sitcom Kingdom, but to millions he will always be known as Daniel Cawood in the hit crime drama Happy Valley. Karl chooses some his favourite tv and movies to discuss, whilst he and John have a good old moan about the state of the world now. Enjoy. Don't forget to like share and subscribe.