Summary
The youth mental health crisis is escalating, with social media identified as a significant factor. Children are reportedly spending up to nine hours a day on screens, often without supervision, leading to increased anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. In response, Gab offers safer technology options for kids, including phones and watches without social media features, designed to help children gain independence while providing peace of mind for parents.
In a recent conversation, actor Matthew Baynton shares insights from his upbringing in Southend-on-Sea and his journey into comedy and acting. He reflects on his childhood experiences, including his time at clown school in Paris, where he learned the importance of vulnerability and authenticity in performance. Baynton discusses his iconic role in "Horrible Histories" and the impact it has had on children's education, expressing concern that the show's use in classrooms may dilute its rebellious spirit.
The dialogue also touches on the creative process behind Baynton's work, including his character Thomas Thorne in the series "Ghosts." He emphasizes the significance of honesty in comedy, suggesting that true humor often comes from embracing one's flaws rather than attempting to perform a façade. As the conversation unfolds, Baynton's genuine passion for storytelling and connection with audiences becomes evident, highlighting the delicate balance between entertainment and meaningful engagement.
Show Notes
This week Emily and Ray take a stroll through North London with actor, writer and star of Horrible Histories and Ghosts, Mathew Baynton.
Mathew grew up in Southend-on-Sea before heading off to Paris to train at clown school. He tells Emily about his childhood, his early ambitions and why he very nearly turned down the role in Horrible Histories that would help make him a favourite with an entire generation of viewers.
That show led to a string of much-loved comedies, including Yonderland, The Wrong Mans and, of course, Ghosts. Mathew and Emily discuss the extraordinary success of the series, its devoted fans and the new film, Ghosts: The Possession of Button House, which reunites the characters for a big-screen adventure. It's in cinemas now.
Mathew proves to be wonderfully easy company, although Emily gets a little too comfortable and starts calling him Matt, while Ray takes an even more familiar approach by doing a poo. Fortunately, Mathew seems entirely unfazed, and even compliments Emily on her impressive poo-bag technique.
There's also the revelation that Emily still has a bit of a crush on Robin the Caveman. Some things never change.
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Walking The Dog is produced by Will Nichols Music: Rich Jarman Artwork: Alice Ludlam Photography: Karla Gowlett Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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