Show Notes
In this week’s episode of Channel Hopper, host TV and film historian John Mabey is joined by legendary composer and silent film expert Neil Brand for a fascinating deep dive into music, cinema, and cultural history. Neil reflects on his remarkable career, including his work with the BBC Symphony Orchestra and his long-standing relationship with the BFI, offering behind-the-scenes insights into how music brings classic films to life. The conversation also explores his enduring passion for silent cinema, and why its storytelling power continues to captivate audiences today. Plus, Neil shares details of his brand-new UK tour celebrating 100 years of Laurel and Hardy, revealing what makes the iconic duo’s work so timeless—and how live music plays a vital role in keeping their legacy alive. A must-listen for film lovers, music enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the magic where sound and screen meet.
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.