IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT

This week the stars finally aligned, and Jo was able to speak to rising star of stage and screen, Cush Jumbo about the perils and pitfalls of becoming famous, and if Sydenham really is a glamourous enclave of southeast London. Cush talks about her humble background and how it only made her strive more for the career she dreamed of, and that you're far more likely to be creative and interesting if you grow up in a working-class area. She also gives an insight into what it was like to be recognised in the street for the first time, and her vulnerabilities around that. And as always, Jo shares some epic #FameFails from listeners and one from her own life where an A-lister literally saved her life!

Prepare to get star struck, as Jo finds herself chatting to a sleep deprived, jet lagged, bona fide legend, star of stage, screen and Succession, Brian Cox! Brian was kind enough to join the zoom, despite having only jetted in from New York to London the night before and let his inner Logan Roy shine through as he shares with Jo the difficulties of having global fame in later life, despite having a hugely successful career for decades. The actor tells us about his humble origins, even sharing with us a much-cherished letter written by his mother over almost 70 years ago, and how losing both parents at an early age has shaped who he is and his ultimate success. Brian admits that he says 'yes' to too many things (including this interview) and HATES it when members of the public want him to tell them to f*ck off ... and ask him to wear headphones. This chat sees Brain open up about many aspects of his life and fans of Logan Roy certainly won't be disappointed ... Now f*ck off and listen to the episode.

On a sweltering day in London, Jo Elvin took to the stage to present the very first live episode of FAME, at the London Podcast Festival. Joining her in the air-conditioned oasis was a very familiar face on TV, especially to viewers of Loose Women, Andrea McLean! Andrea came with a big pot of tea to spill and told us some incredible behind the scene stories of goings on at some of our biggest TV shows, including the time a household name insulted her just moments before broadcasting live to the nation and she also gets to confront Jo about the time she turned her down for a job in journalism ...do you want milk with that?

This week's guest is no stranger to being recognised in the street, as she grew-up with a mum who was kid's TV Royalty, when Blue Peter was in its heyday. As the daughter of Janet Ellis, Sophie Ellis-Bextor noticed from an early age how differently people would react once they knew she had a famous mum, but this unfortunately didn't always mean plain sailing amongst her peer group at school. Sophie also talks to Jo about the pitfalls of believing your own hype, which can often come with celebrity status in indie circles, and how she coped with overnight fame after achieving the biggest music hit of the year. Jo also delves into the cringe worthy and often hilarious world of #FameFails... HAPPY CHRISTMAS!