Viewers of Channel 4's Sunday Brunch witnessed a swift departure this week as veteran actor Nigel Havers left the studio immediately after his interview segment.
An Early Exit for the Stage
Host Tim Lovejoy informed the audience at the start of the show, which aired on Sunday, 7th December, that Havers had pressing professional commitments. The actor was required to rush off to fulfil his role in the London Palladium's annual pantomime, where he is appearing for a remarkable tenth consecutive year.
The episode featured a roster of celebrity guests including Chris McCausland, Ben Miller, Chris and Rosie Ramsey, and Jack Savoretti. During his chat with Lovejoy and co-host Simon Rimmer, Havers discussed his upcoming live show, Talking B****cks, set for theatres next year. However, the main focus was firmly on his current festive engagement.
A Decade of Pantomime at the Palladium
In the production of Sleeping Beauty, Nigel Havers plays The Keeper of the Privy. The star-studded cast also includes Catherine Tate, Julian Clary, ventriloquist Paul Zerdin, and Rob Madge.
When probed about his perennial return to panto, Havers quipped with characteristic charm, "I don't know. For the money, really." He elaborated on his long-standing collaboration, stating, "I've done it every year since we've started with my friend Julian Clary and Paul Zerdin. And it's fantastic. I suppose it's an amazing experience."
He revealed that he originally suggested the pantomime idea to the venue's owner, Andrew Lloyd Webber, and it has been a fixture ever since. Havers shared amusing backstage anecdotes, joking that Julian Clary "abuses" him on stage and confessing they both forgot the words to their song on opening night. He also mentioned their post-show ritual of enjoying "the best martini in the world."
"It's the most expensive panto ever made," Havers reflected, praising co-star Catherine Tate's performance as "quite extraordinary."
Viewers Charmed Despite Brief Appearance
Despite his hasty exit to make the Sunday matinee performance, Havers' appearance thoroughly delighted the Sunday Brunch audience at home. Reactions on social media platform X were overwhelmingly positive.
One viewer posted: "Nigel Havers is stealing the show. He's a great raconteur." Another admitted, "I've never taken Nigel Havers very seriously... BUT the guy sounds a scream!" A third fan simply stated, "Couldn't help it. Had to watch Nigel Havers on Sunday Brunch. Have always liked him."
His dash from the studio underscored the live, unpredictable nature of the popular weekend programme and the demanding schedule of a festive season performer. Sunday Brunch continues to air every Sunday morning at 10am on Channel 4.
