Rylan Clark made a rare admission about his divorce and breakdown during an appearance on ITV's 'The Assembly', a groundbreaking talkshow where a neurodivergent panel asks unfiltered questions. The presenter was asked about his infidelity, his absent father, and how he copes when famous friends are 'cancelled', leading to tears.
The show, which originated in France as 'Les Rencontres du Papotin', has become a hit in the UK after being poached by ITV from the BBC. The pilot with Michael Sheen aired during Autism Acceptance Week 2024, but the BBC lacked the budget for a full series.
Danny Dyer, who appeared in the first ITV series, called it his favourite interview ever, while the episode with Rylan has been praised for its warmth and honesty. The panel, aged 18 to 77, includes people with autism, Down's syndrome, and learning disabilities, who control the conversation entirely.
Producer Stu Richards said the show prioritises entertainment to ensure broad appeal, but also provides vital representation. 'The Assembly' has been commissioned in 20 countries and won an RTS award.