Vanessa Feltz and the Fake Guest Scandal

In this episode, we’re shining the spotlight on Henry Kelly, the Irish broadcaster best known for hosting the legendary quiz show Going for Gold. From his early career in journalism to becoming a household name on British television, we’ll explore how Kelly’s charm, wit, and distinctive presenting style helped make Going for Gold a daytime TV classic. While he had a successful career in radio and television beyond the show, it’s his role as quizmaster that cemented his place in 80s and 90s pop culture. We’ll take a deep dive into Going for Gold—how it was created as part of a European Broadcasting Union initiative, its unique format featuring contestants from across the continent, and why Kelly himself initially thought the idea was “nonsense.” Against all expectations, the show became a massive hit, particularly with students, and even led to Kelly being made honorary president of a student union. From its instantly recognisable theme tune (composed by none other than Hans Zimmer!) to the intense final round where contestants had to answer “four in a row,” Going for Gold stood out from other quiz shows of its time. We’ll talk about Henry Kelly’s iconic catchphrases, the occasional language barrier mishaps, and the time a Swedish contestant answered “the farmer” instead of “pawn” in a chess question—only to be proven technically correct! With its gold-and-blue futuristic set and its pan-European lineup, Going for Gold was unlike anything else on TV, and Kelly’s enthusiastic hosting style was key to its success. Beyond Going for Gold, we’ll touch on Kelly’s broader career, including his early work as a journalist at The Irish Times, his time on Game for a Laugh, and his later years in radio, where he continued to entertain audiences with his signature charm. While Going for Gold ended in 1996 (with a brief revival in 2008), Kelly remains fondly remembered as one of British TV’s great quizmasters. 💬 Join the Conversation! Were you a Going for Gold fan? Did you ever dream of competing on it? Share your memories with us on X/Twitter @talk2thehandpod! Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and tune in for more deep dives into classic 90s TV. 🎧🏆✨ Talk2TheHand is an independent throwback podcast run by husband and wife, Jimmy and Beth. Obsessed with 90s nostalgia and 90s celebrities, we'll rewind the years and take you back to the greatest era of our lives.   New episodes bursting with nostalgia of the 90s released on Tuesdays. Please subscribe to our podcast and we'll keep you gooey in 1990s love. Find us on Twitter @talk2thehandpod or email us at [email protected] or [email protected]

In this episode, we’re diving headfirst into the foam-filled, go-kart-racing chaos of Fun House, the legendary kids’ game show that defined after-school TV in the late 80s and 90s. Hosted by the energetic Pat Sharp, alongside cheerleading twins Melanie and Martina, Fun House was the ultimate dream for kids who loved action-packed challenges, wild obstacle courses, and, of course, gallons of gunge! We’ll take a look at how the show was created, what made it so special, and why it remains such an iconic part of British TV history. We’ll break down the format of the show, from the fast-paced messy games to the epic final Fun House challenge, where contestants scrambled through a giant soft play assault course in search of prizes. The go-kart race, a Fun House staple, added an extra level of excitement and ensured every episode ended with a high-speed showdown. With its bright colors, catchy theme tune, and larger-than-life energy, the show became a must-watch for kids across the UK. Finally, we’ll look at Fun House’s lasting legacy. From calls to bring it back to special one-off revivals, the show’s popularity hasn’t faded. Could we ever see a full-scale return of Fun House? And if so, would it work in today’s TV landscape? We’ll share our thoughts and, as always, we want to hear from you—did you dream of competing on Fun House? Or will you make Beths dream come true and tell us that you were a contestant? Let us know! Talk2TheHand is an independent throwback podcast run by husband and wife, Jimmy and Beth. Obsessed with 90s nostalgia and 90s celebrities, we'll rewind the years and take you back to the greatest era of our lives.   New episodes bursting with nostalgia of the 90s released on Tuesdays. Please subscribe to our podcast and we'll keep you gooey in 1990s love. Find us on Twitter @talk2thehandpod or email us at [email protected] or [email protected]

This week, we’re turning up the nostalgia with a deep dive into Eternal, the powerhouse girl group that brought smooth R&B vocals and unforgettable hits to the 90s. From their breakout album Always & Forever to their chart-topping success, we’re exploring how they became one of the UK’s most iconic girl groups. We’ll take a look at their rise to fame, the comparisons to American R&B groups, and how their soulful harmonies set them apart. But it wasn’t all smooth sailing—lineup changes, industry challenges, and behind-the-scenes tensions shaped their journey in ways fans may not have realised. Who gets sacked by fax? Expect plenty of music nostalgia as we revisit their biggest hits like Stay, Just a Step from Heaven, and I Wanna Be the Only One. How did they influence the UK R&B scene? And why do they deserve more credit in pop history? Where are they now?  Join us as we celebrate the legacy of Eternal, their impact on 90s music, and why their songs still hold up today. Whether you were a die-hard fan or are just discovering their music, this is an episode you won’t want to miss! Talk2TheHand is an independent throwback podcast run by husband and wife, Jimmy and Beth. Obsessed with 90s nostalgia and 90s celebrities, we'll rewind the years and take you back to the greatest era of our lives.   New episodes bursting with nostalgia of the 90s released on Tuesdays. Please subscribe to our podcast and we'll keep you gooey in 1990s love. Find us on Twitter @talk2thehandpod or email us at [email protected] or [email protected]

Step into the stylish world of The House of Eliott! To Beths immense joy, we’re diving into the beloved 90s BBC drama that brought 1920s fashion, ambition, and drama to our screens. Created by Upstairs, Downstairs duo Jean Marsh and Eileen Atkins, the series followed sisters Beatrice and Evangeline Eliott as they built a pioneering fashion house in a world still dominated by men. We’ll explore what made The House of Eliott such a standout show—from its lavish period costumes and intricate storytelling to the feminist themes woven throughout. The series perfectly captured the excitement and challenges of the Roaring Twenties, blending high society glamour with the grit of two women fighting for independence in the fashion industry. Despite its devoted fan base, why did it end after just three seasons? Join us as we revisit this unforgettable drama, relive the fashion moments that defined it, find out what the cast went on to, and celebrate the legacy of The House of Eliott. This episode is one you won’t want to miss! Talk2TheHand is an independent throwback podcast run by husband and wife, Jimmy and Beth. Obsessed with 90s nostalgia and 90s celebrities, we'll rewind the years and take you back to the greatest era of our lives.   New episodes bursting with nostalgia of the 90s released on Tuesdays. Please subscribe to our podcast and we'll keep you gooey in 1990s love. Find us on Twitter @talk2thehandpod or email us at [email protected] or [email protected]

In this episode, we dive into the career of Vanessa Feltz, one of British television’s most recognizable personalities. From her early days as a pioneering female voice in talk radio to her rise as a daytime TV staple, Vanessa has built a reputation for sharp wit, no-nonsense interviews, and an unmistakable on-screen presence. But alongside the success came controversy—most notably, the infamous Vanessa talk show scandal of the late '90s, where it was revealed that guests had been faked to create dramatic moments. How did this revelation impact her career? Was she aware, or was she also a victim of behind-the-scenes manipulation? We explore the fallout, how she managed to bounce back, and the lasting impact on British tabloid culture. Join us as we unpack Vanessa Feltz’s journey, her resilience in the face of public scrutiny, and her place in the ever-changing world of British television. Talk2TheHand is an independent throwback podcast run by husband and wife, Jimmy and Beth. Obsessed with 90s nostalgia and 90s celebrities, we'll rewind the years and take you back to the greatest era of our lives.   New episodes bursting with nostalgia of the 90s released on Tuesdays. Please subscribe to our podcast and we'll keep you gooey in 1990s love. Find us on Twitter @talk2thehandpod or email us at [email protected] or [email protected]

In this episode, we step into the world of Riverdance, the groundbreaking stage show that took the world by storm. From its electrifying debut at the 1994 Eurovision Song Contest to its evolution into a global phenomenon, we explore how this fusion of Irish dance, music, and storytelling captivated audiences and redefined traditional performance. We’ll dive into the show's origins, the impact of Michael Flatley and Jean Butler, the drama behind the scenes, and how Riverdance became more than just a performance—it became a cultural movement. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just curious about the hype, this episode has all the rhythm, history, and high-energy footwork you need! Talk2TheHand is an independent throwback podcast run by husband and wife, Jimmy and Beth. Obsessed with 90s nostalgia and 90s celebrities, we'll rewind the years and take you back to the greatest era of our lives.   New episodes bursting with nostalgia of the 90s released on Tuesdays. Please subscribe to our podcast and we'll keep you gooey in 1990s love. Find us on Twitter @talk2thehandpod or email us at [email protected] or [email protected]

In this episode of Talk2TheHand, we dive into the wild and eccentric life of Screaming Lord Sutch, the rock 'n' roll pioneer who became one of Britain’s most notorious political pranksters. From his early days fronting the horror-infused rock band The Savages to his countless bids for public office as the leader of the Monster Raving Loony Party, Sutch carved out a career that was equal parts music, mischief, and madness. But behind the flamboyant costumes and outlandish policies was a man with a deep love for shaking up the establishment. We’ll explore his influence on the British music scene, where he rubbed shoulders with legends like Jimmy Page, Ritchie Blackmore, and Keith Moon. Despite never landing a chart-topping hit, Sutch’s theatrical stage presence and macabre-themed songs left an undeniable mark on rock history. His early performances, featuring coffins, skulls, and bloodcurdling screams, predated the shock-rock antics of Alice Cooper and Ozzy Osbourne by years, making him one of the genre’s true pioneers. Of course, no discussion of Lord Sutch would be complete without delving into his political escapades. With policies ranging from mandatory pogo sticks for public transport to opening pubs for 24 hours, his satirical campaigns mocked the rigidness of British politics while endearing him to the public. But was he just a joke candidate, or did his absurdity hold a mirror up to the establishment? We’ll examine the legacy of the Monster Raving Loony Party and how its spirit lives on in modern political satire. Beyond the larger-than-life persona, we’ll also discuss the struggles that plagued Sutch later in life. Despite his public bravado, he faced personal demons, battling depression and financial difficulties. His tragic death in 1999 shocked fans and left many wondering about the toll of a lifetime spent in the limelight. Was his eccentricity a shield, or was he truly the eternal optimist he portrayed? Join us as we celebrate the highs, the lows, and the sheer lunacy of Screaming Lord Sutch—a man who blurred the lines between rock, politics, and performance art like no other. Whether you know him as the original shock rocker or Britain’s most loveable political rebel, this episode is a deep dive into the unforgettable world of one of the UK’s greatest cult figures. Talk2TheHand is an independent throwback podcast run by husband and wife, Jimmy and Beth. Obsessed with 90s nostalgia and 90s celebrities, we'll rewind the years and take you back to the greatest era of our lives.   New episodes bursting with nostalgia of the 90s released on Tuesdays. Please subscribe to our podcast and we'll keep you gooey in 1990s love. Find us on Twitter @talk2thehandpod or email us at [email protected] or [email protected]

In this episode of Talk2TheHand, we step through the magical portal of 90s television and revisit Goodnight Sweetheart, the beloved BBC sitcom that blended time travel, romance, and comedy in a way no other show quite dared. Created by Laurence Marks and Maurice Gran, this unique series followed Gary Sparrow, a hapless TV repairman who stumbles upon a time portal to 1940s London. With a wife in the present and a lover in the past, Gary's double life led to plenty of laughs, heartfelt moments, and an ever-growing tangle of lies. We explore the origins of the show, its development, and what inspired Marks and Gran to craft this genre-bending sitcom. Was Goodnight Sweetheart simply a romantic comedy with a sci-fi twist, or was it a deeper reflection on nostalgia and the idea of escaping one’s reality? We’ll discuss how the series balanced humor with historical detail, weaving real wartime events into Gary’s adventures. From the iconic theme tune to the meticulous recreation of 1940s London, the show’s dedication to its premise set it apart. Of course, we can’t talk about Goodnight Sweetheart without discussing Nicholas Lyndhurst’s performance as Gary. Fresh off the success of Only Fools and Horses, Lyndhurst brought charm and depth to a character who, on paper, might have been difficult to root for. We’ll also take a look at the supporting cast, from his long-suffering wife Yvonne to his loyal yet clueless best mate Ron, and, of course, his great love in the past, Phoebe. Each of these characters played a crucial role in making the show work, providing both comedic relief and emotional stakes. Finally, we’ll reflect on the show’s legacy. Though it ended in 1999, Goodnight Sweetheart remained a fan favorite, even returning for a one-off special in 2016. But did it ever get the recognition it deserved? And how does it hold up today in an era of complex, serialised TV storytelling? We’ll break down the show’s lasting impact and ask whether Goodnight Sweetheart could ever make a full comeback. So grab a cup of tea, tune in, and join us as we take a trip back in time with Goodnight Sweetheart—a show that proved sometimes, the past really is another country. Talk2TheHand is an independent throwback podcast run by husband and wife, Jimmy and Beth. Obsessed with 90s nostalgia and 90s celebrities, we'll rewind the years and take you back to the greatest era of our lives.   New episodes bursting with nostalgia of the 90s released on Tuesdays. Please subscribe to our podcast and we'll keep you gooey in 1990s love. Find us on Twitter @talk2thehandpod or email us at [email protected] or [email protected]

In this episode of Talk2TheHand, we dive into the fascinating story of Dolly the Sheep, the world’s first animal cloned from an adult cell, and the scientific breakthrough that shook the world. Born in 1996 at the Roslin Institute in Scotland, Dolly wasn’t just any sheep—she was living proof that cloning from adult cells was possible, challenging everything scientists thought they knew about biology and genetics. We’ll explore the groundbreaking science behind Dolly’s creation, including the cloning technique known as nuclear transfer. Hear how scientists like Ian Wilmut and Keith Campbell defied the odds, using a cell from an adult Finn Dorset sheep to produce a healthy, genetically identical lamb. We’ll break down the process in simple terms, explaining how Dolly’s existence redefined the possibilities of genetic engineering and biotechnology. But Dolly’s story isn’t just about science—it’s about the global reaction that followed. We’ll discuss how her birth sparked intense ethical debates, with fears of human cloning dominating headlines and politicians rushing to impose bans. From media frenzy to moral panic, we’ll look at how one sheep ignited a worldwide conversation about the future of cloning and what it means to “create” life. We’ll also take a closer look at Dolly’s life beyond the lab. Despite being a scientific marvel, she lived a relatively normal sheep life, giving birth to lambs of her own. However, her health issues, including early arthritis and lung disease, raised questions about the long-term effects of cloning—questions that scientists are still exploring today. Finally, we’ll reflect on Dolly’s lasting legacy. How did her creation influence modern science, from stem cell research to genetic therapies? What lessons were learned from her story, and how has cloning technology evolved since? Tune in as we unpack the extraordinary tale of Dolly the Sheep, a fluffy icon who changed the course of scientific history. Talk2TheHand is an independent throwback podcast run by husband and wife, Jimmy and Beth. Obsessed with 90s nostalgia and 90s celebrities, we'll rewind the years and take you back to the greatest era of our lives.   New episodes bursting with nostalgia of the 90s released on Tuesdays. Please subscribe to our podcast and we'll keep you gooey in 1990s love. Find us on Twitter @talk2thehandpod or email us at [email protected] or [email protected]

In this episode of Talk2TheHand, we take a deep dive into Glenn Hoddle’s controversial tenure as England manager—a period marked by tactical innovation, high expectations, and dramatic downfall. Appointed in 1996 after Terry Venables, Hoddle was seen as the man to take England to the next level. But while his reign showed flashes of brilliance, it was ultimately overshadowed by off-field controversies and strained relationships within the squad. Under Hoddle's leadership, England produced some memorable performances, including a dominant display against the Netherlands at Euro ’96 qualifiers and an impressive World Cup run in 1998. But Hoddle’s reign wasn’t just about tactics. We explore the off-pitch issues that defined his tenure—most notably his decision to involve faith healer Eileen Drewery, which baffled players and the media alike. We discuss the tension this created within the squad, the rift with key players like David Beckham, and how his management style—often described as distant and inflexible—alienated parts of the dressing room despite his footballing acumen. The 1998 World Cup in France is central to Hoddle’s story. We talk about the infamous World Cup diary and his relationships with key players. We reflect on the controversy that ultimately led to his dismissal: his comments on disability and reincarnation during a newspaper interview. We discuss the fallout, the FA’s decision to sack him, and how his managerial legacy remains one of "what ifs." Was Hoddle ahead of his time, or was he his own worst enemy? Tune in as we unpack one of the most fascinating chapters in England’s football history.   Talk2TheHand is an independent throwback podcast run by husband and wife, Jimmy and Beth. Obsessed with 90s nostalgia and 90s celebrities, we'll rewind the years and take you back to the greatest era of our lives.   New episodes bursting with nostalgia of the 90s released on Tuesdays. Please subscribe to our podcast and we'll keep you gooey in 1990s love. Find us on Twitter @talk2thehandpod or email us at [email protected] or [email protected]