Brenda Blethyn: Vera, Michael Caine & Her Hollywood Success

Actor Philip Glenister, star of Life on Mars and Ashes to Ashes, joins us for this episode of Shooting Star Unwrapped.Philip chats about playing the unforgettable DCI Gene Hunt, working with John Simm and Keeley Hawes, and the hugely popular BBC series that made Gene Hunt a British television icon. He also shares a surprising revelation about David Bowie and reveals his favourite sweet snack.Expect stories from behind the scenes, plenty of nostalgia and a fascinating conversation with one of Britain’s best-known TV actors. Plus your chance to get your hands on a script for episode one of Ashes to Ashes, signed by Philip. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our guest on this episode of Shooting Star Unwrapped is singer and songwriter Julie Forsyth, one of Shooting Star's amazing Patrons. Julie chats about her incredible music career from Guys 'n' Dolls to Grant & Forsyth, including supporting Frank Sinatra, writing a song that missed out on Eurovision glory by the narrowest of margins, sharing a Kitkat with Beatles producer Sir George Martin, and carrying on the legacy of her dad Sir Bruce Forsyth, including his support of Shooting Star. Julie has donated a signed Grant & Forsyth CD and a scarf she wore on stage to our virtual charity shop. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Spandau Ballet legend Tony Hadley MBE joins Karen Sugarman for a cup of tea and a trip down memory lane, from the early days of Spandau Ballet and the success of True to performing at Live Aid and meeting Queen Elizabeth II. Tony also reflects on his 23-year friendship with Karen and his longstanding support for Shooting Star Children’s Hospices.Want to meet Tony Hadley? He's donated two VIP tickets to his December concert at the London Coliseum, including a meet-and-greet. Bid now in the Shooting Star Virtual Charity Shop and help raise vital funds for children with life-limiting conditions and their families.Bid here: https://superstars-auctions.com/shootingstarunwrapped Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Award-winning actress Brenda Blethyn OBE joins Karen Sugarman for a cup of tea, accompanied by her beloved cockapoo Jack and a homemade fruitcake. From growing up in post-war Ramsgate to starring as DCI Vera Stanhope in ITV's Vera, Brenda shares stories from her five-decade acting career, including working with Sir Michael Caine on Little Voice and an unforgettable awards moment involving Nicolas Cage.The episode also features a moving conversation with Alison, whose son Dylan-James was supported by Shooting Star Children’s Hospices.Fancy owning something special from a celebrity? While bidding on Brenda's donation has now closed, there are plenty of other exclusive items and experiences up for grabs in the Shooting Star Virtual Charity Shop. Browse the auctions and help raise vital funds for children with life-limiting conditions and their families.Bid here: https://superstars-auctions.com/shootingstarunwrapped Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

West End star and BBC Radio 2 presenter Michael Ball OBE joins Karen Sugarman for a cup of tea and a trip down memory lane. From his breakout role in Les Misérables to duetting with Tony Hadley and Cher, Michael shares stories from his remarkable career, alongside tales of loyal fans, giant chocolate buttons and life in the spotlight. Michael also reflects on friendship, giving back and his longstanding connection to Shooting Star Children’s Hospices, where he serves as Vice-President.Fancy owning something special from a celebrity? While bidding on Michael's donation has now closed, there are plenty of other exclusive items and experiences up for grabs in the Shooting Star Virtual Charity Shop. Browse the auctions and help raise vital funds for children with life-limiting conditions and their families.Explore the auctions: https://superstars-auctions.com/shootingstarunwrapped Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dame Joan's donation to the Virtual charity shop: Valentino Clutch Bag Hollywood icon Dame Joan Collins DBE joins her longtime friend Karen Sugarman for a cup of tea and a trip down memory lane. From her legendary role in Dynasty and its unforgettable swimming pool scene to being appointed a Dame, Joan shares stories from her extraordinary career in showbusiness.Joan also reflects on the importance of family, friendship and her more than 20 years supporting Shooting Star Children’s Hospices, including the special bonds she has formed with the children and families it supports.Want to own Dame Joan’s clutch bag that was personally gifted by Valentino himself? Bid now in the Shooting Star Virtual Charity Shop and help raise vital funds for children with life-limiting conditions and their families.Bid here: https://superstars-auctions.com/shootingstarunwrapped Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Shooting Star Unwrapped is our first podcast hosted by Karen Sugarman MBE, Executive Vice President at Shooting Star. Released every two weeks, the podcast features heartfelt conversations with some of the UK's most recognisable names from entertainment, music and television, exploring their lives, careers and personal connections to Shooting Star. Whether you're a long-time supporter or new to Shooting Star, the podcast offers a unique chance to hear from some of our celebrity supporters in a relaxed, candid and honest way, made possible by Karen’s long-standing friendships with many of her guests. Subscribe now to be the first to hear our first episode.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.