For over a decade, the unmistakable sound of Jonathan Ross’s witty, sometimes cheeky, and always enthusiastic chatter has been a Saturday night fixture on ITV. The Jonathan Ross Show is more than just a talk show; it’s a weekly dose of A-list glamour, unexpected laughs, and the kind of relaxed, revealing interviews that only a host with Ross’s charm can pull off.
Let’s pull up a metaphorical chair and dive into what makes this show such a resilient and beloved part of British telly.
From BBC to ITV: A Seamless Transition
The show burst onto ITV in September 2011, following the conclusion of Ross’s iconic BBC run, Friday Night with Jonathan Ross. Fans breathed a sigh of relief. The trademark wit, the big-name guests, and that infectious cackle hadn’t gone anywhere—they’d just moved channels and nights. It was a bold move, but one that proved Ross’s appeal was bigger than any single timeslot.
More Than Just “The Sofa”
While the famous sofa has hosted everyone from Hollywood royalty (think Tom Cruise, Meryl Streep, Lady Gaga) to British national treasures (Sir David Attenborough, anyone?), the show’s journey hasn’t been without its dramas.
Remember the 2013 “ratings woes” headlines? Ross himself humorously bemoaned the struggle, noting the fierce competition for top guests, particularly from the equally fabulous Graham Norton Show. But true to form, Ross and ITV didn’t retreat. They doubled down. New contracts were signed, format “shake-ups” were promised to keep things fresh, and the show persevered.
A Show That Adapted
The Jonathan Ross Show has proven remarkably adaptable. It survived the industry rumour mill (remember the “axing” speculation in 2016? ITV swiftly shut that down) and, most significantly, it navigated the pandemic with ingenuity.
During 2020 and 2021, the iconic, intimate set—where guests would huddle close on the couch—had to be reimagined with social distancing. It was a strange sight, but a necessary one. The triumphant return of the classic set in Series 19 (2022) felt like a true “welcome back” to normalcy. Though, keen-eyed fans will note Jonathan’s desk is gone, with the man himself now hosting from a comfy chair amongst his guests, making the vibe even more conversational.
Where to Catch It (Beyond the UK)
The show’s appeal is truly global. If you’re reading this from:
- Australia: You’ve likely caught it on ABC1 or UKTV.
- New Zealand: TV One and ChoiceTV have been your go-to.
- Sweden: SVT1 has brought Ross’s humour to Scandinavian shores.
- Ireland: It’s been a staple on 3e and UTV Ireland.
- The United States: Even American audiences can tune in via the Cinémoi cable channel.
Why It Still Works
In an age of fragmented viewing and short-form content, why does a traditional chat show like this still thrive?
- The Host: It all starts with Jonathan. His deep love of pop culture, from comics to blockbusters to music, means he connects with guests on a genuine level. He’s a fan, not just an interviewer.
- The Guest Mix: Where else will you see a Marvel star, a legendary rock band, a stand-up comedian, and a baking show host all in one hour? The eclectic mix creates magic.
- The Comfort Factor: There’s a comforting ritual to settling in on a Saturday night for some glamour and giggles. It’s a weekly appointment with entertainment.
The Verdict
The Jonathan Ross Show is a testament to the enduring power of great conversation. It’s evolved, moved studios (from The London Studios to the revamped BBC Television Centre), weathered industry storms, and come out the other side still sparkling. It remains the place where big stars seem to let their guard down, where laughter is guaranteed, and where Saturday nights feel a little more special.
Catch new episodes on ITV and ITVX. Who knows who’ll be on the sofa next?
