The Savoy is spotlighting eight standout British figures in its second podcast series.
The legendary London hotel has revealed the guests for the 2026 run of The Savoy Originals, a podcast that places influential cultural voices at the centre of intimate conversations recorded inside its River View suites.
Hosted by broadcaster Alex Zane, the series brings together artists, thinkers and performers who are currently shaping public conversation. Episodes are recorded over a glass of Champagne Laurent-Perrier as guests reflect on ambition, success and the moments that defined their careers.
Among the first names announced is Tom Fletcher, best known as a member of McFly and now firmly established as a creative force in musical theatre through his work on the critically acclaimed new stage production PADDINGTON The Musical.
The line-up also includes Emily English, the best-selling author and nutritionist who has recently returned to King’s College London to deliver a graduation speech, marking a significant milestone in her academic and professional journey and reconnecting her with the institution where she trained.
Later episodes will feature actor Mathew Horne, whose career spans theatre, film and television and includes his much-loved role in Gavin and Stacey, alongside award-winning novelist and broadcaster Elizabeth Day, known for her writing and podcast work that explores failure, resilience and reinvention.
Sport, science and history are also represented, with Olympian Ellie Simmonds OBE reflecting on life beyond elite competition, Dame Maggie Aderin-Pocock discussing her work in science communication and inspiring future generations, and historian Tom Holland bringing insight from a career that bridges bestselling books and popular audio storytelling.
Holland’s appearance follows a major year for podcasting, after his show The Rest Is History was named Apple’s Best Podcast of 2025.
Throughout the run, Zane explores each guest’s motivations and creative drive, framing their stories within the context of The Savoy’s 136-year history as a meeting place for cultural icons, from writers and performers to political figures and innovators.
The Savoy Originals returns today, 16 January, with weekly episodes released across all major podcast platforms.
