The Channel Hopper Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

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The Channel Hopper Podcast

John Mabey

Tv & Film

Frequency: 1 episode/6d. Total Eps: 33

Hop through the channels of cult TV and cinema with host and historian John Mabey as he sits down with a revolving cast of iconic guests from across the entertainment world. Each episode dives deep into the shows, films, and forgotten gems that shaped our screens—and our imaginations. From behind-the-scenes stories to cultural impact, from beloved classics to niche oddities, The Channel Hopper Podcast is your new destination for smart, engaging, and joyfully geeky conversation about everything cult, curious, and wonderfully cinematic. Tune in, switch on, and start hopping.

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Data updated on 14/07/2026

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Episode 31 - Stephen Brotherstone

Season 1 · Episode 31

Friday, June 5, 2026 • Duration 01:49:56

This week on Channel Hopper, host and TV & film historian John Mabey welcomes writer and artist Stephen Brotherstone, best known as co-author of the critically acclaimed Scarred For Life series. Together, they take a fascinating, and often unsettling journey through the films, television, public information films, adverts, comics and cultural moments that traumatised a generation of children growing up in Britain.

From nightmare inducing kids’ TV to the strange darkness lurking beneath supposedly family-friendly entertainment, John and Ste explore why certain images and stories stayed with us long after childhood and what they reveal about the era that created them.

Please note: this episode contains discussion of disturbing media, horror themes, trauma, and other adult subject matter. Listener discretion is strongly advised.

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Episode 30 - Cathy Shipton

Season 1 · Episode 30

Friday, May 29, 2026 • Duration 01:38:26

This week on Channel Hopper, host and TV & film historian John Mabey welcomes actress Cathy Shipton, best known to millions as the much-loved Lisa “Duffy” Duffin from the iconic BBC medical drama Casualty.

In a warm, funny and deeply honest conversation, Cathy reflects on her remarkable career in television, the lasting legacy of Casualty, and life both on and off screen. Along the way, she shares some of her all-time favourite TV themes, discusses the films that have stayed with her over the years, and reveals the stories behind some unforgettable moments from her acting career.

The episode also explores more personal territory, with thoughtful and candid discussions on relationships, life experiences and the realities of working in the entertainment industry.

Please note: this episode contains some deep discussions of an adult nature. Listener discretion is advised.

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Episode 29 - Ed Bye

Season 1 · Episode 29

Thursday, May 21, 2026 • Duration 01:22:43

This week on Channel Hopper, host and TV & film historian John Mabey is joined by legendary director Ed Bye for a fascinating look back at a remarkable career in British television comedy.

From ground breaking favourites like Bottom, The Young Ones, French and Saunders, The Detectives and My Family, Ed reflects on the iconic shows, unforgettable moments and creative partnerships that helped shape generations of comedy fans. He also shares his thoughts on what television and film have meant to him throughout his life and career, working alongside legendary talents including Rik Mayall, Adrian Edmondson, Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders.

Packed with stories from behind the scenes and heartfelt memories from one of British comedy’s most celebrated directors, this is an episode comedy fans won’t want to miss.

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Episode 28 - Glyn Baker

Thursday, May 14, 2026 • Duration 01:11:17

This week on the Channel Hopper podcast, host and TV & film historian John Mabey sits down with acclaimed actor Glyn Baker for a fascinating look back at a remarkable career both on and off screen.

Glyn reflects on appearing in a host of cult classic films, including James Bond: The Living Daylights, The Wild Geese alongside Richard Burton and Roger Moore, Who Dares Wins with Lewis Collins, and Return of the Jedi. Along the way, he shares behind-the-scenes stories, memories from the industry, and insights into working with some of cinema’s most iconic names.

The conversation also turns personal as Glyn discusses his father, the legendary and greatly missed Stanley Baker, whose legacy continues to influence British film today.

A warm, entertaining and nostalgic episode packed with stories from the golden age of film. Enjoy!

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Episode 27 - Bob Fischer

Season 1 · Episode 27

Friday, May 8, 2026 • Duration 01:53:04

This week on Channel Hopper, host and TV and film historian John sits down with writer, comedian and fellow nostalgia obsessive Bob Fischer for a gloriously overstuffed deep dive into the strange worlds of television, cinema, folklore and the uncanny corners of pop culture.

Naturally, there’s an obligatory ghost story along the way, but mostly this episode descends into a full-scale nerd off as John and Bob bounce from forgotten children’s TV nightmares to cult films, regional broadcasting oddities, strange theme tunes, public information films, and the sort of half-remembered television moments that haunt you for decades.

Fair warning: this one is epically long. We genuinely tried to edit it down, but every tangent somehow led to an even better tangent, and the banter was simply too good to lose.

If you enjoy passionate conversations about the weird and wonderful corners of British pop culture, this is absolutely the episode for you.

You can find all of Bob’s work over at The Haunted Generation.

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Episode 26 - Dick Fiddy

Season 1 · Episode 26

Friday, May 1, 2026 • Duration 01:03:28

In this brand new episode of Channel Hopper, our host—renowned TV and film historian—sits down with a true authority on vintage broadcasting, special guest Dick Fiddy. With decades of experience and an unrivalled depth of knowledge, Dick offers a fascinating window into the golden age of television and the cultural moments that defined it.

As a curator at the BFI, home to one of the world’s largest and most significant film and television archives, Dick brings both scholarly insight and personal passion to the conversation. Together, they explore a handpicked selection of his favourite TV theme tunes—those unforgettable melodies that instantly transport us back in time.

Beyond the music, this episode dives into what it truly meant to sit in front of “the box” in decades past: the rituals, the shared experiences, and the magic of a time when television felt like an event. Warm, nostalgic, and packed with behind-the-scenes knowledge, this is a must-listen for anyone who loves classic TV and the stories behind it.

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Episode 25 - Carolyn Seymour

Season 1 · Episode 25

Monday, April 20, 2026 • Duration 01:11:02

This week on Channel Hopper, host John Mabey, TV and film historian, sits down with legendary actress Carolyn Seymour for a fascinating deep dive into her remarkable career.

From cult classics to enduring television favourites, Carolyn reflects on her roles in iconic series such as The Twilight Zone, Murder, She Wrote, Cagney & Lacey, Space: 1999, and Terry Nation’s Survivors. With candid insight and sharp wit, she shares behind the scenes stories, industry perspectives, and the realities of working across decades in film and television.

This episode doesn’t shy away from the tougher topics either, as the conversation turns to some hard-hitting moments from both her career and the wider entertainment world.

It’s an engaging, honest, and nostalgic journey through television history with one of its most memorable performers.

Enjoy.

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Episode 24 - Toby Hadoke

Season 1 · Episode 24

Monday, April 13, 2026 • Duration 01:38:06

This week on Channel Hopper, host and TV and film historian John Mabey welcomes a true multi-hyphenate guest: comedian, actor, writer, and lifelong Doctor Who devotee, Toby Hadoke.

Best known to fans for his deep involvement in the Doctor Who universe—both on stage and behind the scenes—Toby joins John for a wide-ranging and deeply engaging conversation that spans decades of television history, fandom, and performance. From his early memories of watching Doctor Who as a child to becoming a respected voice within its community, Toby reflects on how the show shaped his career and creative outlook.

The pair also explore Toby’s passion for classic British science fiction and horror, including his love of the Quatermass serials and the iconic Hammer film franchise. Together, they discuss the lasting influence of these productions on genre storytelling, their cultural impact, and why they continue to resonate with audiences today.

Along the way, Toby shares behind-the-scenes insights, anecdotes from the comedy circuit, and his thoughts on how Doctor Who continues to reinvent itself for new generations.

Insightful, funny, and packed with nostalgia, this episode is a must-listen for fans of classic television, British comedy, and anyone fascinated by the stories behind the screen.

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Episode 23 - Neil Dickson

Monday, April 6, 2026 • Duration 01:23:00

In a brand new episode of Channel Hopper, host John Mabey—TV and film historian—welcomes a true cult favourite, actor Neil Dickson, for an engaging and deeply personal conversation that spans decades of screen history. Best known to many as the daring WWI pilot “Biggles” from the 1986 sci-fi adventure Biggles, Dickson reflects on the unique legacy of the film and how the role connected him with audiences across generations.

The discussion also dives into his appearances in iconic television series including Blake’s 7, Dynasty, and Baywatch, offering behind-the-scenes stories, reflections on working across British and American productions, and insights into how the industry has evolved over time. Dickson’s warmth and candour make for a compelling listen as he shares memories of working alongside legendary talents, including Peter Cushing.

The episode takes a poignant turn as Mabey and Dickson pay heartfelt tribute to two of Neil’s dear friends and fellow actors, Marcus Gilbert and Julian Sands. With sincerity and grace, Dickson recalls their kindness, talent, and lasting impact—both on screen and in his personal life—creating a moving segment that honours their memory.

Blending nostalgia, industry insight, and genuine emotion, this episode of Channel Hopper is both a celebration of a remarkable career and a touching reminder of the enduring bonds formed through film and television.

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Easter Special - John Mabey

Season 1 · Episode 23

Wednesday, April 1, 2026 • Duration 01:29:18

This week on Channel Hopper, things take a delightfully unexpected turn for a special Easter episode packed with reflection, nostalgia, and a few surprises along the way.

For once, host John Mabey steps out from behind the mic as interviewer and into the hot seat himself. Swapping roles for the episode, John opens up about his lifelong love of film and television — from the shows that shaped his childhood to the movies that continue to inspire his passion today. Expect personal stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and a deeper look at the voice you hear every week.

Taking over hosting duties is a very special guest: actor Keith Jayne, beloved for his roles in classic series such as The Onedin Line, Murphy’s Mob, and Stig of the Dump. With warmth, wit, and plenty of curiosity, Keith guides the conversation through John’s journey as a fan, a critic, and a storyteller.

It’s a relaxed, candid, and often funny episode that celebrates not just great television and film, but the people who love them. Whether you're a long-time listener or tuning in for the first time, this Easter special offers a fresh perspective on Channel Hopper — and a rare chance to get to know its host like never before.

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The Channel Hopper Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

Podcast details

Recent rankings

Apple Podcasts

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Shared links between episodes and podcasts

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The Channel Hopper Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

Podcast details

Recent rankings

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Shared links between episodes and podcasts

RSS feed quality and score

Publication history

Latest published episodes

Similar podcasts and content

Related Shows Based on Content Similarities

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Related Shows Based on Content Similarities