The January 23, 2026 episode of The Graham Norton Show offered fans a mix of candid conversations, live music, and humor, featuring actor-musician Joe Keery and rapper Tinie Tempah. Keery reflected on saying goodbye to Stranger Things and the unexpected global success of his song End of Beginning. Tempah delivered a high-energy live performance of Energy and shared his experience stepping back from fame. Alongside Ant & Dec and Claire Foy, the episode balanced laughter, music, and heartfelt insights, making it one of the most memorable installments of the year.
A Star-Studded Evening on the Red Sofa
The Graham Norton Show has long been celebrated for bringing together diverse guests in one lively and often unpredictable setting. The January 23 episode was no exception, with a lineup that spanned television, film, and music. Joe Keery, Tinie Tempah, Ant & Dec, and Claire Foy shared the iconic red sofa, creating a dynamic mix of storytelling, comedy, and live performance.
Fans quickly noticed how well the variety of personalities meshed — from the reflective musings of Keery to the energetic stage presence of Tempah, and the comedic interplay of Ant & Dec. This balance of elements is a signature of the show, keeping audiences engaged and entertained throughout its runtime.
Joe Keery on Stranger Things and Musical Surprises
Joe Keery, known worldwide as Steve Harrington in Stranger Things, provided one of the most heartfelt moments of the night. With the show having ended on New Year’s Eve 2025, Keery described the surreal feeling of the finale sinking in the morning after. He admitted it was “bittersweet” to close a chapter that had defined much of his career and personal growth over the past decade.
But Keery’s focus wasn’t solely on nostalgia. He spoke about his music career under the alias Djo, particularly his song End of Beginning, which has recently achieved unexpected international success. Originally written during downtime on the Stranger Things set, the song evolved from a break-up track into a reflective piece celebrating gratitude and life’s fleeting moments.
The track’s rise to the top of charts across the United Kingdom, Sweden, Italy, and Greece left Keery both thrilled and “shocked and confused,” as he put it on the show. Fans appreciated the candid way he discussed balancing his music with his acting career, highlighting the duality of his creative life.
Behind the Emotional Moments
Keery also reflected on how leaving Stranger Things allowed him to grow creatively. The series’ conclusion was a turning point, enabling him to pursue music and other acting projects more fully. His openness about the emotional impact of saying goodbye added a depth rarely seen in celebrity talk shows, creating a genuinely moving segment.
Tinie Tempah Electrifies the Stage
Rapper Tinie Tempah brought an entirely different energy to the episode with his live performance of the hit single Energy. Known for his charisma and dynamic presence, Tempah reminded viewers why he is one of the UK’s most respected performers.
Tempah also opened up about his personal life, explaining that he had taken a deliberate break from the spotlight to focus on family and “living life outside of music.” This hiatus, he noted, allowed him to recharge creatively and return with renewed focus and inspiration, culminating in the energetic performance that thrilled both the audience and viewers at home.
The combination of candid reflection and high-octane performance exemplified why Tempah continues to resonate with fans — blending authenticity with sheer entertainment.
Ant & Dec Keep the Laughs Coming
British television legends Ant & Dec added humor and lighthearted stories to the evening. They recounted an unforgettable night at Dumfries House with then-Prince Charles, involving wine, laughter, and an awkward moment in a robe that had the studio in stitches.
Beyond humor, the duo shared updates about their podcast, Hanging Out with Ant & Dec, offering a glimpse into their lives away from television. Their candidness, charm, and easy rapport with Graham Norton exemplify why they remain fan favorites across multiple generations.
Also Read : Jon Hamm Film Debut Explained: How a Tiny Role in Space Cowboys Started It All
Claire Foy on Personal Growth Through Falconry
Actress Claire Foy, best known for her work in The Crown, brought a reflective and artistic tone to the episode. Discussing her role in H Is for Hawk, Foy described the physical and emotional challenges of learning falconry to authentically portray a character dealing with grief.
Her insights provided a counterbalance to the humor and music on the show, highlighting the dedication and preparation that go into bringing compelling characters to life. It also allowed viewers to appreciate the human side of acting — the discipline, patience, and emotional investment required to perform authentically.
Candid Conversations and Authentic Moments
One of the hallmarks of The Graham Norton Show is how guests feel comfortable sharing moments that feel real, unscripted, and human. Whether it was Joe Keery reflecting on the end of Stranger Things, Tinie Tempah discussing stepping back from fame, or Ant & Dec recounting comical personal stories, the episode offered a rare glimpse behind the celebrity facade.
These authentic moments resonate with viewers, providing a sense of connection and relatability that elevates the show beyond traditional talk show formats.
Why This Episode Stood Out
The combination of heartfelt reflections, high-energy music, and comedy made this episode particularly memorable. Graham Norton’s interviewing style encourages vulnerability and humor, creating a space where stars feel comfortable opening up. The result is an episode that balances entertainment with genuine insight, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.
Fans praised the way the episode allowed both Joe Keery and Tinie Tempah to showcase different sides of their personalities — the introspective and the energetic — while Ant & Dec and Claire Foy added humor and artistry, creating a perfectly balanced show.
What’s Next for The Graham Norton Show
Looking ahead, the show continues to bring high-profile guests from film, television, and music. Upcoming episodes are expected to feature stars such as Halle Berry, Chris Hemsworth, and Rachel McAdams, promising more engaging conversations, hilarious stories, and memorable performances.
This combination of variety, candidness, and entertainment ensures that The Graham Norton Show remains a must-watch program for fans of celebrity culture and live performance.
Also Read : Alice in Borderland Season 4: Canceled, Ending Explained, and What Comes Next
FAQs
Who were the main guests on the January 23, 2026 episode?
Joe Keery, Tinie Tempah, Ant & Dec, and Claire Foy were the featured guests.
What did Joe Keery discuss on the show?
He reflected on the conclusion of Stranger Things and shared his surprise at the international success of his song End of Beginning.
What did Tinie Tempah perform?
He performed his hit single Energy live, showcasing his stage presence and energy.
Why was this episode aired later than usual?
The broadcast was delayed due to extended programming on BBC One.
What was notable about Claire Foy’s appearance?
Foy discussed her role in H Is for Hawk and shared how learning falconry contributed to her character’s authenticity.
Why is this episode memorable?
It balanced heartfelt moments, comedy, and live music, allowing guests to showcase different sides of their personalities in a relaxed, engaging environment.
Join our WhatsApp channel for more updates and information about celebrities and entertainment.
I’m Atul Kumar, founder of Cine Storytellers and an entertainment creator with 5+ years of experience. I cover films, celebrities, music, and OTT content with a focus on accurate, ethical, and engaging storytelling. My goal is to bring readers trustworthy entertainment news that informs, inspires, and goes beyond gossip.