'An antidote to hearing the same old voices'

Matt Forde is to host his first Radio 4 comedy series.

The Matt Forde Focus Group will feature a panel ofpoliticians, comedians and experts  examining topical issues.

He said: ‘This is a show I’ve wanted to make for ages. As well as being a good laugh, it will be an antidote to hearing the same old voices having the same old arguments. 

‘I want to showcase intelligent, impassioned people who can also laugh at themselves – and, where appropriate, at each other.’

The six-part series follows the success of Forde’s Political Party podcast which he has hosted since 2013 and which has featured guests including Keir Starmer, Tony Blair, Gordon Brown, Nicola Sturgeon and Angela Rayner. 

After an 18-month hiatus due to his bone cancer diagnosis, Matt has resumed his West End residency of the live edition and will record three live episodes at the Edinburgh Fringe. He will also launch his new solo show at the festival, Defying Calamity, in which he explores finding positivity in life despite the rising tide of populism and his ongoing health battles.

He also hosts the podcast British Scandal with Alice Levine,  the Down The Dog podcast with his long-term pal Jon Richardson, and the weekly Rock ‘n’ Roll Football show on Absolute Radio.

The Matt Forde Focus Group will air from Thursday May 22 at 6.30pm on Radio 4 and BBC Sounds.

It is made by Avalon with Richard Garvin producing and Jon Thoday the executive producer. 

Published: 2 May 2025