“The Graham Norton Show” has gifted audiences with countless unforgettable moments, blending humor, spontaneity, and genuine celebrity interactions. Here are ten of the most memorable episodes that have left a lasting impression:
1. Keira Knightley’s Unique Musical Talent
In a surprising display, actress Keira Knightley showcased an unusual skill by playing Cher’s hit song “Believe” using her teeth. Knightley explained that she developed this talent during her school days, where it was a popular pastime among her peers. By flicking her teeth with her fingernails, she accurately reproduced the melody, leaving both the audience and Cher herself astonished. This quirky performance highlighted Knightley’s playful side and added a delightful twist to the episode.
2. Paul Rudd’s “Basic Instinct” Prank
Actor Paul Rudd is known for his recurring prank on talk shows, particularly on “Conan,” where he would set up a clip from his latest project only to play a scene from the 1988 film “Mac and Me.” On “The Graham Norton Show,” Rudd continued this tradition, much to the amusement of the audience and fellow guests. His commitment to the bit and the element of surprise made this a standout moment, showcasing his comedic timing and love for running gags.
3. Miriam Margolyes’ Unfiltered Stories
Actress Miriam Margolyes has become a beloved guest on the show, renowned for her candid and often risqué anecdotes. In one memorable appearance, she recounted a story about meeting actor Leonardo DiCaprio and mistakenly calling him “Leonardo da Vinci.” Her unapologetic storytelling and genuine demeanor have consistently endeared her to audiences, making her segments both unpredictable and entertaining.
4. Will Smith’s “Fresh Prince” Reunion
Bringing a wave of nostalgia, Will Smith delighted fans by performing the iconic theme song from “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.” The surprise was elevated when his former co-star, Alfonso Ribeiro, joined him on stage, and together they performed the famous “Carlton Dance.” This unexpected reunion thrilled the audience and highlighted the enduring popularity of the classic ’90s sitcom.
5. Chris Pratt’s Attempt at a British Accent
While promoting a film, actor Chris Pratt entertained the audience with his attempt at a British accent, specifically mimicking the dialect of Essex natives. His earnest effort and humorous delivery endeared him to the British audience, showcasing his willingness to engage and entertain, even at the risk of self-deprecation.
6. Tom Cruise’s On-Set Antics
Known for his dedication to performing his own stunts, Tom Cruise shared an anecdote about a particularly challenging scene from one of his action films. To the audience’s delight, he then demonstrated a live stunt on set, leaping over furniture and executing a flawless roll. This display of agility and commitment to his craft impressed both the audience and fellow guests, reaffirming his status as a consummate action star.
7. Ryan Gosling’s Childhood Job Selling Cellophane
In a humorous revelation, actor Ryan Gosling recounted how, as a child, his parents acquired a truckload of cellophane and tasked him with selling it door-to-door. His deadpan delivery and the absurdity of the situation elicited laughter from the audience and fellow guests, including Harrison Ford. The story provided a charming glimpse into Gosling’s unconventional upbringing and his ability to find humor in past experiences.
8. John Krasinski’s Encounter with a British Customs Officer
Actor John Krasinski shared a humorous story about his experience with a British customs officer who, upon learning that Krasinski was married to actress Emily Blunt, expressed disbelief and irritation. The officer’s reaction and Krasinski’s recounting of the exchange provided a hilarious insight into the actor’s personal life and the occasional challenges of being part of a high-profile couple.
9. Jamie Dornan’s Unusual Walk
“Fifty Shades” star Jamie Dornan humorously discussed his distinctive walk, revealing that it had been a topic of discussion on set. He demonstrated his gait, prompting laughter from the audience and fellow guests. Dornan explained that he had worked with a movement coach to adjust his walk for certain roles, showcasing his willingness to poke fun at himself and share behind-the-scenes details.
10. Saoirse Ronan’s Insightful Interjection
During a discussion about self-defense techniques, actress Saoirse Ronan offered a poignant perspective, highlighting that while men might joke about using everyday objects as weapons, women often consider such measures out of necessity. Her comment brought a moment of reflection to the typically lighthearted show, underscoring the different experiences of men and women regarding personal safety.
These moments exemplify the unique charm of “The Graham Norton Show,” where celebrities feel at ease sharing personal stories, showcasing hidden talents, and engaging in spontaneous humor. The show’s format fosters genuine interactions, resulting in episodes that are both entertaining and memorable.
For a visual compilation of some of these memorable moments, you can watch the following video:
