BBC viewers may be in for a surprise as The Graham Norton Show will have a different face in the host’s chair for one night only. 

Regular host Graham Norton is taking a break, and stepping in to lead the popular talk show is none other than Strictly Come Dancing presenter Claudia Winkleman.

Claudia Winkleman Fills In for Graham Norton

Graham Norton, the beloved host of the long-running BBC chat show, will be absent from the latest episode, leaving his hosting duties to Claudia Winkleman. 

Viewers tuning in on February 28 might have been caught off guard by the change, but Norton’s temporary departure was announced well in advance.

On January 10, during a previous episode of The Graham Norton Show, Norton revealed that he would be away due to a prior commitment. 

As a result, Winkleman, a familiar face on BBC, was selected to step in for the evening. Upon hearing the news, she jokingly responded: “I apologise in advance!”

Despite the one-off switch, the show’s branding remains unchanged, with the programme still airing under The Graham Norton Show title rather than adopting a temporary rebrand.

Star-Studded Guest Lineup

Winkleman’s hosting debut on the show is accompanied by an impressive lineup of celebrity guests. Hollywood star Chris Pratt is set to appear, discussing his role in the upcoming sci-fi comedy-drama The Electric State.

Joining him on the sofa is Derry Girls actress Saoirse-Monica Jackson, who will be promoting her role in the new BBC drama This City is Ours. Meanwhile, comedian Rob Beckett will chat about the latest season of his panel show Rob Beckett’s Smart TV.

Also appearing on the show is British actor Toby Jones, widely recognized for his performances in Mr Bates vs The Post Office and numerous other acclaimed dramas. To round off the evening, singer-songwriter Rachel Chinouriri will take to the stage to perform her latest single, All I Ever Asked.

Why Is Graham Norton Absent?

The reason behind Norton’s temporary departure is an exciting one for his international fans—he is currently in Australia, undertaking his first-ever live tour down under.

The tour, titled An Evening with Graham Norton, features a mix of comedy, storytelling, and audience interaction. Known for his quick wit and humorous anecdotes, Norton is sharing personal stories from his career, followed by a Q&A segment where attendees have the chance to ask him anything.

His Australian schedule includes stops in Adelaide, Perth, Brisbane, and Melbourne throughout March.

Viewers React to the Hosting Change

Fans of The Graham Norton Show have had mixed reactions to the temporary change in host. Some have taken to social media to express their excitement about Winkleman stepping in, praising her quick wit and natural charisma.

A few viewers even suggested renaming the show for the night, proposing titles such as The Claudia Winkleman Show or The Queen, as a playful nod to her status as a beloved BBC personality. However, the BBC has kept the original title, ensuring continuity for the programme’s loyal audience.

Others, however, have voiced their disappointment at Norton’s absence, with some fans declaring that no one can truly replace his signature hosting style.

Claudia Winkleman’s Expanding TV Career

While Winkleman is best known for co-hosting Strictly Come Dancing, she has recently taken on a variety of different television projects.

She has gained widespread acclaim for fronting The Traitors, a reality game show that has become a huge hit with audiences. Her hosting skills have been widely praised, with fans enjoying her sharp humour and engaging presence.

Stepping into Norton’s shoes for a night adds another milestone to her career, proving her versatility as a television host.

Will Norton Be Back Next Week?

Fans of Graham Norton can rest assured that this is only a temporary change. He is expected to return to his usual hosting duties once his Australian tour concludes, bringing back his signature blend of humour and charm.

In the meantime, viewers can enjoy seeing how Winkleman handles the show’s lively discussions, celebrity interviews, and unpredictable moments. With an exciting guest lineup and her own unique hosting style, the episode is sure to be one to remember.

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