The star-studded lineup features discussions on new projects and personal journeys
Category: Arts & Culture
The Graham Norton Show, airing on October 2, 2026, at 10:40 PM on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, features a remarkable lineup including Hollywood legend Sylvester Stallone, Oscar-winning actress Catherine Zeta-Jones, British actor Andrew Garfield, and the indie-pop band Blossoms. Each guest brings their unique stories and projects to the iconic red sofa, promising an engaging evening of entertainment.
Stallone, promoting his new memoir, The Steps: A Memoir, shares insights into his illustrious career, which includes iconic roles in franchises like Rocky and Rambo. He reflects on the challenges he faced as an actor, stating, "A performer’s journey is always different and original, and I wanted to pass on the experience of what I went through. That’s why I wanted to put it on the page." Stallone elaborates on his determination to play the lead in Rocky, saying, "I wrote the screenplay and I only had one condition – that I play the lead. Everyone wanted it, but they didn’t want me – they said, ‘Over our dead bodies,’ which I understood because I wasn’t a leading man." He emphasizes the importance of holding out for the role, recognizing its potential to change his life.
Meanwhile, Zeta-Jones discusses her exciting role in the Amazon Prime Video revenge thriller Kill Jackie, where she portrays Jackie Price, an art dealer with a dark past. "It is a gift of a part. The show is crazy and high-octane and she is really crazy. It is one of those parts, and at 57, the kind of role that is very satisfying to say the least," she explains. The film was shot in her hometown of Swansea, which brought an emotional resonance to her performance. "Going home was just so incredibly wonderful. It was very fulfilling and to be able to use my own Welsh voice for the very first time in a film was wonderful," she adds. Zeta-Jones expresses enthusiasm for continuing her character's story, stating, "I’d love to do more – I am not done with her yet."
Garfield, known for his roles in The Social Network and Spider-Man, is set to lead in Paul Greengrass’s historical drama The Uprising, which tells the story of the Peasants’ Revolt of 1381. He describes the film as "complicated and inspiring – a big sweeping story with epic feelings at the centre of it." Garfield notes its relevance to contemporary issues, saying it feels like a political reflection for the disparate and divided times we are in and a cry of the soul. He expresses excitement about sharing this story with audiences.
The Graham Norton Show has become a staple of British television, known for its lively format and star-studded guests. This week’s episode is no exception, featuring a mix of Hollywood heavyweights and British talent. Stallone’s career, spanning decades, has seen him evolve from a struggling actor to a household name, with his roles in Rocky and Rambo becoming cultural icons. His memoir aims to provide a candid look at the highs and lows of his life in the spotlight.
Zeta-Jones, who gained fame in the late 1990s, has consistently chosen diverse and challenging roles. Her latest project, Kill Jackie, marks a return to action-thriller territory, demonstrating her versatility as an actress. The film’s production in Swansea allowed her to reconnect with her roots and highlighted the importance of representation in film, particularly using her Welsh accent.
Garfield’s participation in The Uprising reflects a growing trend in cinema to explore historical narratives and their relevance to modern society. Directed by Greengrass, known for his gripping storytelling in films like Captain Phillips, this project aims to resonate with audiences through its exploration of class struggle and social justice.
Following this episode, Stallone's memoir is expected to generate discussions about his legacy and the evolution of action films. As he continues to promote The Steps, fans can anticipate more behind-the-scenes stories and reflections on his career. The memoir is likely to resonate with both aspiring actors and long-time followers of his work.
For Zeta-Jones, the success of Kill Jackie could lead to more opportunities in action-oriented roles, highlighting the demand for strong female leads in the genre. Her willingness to embrace complex characters at this stage in her career sets a precedent for other actresses, showing that age does not limit the types of roles available.
Garfield’s role in The Uprising positions him as a prominent figure in the conversation about historical dramas. As the film draws closer to its release, audiences can expect promotional efforts that will likely include discussions on the film’s themes and its relevance to current societal issues. As he puts it, "It is an exciting film, and I hope it sparks debate." The film's premiere is highly anticipated, especially among those interested in historical narratives that challenge the status quo.
As the episode of The Graham Norton Show airs this Friday, viewers can look forward to an engaging mix of humor, personal stories, and musical performances, making it a must-watch for fans of the guests and the show alike. The episode will also be available on BBC iPlayer shortly after its broadcast, allowing audiences to catch up on the lively discussions and performances they may have missed.