View from our sofa: Jessie and Lennie Ware

View from our sofa: Jessie and Lennie Ware https://open.spotify.com/watch?v=show/2SZX2oyIXVvyqEtjQ6C6z5

As a movie lover who has seen more films than I can count, I must admit that Jessie and Lennie Ware‘s cozy living room setup is reminiscent of a small theater where some of my favorite stories unfold. The warm glow of the fireplace, the comforting scent of the candle, and the company of their beloved cat all create an intimate atmosphere that invites conversation and connection.


What’s the view from your sofa?

In my cozy abode, you’ll find a captivating fireplace, a fragrant candle, a spacious mirror, and an exquisite artwork by Frank Bowling, a thoughtful purchase made by my kids. Oh, and don’t forget the feline friend lounging in one corner. Tucked away in another corner is a television.

JESSIE It’s a tiny TV, though, for someone who watches so much telly.

What have you enjoyed on TV recently?

As a family, we tune into shows like “Strictly” and “Gladiators” in the living room on Saturday nights – our regular family television time. However, my preferred spot to watch TV, quite sadly, is tucked away under the covers in bed with my laptop. This habit drives my spouse crazy because we’ve been watching “Shogun,” which he believes should be enjoyed on a larger screen due to its visually stunning qualities.

LENNIE I’ve just finished series two of Colin from Accounts. I loved it so much, but I can’t bear how it ended.

JESSIE Say nothing! I haven’t finished it! You’ve just given something away!

LENNIE I haven’t! Wait and see…

Any TV turn-offs?

LENNIE I dislike shows that feature celebrities, even though I enjoy watching MasterChef. However, I avoid it when famous people are participating, as it annoys me. To me, the most irritating TV is definitely Love Island. Frankly, I can’t fathom how anyone could find it entertaining.

JESSIE You’ve never watched it, so you can’t have an opinion on it!

LENNIE I know the type of people on it, darling. They all look the same.

What inspired the creation of your seventeenth series of the Table Manners podcast, where a diverse range of guests such as Keir Starmer and Paul McCartney have been featured?

JESSIE Initially, I felt a bit let down by music, and yearned for something different. My friend suggested, “You’re quite inquisitive and good at getting people to open up; you should start a podcast.” I decided to give it a try, with my mom preparing meals for the guests… I didn’t anticipate her playing such a significant role. Now, however, I find myself acting as a supporting character to my mother’s leading role.

Lennie, what keeps you going?

LENNIE A glass of red wine and a good night’s rest. Yet, it’s quite remarkable for someone my age to encounter such extraordinary individuals. Truly captivating! Not a single one has fallen short of expectations, really!

Any guests who have surprised you?

CINEMA ENTHUSIAST ME: I never saw it coming, but Ed Miliband turned out to be an absolute hoot as Leader of the Opposition. Who’d have thought? Then, out of nowhere, Pink walked into the room and gave me a surprise kiss!

What kind of guest was Keir Starmer? Has he since invited you to Number Ten?

LENNIE He was a very, very nice man – polite, grateful, hugely humble.

JESSIE He’d send us pictures afterwards of his favourite tandoori salmon in Glasgow.

Lennie got an invitation to Number Ten since he’d been doing phone banking for the Labour Party. However, he couldn’t attend as he already had a ticket to Greece. Did you receive an invitation too, Jess, or were you left out?

JESSIE No!

Lennie, how was it stepping into the limelight?

LENNIE I don’t think I am in the limelight, really.

JESSIE Mum, you get stopped on holiday when someone hears you in the sea!

LENNIE Jesse tells me that people often stop me due to my distinctive whining voice. However, it makes me a bit self-conscious when strangers approach me and comment, “I enjoy your podcast a lot.

Jesse, we deeply appreciate our mothers, yet there are times when they can become a bit annoying. How has your experience been working closely with yours?

JESSIE [arches eyebrows] It’s draining, but honestly… I can’t get enough! The audio of me and her laughing until I can’t breathe, as well as the occasional tiffs, is something truly special. I am incredibly proud of my mom, she’s an incredible woman with a powerful presence and a source of inspiration. However, I could use her help in deciding on the biscuit selection for our launch party.

LENNIE I don’t mind, I’ll defer to you.

JESSIE Correct answer.

Table Manners with Jessie and Lennie Ware is available wherever you get your podcasts

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2024-10-09 19:09