Legends of News is a gripping, deeply personal podcast hosted by award-winning broadcaster Dermot Murnaghan, exploring the golden era of television news through the voices of those who shaped it. With over four decades in the newsroom himself, Dermot invites fellow household names to reveal what it was really like in front of the camera when the world changed in real time.
Through candid conversations, you’ll be granted a front-row seat to history: from breaking global events to chaotic newsrooms, unforgettable interviews with world leaders, and the occasional live blooper. As history echoes through current events, these news giants reflect on how the past informs the present—and share where life has taken them now.
Legends of News is a warm, revealing, and inspiring chronicle of the stories that must not be forgotten
Episode 1 – John Sergeant: From War Zones to Westminster and waltzing on Strictly
John Sergeant has reported from 25 countries, covered the Vietnam War and The Troubles, served as the BBC’s Chief Political Correspondent for over a decade, and became ITV’s Political Editor before turning to documentaries and popular television. With bestselling books, acclaimed series like Britain’s Flying Past, and that unforgettable Strictly stint, his voice remains as distinctive—and entertaining—as ever.
In this candid and often hilarious conversation, John reflects on:
- How he wanted to write jokes for a living
- His chaotic encounter with Margaret Thatcher moments before her resignation
- How reporting during The Troubles and Vietnam shaped his journalism
- The Strictly Come Dancing phenomenon and why it made him a national treasure
- And the unexpected joy of leaving Westminster for barges, bombers, and boats
From political satire to reporting on the frontline, John takes us on a journey through his career and offers surprising insights into the craft of broadcast news in its heyday.
