Bill Nighy Takes on the Role of the Agony Uncle You Never Knew You Needed
Pick of the Week
Bill Nighy's Ill-Advised
Bill Nighy serves as the unexpected advisor you didn't realize was missing as he answers readers’ questions in his new show. It’s a laconic delight to listen to his relaxed advice on subjects including lipstick application to organizing a vinyl library. Wisdom is being dispensed – despite his self-deprecating protestations.
Accessible on many platforms, new episodes each week
Initial Judgment
Limerick native Ruth Negga narrates this audio series about a couple convicted of performing FGM on their young daughter. Subsequently, they were acquitted but there are ongoing proceedings linked to the case. This delicate examination lays bare widespread, heartbreaking shortcomings by official bodies.
Widely available, episodes weekly
Fela Kuti: Unafraid of Anyone
You can't help but be impressed by the line-up of people paying homage one of the greatest African musicians ever in this program detailing his influence. Names like Ayo Edebiri, Barack Obama, Paul McCartney, Jay-Z, Flea … the wildly enthusiastic tributes accumulate. Then, you're taken aback by a compelling story about his rhythm pianist’s father being killed due to his convictions – and how Kuti courageously supported his family. This is an engrossing, heartfelt life story.
Available on many services, episodes release weekly
The Devil You Know
Cyndi Lauper, legwarmers and, er … Satan! This audio show hosted by Sarah Marshall skillfully balances between entertainment and oral history, as it looks at the satanic scare defined the 80s spirit. Marshall delves into the people and artefacts that fueled its growth in that decade and beyond, among them a controversial memoir.
Widely available, episodes weekly
Hell in Heaven
An affluent, youthful American pair relocate to Costa Rica to build a nature reserve and their dream home. “Tragically, one will die and the other tried for murder – on three occasions,” says journalist Becky Milligan, opening a gobsmacking series about the real story of what happened to Jon and Ann Bender in 2010 after they’d embarked on creating a utopia.
Available widely, with weekly updates
