Jo Brand On Kittens And Kindness

With Channel 5’s Jo Brand’s Kitten Rescue due to return soon, Jo chats about her fondness for felines and why kindness is essential in life

- Alison James

It’s hardly surprising that Jo Brand’s Kitten Rescue is such a popular show. Jo herself has become a bit of a national treasure, while the kittens themselves are cuter than cute.

“Yes, the kittens are very sweet, aren’t they?” says Jo, in her distinctive, laid back drawl. “Rather like me! I mean, you must see the resemblance. Match the person to the job, that’s what I say!”

She’s having a laugh, of course. But then she would be. Being funny is part of her DNA. When Jo’s not presenting Kitten Rescue, serving up an Extra Slice on the back of the Great British Bake Off, or appearing on numerous TV and radio panel shows, she’s a comedian – and has been for more than 30 years.

“But I think I’m seen as a bit fluffier now,” she goes on. “Like the cats and kittens. I am a cat-lover through and through. I like the fact that they are independent and frequently grumpy, yet they’ll still come and sit on you like a big blob. It’s lovely coming home and seeing your cat sat in front of the fire or on the sofa. We’ve two at the moment. Louis is a 22-year-old ginger tom. He’s still getting around, although he’s a bit deaf and his miaow is quieter than it used to be. Our other cat, Dotty, is actually a boy. My kids named him when they were younger and they thought he was a girl. So, he’s slightly gender confused, although very happy with life.”