Magical MEMORIES

ADRIAN CHILES on discovering different meanings of Christmas

- HANNAH DAVIES

MY LIFE AT CHRISTMAS NEW SUNDAY, 10.30 AM, BBC1 FACTUAL

Memories of Christmases gone by are at the centre of proceedings as Adrian Chiles finds out what the festive season means to a collection of famous faces in his new BBC1 series.

Following the same format as 2022's My Life at Christmas with Sally Phillips, the three-parter will see Adrian talk to different celebrities about their annual traditions and how this special time of year has marked significant moments for them.

On his guest list are former Strictly Come Dancing star Oti Mabuse and veteran BBC journalist John Simpson, along with musicians and married couple Martin and Shirlie Kemp.

'It turns out the best way of getting to the heart of somebody is by getting them to reflect on the special Christmases of their life,' shares Adrian, 56, who, here, joins TV Times for an exclusive interview... 

What can viewers expect from this series, Adrian?

 These are in-depth interviews with famous faces who talk about their life through the prism of their Christmases. And, I have to say, it was a real gift to get a whole day with someone to make a programme like this - you don't get that on television very much!

Did it surprise you how honest and open the guests were?

 Funnily enough, I think when you talk about Christmas, people are often more candid. Somehow you can't be closed off when talking about Christmas!

What does Christmas Day normally look like in your house?