Comfort Eating with Grace Dent
From school dinners to sofa snacks – food has a huge part to play in shaping our story - and your favourite celebs have some delicious tales to tell. Join Grace Dent and celebrity guests as she throws the cupboard doors open and chats life through food. Expect to hear from guests (actors from TV, movie, theatre and film; sportspeople, comedians, chefs…) such as: Katie Price, Jamie Laing, Natalie Cassidy, Kathy Burke, Jon Ronson, Shirley Ballas, Nadiya Hussain, James Norton, Graham Norton, Jamie Demetriou, Michael Ball, Alfie Boe, Amma Asante, Jay Blades, Michelle DeSwarte, Gaz Coombes, Georgia Pritchett, Fern Brady, Jayde Adams, Adam Kay, Jaime Winstone, Malorie Blackman, Dawn O’Porter, Neneh Cherry, Greg Rutherford, Goldie, Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson, Marian Keyes, Rufus Wainwright, Saoirse-Monica Jackson, Big Zuu, Eddie Marsan, Self Esteem, James May, Guy Garvey, Dave Myers, Jo Brand, Craig David, Bernardine Evaristo, Tom Watson, Rosie Jones, Laura Whitmore, Desiree Burch, Russell Tovey, Stephen Fry, Deborah Meaden, Munya Chawawa, Aisling Bea, Krishnan Guru-Murthy, Candice Carty-Williams, Lawrence Chaney, Siobhán McSweeney, Scarlett Moffatt, Joanne McNally, Mae Martin, Rafe Spall, Nish Kumar, Bridget Christie, Mary McCartney, Keith Brymer Jones, Adjoa Andoh, Tamsin Greig, Tom Kerridge, Katherine Ryan, Golda Rosheuvel, Suranne Jones and, David Baddiel, Amol Rajan and Russell T Davies. Comfort Eating is a one-to-one interview. In Grace’s kitchen, her guests discuss their lives in the context of food, cooking and cuisine. They talk about comfort food and snack recipes. The tone of the podcast is: warm, comforting, chatty, feel good, cheering, heart warming, comical and amusing. It’s inspiring but also escapism. It’s funny, comedy, laugh out loud / LOL, entertaining, humourous, inspirational, hilarious, illuminating, memorable, uplifting, soothing, reassuring, cheery and entertaining. Expect to hear humour, discussion, gossip and revelation. Grace's new Comfort Eating book, inspired by the podcast, is out now. It’s a wonderfully scrumptious, life-affirming journey through the foods that really mean the most to us.
Episodes
S8, Ep9: Monica Dolan, actor
Bafta-award winning actor Monica Dolan shares her ultimate comfort food with Grace. Known for playing cardigan-wearing villains, Monica has been described as one of the greatest actors of her generation. She talks about the hell of Covid shopping, how to play a serial killer, and how a weekly Irish stew held her family together during childhood. If you liked this episode then have a listen to Grace’s conversations with Eddie Marsan, Saoirse-Monica Jackson and Siobhán McSweeney
19/11/24•43m 0s
S8, Ep8: Phil Wang, comedian
Funny guy Phil Wang joins Grace this week for another helping of Comfort Eating. Phil has a textbook comedy career: president of Footlights at Cambridge University, graduating with agents sniffing at his heels; sell-out Edinburgh shows; and now purveyor of two Netflix comedy specials. Phil and Grace talk about how to supermarket shop with crocodiles in the aisles, how garlic sauce pervaded his student days and his justice campaign for reheating rice. If you liked this episode then have a listen to Grace’s conversations with Jayde Adams, David Baddiel and Jamie Demetriou
12/11/24•44m 4s
S8, Ep7: Vanessa Feltz, broadcaster
Grace is joined by broadcasting legend Vanessa Feltz. From BBC breakfast to BBC London to LBC, she has graced our airwaves – and our TV screens – since the late 80s. Grace and Vanessa take a trip down memory lane to discuss her granny’s secret Jewish recipes she’ll never pass on, her mother’s ‘bombe surprise’ pudding, and how being in the public eye has shaped her. If you liked this episode then have a listen to Grace’s conversations with Graham Norton, James May and Krishnan Guru-Murthy
05/11/24•40m 8s
S8, Ep6: Richard E Grant, actor
This week on Comfort Eating, Grace is joined by one of the most successful and enduring film stars of the past 40 years: Richard E Grant. The Swaziland-born English actor made his film debut as Withnail in the comedy Withnail and I, and has since starred in the likes of Star Wars, Gosford Park and Saltburn. Richard and Grace chew over the food he ate when he ran away from home as a child, the breakfast he eats every single day but hates, and what exactly he cooked Melissa McCarthy for brunch before the Oscars ceremony. If you liked this episode then have a listen to Grace’s conversations with James Norton, David Harewood and Tamsin Greig
29/10/24•41m 5s
S8, Ep5: Rob Rinder, barrister and television host
TV presenter Rob Rinder joins Grace in her east London home to share his comfort food. Rob has been on our TV screens for a decade as Judge Rinder on the hit ITV show and, more recently, making documentaries. His 2020 BBC documentary My Family, The Holocaust and Me, about his Jewish heritage, garnered him an MBE for services to Holocaust education and awareness. Listen in as Rob swigs scotch and regales Grace with tales of his baker grandfather, his friendship with Benedict Cumberbatch, and how he turns to takeaway food at times of stress
22/10/24•38m 30s
S8, Ep4: Leila Farzad, actor
Joining Grace for a big serving of Comfort Eating is Bafta nominated actress Leila Farzad. Leila is best known for her performance alongside Billie Piper in I Hate Suzie, her Netflix hit show KAOS, and is set to star in the next Bridget Jones film. Grace and Leila ruminate on the moot question of batter versus breadcrumbs, travel back to the Iran of Leila’s childhood, and chew over the best consolation Pret order after a terrible audition.
15/10/24•41m 51s
S8, Ep3: Stanley Tucci, actor
Hollywood royalty Stanley Tucci shares his ultimate comfort food with Grace this week. Born in America to Italian parents, Stanley and Grace discuss his love of Italian food, the lows of British food in the 1980s, and exactly which aphrodisiac he and Meryl Streep ate a lot of on set together
08/10/24•37m 10s
S8, Ep2: Maisie Adam, comedian
Maisie Adam joins Grace in her east London home to share her ultimate comfort food. Maisie is a comedian, writer and actress and one of the most exciting rising stars on the UK comedy circuit. Her critically acclaimed comedy sells out theatres across the land, and has bagged her a regular spot on the TV quiz show circuit. Maisie shares memories of pies at Elland Road, home of her beloved Leeds United; how she tried to emulate her school puddings; and just how many different types of gravy her dad had to rustle up every Sunday.
01/10/24•40m 30s
S8, Ep1: Rag’n’Bone Man, singer
Rag’n’Bone Man joins Grace for a new serving of Comfort Eating. Rag’n’Bone Man, AKA Rory Graham, shot to fame in 2016 with his song Human. A couple of albums later, he’s collaborated with an incredible roster of stars, from Gorillaz to P!nk, and his back catalogue has been streamed billions of times. He and Grace discuss how oven chips are always either too burnt or raw, his dreams of opening a pub, and the day Shania Twain asked him out for lunch
24/09/24•40m 36s
Comfort Eating with Grace Dent is back for a new season
Season eight of Comfort Eating with Grace Dent will kick off on Tuesday 24 September. Join Grace and her celebrity guests, including Richard E Grant, Rag’n’Bone Man and Vanessa Feltz, as they delve into what they love to eat when nobody is watching
20/09/24•29s
Revisited – S3 E4: Big Zuu, rapper and TV personality
The Comfort Eating team is taking a break. So for the next few weeks, we’re looking back at a few of our favourite episodes. In this episode of Comfort Eating, double Bafta winner Big Zuu goes round to Grace’s house for a plate of his ultimate comfort food. They talk about his ‘scandalous’ mother, growing up between extreme wealth and poverty, and the wild success of his show Big Zuu’s Big Eats. And, of course, the comfort foods that have seen him through it all
27/08/24•42m 27s
Revisited – S3 E12: Natalie Cassidy, actor
The Comfort Eating team is taking a break. So for the next few weeks, we’re looking back at a few of our favourite episodes. In this episode of Comfort Eating, Eastenders actor and all-round hun Natalie Cassidy pops over for a chat with Grace. She and Grace remember the 90s London club scene, discuss the perils of having a fitness DVD, and how being part of a soap for so many years shapes your identity. And, Natalie lets Grace in on the comfort foods that have seen her through it all
20/08/24•44m 27s
Revisited – S1 E2: Nish Kumar, comedian
The Comfort Eating team is taking a break. So for the next few weeks, we’re looking back at a few of our favourite episodes. In this episode of Comfort Eating with Grace Dent, comedian Nish Kumar tells Grace about some of the most important moments in his life – and the comfort food that saw him through them. They lament the ‘golden years’ of Pizza Hut, discuss the ‘spicy’ period during his 20s, and Nish tells Grace how it feels to be pelted with a bread roll for his views on Brexit
13/08/24•38m 51s
Revisited - S3 E2: Self Esteem, musician
The Comfort Eating team is taking a break. So for the next few weeks, we’re looking back at a few of our favourite episodes. In this episode of Comfort Eating, the pop star Rebecca Lucy Taylor, AKA Self Esteem, drops into Grace’s kitchen. Their riotous afternoon includes ‘northern women eating carbs’, the joy of buying expensive jumpers, and some unexpected tears. And, as always, Self Esteem revels in the comfort foods that have seen her through her life and music career
06/08/24•47m 52s
S7, Ep8: bonus episode – a few of the tastiest bits from all seven series
This week, Grace takes us on a trip down memory lane to hear some of the best bite-sized tidbits of food tales from seven glorious seasons of Comfort Eating, featuring the likes of Rafe Spall, Scarlett Moffatt and Russell T Davies. We hear the stories of Jay Blades’ school pudding obsession and Russell Tovey’s teenage love of brussels sprouts, and listen to clips that shine a light on how food and love are intertwined. We travel back to wild and youthful moments – a time when Siobhán McSweeney accidentally ate caterpillars, Adjoa Andoh was in a squat cooking for the masses on her dole money and Stephen Fry was on the run with stolen credit cards eating room service in the Ritz
30/07/24•29m 37s
S7, Ep7: Bimini, drag queen
This week, Grace is joined by east London’s plant-based princess Bimini who shot to fame in 2021, after the second season of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, where they captivated the BBC audience with quippy one liners, high fashion runway looks, and death drops. Although Bimini didn’t snatch the crown, they remain the most-followed UK contestant. Since filming the show, Bimini has released several singles and a book, signed modelling contracts and become a mainstay at fashion shows around the world. The question still remains: what is this British drag icon eating when the knee-high 10-inch heels are off?
23/07/24•40m 2s
S7, Ep6: Jazzie B, DJ, music producer
Grace welcomes the legendary DJ, producer and founder of Soul II Soul, Jazzie B, to the podcast. Over a bowl of ‘yellow’ – one of his childhood comfort foods –Jazzie takes Grace on a journey from playing his sound system, aged 12, at a silver jubilee street party for the Queen, to finding inspiration on tour in Japan and Korea, and on to Buckingham Palace, where he received an OBE in 2008. The jobcentre suggested he should become a milkman, but instead Jazzie chose to channel his energy into his north London community through music. This decision transformed Soul II Soul into a global success and established Jazzie as an internationally renowned musician who has collaborated with some of the world’s most talented artists
16/07/24•35m 15s
S7, Ep5: David Harewood, actor
Joining Grace this week is actor and director David Harewood, who found global fame in the hit CIA-thriller Homeland 13 years ago and hasn’t stopped working since. David was born and raised in Small Heath, Birmingham, where he lived with his older siblings and Barbadian parents. He tells Grace about how his mum kept the flavours of the West Indies alive in his childhood home, while he navigated the racist world of 1970s Britain growing up as a young black boy. Sitting down over his favourite comfort food, David talks about how messing about in school led to the ‘lightbulb moment’ when he realised he wanted to be an actor; arriving in 80s London to attend Rada and discovering the excitement of ‘filthy’ Soho; and the underrated wonders of corned beef
09/07/24•38m 2s
S7, Ep 4: Allan Mustafa, actor and comedian
Allan Mustafa joins Grace to share the dish he turns to for comfort food. Allan shot to fame playing MC Grindah in People Just Do Nothing, his Bafta award-winning, semi-autobiographical mockumentary, which was inspired by his early life in south-west London. Allan talks about growing up with his Czech mum and Kurdish dad and eating the ultimate fusion cuisine. He dishes the dirt on his teenage life as a graffiti artist, how he met and bonded with his People just Do Nothing co-stars on a beach in Thailand and how he turned what looked like a life of doing nothing into a life of awesome comedic success.
02/07/24•40m 33s
S7, Ep 3: Golda Rosheuvel, actor
Actor Golda Rosheuvel joins Grace this week to share what she eats when the wigs are off. Golda is best known for her role as the formidable Queen Charlotte in the record-breaking Netflix series Bridgerton. Before Bridgerton fame, Golda’s breakthrough role was playing a female Othello at the Liverpool Everyman, rooting herself as an actor who challenges traditional casting. Golda talks to Grace about her South American upbringing in the church, with her Guyanese father and British mother and her stint in a squat in south London, and reminisces about her recent wedding, where nosh from her local falafel takeaway took centre stage.
25/06/24•35m 25s
S7, Ep 2: Joanne McNally, comedian and podcaster
Joining Grace this week is one of Ireland’s most acclaimed comics and host of the award-winning podcast My Therapist Ghosted Me, Joanne McNally. With a number of sell-out shows and tour dates in the US later this year, they discuss how Joanne uses comedy to process difficult periods in her life, how her mum is her favourite cocktail buddy, and what exactly she stole to get herself kicked out of the Scouts. Hot off her stint on the latest series of Taskmaster, and with an upcoming show at the Edinburgh festival fringe, the real question is: what is the banger of a sandwich Joanne McNally turns to whenever she’s shut off from the outside world and has a rare moment of peace?
18/06/24•35m 27s
S7, Ep 1: Katherine Ryan, comedian and writer
Katherine Ryan joins Grace this week to share her favourite comfort foods. The Canadian comedian, writer, presenter and actor is best known for her deliciously wicked comedy, delivered with a side dish of couture. Katherine shares memories from her past, including her father’s attempts to bring Indian food to Canada via Ireland, her difficult early days in London as a single parent trying to makes ends meet, and the deep fried delights on offer at her first place of work: Hooters. Now, Katherine has had two Netflix Comedy specials, and is a regular on the UK panel show circuit. But the question is – what is fuelling her funny?
11/06/24•40m 49s
Comfort Eating with Grace Dent is back for more
Comfort Eating with Grace Dent is back for a seventh course on 11 June. Join her and celebrity guests as they reveal the comfort foods that have seen them through their lives in series seven
07/06/24•58s
S6, Ep 10: Kiell Smith-Bynoe, actor and comedian
Joining Grace this week is the multi-talented actor, comedian and rapper, Kiell Smith-Bynoe. Long before becoming a household name as the exasperated boyfriend in the hit series Ghosts, Kiell (AKA MC Klayze Flaymz) tells Grace how, as a teenager, he combined his performance skills in the ultimate London arena: the chicken shop. With the taste of success, Kiell and Grace chat about his journey to the stage and screen, via several years working in a call centre for unemployed actors. Answering the big question: what is an appropriate lunchtime meal to eat at your desk?
16/04/24•39m 24s
S6, Ep 9: Kiri Pritchard-McLean, comedian
Welsh standup, podcast host and panel show queen, Kiri Pritchard-McLean, brings her finest bowl of scran to Grace’s house. Over this steaming ultra-value concoction, she reveals how her upbringing on a Welsh sheep farm led to a hankering for performance, humour and cheap noodles. Cutting her teeth on the Manchester comedy circuit and finding solace with fellow newbies, Kiri learned to win in an industry still steeped in sexism. Her latest solo show, Peacock, is about the unlikely subject of becoming a foster parent – a journey Kiri and her partner have recently embarked on. Their offering to children centres around home-cooked food made with love. Comfort eating just took on a whole new meaning.
09/04/24•39m 56s
S6, Ep 8: Tom Kerridge, chef
Comfort Eating’s culinary standards might have been permanently raised after two-Michelin-star chef Tom Kerridge’s visit. But he’s not exactly one to show off. Growing up in Gloucester, Tom always wanted to recreate the homely meals he’d find at his local pub or at his mum’s on Sundays. With a brief detour on to the acting stage, Tom started his career working at some of the country’s top restaurants. In the rock’n’roll era of fine dining, suddenly it was cool to be working in a restaurant late at night. But as Tom and Grace discuss, a world of late hours and excess triggered multiple health problems for him. Going sober and solo, Tom started running his own businesses and success quickly followed. So what exactly does a top chef snack on when they’re not winning awards? You might be surprised …
02/04/24•41m 10s
S6 Ep 7: Cat Burns, singer
Platinum-selling singer songwriter Cat Burns cosies up with Grace for a warm plate of nosh and some deep chats. The biggest-selling British female artist of 2022, who won three Brit award nominations after her single Go went viral on TikTok, reveals how she went from shy schoolgirl to stadium gigs in just a few years. While Covid put an end to busking on the South Bank, it opened up another portal on social channels that sent Cat’s star on its rapid ascent. Recently diagnosed as autistic, Cat explains how her relationship with food thrives on predictability and consistency. Yet with a small recipe suggestion from her girlfriend, she had a lightbulb moment – opening up new possibilities. Cat says she doesn’t do small talk, which is more than OK; her big talk is just beautiful.
26/03/24•41m 26s
S6 Ep 6: Daniel Foxx, comedian
Sliding into Grace’s sitting room this week is rising star and multitalented comedian, playwright and musical theatre creator, Daniel Foxx. Bringing his concoction of gunk meant only for solo consumption in the small hours, there’s nowhere left to hide. Buckle up and join Grace and Daniel as they go on a tour of the ins and outs of life in the fast lane – or is that the M6 at 1am? Daniel shares his different incarnations – from coming out age 11 to donning a string of pearls post-lockdown. His observational obsessions have helped to feed his viral hit The Supervillain’s Gay Assistant and Grace and Daniel unpick its threads with scurrilous delight. Oh, and there’s a modern-day love story involving Tinder and trains. Scoop it all up with love and a crunchy lentil curl
19/03/24•45m 42s
S6 Ep 5: Amol Rajan, broadcaster
It’s tough presenting BBC radio’s top morning news programme, hosting the nation’s brainiest quiz show and being a devoted dad to four young children. But someone’s got to do it. And that person is none other than the broadcaster Amol Rajan. Having risen through the ranks of the Independent newspaper to be its youngest editor at the age of 29 and now only the third ever presenter of University Challenge, there’s got to be something fuelling this dynamo. Finding a little window in his busy schedule, Amol parks his responsibilities at the door and shares the secrets of his success and culinary tricks with long-time friend and former colleague, Grace. From his mum’s incredible home cooking to his special porridge recipe for when the kids aren’t looking, Amol tells all. There’s some raving, insomnia and umami twang thrown in too – you might have seen them at Reading?
12/03/24•46m 12s
S6 Ep 4: Katie Price, model turned reality TV star
Dropping by this week for a spot of comfort eating is the legendary glamour model turned reality TV star, Katie Price. One of the most photographed and filmed women of our times, splashed across page 3 and lads mags as Jordan 30 years ago, then in six of her own TV series, multiple documentaries and reality shows, everyone thinks they know her. But talking to Grace over a squishy, soft and ‘bald’ dish, Katie reveals a more nuanced picture – opening up about childhood, horses, early photoshoots, love, abuse, men, the media, breakdown and being a proud mum of five. ‘Never underestimate the Pricey’ – it’s a motto to live by and Grace embraces it all – the ups, the downs and snacks in between
05/03/24•43m 33s
From the archive (season 2): Dave Myers, hairy biker
This week, the world learned of the sad passing of a true British icon, TV cook and hairy biker, Dave Myers. To celebrate his life, we wanted to bring you this episode from January 2022 where Dave tells Grace about – ironically – losing all his hair aged eight, his years as a makeup artist, working in the steelyards of Barrow-in-Furness, and the comfort foods that have seen him through it all
01/03/24•38m 26s
S6 E3: Kathy Burke, actor, director and writer
One of the UK’s most loved and versatile actors, Kathy Burke, lands in Grace’s sitting room this week. Transitioning from punk teenager, to award-winning actor and then taking on comedy, Kathy has loved almost all of it. She talks to Grace about her career highlights and when her personal life sometimes got in the way, recounting the food that got her through. Whether it’s eating fish and chips on a film set with Ray Winstone, a love-hate relationship with bananas and beans, or coming to adore biscuits in her 50s, Kathy and Grace reminisce about it all. And hey, sometimes all you need is a bit of burnt toast
27/02/24•41m 1s
S6 E2: Michelle de Swarte, comedian
Model-turned-standup Michelle De Swarte knows how to make an entrance. And arriving at Grace’s with her eat-it-or-climb-it comfort snack of choice, she doesn’t disappoint. For the woman who left school at 14, signed as a model at 19, fell on the Gucci catwalk a month later, modelled for years in New York afterwards and then changed tack to become a comedian, life is what you make it. Straight-talking, no-nonsense, Michelle and Grace get down to business and discover their shared dependence on a well-known sandwich chain. There’s glitz, there’s glamour, and quite a lot of rude bits. Sorry, not sorry
20/02/24•40m 36s
S6 E1: David Baddiel, comedian
Pulling up a pew at Grace’s house to launch a new season of Comfort Eating is the legendary comedian and author, David Baddiel. With a career spanning 40 years on TV, stage and radio, not to mention coining anthemic football songs and writing multiple bestselling books for adults and children, David has a unique place in our nation’s popular culture. He brings Grace his favourite comfort snack and while demolishing this cherished chow, David opens up about family, relationships and an obsession with telling the truth. Together, he and Grace take a trip down memory lane back to the 90s when their paths crossed. Wistful, honest and outrageous – it’s a conversation best served with a dollop of brown sauce. Just make sure the bread’s white and squishy
13/02/24•43m 25s
Comfort Eating with Grace Dent is coming back for a brand new season
Season six of Comfort Eating with Grace Dent will kick off on Tuesday 13 February. Join Grace and her celebrity guests, including David Baddiel, Katie Price and Amol Rajan, as they delve into what they love to eat when nobody is watching
09/02/24•1m 10s
S5 E10: Gregory Porter, singer-songwriter
Bringing lashings of comfort and joy to Grace’s house for the final episode of this season is the legendary jazz singer Gregory Porter. The multi-Grammy award-winner, known for his smooth, silky tones and iconic headgear, is gliding in on a wave of Californian soul to ease us into some truly mellow seasonal joy. Food and music has taken Gregory on a winding path, navigating student digs and kitchen jobs, ending decades later in global stardom and stadium gigs. Get comfy for this intimate audience of just you and Grace, with a few musical treats sprinkled through like baubles winking on a Christmas tree
28/11/23•39m 16s
S5 E9: Tamsin Greig, actor
This week, Grace gets a visit from one of her heroes. It’s none other than Tamsin Greig, the small screen acting legend. After treating Grace to a two-course surprise snack, Tamsin talks about growing up with an older dad, her secret Friday Night Dinner food strategies and the strange moments of joy to be found within grief. And, of course, she reveals what she scoffs from the fridge after long days on set Follow Grace Dent as she enters the Australian jungle for the latest series of I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!
21/11/23•45m 8s
S5 E8: Keith Brymer Jones, potter
The tables turn for Grace this week as – for once – a TV judge arrives to give her a critique. It’s Keith Brymer Jones, The Great Pottery Throw Down’s famously teary-eyed resident potter. After a quick round of feedback on Grace’s favourite horrible 80s mug, Keith talks her through his post-punk band days, discovering a love for clay and a childhood crammed with Welsh cakes. And, as always, he reveals the foods he turns to after a long day throwing down at the pottery wheel
14/11/23•42m 33s
S5 E7: Adjoa Andoh, actress
Dropping into Grace’s living room for some prime time Comfort Eating is the actor Adjoa Andoh, best known for playing Lady Danbury in the Netflix hit Bridgerton. Sharing a platter of her tastiest morsels, Adjoa talks to Grace about jacking in a law degree, moving into a south London squat, joining a touring feminist theatre group while pregnant, the slog of serving up daily family meals and the joy of escaping it all on a secret Greek island where the only things to do are reading, swimming and scooping up mountains of hummus with fresh, warm bread Buy Grace’s new Comfort Eating book, inspired by the podcast, here. The book is a wonderfully scrumptious, life-affirming journey through the foods that really mean the most to us
07/11/23•38m 30s
S5 E6: Mary McCartney, photographer
Joining Grace for some generous, multi-layered Comfort Eating is the photographer and TV chef, Mary McCartney. Hailing from one of the most famous families of 20th-century culture, Mary lets us into the culinary secrets of the McCartney family – from her dad Paul’s perfect mash to her mum Linda’s ice-cream cake – and the family trips to New York where they’d hit pizza restaurants in search of that perfect slice. Grace and Mary share their love of evenings on the sofa, scouse dads and how they coped after losing their mums to breast cancer. Buy Grace’s new Comfort Eating book, inspired by the podcast, here. The book is a wonderfully scrumptious, life-affirming journey through the foods that really mean the most to us. Mary McCartney’s new book Feeding Creativity is out now.
31/10/23•37m 57s
S5 E5: Bridget Christie, comedian
Joining Grace for a leisurely afternoon chat this week is one of the queens of British comedy, Bridget Christie. Bridget is an award-winning standup comedian, actor and writer. After getting into comedy later than most, she won the Edinburgh comedy award for best show with A Bic for Her in 2013, and she recently dipped her toe into screenwriting, with the brilliant Channel 4 series The Change. She and Grace talk about big family dinners, motorcycle gangs, and eating habits during the menopause. And of course, a comforting snack is never too far awayBuy Grace’s new Comfort Eating book, inspired by the podcast, here. The book is a wonderfully scrumptious, life-affirming journey through the foods that really mean the most to us
24/10/23•36m 6s
S5 E4: Jamie Demetriou, actor
Grace’s living room gets a professional appraisal this week from none other than Jamie Demetriou. Best known as the bumbling titular estate agent of Stath Lets Flats and long-toothed lover of Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s Fleabag, Jamie’s arrived fresh off the Barbie set armed with his favourite comfort snacks. He and Grace talk about his teenage indie band, growing up in his dad’s greasy spoon and the dangers of dipping a McCoy’s. And, of course, all the comfort foods he turns to when nobody’s looking
17/10/23•40m 17s
S5 E3: Jon Ronson, journalist
It’s time for another mystery snack at Grace’s dining room table, where she’s joined by writer, journalist and podcaster Jon Ronson. Jon’s best known for going on adventures with unlikely people, culminating in hit books such as The Men Who Stare at Goats and The Psychopath Test. This week, he tells Grace about his passion for TV dinners, his rivalry with Louis Theroux and his life as a failed band manager. And, of course, the comfort snacks he’s turned to along the way Buy Grace’s new Comfort Eating book, inspired by the podcast, here. The book is a wonderfully scrumptious, life-affirming journey through the foods that really mean the most to us
10/10/23•37m 22s
S5 E2: Shirley Ballas, dancer
This week, Grace heads out of her kitchen and into the home of dance legend Shirley Ballas to cha-cha-chat all things Comfort Eating. Shirley’s become TV royalty as head judge on the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, but she’d already been ruling the dancefloor for decades. She and Grace chat about wedding buffets, steamy backstage rendezvous and where to stand in the queue to get the best helping of school dinner. And, as ever, the comfort snacks she turns to when she kicks off her dancing shoes Buy Grace’s new Comfort Eating book, inspired by the podcast, here. The book is a wonderfully scrumptious, life-affirming journey through the foods that really mean the most to us
03/10/23•44m 57s
S5 E1: Nadiya Hussain, chef
Cosying up with Grace to launch a new season of Comfort Eating is none other than the queen of baking and all our hearts – Nadiya Hussain. The Bake Off star, whose triumph in the tent launched a TV, writing and culinary career of which dreams are made, is dropping by Grace’s home to share her loves, her hates and her strategies for managing a house of teenagers. Over a plate of something so comforting you could curl up in it, Grace and Nadiya get down to brass tacks. Family, husbands, school and crisps – all the main bases – and there’s no shame allowed. Just get those elbows out and dig in Buy Grace’s new Comfort Eating book, inspired by the podcast, here. The book is a wonderfully scrumptious, life-affirming journey through the foods that really mean the most to us
26/09/23•35m 20s
Comfort Eating with Grace Dent is coming back
Season five of Comfort Eating with Grace Dent will kick off on Tuesday, 26 September. Join Grace as she learns what her celebrity guests, such as Nadiya Hussain and Jon Ronson, love to eat when nobody is watching
19/09/23•2m 1s
S4 E12: James Norton, actor
For the last time this series Grace opens her door to another Comfort Eating guest, and to finish in style she welcomes James Norton into her home to discuss all things delicious. James is best known for his portrayal of the despicable Tommy Lee Royce in Happy Valley, and other star roles include Grantchester, Little Women, and War & Peace. However, there’s lots more to learn about James from his idyllic early years in Yorkshire, to a stint at a very religious boarding school, his breakthrough on the West End and, of course, the food that has been with him through it all
17/01/23•44m 4s
S4 E11: Graham Norton, broadcaster
This week, it’s Grace’s couch that gets the star treatment as Graham Norton comes round to chat all things Comfort Eating. We all know Graham from his work interviewing megastars on his chatshow, as well as his much loved radio show, but there’s lots to Graham you might not know about; from his time living in a San Francisco commune, to his big break in the upstairs room of a famous gastropub and, of course, the snacks he reaches for when he’s home alone, and sat on his own couch
10/01/23•44m 26s
A quick christmas message from Grace
Happy holidays friends! Just a quick message from Grace to say no new episode of Comfort Eating today, as she’s at home on the couch eating cold roasties and stuffing sarnies, enjoying all the Christmas telly. However, fear not, Comfort Eating will be back in the new year!
27/12/22•46s
S4 E10: Michael Ball and Alfie Boe, singers
Roll up, roll up, for an unprecedented Comfort Eating event as we bring you not one but two very special guests … Yes that’s right, parking their sleigh outside Grace’s house we have world-renowned singers, entertainers, and the unofficial Kings of Christmas, Michael Ball and Alfie Boe joining us for a fantastically festive episode. Both hugely successful in their own rights, Michael and Alfie have been making music and topping the charts together since 2016, with multiple UK album No 1s to their name, as well as arena tours, TV specials, and Brit awards in tow. In this special Yuletide episode, Alfie and Michael reflect on Christmases gone by, their thoughts on carol singers, who’s the best gift-giver and, of course, the comfort foods that see them through Chrimbo every year
20/12/22•38m 12s
S4 E9: Amma Asante, film-maker
Grace’s guest this week is the Bafta award winning director Amma Asante. From her critically acclaimed films such as Belle, and A United Kingdom, to her work on TV shows such as The Handmaid’s Tale and Mrs America, Amma is a giant of the film-making world. She pops round to Grace’s to discuss her teenage days on the set of Grange Hill, how she fell in love at the Europol canteen, and the importance of Mr Kipling. And, of course, the comfort foods that have seen her through it all
13/12/22•38m 50s
S4 E8: Gaz Coombes, musician
This week, knocking on Grace’s door is actual rockstar Gaz Coombes. Gaz has sold millions of records around the world, both as the lead singer of Supergrass and as a critically acclaimed solo artist. He joins Grace to chat about his days overseeing Harvester’s coveted salad bar, late-night cheese boards and, as he prepares to release his fourth solo album, the meals that stand out from his days touring the world. And, as ever, the comfort foods that have seen him through it all
06/12/22•40m 39s
S4 E7: Georgia Pritchett, screenwriter of Succession
Grace’s guest this week is Georgia Pritchett, the genius behind many of the shows we watch on the telly when we’ve whipped up our bowl of comforting goodness. She is currently a writer on the award winning satirical black comedy-drama Succession, which follows the disturbing and dastardly lives of media conglomerate family the Logans. Georgia’s past work includes The Thick of It, Miranda, Have I Got News For You, and Veep. She joins Grace to discuss the perils of snacking while breastfeeding, the dangers of fizzy paté, and the importance of dining out alone. And, of course, the food that has comforted Georgia along the way
29/11/22•37m 21s
S4 E6: Jayde Adams, comedian
Cha Cha Cha-ing her way into Grace’s house this week is comedian and one of this year’s stars of Strictly Come Dancing, Jayde Adams. Jayde and Grace discuss Jayde’s Bristolian beginnings, what it takes to become a fishmonger, and what makes the perfect dinner party. And as always, the comfort foods that have seen Jayde through it all
22/11/22•37m 2s
S4 E5: Adam Kay, writer
Knocking on Grace’s door this week is the doctor-turned-writer Adam Kay, whose memoir This is Going to Hurt was loved by critics and readers alike, making it the UK’s second-most-sold book in 2018. Adam and Grace discuss the fast pace and poor food of life on a gynaecology ward, his favourite motorway service station snack, and his struggle with disordered eating. And of course, the comfort foods he turns to today
15/11/22•43m 22s
S4 E4: Jaime Winstone, actress
Jaime Winstone is Grace’s guest this week, coming round for a chat and a hearty portion of her ultimate comfort snack. Jaime is an actor, known for roles in films such as Kidulthood, Made in Dagenham, and Tomb Raider. The pair discuss the wild days and nights of Jamie’s party girl years, filmset food, and life with a famous dad: Ray Winstone. And of course, the comfort foods that saw Jaime through it all
08/11/22•35m 17s
S4 E3: Jay Blades, TV presenter
Furniture restorer and television presenter Jay Blades pops round Grace’s for a helping of his ultimate comfort food. The two of them talk about the highs and the lows of Jay’s Hackney childhood, his lasting passion for school dinners, the mental health breakdown he experienced in 2015 and how he’s found joy on the set of his smash-hit show The Repair Shop. And, of course, the comfort foods that have seen him through it all
01/11/22•41m 45s
S4 E2: Malorie Blackman, writer
Grace’s guest this week is the writer Malorie Blackman, former children’s laureate and author of some of the UK’s most beloved young adult books. They discuss Malorie’s childhood, including a period spent in a homeless shelter, how her husband wooed her with food, and the snacks that help her celebrate her Bajan heritage. And of course, she reveals the comfort foods that have seen her through it all
25/10/22•36m 24s
S4 E1: Dawn O’Porter, writer
Grace Dent is back for a fourth course of Comfort Eating, and her first guest of the new season is Dawn O’Porter, writer and TV presenter. The pair chow down over Dawn’s favourite snack, as she tells Grace about a bohemian childhood in Guernsey, how her passion for oysters ended in undignified disaster, and how she found love on a dancefloor with the Hollywood A-lister who became her husband
18/10/22•41m 25s
Comfort Eating with Grace Dent is back for fourths
Comfort Eating with Grace Dent is back for a fourth course on 18 October. Join her and celebrity guests, such as Graham Norton and Dawn O’Porter, as they reveal the comfort foods that have seen them through the good times, bad times, and everything in between
13/10/22•51s
S3 special bonus episode: Jamie Laing, TV personality
As season three comes to an end, Grace brings you a special bonus episode, recorded live at the Podcast Festival in London, with the cheekiest chap from Chelsea, Jamie Laing. The pair discuss his childhood on a farm, boarding school canteen hierarchies, and how food-shame affects men. And Jamie recounts his first memories of moving to Leeds.
09/08/22•1h 4m
S3 E12: Natalie Cassidy, actor
Season three is ending with a bang, as Eastenders actor and all-round hun Natalie Cassidy pops over for a chat. She and Grace remember the 90s London club scene, discuss the perils of having a fitness DVD, and how being part of a soap for 29 years shapes your identity. And, Natalie lets Grace in on the comfort foods that have seen her through it all
02/08/22•43m 28s
S3 E11: Neneh Cherry, musician
Grace’s guest this week is the singer Neneh Cherry. She tells Grace about the perils of growing up with vegetarian parents, moving to London aged 16, and turning away from pop stardom at the height of her fame. And she reveals the comfort foods that have seen her through it all
26/07/22•39m 40s
S3 E10: Greg Rutherford, Olympian
Next over to Grace’s house is the former long jumper Greg Rutherford, who’s won gold medals at Olympic, world, European and Commonwealth level. He tells Grace about growing up in a conservative religious household, being brought home by the police as a teen, and how he turned it round to become one of Britain’s most successful athletes of all time
19/07/22•44m 59s
S3 E9: Goldie, music producer and DJ
The legendary drum’n’bass DJ Goldie has flown into London for summer performance dates, but first he stops by Grace’s living room. They discuss growing up in care, letting rave life get on top of you, and his new life with his wife and child in Thailand. And, as always, the comfort foods that have seen him through it all
12/07/22•38m 23s
S3 E8: Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson
Grace meets former athlete and current House of Lords peer Tanni Grey-Thompson, who introduces her to a snack less highbrow than you might expect. They discuss how to blag the most from being a baroness, what it’s like to be ‘the greatest’ athlete in your field, and the surprising matching tattoos she shares with her husband. And, as usual, she reveals what comfort foods have seen her through it all
05/07/22•39m 57s
S3 E7: Marian Keyes, author
Grace’s guest this week is the Irish novelist Marian Keyes. They discuss the joys of going feral when home alone, Marian’s childhood trips to stare at empty runways and how baking helped her through serious depression. And she reveals which comfort foods have seen her through it all
28/06/22•39m 51s
S3 E6: Rufus Wainwright, musician
Grace has a call from across the pond as she and the legendary singer-songwriter Rufus Wainwright talk all things Comfort Eating. He tells her about going to a preppy boarding school, becoming addicted to crystal meth, and having his daughter via surrogacy with his husband. And, as always, he reveals the comfort foods that have seen him through it all
21/06/22•39m 22s
S3 E5: Saoirse-Monica Jackson, Derry Girls actor
Next round for a plate of comforting carbs is actor Saoirse-Monica Jackson. She tells Grace about secret drinking as a school student, living in a haunted hotel in Donegal, and her dad’s ‘awful’ cooking. And of course, she shares the comfort foods that have seen her through it all
14/06/22•42m 29s
S3 E4: Big Zuu, rapper and TV personality
Double Bafta winner Big Zuu goes round to Grace’s house for a plate of his ultimate comfort food. They talk about his ‘scandalous’ mother, growing up between extreme wealth and poverty, and the wild success of his show Big Zuu’s Big Eats. And, of course, the comfort foods that have seen him through it all
07/06/22•41m 23s
S3 E3: Eddie Marsan, actor
For the third episode of season three of Comfort Eating, Grace welcomes the Ridley Road, Ray Donovan and Sherlock actor Eddie Marsan round to hers. They talk about his upbringing in the East End, his changing relationship with his own appearance, and falling in love with his wife while playing a pig. And he lets Grace in on all the comfort foods that have seen him through
31/05/22•37m 42s
S3 E2: Self Esteem, musician
Next over to Grace’s kitchen is the pop star Rebecca Lucy Taylor, aka Self Esteem. Their riotous afternoon includes ‘northern women eating carbs’, the joy of buying expensive jumpers, and some unexpected tears. And, as always, Self Esteem revels in the comfort foods that have seen her through her life and music career
24/05/22•46m 46s
S3 E1: James May, broadcaster
Grace Dent is back for third helpings of Comfort Eating, and her first guest of the season is James May, co-presenter of The Grand Tour. The pair chow down over the ex-Top Gear star’s favourite snack, as he tells Grace about his childhood in Rotherham, inability to share food and how a ‘catastrophic lack of ambition’ led him to be one of the UK’s most popular broadcasters
17/05/22•37m 21s
Comfort Eating with Grace Dent is back – podcast trailer
Comfort Eating with Grace Dent is back for third helpings on 17 May. Join her and celebrity guests as they reveal the comfort foods that have seen them through in the third series You can see Grace Dent on Comfort Eating live at the Podcast Show on 25 May, with special guest Jamie Laing. Tickets can be found here
12/05/22•1m 4s
S2 E12: Guy Garvey, musician
Grace’s final guest for season two of Comfort Eating is the Elbow frontman Guy Garvey. He tells Grace about growing up as one of seven, coping with stage fright through booze, learning to be comfortable in restaurants in his 40s, and the comfort foods that have seen him through it all
11/01/22•38m 7s
S2 E11: Dave Myers, hairy biker
Grace’s first fellow Cumbrian guest on Comfort Eating comes in the form of TV cook and hairy biker Dave Myers. He tells Grace about – ironically – losing all his hair aged eight, his years as a makeup artist, working in the steelyards of Barrow-in-Furness, and the comfort foods that have seen him through it all
04/01/22•37m 15s
S2 E10: Jo Brand, comedian
Jo Brand is next round for Comfort Eating, and she brings a snack with her that Grace ‘devours like a wild animal’. She tells Grace about her rebellious years after being kicked out by her parents, the fun of the 1980s comedy scene, and the comfort foods that have seen her through it all
28/12/21•34m 5s
S2 E9: Craig David – Christmas special
Grace’s guest on this festive edition of Comfort Eating is the musician Craig David. He talks about his favourite Christmas presents, the magic of childhood Blockbuster trips, his strange times in Miami, and the comfort foods that have seen him through
21/12/21•34m 4s
S2 E8: Fern Brady, comedian
Grace’s Comfort Eating guest this week is the comedian Fern Brady. She tells Grace about growing up in a strict Catholic household, working in a strip club, being diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and the comfort foods that have seen her through
14/12/21•34m 56s
S2 E7: Bernardine Evaristo, author
Next over to Grace’s is award-winning author Bernardine Evaristo. She talks about being fed as one of eight children, her bohemian years filled with art and sex, and the comfort foods that have seen her through. She also reveals what she ate to celebrate Girl, Woman, Other winning the Booker prize, and it’s not as fancy as you might expect
07/12/21•35m 34s
S2 E6: Tom Watson, former Labour deputy leader
Grace’s Comfort Eating guest this week is the former politician Tom Watson. The pair talk about his life – after she has to run to the kitchen to spit out the food he brought round. They talk about growing up on cheese toasties, the Jeremy Corbyn years, and how Watson, at the aged of 54, realised he has an eating disorder
30/11/21•36m 14s
S2 E5: Rosie Jones, comedian
Grace’s Comfort Eating guest is comedian Rosie Jones. She and Grace sit down to talk family, friends and the comfort foods that have seen them through. Rosie tells Grace about orgies, sausage rolls, and what it’s like to be disabled – and constantly hungover – at university
23/11/21•35m 12s
S2 E4: Laura Whitmore, presenter
Grace is out and about this week as she enters her guest’s home for a change. She talks to Laura Whitmore about her childhood in Ireland, being a young journalist in London, Love Island, and the comfort foods that have seen her through it all. They also discuss the death of her friend and fellow presenter Caroline Flack, and Laura’s own experiences navigating the tabloid press
16/11/21•34m 0s
S2 E3: Desiree Burch, comedian
Grace’s guest this week is the comedian, actor and writer Desiree Burch. She sits at Grace’s table to discuss family, work, and the foods that have seen her through. They discuss attuning American tastebuds to British comfort foods, the joy of post-church fried chicken, and what to eat while wearing a dominatrix corset
09/11/21•37m 47s
S2 E2: Russell Tovey, actor
Next round to Grace’s dining room is the actor Russell Tovey. Over a bowl of his favourite childhood treat, he tells Grace about his upbringing in Essex, embarrassing acting scenes, reconnecting with his partner – and the comfort foods that have seen him through
02/11/21•45m 4s
S2 E1: Stephen Fry
Grace’s first guest on season two of Comfort Eating – recorded at Grace’s house – is Stephen Fry. They talk about his childhood, memories of prison, cooking for his husband – and the comfort foods that have seen him through
26/10/21•48m 45s
Coming soon: new episodes of Comfort Eating with Grace Dent
Get ready for the second season of the Guardian’s much-loved food podcast, Comfort Eating. Join Grace Dent as she welcomes more famous guests – including Stephen Fry, Desiree Burch and Russell Tovey – into her home to share their favourite comfort foods. Join them every Tuesday as they talk about family, friends and the foods that have seen them through.
21/10/21•30s
S1 E12: Deborah Meaden, entrepreneur
Grace’s guest on the season finale of Comfort Eating is the Dragons’ Den star and business owner Deborah Meaden. She tells Grace about her lifelong love of stodgy food, questionable sandwiches and life with her husband, Paul
31/08/21•37m 9s
S1 E11: Munya Chawawa, online satirist
Grace Dent’s guest this week is the satirist, comedian and presenter Munya Chawawa. He tells Grace about growing up in Zimbabwe, his now infamous takes on the week’s news and the comfort foods that have seen him through tough times
24/08/21•33m 35s
S1 E10: Aisling Bea, actor and comedian
Grace’s guest is the actor, comedian and creator of This Way Up, Aisling Bea. She talks about her childhood in an Irish horsing community, being raised almost entirely by women, becoming successful later in life – and the comfort foods that have seen her through. She also turns the tables on Grace, subjecting the host’s fridge to a Ready Steady Cook challenge
17/08/21•30m 4s
S1 E9: Krishnan Guru-Murthy, journalist
Grace’s guest on Comfort Eating this week is one of the most famous faces on Channel 4 News for more than 20 years, Krishnan Guru-Murthy. He talks about some of the most important moments in his life – and the comfort food that has seen him through them. They discuss food before marriage, dancing to Jamiroquai and annoying Hollywood stars
10/08/21•42m 22s
S1 E8: Candice Carty-Williams, author
Grace’s guest on Comfort Eating this week is the award-winning author Candice Carty-Williams, who talks about some of the most important moments in her life – and the comfort food that has seen her through them. They discuss star signs, being the ‘naughty’ kid at school and how a fridge full of someone else’s food helped Candice write the first draft of her debut novel, Queenie
03/08/21•34m 49s
S1 E7: Lawrence Chaney, Ru Paul’s Drag Race winner
Grace’s guest on Comfort Eating this week is drag superstar Lawrence Chaney. He joins Grace over video and presents her with her favourite snack of the series so far. They bond over a mutual love of Joan Rivers, the fun and fast food late-night Glasgow has to offer, and discuss what winning a show like Drag Race means to someone who’s experienced bullying all their life
27/07/21•40m 17s
S1 E6: Siobhán McSweeney, actor
This week, Grace Dent sits down with the star of Derry Girls, the actor and TV presenter Siobhán McSweeney, who reminisces about the golden years of Cork’s rave scene, onstage laughing fits and what happened after her life literally burned to the ground. And, as always, she reveals the comfort foods that saw her through each of these moments
20/07/21•37m 25s
S1 E5: Scarlett Moffatt, TV presenter
This week on Comfort Eating, Grace Dent is joined by Scarlett Moffatt, who tells Grace about some of the most important moments in her life – and the comfort food that has seen her through them. She talks to Grace about being a ‘peculiar’ child in County Durham, navigating accidental celebrity and the loneliness of London. Grace gives her ‘most judge-y face’ of the series so far in response to Scarlett’s unusual comfort concoction
13/07/21•42m 9s
S1 E4: Mae Martin, actor and comedian – podcast
In episode four of Comfort Eating with Grace Dent, Mae Martin tells Grace about some of the most important moments in their life – and the comfort food that has seen them through them. Mae tells Grace about the childhood joy of a freshly made souvlaki, the role cooking played in their recovery from drug addiction, and their Netflix series Feel Good
06/07/21•31m 14s
S1 E3: Rafe Spall, actor
In episode three of Comfort Eating with Grace Dent, Rafe Spall tells Grace about some of the most important moments in his life – and the comfort food that has seen him through them. He and Grace drink martinis and talk about their Indian takeaway order, the bizarre memories he has of school lunches, and the pressures he feels as a male actor to maintain a certain body shape Comfort Eating with Grace Dent is released weekly on Tuesdays
29/06/21•38m 45s
S1 E2: Nish Kumar, comedian
In this episode of Comfort Eating with Grace Dent, comedian Nish Kumar tells Grace about some of the most important moments in his life - and the comfort food that has seen him through them. They lament the ‘golden years’ of Pizza Hut, discuss the ‘spicy’ period during his twenties, and Nish tells Grace how it feels to be pelted with a bread roll for his views on Brexit Comfort Eating with Grace Dent will be released weekly on Tuesdays How to listen to podcasts: everything you need to know
22/06/21•37m 44s
S1 E1: Russell T Davies, screenwriter
In this first episode of Comfort Eating with Grace Dent, award-winning Doctor Who and It’s A Sin screenwriter Russell T Davies tells Grace about some of the most important moments in his life - and the comfort food that has seen him through them. The pair discuss love at first sight, recent loss, and how Woolworth’s pork and egg pie is a metaphor for life itself Comfort Eating with Grace Dent will be released weekly on Tuesdays
15/06/21•38m 48s
Coming soon: a new podcast where celebrities reveal what they really eat …
Get ready for Comfort Eating with the Guardian’s food critic Grace Dent, where she sits down with celebrity guests and asks them to lift the lid on their favourite comfort foods. Join her for warm, funny and often poignant conversations about the snacks they turn to in good times and bad. It turns out you can tell a lot about a person from what they eat behind closed doors The first episode of Comfort Eating with Grace Dent launches on Tuesday 15 June
08/06/21•39s
