The Bill Podcast

HE'S BACK! Oliver returns to The Bill Podcast while Natalie is away filming. In this bonus edition of the show, Oliver interviews his good friend Michael Seely (author, TV historian, publisher and sponsor of The Bill Podcast) where we discuss his brilliant work with Saturday Morning Press. The two TV historians trade research stories and share their passion for celebrating television of the past. Michael also reveals how his thoughts on "The Bill" have changed over the years... If you've ever toyed with the idea of writing a book about your favourite television show, then this is the interview for you! Saturday Morning Press Books aims to focus on dramas forgotten, and some not so forgotten television series and serials from the long distant past. Find out more about Michael's books on shop.saturdaymorningpress.co.uk The Bill Podcast is also brought to you in association with georgefairbrother.com cityfiction.co.uk and vanguardcomics.co.uk For over 150 hours of bonus content, including the new weekly series "The Evidence Room" where Oliver examines rare production paperwork that reveals what was being produced for The Bill exactly 25 years ago each week, join the investigation at patreon.com/thebillpodcast

Welcome to the extended finale of this three-course feast of an interview with the wonderful Pal Aron! Pal and Natalie continue to discuss his time at Sun Hill, where Natalie asks him to share some memories of some of their lovely colleagues... Pal also reflects on his time on the cobbles, his role in the BAFTA-winning sitcom Stella, his recent writing work, a dream job on the big screen AND they both share stories about the music icon Prince! The Bill Podcast is brought to you in association with georgefairbrother.com shop.saturdaymorningpress.co.uk cityfiction.co.uk and vanguardcomics.co.uk The Bill Podcast is produced by Oliver Crocker and co-produced by Ben Adams, Glen Allen, Rob Cook, Glenn Cooney, Georgina Dark, Sarah Keiper, Bryony Kelly, Maz Mirabilis, Alex Mockler and Simon Wolf Our Executive Producers are Isobel Allan, Ben Ashmore, Mark Bennett, Alana Dewar, Andrew Diack, Paul Dunn, Tony Drury, Dan Evans, George Fairbrother, Luke Heagerty, Robert Hoegger, Edward Kellett, James Ledain, Thomas Jhonston, Lucy McNeil, Gary Moncur, Danny Morris, Steph Morris, Claire Norbury, Laura Pini-Fay, Alistair Rigley, Michael Seely, Tom Sherrington, Angel Stannard, Paul Statter, Patrick Stratford, Michael While and Sarah Went. Huge thanks to all our lovely Patrons who make The Bill Podcast possible. If you'd like to add your name to the credits and support the podcast, join the investigation at patreon.com/thebillpodcast

Welcome back to Part 2 of Natalie's Bill Podcast interview with her friend and colleague Pal Aron (DC Brandon Kane) This time Pal shares memories of growing up in Birmingham, discovering acting, his impressive work in the theatre and joining the BBC's flagship drama series Casualty. They also begin to talk about Pal's time as DC Brandon Kane in The Bill and discuss THAT Cathy Bradford storyline. We're also thrilled to introduce our new sponsor vanguardcomics.co.uk who on Sunday April 14th are hosting Gosport Comic Con, where you can meet Natalie Roles, Larry Dann, Raji James and Mark Wingett from The Bill, alongside Doctor Who stars Colin Baker, Nicola Bryant and Sophie Aldred. Find out more and book your tickets via https://www.vanguardcomics.co.uk/comic-con-2024 The Bill Podcast is brought to you in association with georgefairbrother.com shop.saturdaymorningpress.co.uk cityfiction.co.uk and vanguardcomics.co.uk The Bill Podcast is produced by Oliver Crocker, co-produced by Ben Adams, Glen Allen, Rob Cook, Georgina Dark, Sarah Keiper, Maz Mirabilis, Alex Mockler and Simon Wolf. Executive Produced by Isobel Allan, Ben Ashmore, Mark Bennett, Alana Dewar, Andrew Diack, Paul Dunn, Tony Drury, Dan Evans, George Fairbrother, Luke Heagerty, Alan Hunting, Thomas Jhonston, Edward Kellett, James Ledain, Lucy McNeil, Gary Moncur, Danny Morris, Steph Morris, Claire Norbury, Laura Pini-Fay, Alistair Rigley, Michael Seely, Tom Sherrington, Angel Stannard, Paul Statter, Patrick Stratford, Michael While and Sarah Went. The music is composed by Matthew Anniss

BRANDON'S BACK! After 20 years, Natalie was very happy to be reunited with the immensely talented Pal Aron (DC Brandon Kane) for a special trilogy of Podcasts! In Part 1, these two legends are going to make you hungry, as they both LOVE their food and talk about some of their favourite cuisine. Natalie was also interested to see how Pal's tastes might have changed in the last 20 years, so she reminds him of some answers he gave in a Q&A back in their Sun Hill days. They also chat about some of Pal's most recent acting work, which has taken him all over the globe... There's LOADS of Bill chat to come in Parts 2 and 3, but for now, sit back, relax and get ready for your tummy to rumble during this Starter course of a three-part feast with one of this country's finest actors. The Bill Podcast is brought to you in association with georgefairbrother.com shop.saturdaymorningpress.co.uk and cityfiction.co.uk Our closing credits are read out by the fantastic Andrew Mackintosh (DS Alastair Greig) who has news of Letter from Helvetica: Series 2, which you can be part of here - https://ko-fi.com/letterfromhelvetica

Sarah Gorrell interviewed actor Larry Dann and author Oliver Crocker about "Witness Statements: Making The Bill (Series 1-3)" on BBC Radio Surrey. Since this interview was originally broadcast on Friday October 16th 2020, Oliver has written a sequel "Witness Statements: Making The Bill (1988)" and Larry himself has written his autobiography "Oh, What A Lovely Memoir". All three books, plus Edward Kellett's "Reaching a Verdict: Reviewing The Bill (1983-89), are available from devonfirebooks.com

New Years Eve is perhaps the perfect time to release this interview, as Jane recalls the fireworks that were going off behind the scenes in 2002 with the arrival of new Executive Producer Paul Marquess. Jane had never seen her explosive exit from The Bill until Oliver sent her a highlights reel of her time as Di Worrell ahead of this interview and so we hear Jane's thoughts on this for the very first time. New Years Eve is also a time for reflection and to look ahead at new beginnings and Jane's new life in L.A. has brought her some exciting acting work, including playing the lead in the film "Are We Lost" which you'll be hearing all about later in this interview. So grab some party food, sit back and enjoy this final slice of gold dust for 2023! Our huge thanks also to all of you who have supported The Bill Podcast this year, including our special guests, our Patreon supporters and our sponsors George Fairbrother, Michael Seely and Tony Drury. If you'd like to enjoy more content, there's over 100 hours of goodies to enjoy on patreon.com/thebillpodcast where you can enjoy exclusive interviews, reactions, commentaries, Billgrimages, reunions and more from just £2.49. The Bill Podcast is brought to you in association with georgefairbrother.com shop.saturdaymorningpress.co.uk and cityfiction.co.uk

MERRY CHRISTMAS! Natalie Roles, aka D.S. Debbie McSanta takes her good friend Jane Wall back in time as they do a deep dive into her time as P.C. Di Worrell. Jane shares some absolutely brilliant memories and insight here - including her interview for the job and the production team's reason for creating Di. There's memories of filming and Natalie also reads out a message from an old friend... There's LOADS of gold-dust in this and that's before we even get near the Marquess era, which will be coming up in Part 3, though you won't have to wait until next month - as a festive treat, we'll be releasing Part 3 on New Years Eve, to see out 2023. Thank you all so much for supporting The Bill Podcast in 2023, especially our sponsors georgefairbrother.com shop.saturdaymorningpress.co.uk and cityfiction.co.uk

DI WORRELL IS BACK! Special guest presenter Natalie Roles continues to bring us gold-dust and today a new trilogy begins with her dear friend Jane Wall, who now lives in Los Angeles. In Part 1 of this brilliant interview, Natalie asks Jane about life in L.A., her recent acting work on "Grey's Anatomy", discovering the acting bug and growing up in 1970's London. Plus, Jane shares her memories of her guest appearance in "The Bill" prior to joining as a regular. Give the legend a follow on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/janewallofficial/ The Bill Podcast is brought to you in association with georgefairbrother.com shop.saturdaymorningpress.co.uk and cityfiction.co.uk

This special reunion between two CID Sarges reaches its climax as Raji shares some hilarious encounters he's had with the public when the pair talk about fame. Raji also takes part in Natalie's "Roles Play" quickfire round and then dishes out some absolutely fascinating insight into the acting process including some brilliant self-tape tips. Oh and they chat about soup... lots of soup! The Bill Podcast is brought to you in association with georgefairbrother.com shop.saturdaymorningpress.co.uk and cityfiction.co.uk

Away from his work producing The Bill Podcast, Oliver Crocker is also the author of "All Memories Great & Small", the guidebook to the original BBC series. On 12th October 2023 he was interviewed on BBC Radio York, chatting with presenter Julia Lewis about his love of the series and the Expanded Edition of his book, which is available from The World of James Herriot https://worldofjamesherriot.com/product/all-memories-great-small/

Hello and welcome back to Part 2 of this special trilogy with the wonderful Raji James This time Natalie does a deep dive into Raji's time on "The Bill" and they discuss key storylines, co-stars, behind-the-scenes politics and how and why Raji left the series. Raji also shares his experiences of joining "EastEnders" and recalls his famous death scene in "Doctor Who"... The Bill Podcast is brought to you in association with georgefairbrother.com shop.saturdaymorningpress.co.uk and cityfiction.co.uk

VIK IS BACK! Welcome to the first part of this special trilogy with Natalie's old Sun Hill sparring partner Raji James, who as DS Vik Singh joined The Bill at the same time as our legendary presenter! Reunited for the first time in 20 years, the pair start off by chatting about Raji's recent work on "Hollyoaks", playing a spoof version of himself on a Podcast, his background and early days as an actor, and how before he landed the role on "The Bill", he starred in the absolutely massive big-screen hit "East is East"... Can't wait for Part 2? You can unlock Parts 2 and 3 now, plus Part 1 of Pal Aron (DC Brandon Kane) and the entire trilogy of Podcasts with Jane Wall (PC Di Worrell) for just £9.99 as a Sergeant patron - where you'll also unlock a dozen cast/crew Commentaries, 12 x bonus "Off the Beat" Podcasts, Reunion highlights, over 100 Reaction videos and loads more - patreon.com/thebillpodcast The Bill Podcast is brought to you in proud association with georgefairbrother.com shop.saturdaymorningpress.co.uk and cityfiction.co.uk

To celebrate the 40th anniversary of the pilot episode of "The Bill" (first broadcast as "Woodentop" on 16th August 1983), Devonfire Books is proud to have published REACHING A VERDICT - an insightful, thorough and fascinating analysis of the groundbreaking police programme that held a mirror up to society in 1980s London and changed the landscape of British television forever. By revisiting all 188 episodes of that ratings smash that were broadcast in the 1980s, TV historian Edward Kellett has gained new appreciation for the qualities of "The Bill", which he considers to be "the single best storytelling format in the history of television" Exactly 40 years on from "Woodentop", Edward was interviewed live in the BBC Sussex studio by Joe Talbot on 16th August 2023. The interview is presented here, no copyright infringement is intended. This 260-page academic investigation assesses the scripts, themes, characters, performances, settings and direction of the series and will leave the reader wanting to rewatch all these episodes again to appreciate them in a completely new way. REACHING A VERDICT opens with a Foreword by Nigel J. Wilson (Production Scheduler, "The Bill" 1984-2002) and closes with an Afterword by legendary "The Bill" script editor Tim Vaughan. OUT NOW from devonfirebooks.com priced £13.99 (RRP £16.99) +p&p.

Today, we are diving into the crime fiction world with our special guest - crime novelist and new The Bill Podcast co-sponsor Tony Drury, the author behind five DCI Sarah Rudd novels, where in each book, he drew upon his experience as a London financier to inspire the DCI’s array of suspects as she exposed an underworld of dark practices. His latest book, "Square Mile Tales" - is a fascinating Memoir taking readers on a helta-skelta ride around the City of London, where along the way he had memorable encounters with some notable criminals… In this fascinating interview, Natalie picks Tony's brains about the writing process and they compare notes about working with real life Detectives, plus we hear some hilarious and incredible stories from Tony's memoir. Tony also shares advice and tips for aspiring writers and explains if you have an idea for a fiction book, that City Fiction is open for submissions from debut authors. PLEASE NOTE: Since recording this interview, City Fiction has confirmed that they will now charge authors to work with them. Find out more about Tony books and his publishing business - cityfiction.co.uk/ Follow Tony on Twitter @mrtonydrury Find Tony's books on Amazon - www.amazon.co.uk/Tony-Drury/e/B00B49AY84

It’s time for the third and final part of Natalie's chat with the fantastic Beth Cordingly. This time, we hear more about Beth’s time as PC Kerry Young and working with the legendary Roberta Taylor. The legends also remember awards nights, trade stories about bad publicity, run-ins with journalists, dream jobs and lots, lots more! So pop the kettle on and enjoy the finale of this special trilogy! We are also pleased to introduce you to our new co-sponsor - City Fiction - a publishing house dedicated to supporting and promoting new and established innovative writers. Tony Drury is the founder of City Fiction and joins George Fairbrother and Michael Seely as an Executive Producer and co-sponsor of The Bill Podcast Next week, you will be able to enjoy a bonus edition of The Bill Podcast as Natalie sat down with Tony to interview him about his career. Tony founded City Fiction after a 40 year career in City finance. As a crime novelist, he has penned five books in the DCI Sarah Rudd series of detective thrillers. And hot off the press, City Fiction has just published Tony’s autobiography - Square Mile Tales - a helta-skelta ride of a Memoir, set against the backdrop of the City of London - where he had dealings with plenty of well-known and some notorious figures, all of which you’ll hear about in next week’s Podcast - Find Square Mile Tales on Amazon - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Square-Mile-Tales-Biographical-Banking/dp/1910040460/ And find out more on www.cityfiction.co.uk

Natalie Roles (DS Debbie McAllister) continues her chat with the glorious Beth Cordingly (PC Kerry Young) This time the pair trade stories of presenting, being recognised, awkward encounters, writing, exercising and we reveal which James Bond loved The Bill... Patrons enjoyed this episode SIX MONTHS ago! If you'd like to unlock Part 3 now, plus Natalie's next trilogies with Raji James (DS Vik Singh) and Jane Wall (PC Di Worrell) these are available as Video Podcasts for Sergeant patrons on patreon.com/thebillpodcast The Bill Podcast is brought to you in association with georgefairbrother.com and shop.saturdaymorningpress.co.uk The theme music is composed by Matthew Anniss https://www.youtube.com/@MatthewAnnissMusic

A new era of The Bill Podcast begins! Natalie Roles (DS Debbie McAllister) is your new presenter and will be interviewing some of her dearest Sun Hill pals! Joining her first behind the microphone is Beth Cordingly (PC Kerry Young) and there's lots of laughs as two old friends catch up in Part 1 of this trilogy. Patrons enjoyed this episode six months ago. If you'd like to unlock Parts 2 and 3 now, plus Natalie's next chats with Raji James (DS Vik Singh) and Jane Wall (PC Di Worrell) these are available as Video Podcasts for Sergeant patrons on patreon.com/thebillpodcast The Bill Podcast is brought to you in association with georgefairbrother.com and shop.saturdaymorningpress.co.uk This edition is dedicated to Vic Gallucci, who appeared in over 900 episodes of "The Bill" as DC Tom Baker. Rest in peace Vic.

THE FEET FROM THE CREDITS! Karen England worked on The Bill for over 15 years as a supporting artist, making several credited appearances as WPC Taylor/Dobey (and even Brind!) In this rare interview, Karen shares her memories of working on The Bill right from the very beginning at Artichoke Hill - and dispels some myths about the making of those famous end credits sequences. Karen now works as a healer and this Podcast features an amazing discussion about Karen's work. This edition of the Podcast also features a lengthy opening intro from Oliver, who is handing the mic over to special guest presenter Natalie Roles (DS Debbie McAllister) for the rest of the year! The Bill Podcast is brought to you in association with georgefairbrother.com mcgoldrickwatchrepairs.com and shop.saturdaymorningpress.co.uk

I'm so sorry to be posting this. Simon McGoldrick, friend and sponsor of The Bill Podcast, sadly passed away suddenly last month, aged just 38. Some of you met Simon at The Bill Reunion 7 in November. We recorded a Podcast together in December and I was editing it when I received the news of his passing. I release this with the blessing of his family, as a tribute to Simon. This one's for you mate. I asked Rebekah, Simon's widow, if there was a justgiving page we could donate to. She explained that they are taking donations for the Winston's Wish charity at his funeral, which is taking place next week. Winston's Wish give hope to grieving children - Simon leaves behind four daughters, one of whom was born just over a month after his passing. If anyone would like to make a donation, here is the website: winstonswish.org

The Bill Podcast is 6 years old this weekend! To celebrate, both #WitnessStatements guidebooks are ON OFFER this weekend only. WITNESS STATEMENTS: MAKING THE BILL (SERIES 1-3) - £9.99 (£14.99 Amazon) "Witness Statements is an invaluable book which comes highly recommended." - Archive TV Musings Go behind the scenes of "The Bill" as 40 cast and crew share their memories of making the first three series and the "Woodentop" pilot. Featuring interviews with Sun Hill legends John Salthouse (D.I. Galloway), Eric Richard (Sgt. Cryer), Mark Wingett (P.C. Carver) Trudie Goodwin (W.P.C. Ackland), Jon Iles (D.C. Dashwood), Colin Blumenau (P.C. Edwards), Nula Conwell (W.P.C. Martella), Larry Dann (Sgt. Peters), Ralph Brown (P.C. Muswell), Graham Cole (P.C. Stamp), Ashley Gunstock (P.C. Frank), Robert Hudson (P.C. Smith), Mark Powley (P.C. Melvin), Peter Ellis (Chief Supt. Brownlow) and Chris Ellison (D.S. Burnside), plus guest stars, writers, directors and many more members of the production team. This 192-page book, signed by the author, also features 18 rare, previously unreleased behind the scenes photograph, plus ratings published for the first time! "An unmissable read for anyone who is interested in The Bill or the history of British television." - We Are Cult WITNESS STATEMENTS: MAKING THE BILL (1988) - £14.99 (£17.99 Amazon) Read how the first 48 half-hour episodes of “The Bill” were brought to life, through a series of in-depth interviews with 60 cast and crew, including some of the programme’s most legendary actors, prolific writers and visionary creatives. Every episode is accompanied by detailed Observation Notes, revealing filming locations, production dates, viewing figures, character notes, unmade storylines and much more. Featuring 40 previously unpublished behind-the-scenes photographs, Oliver Crocker’s second unofficial guidebook is the most thorough investigation ever undertaken of how the bi-weekly format of The Bill was created. Every copy will be signed by author Oliver Crocker. devonfirebooks.com