Jimmy Carr

Alison Hammond spends a weekend with one of the UK’s biggest and busiest comedians, Jimmy Carr. Known for being unpredictable, Jimmy keeps Alison on her toes as they meet in Manchester. Over coffee, Alison learns that Jimmy rarely takes a Saturday off – he’s even working tonight, and it’s her mission is to get him to his gig in Kendal.

The duo hit the road, and during the drive to the Lake District, Jimmy reflects on his journey into comedy. He shares how a bout of depression in his twenties prompted him to leave his job and pursue stand-up, starting with gigs above a pub. He credits his love of laughter to his mother, whose contagious, narcoleptic laugh inspired him to bring joy to others.

Before the gig, they take a detour to Lake Windermere, where they rent a boat. Jimmy steers, joking about looking like a 'Lidl Bond'. When a wave rocks the boat, Alison panics, mistaking the lake’s calm waters for a strong current – much to Jimmy’s amusement. In a moment of calm, they have a heartfelt discussion about his mother, who passed away when he was 25. Jimmy reflects on their close bond, her struggles with depression and how his drive to make people laugh stems from bringing her joy. He also opens up about fatherhood, revealing how having a daughter has unlocked new emotional depths in him.

Next, Alison and Jimmy hike up Queen Adelaide Hill, where Alison quizzes him about his expensive wardrobe, learning that even his suit buttons cost a fortune. Taking in the stunning views of Lake Windermere, the conversation turns to loss. Jimmy shares how comedy helped him cope with the death of his friend and 8 Out of 10 Cats co-star Sean Lock.

Arriving at the Kendal gig, Alison is surprised by the modest sports hall venue. Jimmy gives her a backstage tour, revealing that his 'dressing room' is actually a women’s changing room. Alison gives him a cushion with her face on it to liven up the space. As Jimmy takes the stage, Alison heads to London for the next part of their adventure.

The following day, they meet at a spa for one of Jimmy’s favourite activities: an ice bath. Whilst in the spa, Alison questions Jimmy on his appearance and his love of cosmetic surgery, with Jimmy revealing that he’s had work done on his teeth, hair and face. Jimmy asks Alison if she’s ever had Botox and is shocked when the answer is no.

It’s time for them to jump in the sauna and ice bath, much to Alison’s dismay. They plunge into the ice-cold water, which takes Alison’s breath away. She’s shocked and irritated that it’s not affecting Jimmy as much as her, with her confessing that she thinks he’s part-alien.

To end their weekend together, Alison and Jimmy head for lunch where Alison broaches Jimmy’s controversial tax scandal, a moment that rocked his career. Jimmy candidly admits his mistake and credits his friend James Corden for supporting him through the ordeal with daily check-ins. As their weekend together comes to an end, Alison bids farewell – leaving Jimmy to settle the bill.