Alison Hammond’s Big Weekend: Interview with Alison

Getting under the skin of some of the UK’s best known celebrities, Alison Hammond’s Big Weekend sees the much-loved TV personality spend quality time with some of the biggest star names, giving viewers an exclusive glimpse into their homes, histories and personal lives.

Kicking off the series, episode one sees Alison interview former Little Mix star Perrrie Edwards. Taking a snoop around as well as visiting her home town of South Shields, Perrie opens up about her childhood, becoming a mother, and her time in one of the most successful girl-bands in British history.

Further episodes see Alison taking a boat trip on Lake Windermere with Jimmy Carr, a visit with Sir Lenny Henry to their beloved Midlands, a roller coaster ride with Spice Girl Mel B, horse riding with Luke Evans and getting put through her paces in the boxing ring by Tony Bellew. All six celebrities open themselves up to Alison, sharing personal revelations, fun times and the occasional tear as they show Alison the people and places that have shaped them into the stars they are today.

The show takes Alison across the UK as she asks the big questions viewers are dying to know – all in her unique and hilarious way that has made the star one of the country’s most beloved TV personalities.

Interview with Alison Hammond

What can viewers expect to see from the series?

Oh babes, buckle up! Big Weekend is all about me getting celebs to have the juiciest, funniest, and sometimes most emotional chats. It’s a full-blown experience! We’re talking deep convos, belly laughs and spontaneous singalongs. From roller coasters with Mel B to ice baths with Jimmy Carr, this series is packed with surprises.

What was the most surprising thing you learnt from your celebrity guests?

Well, first off Jimmy Carr chooses to get into an ice bath for fun. I mean, who does that?! Then there’s Mel B, who is not just a Spice Girl but a full-blown farm girl with goats and chickens! And Lenny Henry? That man has stories for DAYS I had to stop a few times just to take it all in!

Do you have a personal highlight from the show?

Oh, babes, where do I start? Learning to horse ride with Luke Evans felt like I was in a full-on period drama! Sparring with Tony Bellew? I gave it my best shot (literally). And meeting Perrie Edwards’ lovely mum and her little boy Axel? That was such a special moment. But honestly, just the simple moments in having a proper natter, and getting to know these celebs in a way you don’t usually see, that’s the real magic!

There are tonnes of emotional moments in the series. Were you surprised by how much the celebrities opened up to you?

Oh, absolutely! But that’s what happens when you’re stuck with me. I don’t stop talking until they spill! There’s something about spending proper time with someone that makes people relax. We had some deep chats, some absolute screamers, and even a few tears. Turns out, a weekend with Alison Hammond is basically therapy!

If you could pick a celebrity to come and interview you at your house, who would it be and why?

Ohhh, it’s gotta be Oprah. Imagine the life advice, the deep conversations, the tea (both kinds)! I’d have the kettle on, we’d get cosy, and by the end of it, I’d probably be crying on her shoulder.

Has Perrie Edwards helped you out by getting a record deal for your song yet?

Babes, I am STILL waiting for that phone call! I told Perrie – she needs me in the studio, I’ll bring the vocals (or at least the vibes). But I reckon she’s scared I’ll take over. Perrie, if you’re reading this, let’s make a hit, hun!

Who would be the dream celeb to spend a weekend with alive or dead…?

Oh, easy Elvis Presley! Can you imagine the road trip? We’d be belting out Suspicious Minds in the car, stopping off for some fried chicken, living our best lives. Or if we’re talking alive Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson. Because, well… have you SEEN him?!

Watch Alison Hammond’s Big Weekend on BBC One and iPlayer from Friday 16th May 8:30pm