Let us know what you think of the latest episode of Distinct Nostalgia by clicking here and sending us a messageThe extraordinary inside story of the most controversial decision in the history of modern warfare - the order to drop the atomic bomb. Drawn from first-hand accounts of those involved and declassified top secret American and Japanese documents from 1945, this documentary drama unfolds through the eyes of the two people at the centre of this world changing event - President Harry S. Truman and Showa Emperor Hirohito of Japan Episode 2: THE ALTERNATIVE OPTION President Truman is briefed on plans for the invasion of Japan which, the generals tell him, could cost hundreds of thousands of American casualties and take eighteen months to end the war. But he has a secret alternative option, which he believes, will force Japan to surrender with just one bomb...You can hear the cast and production team list in detail at the end of the episode.A Made in Manchester Production.Support the show

Let us know what you think of the latest episode of Distinct Nostalgia by clicking here and sending us a messageFirst Look Trailer for Part 2 of The President and the Emperor starring Clifton Truman Daniel as President Harry S Truman, Sadao Ueda as Emperor Hirohito and Samuel Barnett as Phillip Oppenheimer.Episode 2 coming soon.....The President and the Emperor is written byGuy Smith.The director is Jonathan Kydd.Produced by Ashley ByrneExecutive Producer is Kurt BrookesA Made in Manchester production.Support the show

Let us know what you think of the latest episode of Distinct Nostalgia by clicking here and sending us a messageAs we await the arrival of Part 2 of The President and the Emperor, acclaimed actor Samuel Barnett who plays 'father of the bomb' Robert Oppenheimer chats about taking on historical figures as characters - and what it means to play the famous nuclear scientist.  Sam also reflects on the meticulousness of the script by Guy Smith and what he hopes listens around the world draw from this epic seven part drama.Samuel Barnett is In Conversation with Ashley ByrneA Made in Manchester ProductionLISTEN TO PART ONE OF THE PRESIDENT AND THE EMPEROR JUST BY SCROLLING THROUGH THIS FEED. YOU CAN ALSO HEAR INTERVIEWS WITH CLIFTON TRUMAN DANIEL WHO PLAYS HIS GRANDPA PRESIDENT TRUMAN - AND SADAO UEDA WHO PLAYS EMPEROR HIROHITOThe President and The Emperor  brings to life the story behind one of the most consequential decisions in modern history, the dropping of the atomic bomb eighty years ago.Told in seven parts and produced by indie company Made in Manchester, the series draws on newly declassified US and Japanese documents, along with first-hand testimony, to present a dual-perspective account of the final days of the Second World War.At the heart of the drama are two isolated but powerful figures, President Harry S. Truman and Emperor Hirohito. They navigate moral and political dilemmas as the world teeters on the brink of nuclear devastation.In a unique casting move, Truman is portrayed by his real-life grandson, Clifton Truman Daniel, adding an intimate connection to a role few could approach with such personal insight.He stars alongside acclaimed Japanese actor Sadao Ueda, who plays Hirohito with quiet intensity and emotional nuance.“This drama is not about who was right or wrong in the war,” Ueda says. “It presents historical facts dramatically from two different points of view. I hope the listener will reflect on what global conflict might mean if it ever happened again.”Samuel Barnett plays Robert OppenheimerThe President and the Emperor is written by Guy Smith, directed by Jonathan Kydd and produced by Ashley Byrne. The Executive Producer is Kurt Brookes.Guy Smith says: ''I

Let us know what you think of the latest episode of Distinct Nostalgia by clicking here and sending us a messageThe extraordinary inside story of the most controversial decision in the history of modern warfare - the order to drop the atomic bomb. Drawn from first-hand accounts of those involved and declassified top secret American and Japanese documents from 1945, this documentary drama unfolds through the eyes of the two people at the centre of this world changing event - President Harry S. Truman and Showa Emperor Hirohito of Japan Episode 1: THE NEW COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF April 1945 and the new president, Harry S. Truman, is briefed for the first time on the Manhattan Project - America's top secret operation to build an atomic bomb. And as allied forces advance across the Pacific, Emperor Hirohito fears it will only be a matter of time before Japan is defeated.The Cast Clifton Truman Daniel - President Harry S Truman Sadao Ueda - Emperor Hirohito Christopher Strauli - Secretary of War Henry StimsonMark Takeshi Ota - Lord Koichi Kido Mike Grady - General Leslie Groves Leo Ashizawa - Foreign Minister Shigenori Togo Samuel Barnett - Dr J Robert Oppenheimer Takatsuna Mukai - Prime Minister Kantaro Suzuki Jonathan Kydd - Dr Robert Stearns Samuel Barnett - English Radio announcerTakatsuna Mukai - Studio EngineerJonathan Kydd - American Radio Announcer.The narrator is Lorelei King The music is by Andy StreetThe historian is Guy Waltersand historical observers were Kazuhiko andShigehiko Togo.The President and the Emperor is written byGuy Smith.The director is Jonathan Kydd.Produced by Ashley ByrneExecutive Producer is Kurt BrookesRecorded at the Voices Sound Studio, Soho, LondonA Made in Manchester production.With thanks to:The National Security Archive, Washington DChttps://nsarchive.gwu.eduThe Harry S Truman Library, Independence, MOhttps://www.trumanlibrary.govThis drama has been made with the good will of everyone involved and not with huge funders behind it. If you would like to give something to the costs and to show your appreciati

Let us know what you think of the latest episode of Distinct Nostalgia by clicking here and sending us a messageAhead of the launch tomorrow (Sunday August 31st) of the epic new landmark drama about the decision to drop the first atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945, Sadao Ueda chats to Ashley Byrne about playing Emperor Hirohito. Sadao grew up in Japan and here he talks about what he was taught about the devastating events at school in the 1970s. He also reflects on taking on a part he's really wanted to play all his acting career. Sadao Ueda is in conversation with Ashley Byrne.A Made in Manchester Production   Coming soon ....The President and The Emperor  brings to life the story behind one of the most consequential decisions in modern history, the dropping of the atomic bomb eighty years ago.Told in seven parts and produced by indie company Made in Manchester, the series draws on newly declassified US and Japanese documents, along with first-hand testimony, to present a dual-perspective account of the final days of the Second World War.At the heart of the drama are two isolated but powerful figures, President Harry S. Truman and Emperor Hirohito. They navigate moral and political dilemmas as the world teeters on the brink of nuclear devastation.In a unique casting move, Truman is portrayed by his real-life grandson, Clifton Truman Daniel, adding an intimate connection to a role few could approach with such personal insight.He stars alongside acclaimed Japanese actor Sadao Ueda, who plays Hirohito with quiet intensity and emotional nuance.“This drama is not about who was right or wrong in the war,” Ueda says. “It presents historical facts dramatically from two different points of view. I hope the listener will reflect on what global conflict might mean if it ever happened again.”Samuel Barnett plays Robert OppenheimerThe President and the Emperor is written by Guy Smith, directed by Jonathan Kydd and produced by Ashley Byrne. The Executive Producer is Kurt Brookes.Guy Smith says: ''I wanted to find out what really took place behind the scenes in Washington and Tokyo in the weeks leading up to the most momentous - and controversial - decision in the history of modern war

Let us know what you think of the latest episode of Distinct Nostalgia by clicking here and sending us a messageFirst Look Trailer 2 for The President and the Emperor starring Clifton Truman Daniel as President Harry S Truman, Sadao Ueda as Emperor Hirohito and Samuel Barnett as Phillip Oppenheimer.Episode 1 coming soon.....The President and the Emperor Cast - Episode One Clifton Truman Daniel - President Harry S Truman Sadao Ueda - Emperor Hirohito Christopher Strauli - Secretary of War Henry StimsonMark Takeshi Ota - Lord Koichi Kido Mike Grady - General Leslie Groves Leo Ashizawa - Foreign Minister Shigenori Togo Samuel Barnett - Dr J Robert Oppenheimer Takatsuna Mukai - Prime Minister Kantaro Suzuki Jonathan Kydd - Dr Robert Stearns Samuel Barnett - English Radio announcerTakatsuna Mukai - Studio EngineerJonathan Kydd - American Radio Announcer.The narrator is Lorelei King The music is by Andy StreetThe historian is Guy Waltersand historical observers were Kazuhiko andShigehiko Togo.The President and the Emperor is written byGuy Smith.The director is Jonathan Kydd.Produced by Ashley ByrneExecutive Producer is Kurt BrookesA Made in Manchester production.Support the show

Let us know what you think of the latest episode of Distinct Nostalgia by clicking here and sending us a messageA First Look Teaser for The President and the Emperor starring Clifton Truman Daniel as President Harry S Truman, Sadao Ueda as Emperor Hirohito and Samuel Barnett as Phillip Oppenheimer.Episode 1 coming soon.....The President and the Emperor Cast - Episode One Clifton Truman Daniel - President Harry S Truman Sadao Ueda - Emperor Hirohito Christopher Strauli - Secretary of War Henry StimsonMark Takeshi Ota - Lord Koichi Kido Mike Grady - General Leslie Groves Leo Ashizawa - Foreign Minister Shigenori Togo Samuel Barnett - Dr J Robert Oppenheimer Takatsuna Mukai - Prime Minister Kantaro Suzuki Jonathan Kydd - Dr Robert Stearns Samuel Barnett - English Radio announcerTakatsuna Mukai - Studio EngineerJonathan Kydd - American Radio Announcer.The narrator is Lorelei King The music is by Andy StreetThe historian is Guy Waltersand historical observers were Kazuhiko andShigehiko Togo.The President and the Emperor is written byGuy Smith.The director is Jonathan Kydd.Produced by Ashley ByrneExecutive Producer is Kurt BrookesA Made in Manchester production.Support the show

Let us know what you think of the latest episode of Distinct Nostalgia by clicking here and sending us a messageAhead of the launch of the epic new landmark drama about the decision to drop the first atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945, Clifton Truman Daniel chats to Ashley Byrne about playing his grandfather in The President and the Emperor. Clifton talks candidly about his relationship with his grandpa and how he learned about his family history when he was growing up. He also reflects on the impact the decision his grandfather made has had on the world and on the work he's done to foster peace the region.Clifton Truman Daniel is in conversation with Ashley Byrne.A Made in Manchester Production   Coming soon ....The President and The Emperor  brings to life the story behind one of the most consequential decisions in modern history, the dropping of the atomic bomb eighty years ago.Told in seven parts and produced by indie company Made in Manchester, the series draws on newly declassified US and Japanese documents, along with first-hand testimony, to present a dual-perspective account of the final days of the Second World War.At the heart of the drama are two isolated but powerful figures, President Harry S. Truman and Emperor Hirohito. They navigate moral and political dilemmas as the world teeters on the brink of nuclear devastation.In a unique casting move, Truman is portrayed by his real-life grandson, Clifton Truman Daniel, adding an intimate connection to a role few could approach with such personal insight.He stars alongside acclaimed Japanese actor Sadao Ueda, who plays Hirohito with quiet intensity and emotional nuance.“This drama is not about who was right or wrong in the war,” Ueda says. “It presents historical facts dramatically from two different points of view. I hope the listener will reflect on what global conflict might mean if it ever happened again.”Samuel Barnett plays Robert OppenheimerThe President and the Emperor is written by Guy Smith, directed by Jonathan Kydd and produced by Ashley Byrne. The Executive Producer is Kurt Brookes.Guy Smith says: ''I wanted to find out what really took place behind the scenes in Washington and Tokyo in the weeks lead

Let us know what you think of the latest episode of Distinct Nostalgia by clicking here and sending us a messageAshley had the pleasure of interviewing the legendary Andy Peebles just weeks before he died for a programme about Steve Strange. Though the interview was about Steve, the conversation included many anecdotes related to Andy's long career overall including his famous interview with John Lennon. Here we play most of the interview in tribute to Andy and his memory. Enjoy and RIP Andy!Support the show

Let us know what you think of the latest episode of Distinct Nostalgia by clicking here and sending us a messageIn the fourth episode of Distinct Nostalgia's EastEnders at 40 series, Ashley sits down with former Albert Square storyliner David Payne. David, who worked on the show from 2015 to 2017, offers a fascinating glimpse into the creative process behind some of EastEnders' most gripping storylines. From the homophobic murder of Paul Coker to Stacey Fowler's postpartum psychosis, David shares the challenges and triumphs of crafting compelling narratives for one of Britain's most beloved soaps. Tune in to hear behind-the-scenes stories and gain a deeper understanding of how the drama of Walford is brought to life. Look out for more episodes celebrating EastEnders' 40 years over the weekend. And don't forget, there are dozens of EastEnders and other soap interviews and reunions in the Distinct Nostalgia archive Produced by Ashley ByrneResearch by Andrew EdwardsAn Made in Manchester ProductionAnd don't forget we need your support. Distinct Nostalgia has no budget. You can buy us a coffee by clicking this link. buymeacoffee.com/distinctnostalgiaSupport the show

Let us know what you think of the latest episode of Distinct Nostalgia by clicking here and sending us a messageJoin us for the third episode of Distinct Nostalgia's special series celebrating EastEnders at 40. In this episode, Dame Sheila Hancock, who brought the unforgettable Barbara Owen to life in 2000 and 2001, sits down with Ashley to discuss her time on the show. Barbara, a complex character with a troubled relationship with her children, especially her son Steve, left a lasting impact on Walford. Sheila shares behind-the-scenes stories, her thoughts on Barbara's dramatic storylines, and what it was like to be part of such a beloved soap. Don't miss this fascinating conversation with one of EastEnders' most memorable guest stars.Look out for more episodes celebrating EastEnders' 40 years over the weekend. And don't forget, there are dozens of EastEnders and other soap interviews and reunions in the Distinct Nostalgia archive.Produced by Ashley ByrneResearch by Andrew EdwardsAn Made in Manchester ProductionAnd don't forget we need your support. Distinct Nostalgia has no budget. You can buy us a coffee by clicking this link. buymeacoffee.com/distinctnostalgiaSupport the show

Let us know what you think of the latest episode of Distinct Nostalgia by clicking here and sending us a messageIn the second episode of Distinct Nostalgia celebrating EastEnders' 40th birthday, Ashley sits down with Rob Gittins, the show's longest-serving writer. Rob has been a pivotal figure in the EastEnders writing team since its early days, contributing to over 300 episodes. His extensive experience and deep understanding of the show's characters and storylines have made him an invaluable asset to the series. During the interview, Rob shares his journey as a key player in one of the UK's most beloved drama serials. He reflects on the evolution of EastEnders, the challenges of keeping the storylines fresh, and the memorable moments that have defined the show. The interview offers listeners a unique insight into the creative process behind EastEnders and the dedication required to maintain its success over four decades. More episodes marking EastEnders' 40 years in coming days. And scroll through the DN archive for many many more interviews and reunions celebrating the show over the years.Produced by Ashley ByrneResearch by Andrew EdwardsAn Made in Manchester ProductionAnd don't forget we need your support. Distinct Nostalgia has no budget. You can buy us a coffee by clicking this link. buymeacoffee.com/distinctnostalgiaSupport the show

Let us know what you think of the latest episode of Distinct Nostalgia by clicking here and sending us a messageIn celebration of EastEnders' 40th birthday, Distinct Nostalgia kicks off with an exclusive interview featuring Sophie Thompson, who portrayed the infamous Stella Crawford. Sophie sits down with Ashley to reminisce about her time on the show and her character's dramatic storyline. Stella, introduced as Phil Mitchell's new lawyer, quickly became one of the soap's most memorable villains. Her relationship with Phil took a dark turn as she began to mentally and physically abuse his son, Ben. The tension culminated on their wedding day when Ben revealed Stella's torment, leading to her tragic demise. Sophie shares behind-the-scenes anecdotes and reflects on the impact of playing such a complex character. The interview with Sophie is one of several to mark the show's 40th birthday, keep tuning in for more.Produced by Ashley ByrneResearch by Andrew EdwardsAn Made in Manchester ProductionAnd don't forget we need your support. Distinct Nostalgia has no budget. You can buy us a coffee by clicking this link. buymeacoffee.com/distinctnostalgiaSupport the show

Let us know what you think of the latest episode of Distinct Nostalgia by clicking here and sending us a messageOriginal Christmas ComedyIn Winter Drawers On Starring Lindsay Eavis and Janice FryettThe ladies talk about surviving another winter, debate the merits of AI, beards and board games and ponder a cashless society.Florrie: Lindsay EavisDotty: Janice FryettWritten by Janice FryettA Spinney Media Production for Distinct Nostalgia.A Distinct Comedy PresentationDistinct is part of Made in Manchester Ltd.Support the show

Let us know what you think of the latest episode of Distinct Nostalgia by clicking here and sending us a messageHere Ashley meets one half of Cosmo and Dibs who were the characters that graced the long running kids series You and Me in the 1980s.Francis Wright tells us how he landed the role as puppeter and voice as well as charting the history of You and Me which dates back to the early 1970s.The show was tremendously popular with several generations of children growing up in the 70s, 80s and 90s and the characters including Crow and Alice and Duncan the Dragon are remembered fondly.As part of the episode Dibs himself pops by to say hello.Enjoy!Researched by Andrew Edwards. Produced by Ashley Byrne.A Made in Manchester ProductionAnd don't forget we need your support. Distinct Nostalgia has no budget. You can buy us a coffee by clicking this link. buymeacoffee.com/distinctnostalgiaSupport the show

Let us know what you think of the latest episode of Distinct Nostalgia by clicking here and sending us a messageAn interview that should have aired some time ago but we've been waiting to use it to mark the 40th anniversary of The Bill bursting on to our screens. It all began in 1983 but the actual full run series, later serial, began on the 16th October 1984.Here Mark Wingett - who played DC Jim Carver for nearly a quarter of a century - discusses the show's origins and his own early years on The Bill. Lots of behind the scenes anecdotes and plenty of fun as Mark and Ashley reminisce.  Enjoy!Please note this was originally recorded during lockdown.Researched by Andrew Edwards. Produced by Ashley Byrne.A Made in Manchester ProductionAnd don't forget we need your support. Distinct Nostalgia has no budget. You can buy us a coffee by clicking this link. buymeacoffee.com/distinctnostalgiaSupport the show

Let us know what you think of the latest episode of Distinct Nostalgia by clicking here and sending us a messageSadly we've lost another tv and film great. Kenneth Cope has died at the age of 93. And here we have an interview he did with Ashley a few years ago. Much of this has never been broadcast before.Ken talks about being one of the early stars of Coronation Street. working with David Frost on That Was the Week That Was, his time in the Carry Ons, Randall and Hopkirk Deceased and his huge career in British film and TV. Ashley says: 'Kenneth Cope was prolific. A huge talent. Never thought of himself as a star but he was quite simply one of the best. I loved chatting to Ken. Hope you enjoy!' RIP Kenneth Cope 1931-1924.Researched by Andrew Edwards. Produced by Ashley Byrne.A Made in Manchester ProductionAnd don't forget we need your support. Distinct Nostalgia has no budget. You can buy us a coffee by clicking this link. buymeacoffee.com/distinctnostalgiaSupport the showSupport the show

Let us know what you think of the latest episode of Distinct Nostalgia by clicking here and sending us a messageWe're sad to hear the news that Brian Trueman has died at the aged of 92. Brian provided the soundtrack to so many characters of our childhoods, whether as a writer or actor. His work with Cosgrove Hall Films included Chorlton and the Wheelies, Dangermouse, Cockleshell Bay and Jamie and the Magic Torch. But he had a career before helping to bring to life these animation classics - in acting, in journalism too. Here in an interview recorded in 2016, we hear Brian being interviewed for a special radio doc by Made in Manchester (Distinct Nostalgia's producers) which was never aired. We've only found half of it and will put the second part as soon as we find it. In the meantime enjoy over an hour with one of the real greats of Television. Distinct Nostalgia presenter Ashley Byrne says: 'Brian memorably once said to me in a Granada TV programme we made 'you should never patronise kids. Treat them like little adults and throw the smarties high.' That comes over in all of his animation work. RIP Brian. You were a genuine legend for millions of us. Researched by Andrew Edwards. Produced by Ashley Byrne. A Made in Manchester Production And don't forget we need your support. Distinct Nostalgia has no budget. You can buy us a coffee by clicking this link. buymeacoffee.com/distinctnostalgiaSupport the show

Let us know what you think of the latest episode of Distinct Nostalgia by clicking here and sending us a messageA special re-issuing of Rock, by Tim Fountain in tribute to the veteran actor Bette Bourne who has died at the age of 84.An excellent performance in this drama produced by DN producers' Made in Manchester as Bette plays Henry Wilson, Hollywood actor Rock Hudson's notorious agent.Bette has played lots of legendary characters over the years including Quentin Crisp in Tim's other play 'Resident Alien'.If you've not heard this before, hope you enjoy!(Warning: contains strong language and some words and terms reflective of the time that some people mind find offensive)Support the show

Let us know what you think of the latest episode of Distinct Nostalgia by clicking here and sending us a messageAshley's catching up with Roy North who was the actor who became Basil Brush's sidekick in the early to mid 70s on The Basil Brush Show.  The show hosted by the wily old fox lasted from the late 60s til the early 80s and became a favourite of several generations of kids, parents and grandparents. Now Basil entertains the big kids often in theatres around the UK. Ever popular, most people love a bit of Basil. Certainly he was a favourite of Ashley as a kid.Sit back and enjoy this trip down memory lane as Roy tells us about his Basil days and beyond....and who knows Basil himself might just pop in.....Boom Boom.Researched by Andrew Edwards. Produced by Ashley Byrne. A Made in Manchester Production Support the show