The latest episode of The Assembly features a rather audacious opening question posed to its guest, Stephen Fry. Unlike the usual soft inquiries one might expect from interviewers like Norton, Ross, or Winkleman, the young interviewers on this program, who have neurodivergent conditions or learning disabilities, dive right in with, “You tried to take your own life a couple of times. Do you feel happy to be alive now?”
The Assembly distinguishes itself from typical talk shows by its format, where well-known personalities face direct questions from a group that often bypasses conventional interview norms. This unique approach allows for an unfiltered exchange, making the experience both refreshing for viewers and relieving for the celebrities, who are given a chance to highlight their talents. For Fry, who has made a name for himself as a skilled communicator, particularly on topics such as mental health and spirituality, this setup provides a platform to discuss serious issues candidly. He draws a parallel between suicidal thoughts and the memory of a painful injury, expressing how those feelings seem distant now.
Many inquiries on The Assembly hold significant weight even before responses are given. For instance, one participant asks, “I understand you are bipolar. How can I support my family member with this condition?” Fry responds with a thoughtful analogy, likening bipolar disorder to a storm, emphasizing that, like weather, it is a temporary state rather than a reflection of one’s character. Throughout the interview, Fry faces a range of questions, from light-hearted ones about meeting Celine Dion and his past cocaine usage to blunt inquiries about his sexual preferences, creating a stark contrast that enhances the emotional depth of the conversation.
The freedom granted to the participants extends to those who may choose not to ask questions at all. In a memorable moment, a young actor named Luca performs William Wordsworth’s poem “The World Is Too Much With Us,” delivering it with an engaging flair that blends elements of classic theater and musical drama. Fry, visibly impressed, experiences something quite unprecedented in the realm of television.
Another surprising moment arises when Jacob, one of the interviewers, stands up with a list of Fry’s various commercial endorsements, humorously reading off an exhaustive array of brand names. This comedic routine, reminiscent of a scene from Fry’s novel The Liar, builds to a crescendo before Jacob poses the provocative question, “Is there anything you wouldn’t do for money?” This prompts laughter from both the audience and Fry himself, who embraces the playful yet incisive nature of the show’s format.
As the episode wraps up, Fry is treated to a musical performance, which serves as a final, gentle dismantling of his celebrity persona. The choice of Nina Simone’s “I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel to Be Free” resonates deeply, particularly after Fry has shared his experiences with the trauma of antisemitism. As he recognizes the song, a reflective expression crosses his face, mirroring the earlier discussions about his bipolar disorder. The atmosphere of The Assembly proves to be liberating for Fry, and as the music picks up, he rises to dance, embracing the moment.
The Assembly is broadcast on ITV1 and is also accessible via ITVX.
