Graham Norton has said he’s adjusted his on-screen persona to avoid coming across as ‘creepy’. He’s consciously made an effort to be less overtly playful or suggestive on television.
As a lifestyle expert, I’ve seen a lot of faces come and go on our screens, but few have the staying power of this particular chat show host! For nearly forty years, he’s been a constant presence in homes across Britain and Ireland, and honestly, he’s become a true national treasure – someone everyone knows and loves.
Graham became famous for his playful and suggestive jokes. He began his career as a stand-up comedian and later transitioned to television, landing his first chat show on the BBC in 2005.
But it was two years later that the now-institution The Graham Norton Show made its debut.
Despite being well-liked, Graham has mentioned he’s planning to tone down his often provocative humor now that he’s in his sixties.
He explained that when he first began appearing on talk shows in his thirties, the content was often very explicit. He recalled being in the audience and openly discussing guests’ personal lives, including their sex lives.
‘That is fine when you’re in your 30s, but when you’re in your 60s, that’s kind of creepy.
‘So I felt I had to stop. And so, as I have changed, the show has changed.’
People might know me from TV – the chat show, awards nights, even commentating on Eurovision! But honestly, away from all that, my husband and I just enjoy a really simple, happy life. It’s all about keeping things low-key and appreciating the everyday moments.
In 2022, Graham, who is from Ireland, married his partner, Scottish filmmaker Jonathan McLeod, in a small, private ceremony in Cork with around 120 guests.
The couple prefers a private life, often visiting Graham’s homeland of Ireland and rarely appearing together in public.
I was really surprised to learn last year that Graham was selling both his incredible New York townhouse and his beautiful east London mansion! He’d lived in that London home – a really special, historic building – for twenty years, so it felt like a big change. It all happened pretty quickly too, the townhouse listing appearing just a week after he announced the sale of the mansion.
As Graham was moving, he mentioned feeling ready to make a significant life change, which may have been about taking an even more private role with his husband.
He shared with The Sunday Times that he’s been considering a major life change for about two years and now feels ready to take the leap.
I especially love relaxing with a drink by the river on a warm summer evening.
Last February, Graham announced he was stepping down from his weekend shows on Virgin Radio after three years, as he decided to reduce his overall radio commitments.
Oh my gosh, Graham Norton has been on the radio since 2021! I’ve been listening religiously with Maria McErlane, and honestly, it’s the best part of my week. He’s just incredible, and I can’t imagine my mornings without him and Maria!
Oh my gosh, you guys, I almost couldn’t believe it when I heard him say it! He started his show and was all, ‘Things are a little different today…’ and then dropped the bomb! He’s leaving the weekend shows on Virgin Radio! I was totally shocked! He just casually said, ‘I’m kind of off!’ like it was nothing, but it feels like everything! I’m going to miss his voice on the weekends so much!
Graham announced on the radio that while he’ll still make occasional appearances, he’s leaving his regular weekend shows.
For thirteen years, I’ve spent my weekends traveling between my current home and my previous one. My life has shifted a lot during that time, so I recently realized I really just want my weekends free again.
He’s been spending more time in Ireland, often returning to the west Cork area.
Graham publicly shared details about his marriage to Jonathan, confirming they were married in July 2022.
A glamorous party was held for around 120 guests, with reports that singer Lulu performed and drag queen Panti Bliss provided the music as a DJ.
Graham later shared with The Guardian that he jokingly suggested ’till death do us part’ felt more realistic at age 60.
He shared a lighthearted moment, mentioning a joke from his speech: he suggested the marriage vows felt more reasonable, especially considering their age, and that ’till death do us part’ seemed a bit more attainable.
Getting married at 23 is a long commitment. We’ve only been together a short time, and I’m anticipating a future where I’ll eventually be on my own.
Graham used to be one of the BBC’s highest-paid presenters, but he’s no longer among the top earners at the publicly funded network.
He stopped working at BBC Radio 2 in 2020. Because his TV show on BBC One is made by a separate production company, his salary isn’t included in the BBC’s yearly report of top earners.
Graham and Jonathan, who are married, are frequently spotted strolling through Hampstead with their black cockapoo, Douglas.
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2026-02-05 13:04