Hear hear AOG -although I do like Jonathan Ross, I don;t actually watch his show.
I have today watched the first episode of the chat show, and can now comment from that perspective.
The difference between MM's comedy bits, when he was clearly in his element, and the 'chat' bit, when he was looking a long-tailed cat in a room full of rocking-chairs was extremely obvious.
They shouldn't give him a desk - it encourages him to slap his hands on it because he is so nervous.
They must talk him out of being so hyper-excited when introducing guests - the audience are looking forward to the guests, they don't need shouting into a welcome clapping fit.
Above all, he needs to relax. Michael Mcintyre is one of the most popular comedians in the country - his audience are willing him to succeed and be happy - if he can calm down and control his nerves, he will be better for it.
Plus - preparation is everything.
I interview famous musicians and tv stars for money on tape for magazines, and internet for subscribers, and I am totally prepared before I go, with my questions written.
If the conversation develops into a good chat, then great, but you must MUST be ready for that moment when your interviwee stops talking and looks at you, waiting for you to say something. That is when you have something ready to get the conversation going again.
These guests are professionals, they know how it works - if MM performs his role, they will perform theirs, but the won't do his for him - and he needs to rememebr that.
More after a viewing of the second show.