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He’s entertained millions with his wit, charm, and effortless ability to handle even the most unpredictable celebrities, but now, Graham Norton has revealed which guest truly tested his patience.
Speaking at the Henley Literary Festival last Friday, the veteran broadcaster and comedian admitted that Mark Wahlberg takes the title of his “worst-ever guest” during the history of The Graham Norton Show.
The Hollywood actor appeared on the popular BBC chat show back in 2013, when he was promoting his thriller Broken City. But according to Graham, the experience was far from smooth, and he believes that the actor may have been under the influence during filming.
“Mark Wahlberg was a weird one,” Graham said candidly during his talk. “Because when he arrived, he didn’t seem drunk. He told me about his film, told me a couple of stories about stunts going wrong or whatever, and then it was only about fifteen minutes into the show when whatever the hell was in his system really took hold, and it was hell.”
Fans may remember the chaotic episode in question, which also featured Michael Fassbender and Sarah Silverman. As the show went on, Wahlberg’s behaviour became increasingly erratic, interrupting other guests and talking over Graham himself.
He confessed that Mark Wahlberg appeared to be drunk - Credit: BBC
“It just became impossible,” Norton recalled. “He kept interrupting Michael Fassbender while he was telling a story, and I was trying to move things along, but it was like trying to herd cats.”
The moment that sealed Wahlberg’s reputation as Graham’s worst guest came later in the show, when he reportedly fell asleep mid-interview, right as Fassbender was sharing a story about a film stunt.
“I thought, ‘This one’s going well, I wonder why,’” Norton told the audience. “Then I looked over at Mark Wahlberg and he was asleep. So yeah, we don’t encourage that.”
The incident became something of a viral moment among fans, who at the time speculated on social media about Wahlberg’s condition during the taping. Clips from the episode, showing the actor lounging on Graham’s sofa and interrupting other guests, have since resurfaced following Norton’s revelation.
Despite the awkwardness, Graham handled the situation with his usual professionalism and humour, a skill honed over decades of live television and radio presenting. Since launching The Graham Norton Show in 2007, the Irish host has interviewed hundreds of high-profile celebrities, from Madonna to Tom Cruise, often managing to coax out hilarious, unpredictable moments that other presenters only dream of.
Norton’s ability to turn even uncomfortable situations into memorable TV moments has made him one of Britain’s most beloved presenters. But when it comes to his least favourite interview, there’s clearly no contest.
With a knowing smile, Graham summed it up perfectly: “Let’s just say that one didn’t go into the highlight reel.”
