The Greatest Showman #1289 - Guest Partner

Thoughts flashed across Graham's mind just too late as he noticed Renly's glance back.

Keen and alert, Renly could feel the slightest movement, but it wasn't the kind of awkward restraint. Instead, it was an effortless elegance, the interplay of light and shadow creating a natural charm. A faint smile curved on his lips as a shimmer of light lit up his face.

"Welcome," Graham said warmly, spreading his arms in a welcoming gesture. "God, you really shouldn't look at me like that; otherwise, I might just fall in love with you." Graham, openly gay and having come out fifteen years ago, made the statement with playful sincerity.

Renly stood up politely, greeting the host with a smile, "I never knew I was your type."

Graham's eyes brightened, his smile widening. It was clear that today's interview would be entertaining. "Well, in fact, you're not really my type. I prefer Paul's type." He then gestured to Paul standing next to him, who smirked awkwardly.

Graham's footsteps stopped in front of Renly. Although he had opened his arms, he didn't move to hug him. Instead, he folded his hands politely by his side, nodding his chin slightly. "Welcome, Lord Renly. It's an honor to have you on The Graham Norton Show."

"So, does that mean you'll tone down your usual sharp questions today?" Renly teased, his tone light and playful. The atmosphere immediately eased as he turned to Paul, adding, "Paul, better prepare yourself. Graham's interviews are fast-paced, and if you're not careful, you might walk into one of his traps."

Graham instantly caught the meaning, a smile flickering in his eyes. "Thank you for the compliment," he responded, immediately understanding Renly's subtle defense of Paul.

It was no secret that Paul wasn't great on TV shows, and even less comfortable with interviews. The promotion of Degree and Passion was still largely driven by Diesel. Paul, often the supporting figure, usually took a backseat. Rumor had it that Renly and Paul were close friends.

Graham could sense it right away, but without skipping a beat, he continued, "You've worked with Jay Leno and Ellen DeGeneres. I must be doing something right to still be here—so that's a good sign."

Before Renly could respond, Paul cut in. "If I'm being honest, it's Graham who should be worried. Renly's the master of setting traps with words."

Paul inadvertently threw his friend under the bus, and Renly chuckled helplessly, "Paul, trust me, Graham knows that already. No need to remind him."

Graham laughed, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "Why don't you record with us today, Paul? I think it would be interesting."

If Paul left the Degree and Passion crew to join Renly on the show, it would be seen as a "betrayal" to the team. For Renly, of course, it didn't matter, but for Paul, the situation was trickier. He had strong feelings for his colleagues, especially Diesel.

Renly smoothly took over the conversation, "We tried that last summer."

That was during the Edge of Tomorrow promotional period. While Renly didn't say much, the underlying meaning was clear: last year's attempt didn't meet expectations.

While Paul and Renly were close in private, in front of the cameras, Paul tended to become more reserved.

Graham snapped his fingers, a sudden realization dawning on him. "Ah, that's a shame. Well, I'm already looking forward to today's recording. Before we get started, I wanted to check in and make sure everything's on track. If you have any questions, feel free to ask."

Renly raised his eyebrows slightly and nodded. "Everything is fine, but I do have one request. Please, avoid discussing my personal matters, especially anything about my family."

That meant… no questions about his noble heritage?

A question mark appeared on Graham's forehead. Was Renly serious?

It was rare for Renly to avoid a subject. He wouldn't bring it up himself, but if asked, he'd answer with ease. However, his serious expression now made Graham hesitate, unsure of how to proceed.

"What if I do bring it up?" Graham asked, testing the waters.

Renly's lips curled into a faint smile. "Then the relevant authorities might decide to pull the plug on the episode."

It was a joke. Graham could tell. But there was something in Renly's calm demeanor that gave it an air of authenticity. He chuckled, admiring Renly's ability to maintain composure.

"I'll keep that in mind," Graham responded, smiling as he prepared to leave.

Before turning away, he added, "By the way, I watched Les Misérables recently, but not the version you starred in. Honestly, getting a VIP box seat is tough. Can you make sure to reserve one the next time you're back in the West End?"

Renly paused, slightly surprised. Most people in the industry would mention Renly's performance, but rarely had anyone specifically asked about the VIP box. It was clear Graham wasn't just anyone.

Catching Renly's slight hesitation, Graham smiled knowingly. "See you in a bit," he said, heading out.

The waiting room fell silent again, and then Paul spoke, "So… was he serious? Or just joking?" He had sensed the playful tension Graham had left behind.

Renly laughed softly. "Half-serious, half-joking." He added with a grin, leaving Paul to roll his eyes in mock disgust.

The recording of The Norton Show hadn't even started, but the energy in the waiting room was already electric.

Renly wasn't the only guest on this episode.

The Norton Show had a unique format, often inviting three to four guest groups—actors, musicians, comedians, and others from varied backgrounds. This diversity created an engaging mix, where conversations sparked and flowed naturally, blending different worlds of entertainment.

In this episode, Renly, Ed Sheeran, and Daniel Radcliffe were the guests.

Renly hadn't known the other guests in advance—everything had been decided last minute. But as he entered the room, he was pleasantly surprised to find Ed Sheeran there.

Renly and Ed hadn't seen each other in a while. They were from different worlds—one was a singer, the other an actor—but they still kept in touch. Last year, Ed had even lent his touring band to Renly for a special performance.

Ed had become a star in the British music scene, with his song Top nominated for a Grammy.

The third guest, Daniel Radcliffe, was a household name after his role in the Harry Potter series. Now, he was working hard to carve out his own path as an actor, separate from the wizarding world.

Renly, Ed, and Daniel—this trio would make for a fascinating Norton Show episode.