The Greatest Showman #1295 – Tied Hands and Feet

The primary reason Ed and Daniel were invited as special guests was to promote their recent projects. However, beyond that, they shared certain similarities with Renly—similar ages and, importantly, one representing music and the other representing film. This common ground allowed Graham to guide the conversation freely.

But now, Graham found himself hitting a wall. He squinted slightly, as if questioning Renly's response, but instead of following the conventional line of questioning about "invitation or not," he dove straight into the heart of the matter. "So, what if the LOCOG invites you?"

Last summer, the London Olympic Games kicked off with great fanfare. Despite facing financial and economic criticisms, the event made a huge impact. The opening ceremony saw Ed Sheeran take the stage as a representative of the new generation of musicians.

However, Ed's performance was still rough around the edges, and many noted flaws in his live singing. In fact, during the planning stage, mainstream media outlets like The Times and The Guardian reported that top names like Renly Hall, The Beatles, and the Spice Girls were on the waiting list for the opening ceremony.

Not long after, Renly's album Don Quixote won both the Grammys and the Brit Awards, and the resurgence of the folk music trend made waves across the British Isles. Folk music, more popular in Europe than North America, had never truly faded.

Renly's rise in prominence only increased, but at the time, he quietly retreated to London's West End, disappearing from the public eye as he prepared for his role in Les Miserables. The news surrounding him gradually died down. When the London Organizing Committee (LOCOG) announced Ed Sheeran as the chosen performer, controversy brewed. Many argued that Ed still couldn't measure up to Renly in music, popularity, or performance.

Soon after, Empire magazine revealed Renly's family background, and rumors swirled that the LOCOG had initially planned to invite Renly, only for the Hall family's influence to sway the committee at the last minute, causing them to choose Ed instead.

Now, over half a year later, with the Olympics behind them, the rumors had quieted. No one had confirmed the truth, and the investigation had faded. Yet, on his show, Graham dared to bring up this sensitive topic again, carefully testing Renly's boundaries.

"No, I won't," Renly replied with a chuckle, a hint of amusement in his tone.

The rumors Matthew had shared with him were inaccurate. Renly explained that the LOCOG had never invited him, nor had they even contacted Andy Rogers. If there had been plans, they had never been officially carried out. Arthur had received no updates, meaning there had been no interference from the Hall family.

Renly remained composed, not addressing the underlying meaning of Graham's question, merely sticking to his answer.

"I'm an actor, not a singer," Renly continued. "I believe Ed is the more suitable choice. Of course, I wouldn't say his performance at the opening ceremony was perfect. No one is perfect."

The lighthearted remark caused Ed some embarrassment. As a creator, Ed was undeniably talented, but his live performances often had their mishaps.

Ed scratched his head awkwardly but didn't retort. Instead, Daniel, who was sitting next to Ed, interjected. "To be honest, I can't even imagine what it must be like to perform on such a huge stage. 100,000 people in the crowd, plus millions watching at home. It would be nerve-wracking."

Renly nodded in agreement. "Exactly. Singers and actors are different. In theater, a stage with a thousand people is already huge."

"That's right. I once performed in a small theater with only 300 seats, and I was terrified," Daniel added, enthusiastically.

Graham cleared his throat with exaggerated theatrics. "Two gentlemen. Do you need a separate room?"

"Open a room," Daniel teased, blushing slightly, but Renly responded coolly, "Do you offer that service here?"

It was a playful retort, a perfect counter to Graham's mockery, though the word "service" carried a subtle implication. Graham reacted dramatically, raising his knee and exclaiming, "Lord Renly-Hall!" His tone was filled with mock outrage.

Renly spread his hands in innocence, and the crowd burst into laughter.

After a brief pause, Graham leaned forward. "So, does this mean we shouldn't expect your new album anytime soon?"

"Yes, I have no plans to record an album yet," Renly admitted, "But I do know that Ed is working on a new album, and we can look forward to that. I've always been excited to hear Ed's work."

The room erupted into applause and laughter.

Ed added with a grin, "Not long ago, I met Marcus, and he told me how great it was working with you on the movie. He even mentioned a concert idea you guys were discussing..."

"No, no, no. It's just Justin and Marcus—just them, not me," Renly quickly interrupted, waving his hands.

Ed looked at Renly in confusion. "So, if they hold a concert, you wouldn't be involved?"

Renly looked momentarily stunned, a rare sight, and the audience couldn't help but laugh. Ed's straightforwardness had caught him off guard.

Renly smiled, patting Ed on the shoulder. "It's time to be quiet now."

Ed shut his mouth innocently, his flustered demeanor causing the crowd to laugh even harder.

Graham, ever persistent, tried again. "So, are you saying there's actually a concert planned?"

Renly, slightly exasperated, spread his hands. "I came here today to promote Les Miserables at the Almeida Theatre, but somehow, we ended up discussing concerts. My main goal is to have the audience continue supporting the show."

Graham tried to intervene but could only sigh in defeat. It was clear that Renly had masterfully turned the conversation, subtly promoting his work without overtly pushing it.

Graham, ever the professional, understood the irony—Renly had skillfully done the promotional work without even trying, while Graham found himself losing control of the conversation. For The Norton Show, it was a bit of a blow, but for the Almeida Theatre, it was a success.

Renly's calm, collected demeanor, without any hint of arrogance, left Graham feeling frustrated but also oddly impressed.

"I guess I'm not the toughest interview opponent you've had, after all," Graham thought as the show wrapped up.