At our latest Broadcast Revolution event we had the pleasure of meeting Global’s Showbiz Editor Charlie Girling and ITV News Content Editor Tim Forrest, who have immersed themselves in the thrilling world of celebrity journalism. In this blog post, we delve into their intriguing insights and experiences in the industry, highlighting their passion for storytelling and the unique challenges they face. 

Charlie’s Journey: A Passion for Celebrities and Stories 

Charlie, with a penchant for celebrity encounters, confesses, “I’ve met everyone I want to meet, but Madonna is still on my list.” Her journey into showbiz journalism began in 2011, driven by an unwavering love for storytelling. Charlie thrives on the opportunity to delve into longer-form celebrity stories, finding excitement in coaxing celebrities to share fresh perspectives. 

As part of the team at Global, the largest commercial radio network in Europe, Charlie’s work involves meticulous scheduling and coordination. From booking guests for shows to liaising with PR representatives, her job is nothing short of multifaceted. Stars like Tom Cruise and Shakira have graced her presence, and she’s had to navigate the intricacies of their busy schedules. 

But Charlie and her team don’t just settle for the obvious choices; they strive to be creative and make stories work, even when a celebrity might seem more suited to a different audience. The challenge is to make that person relevant to a specific group of listeners, a task they eagerly take on. 

When asked how they keep tabs on who’s hot in the celebrity world, Charlie admits to scouring social media and news sources regularly. She may not be a TikTok enthusiast herself, but her team certainly is. Staying current and connected is key in their dynamic field. 

Tim’s Perspective: Content Editor at ITV News 

Tim brings a more news-focused perspective to the table, emphasizing that it’s not just about a celebrity’s name but also the story they bring. When celebrities come from PR campaigns, the level of their investment and involvement matters. Genuine interest in a cause or issue can make all the difference. 

Regarding interview formats, Tim notes that while news bulletins tend to be concise, they often engage in longer-format interviews during the day.  

And when it comes to sharing celebrities between broadcasters, Tim is all for it, provided the guest has something valuable to offer. It’s about the substance, not just the name. 

Research can be a valuable tool for securing interviews, but celebrities must be prepared to defend their insights and knowledge. Credibility matters, and they need to know their stuff. 

Navigating Challenges and Maintaining Integrity 

Both Charlie and Tim acknowledge the delicate dance they perform when dealing with celebrities. They respect restrictions, especially with bigger names who may request certain topics be off-limits. They work closely with PR representatives to ensure they agree on these restrictions, as maintaining these relationships is crucial. 

However, they stress that if a celebrity becomes the focus instead of the story, they’re doing something wrong. The goal is always to serve the audience with engaging content. 

In terms of booking interviews, they look for interesting stories, a compelling narrative, and whether the celebrity adds value. They work far in advance, planning their schedules meticulously. 

International days can play a role in securing interviews, but ultimately, the story takes precedence over the celebrity. There’s no such thing as overused talent; it’s about finding new angles to keep the content fresh. 

Exclusive interviews are a bonus, and they’re more than willing to spotlight charitable causes if there’s a social good involved. 

The Art of Celebrity Journalism 

Charlie and Tim’s insights reveal the intricate dance between storytelling, celebrity culture, and journalistic integrity. In an ever-changing media landscape, they remind us that it’s not just about the stars; it’s about the stories that captivate us all.