After two decades of reporting on the entertainment industry for the Mirror, a trend has emerged – the bigger the celebrity, the kinder they tend to be. Dealing with reality TV stars and their representatives has often been challenging, but there have been notable exceptions among the A-listers. Here are my Top Five encounters with celebrities who have pleasantly surprised me.
Dolly Parton, the Queen of Country, is known for her exceptional memory and personal touch. Having interviewed her twice in Nashville and London, I can attest to her engaging company. Despite early morning interviews, Dolly’s warm hospitality always stood out, like the time she invited me to her merchandise warehouse for a free shopping spree.
Meeting the iconic Mick Jagger in 2016 on tour in Mexico City was initially daunting, given his elusive reputation. However, Mick’s self-deprecating humor and genuine hospitality quickly put me at ease. He even ensured I had a VIP experience at the concert, including a private bus ride with his entourage and exclusive access to the afterparty.
Olivia Newton-John, who sadly passed away in 2022, welcomed me to her California ranch with open arms in 2019. Despite her health struggles, she exuded grace and kindness, giving me a personal tour of her garden and sharing stories over wine late into the night.
Rihanna’s down-to-earth demeanor shone through during our encounters in Glasgow and LA. Despite challenging circumstances, she remained thoughtful and humorous, creating a relaxed atmosphere for our interviews.
Jon Bon Jovi’s enthusiasm for his craft after decades in the industry is truly inspiring. His charm, storytelling, and willingness to connect on a personal level make him a standout figure in the entertainment world.
Each of these encounters left a lasting impression, showcasing the human side of these larger-than-life personalities. It’s moments like these that make celebrity interviews truly memorable.