John Simpson

After a sell-out tour in 2024, legendary journalist and broadcaster John Simpson CBE returns to the stage with a bold, unflinching look at leadership: why some inspire while others descend into tyranny. And…are all tyrants ‘lunatics’?  

With nearly 60 years of unparalleled access to world leaders – and lunatics – John will explore the personalities that have shaped history. From notorious figures including Putin, Assad, Saddam, Mugabe, and Gaddafi to admired leaders such as Gorbachev, Mandela, Havel, and Zelensky, he will reveal their common threads, unique quirks, and lasting impact. 

In an increasingly volatile world, John will also examine the most pressing challenges of our time -war, famine, economic crises, and climate change – to reveal how the actions and decisions of leaders, from despots to visionaries, have shaped these crises and continue to influence our world today. 

In the second half, the floor is yours. Ask your questions as John offers sharp insights into past and present events, with no doubt some focus on Trump and the shifting global order. 

What on earth is going on? An event truly for our troubled times – don’t miss this enlightening and compelling evening.