The perfect recipe for weekend success

It’s not only hugely popular with viewers, its reputation increasingly attracts Hollywood stars.

“We had Olivia Munn, from the new X-Men movie on last month, and like most American names she had no idea of what we did.

“They are usually in full promo mode, a bit bored and expect the typical bit of plugging. She came in with her entourage and you could see her thinking, ‘Oh God, what do I have to do for this?’

“But after a few minutes she realised this was just fun and she could just be laid back and enjoy herself.

“She was downing glasses of wine and letting loose. Piers Morgan was on and they’d had a bit of a run-in in America so she hammered him a couple of times.

“John Barrowman was another guest and it was a beautiful thing. You end up taking a backseat and just savouring the fact that it’s such good TV.”

The show lasts three hours with a recent one running for a marathon four.

Preparation is key for Tim, making sure he knows everything possible about guests to relax them and fill in where required.

But while there is a buzz when the show hits the air, he says pre-broadcast nerves aren’t an issue.

“I’ve done so much live TV I’m totally relaxed,” smiles Tim. “The thing I really love is when things go wrong.

“That’s when I earn my money and get us out of a sticky situation.”

As well as a busy presenter, Tim is a respected producer, with shows like Big Breakfast on his producing CV.

That starred pal Chris Evans, who has been under intense scrutiny with Top Gear, the second episode of which screen tonight.

“Chris is a talented guy and he’s got a great producer’s head so if he’s doing something it’s definitely worth watching,” he insists.

“But it had to be the most pressurised show in the history of TV because of all the hype.”

Sunday Brunch, Channel 4, 9.30am.