Me, a president, a royal wedding and my MBE...
WHAT’S the best way to sum up 2018?
It’s Christmas, and my thoughts have turned back to all the things that have happened over the past 12 months.
I’ve covered award shows, weddings and even chatted to a President.
But when I’m asked about the big news of the year…did I mention I got an MBE?
I’m sure I must have said something about being included on the last New Year’s Honour’s list. No?
Of course I haven’t really stopped talking about receiving an honour like that. I started the year as a wee guy from Knightswood who’s lucky enough to be working in Hollywood.
And now I’m the same, except I’ve got three letters after my name.
It’s not that much of a change – I’m used to having three letters after my name, anyway. According to Twitter, it’s usually “GIT” or “OAF” or even “GTF”.
That means Get To France, I’m reliably informed...
One of the best moments of 2018 was meeting the Queen of Pop, Taylor Swift, on the eve of her Reputation tour.
Her fans, I learned, are called Swifties. I asked whether her tour should be renamed Nipping Out For A Few Swifties.
I think the highlight of my year was when I arrived in London for my investiture.
I was met by a hotel receptionist saying: “Jonathan Ross, you’ve brought the sunshine from LA.” Luckily I’m not precious, so I chuckled and said: “Actually, it’s Ross…”
“Of course it is,” she replied. “Ross Kemp – I’d know you anywhere!”
My pal Gerry Butler wasn’t too impressed with me mentioning my MBE, oh, almost every time I saw him.
“When they offered it to me I said, ‘I don’t need it, I’m solid and comfortable with myself. Thank you very much, but you should give it to Ross’,” he joked.
Don’t mind the A-list movie star, he’s just jealous.
Another high point was covering the wedding of Meghan and Harry. Mainly because it was in the UK and I could put my feet up!
In June I sat down with President Bill Clinton – big Willie himself!
He was an impressive guy, just like all presidents. Well, most of them.
The best bit was a week after the interview when he sent a personal note of thanks. When Gerry Butler sends a note it’s usually one telling me to beat it!