A Look Back On 2024: Ben Robinson

So… how was your 2024?  
Okay, I’m going to say it. It was really great. I had fun this year (mostly!) 

What was your best moment?  
I suppose starting to write a book is pretty cool, I’ve poured so much energy into this, and it’s been so rewarding.  

And your worst moment?  
Where do I even start? The US election I suppose… 

Who was your favourite band/artist this year?  
I really loved Reneé Rapp this year. But I got into Sam Fender too, I’m so glad I finally got on the bandwagon.  

Your favourite song of the year?  
Okay, the only time I really listen to music is when I’m cooking and my go to song for screaming into my wooden spoon is Pink Pony Club by Chappell Roan.  

Recommended album?  
Oh, it was for sure ‘Deeper Well’ by Kacey Musgraves. I just love her so much.  

Favourite TV show of the year?  
I literally have no idea where to start. Anyone who knows me will know I am always obsessed with any reality tv show from Bravo (specifically, Vanderpump Rules or Salt Lake City Housewives), and this year has been no different. Also, Marvel really did their big one this year with Agatha All Along. Smoggie queens on BBC iPlayer recently came out, and is set in the North East – I urge you to watch it, it really is such a brilliant comedy. With all that being said, my Downton Abbey rewatch was probably the highlight of my TV year. 

Your favourite film?  
Again, I don’t particularly watch movies – but of those I have watched I have two. ‘The Idea of You’ because Anne Hathaway can do no wrong. Also, I hate to be that person but ‘Wicked’ was just impeccable – truly an amazing piece of art.  

Best book you read?  
If you take one thing from this article, please let it be that you need to go read ‘A Working Class Family Ages Badly’ by Juno Roche. It’s a masterpiece.  

Favourite new word that you learned?  
To say I’m writing a book, I literally cannot think of one. Oh, how grateful I am for the mighty thesaurus.  

Best podcast?  
The only podcast I listen to is Table Manners with Jessie and Lennie Ware, so this one is the best (by default).  

Favourite venue that you visited?  
Honestly, The Glasshouse in Gateshead – what an iconic building.  

What was your favourite gig/show of the year?  
Seeing Taylor Swift live, supported by Paramore, was pretty epic!  

Tell us about 2024’s guilty pleasure. 
The Mean Girls musical movie. I literally got a Paramount+ subscription just to watch it. (And no, I will not apologize for my brilliant taste!)  

And your best discovery this year? 
I don’t want to give too much away, but whilst writing the book (which follows the story of my Gran’s life), I managed to solve a longstanding family mystery. I suppose you’ll have to wait and find out more about that though 😉 

Any up-and-coming artists/acts to keep an eye out for in 2025?  
Ok, all the women on the Newcastle comedy scene, I was lucky enough to see so many of them this year and mark my words – they are all in for brilliant careers! Just to list a few of them: Kerris Gibson, Kelly Rickard, Kelly Edgar, Alex Redman, and Nicola Mantalios. If you don’t know of them, then get to know of them! 

Any predictions for next year?  
I will not dare Jinx anything. I’m keeping my mouth shut.  

Is there anything you hope to tick off your bucket list in 2025? 
To go abroad! I haven’t been since pre-covid and it’s about time I get some sun!