The BBC has announced that Rick Astley will give a career spanning interview for its series Reel Stories.
The show will see the pop star discuss his storied career, from his time as the drummer and then vocalist in the soul band FBI, his rise to fame and his resurgence. Astley broke into the spotlight back in 1987 with his huge hit ‘Never Gonna Give You Up’, and followed it up decades later with 2016’s ‘50’, and 2023’s ‘Are We There Yet?’. He also made headlines for his collaborations with Foo Fighters and Blossoms in recent years.
Astley will be interviewed at length by Dermot O’Leary for the show, which will air on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer in February 2026 as part of a themed night which will also feature his Glastonbury 2023 set on the Pyramid Stage.
“I loved doing Reel Stories with Dermot O’Leary, what a treat to be taken back to the start and come right through to today. Dermot is the perfect companion to go on that rollercoaster of emotion, love and thanks, Rick x,” Astley said.
O’Leary added: “What a pleasure to spend time with Rick and hear him talk so openly about his memories from over the decades. I’ve long been a fan of his, and after recording this Reel Stories episode, have even more admiration for him as a performer and a person.
“There’s so much more to his story than we know, a really interesting and interested person. A true gent, wise soul and real talent. I hope that viewers enjoy this extended interview as much as I did.”
Previous interviewees on Reel Stories have included Rod Stewart, Kylie Minogue, Noel Gallagher and Dave Grohl.
Elsewhere, Astley recently announced plans for a UK tour in 2026. At all upcoming shows, Gabrielle will be joining him as a special guest. Visit here to buy any remaining tickets.
He is also set to perform at next year’s Isle Of Wight Festival alongside the likes of headliners The Cure, Lewis Capaldi and Calvin Harris. Any remaining tickets for the festival are available here.
