Brian Cox

In this vibrant episode of Off Menu, hosts Ed Gamble and James Acaster welcome acclaimed actor and first-time director Brian Cox for a wildly entertaining and intellectually charged conversation. The discussion begins with playful banter about Cox's iconic roles, including Logan Roy in Succession and William Stryker in X-Men, before diving into his directorial debut, Glenn Rothen, a film centered around a Scottish whiskey distillery. Cox shares vivid memories of his childhood in 1950s Scotland, reflecting on rationing, the cultural significance of porridge, and the Scottish meal structure of dinner, tea time, and supper. He passionately defends the virtues of Scottish water, warns against fluoride, and champions the humble yet delicious cranachan — a traditional Scottish dessert of raspberries, cream, oats, honey, and whiskey. The conversation shifts to food philosophy, with Cox revealing his love for gazpacho, lamb biryani, and Greek seabream, while also expressing disdain for oversized Yorkshire puddings and the idea of dark matter being evil. The episode is peppered with sharp wit, absurd humor, and genuine insight, culminating in a memorable roast from Cox himself, who calls the experience 'one of the worst things I've done in months' — a compliment in disguise. The hosts are left both humbled and energized by his fearless candor and charm. Key takeaways include: 1) Embrace the simplicity and resilience of traditional food cultures, like Scotland’s porridge and cranachan; 2) Question the value of abstract concepts like dark matter when real human behavior is so absurdly illogical; 3) Prioritize authenticity over perfection in creative work — Cox’s directorial journey proves that even seasoned actors can thrive behind the camera; 4) The most powerful performances come from letting actors lead, not directing every move; 5) Humor and vulnerability are essential tools in storytelling, whether on screen or in conversation. The episode is a masterclass in how to blend absurdity with sincerity, leaving listeners both laughing and reflecting.