Viewers of BBC Breakfast expressed their discontent following an interview with the rock band The Darkness. The segment, aired on December 9, 2025, featured Jon Kay and Sally Nugent as hosts, interviewing band members Justin Hawkins and Dan Hawkins, along with Frankie Poullain and Rufus Tiger Taylor.
Viewer Reactions to the Interview
The audience largely criticized the discussion as “excruciating” and “like pulling teeth.” Comments flooded social media, with many labeling the dialogue a “car crash interview.”
- “That interview was like pulling teeth. It was all about Justin,” one viewer noted.
- Another stated, “This is an awful interview! Why go on if you don’t want to be there?”
- Some viewers defended the band’s humor, suggesting it was too sophisticated for the interview format.
The Darkness: A Brief Overview
The Darkness, formed in 2000, gained fame with their debut album, Permission to Land, released in 2003. The band, known for their flamboyant style and energetic performances, earned three Brit Awards in 2004. After a period of separation, they reunited in 2011 and have continued to tour.
This interview coincided with the promotion of their new Christmas single, a cover of “Mistletoe and Wine.” Justin Hawkins discussed the band’s tradition of singing the song during the holiday season. He humorously texted Cliff Richard live on air, expressing gratitude for the original track.
Notable Moments from the Interview
The conversation took several amusing turns. Justin commented on the behind-the-scenes technology visible on the set, while his attempts at humor met with mixed reactions from the hosts. The interview also touched on Justin’s past struggles, including a stint in rehabilitation.
At one point, while discussing their upcoming performances, Justin made a teasing remark about Oasis, indicating his excitement for their rumored return to Knebworth.
Conclusion
Despite the band’s rich history and notable contributions to rock music, the BBC Breakfast audience seemed unimpressed with the interview format. The humorous exchanges between the band members and the hosts, however, provided a glimpse into their personalities, leaving some viewers questioning the chemistry during the segment.
