George Lamb is one of television’s hottest new presenting talents. He is now a regular on Channel 4, E4 Music, and is about to host a brand new show (The Restaurant on BBC2 with Raymond Blanc), George is fast becoming the go to presenter. George has also been fortunate enough to interview some of the biggest names in music and film, including 50 Cent, Gwen Stefani, Keifer Sutherland, Ian Brown, and Lindsay Lohan, to name but a few. Not bad for someone who has only been presenting for 12 months!
Prior to his current career George was an accomplished band manager responsible for the careers of dance music maestros the Audio Bully’s and current solo sensation, Lily Allen.
We sat down with George to find out more…
You have a very successful career in presenting. When did you first start and what inspired you at the start of your career?
I actually only started pursuing presenting about two years ago. I used to manage bands, which was great for a while, but eventually I wanted to try something new.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
The travelling is amazing; you get to interview these incredibly creative people in some stunning locations. It’s a hard life! I travelled a lot as a manager, but I have to be honest it’s nothing like the amount I’m doing now and they really look after you wherever you go.
What have been the highlights of your career so far?
I’ve interviewed some great people and met some of my heroes. Cannes Film Festival was a real high point. I tend not to get star struck, but the day I met Robert DeNiro was completely inspiring. That night I ended up at a party at Dustin Hoffman’s house which wasn’t too bad either. Too be honest, watching my career begin to take off has been the best thing.
Have there been any particular challenges you have had to contend with over the course of your career?
At the start I was mainly doing movie news and there are a lot of people trying to get into that, so when I began there were a lot of times I was doing things for free to try and get my foot in the door. I had spent a few years as a manager and had some great times, so starting from absolute scratch in a different industry was hard.
What is your focus for the rest of 2007?
The new show “The Restaurant” (begins 29th August 8pm on BBC2) is something that I am really looking forward too. It will be slightly different to what I’m doing now and so it should be fun. It’s with Raymond Blanc and is similar to the Apprentice, with the winner getting a restaurant with Mr Blanc. I’m also moving to daytime radio on BBC 6 Music, which I’m very proud of.
When you are travelling and shooting in various locations it must be a very strenuous time. Can you tell us a little about how you get yourself in peak condition?
I’m always conscious of keeping in shape, so no matter where I am in the world, I make sure I’ve got a pair of running shoes in my suitcase. It’s great being in a new city and exploring it with a quick run in the morning. I also swim as much as possible and eat healthily.
What tips do you have for Seasonal Berries’ readers to help keep themselves in the best possible shape?
Always watch what you’re eating. I eat a lot of vegetables and fruits and make sure I don’t eat too many carbohydrates.
What is your favourite berry?
It has to be raspberries. I grew up in the Carse of Gowrie, and there were berry farms everywhere. I used to eat so much raspberry jam and I still love eating raspberries.
What is your favourite way to serve berries?
Every morning I start the day with granola and yoghurt topped with raspberries and I’ll always have a fruit smoothie as well.
Catch George’s radio show on BB6 Music 10pm till Midnight Mon-Thu. The Restaurant begins Wednesday 29th August on BBC2 with George hosting the handover show on BBC3 every Thursday at 9pm.
