James Corden and Ruth Jones Join the Line-up for Hay Festival 2025
Hay Festival 2025 today announced an exclusive event featuring James Corden and Ruth Jones, the creative forces behind the award-winning television series Gavin and Stacey (as if you didn’t know!). This spring, the duo will discuss their highly anticipated new book When Gavin met Stacey and Everything in Between: A Story of Love and Friendship, alongside the fascinating backstage story of their iconic show.
On Friday, 23 May, James and Ruth will join Hay Festival Global Chair Jay Hunt on stage to explore Gavin and Stacey’s origins, its meteoric rise, and the unforgettable Christmas special that became a national sensation. Sharing insights into their 25-year friendship and creative partnership, this conversation is set to be a Festival highlight.
Ruth will also present her new novel, By Your Side, a poignant exploration of unexpected connections and the importance of friendship, love, and community during life’s challenging moments. James and Ruth’s collaborative book is scheduled for release in October with Bantam Books.
Hay Festival Global CEO Julie Finch expressed her excitement: “We are delighted to welcome James Corden and Ruth Jones together on the Hay Festival 2025 programme for a joyful discussion about friendship, creativity, and perseverance. After dominating the TV schedule with the Gavin and Stacey Christmas special, it feels like the perfect moment to hear them on the art of screenwriting, storytelling in collaboration, and Wales' cultural impact. Join us!”
A Vibrant Programme for 2025 Hay Festival 2025 runs from 22 May to 1 June, offering over 600 events across eleven days. From launching the best new books in fiction and non-fiction to tackling significant global issues, the programme showcases more than 600 artists, policymakers, and innovators from around the world.
Highlights include special projects such as The Platform, spotlighting young creative talent, Hay Festival Green, proposing innovative solutions to the climate crisis, and the MUBI Cinema, bringing compelling storytelling to the screen. Hay Festival Sports Day returns on Wednesday, 28 May, alongside pop-up performances, workshops, and family-focused activities throughout.
Festival nights promise exciting music, comedy, and entertainment, while free events such as South to North Conversations delve into global issues and Matters of Taste celebrate culinary storytelling. Interactive exhibits and market stalls surround the site, creating an atmosphere of creativity and connection.
Collaborations with Arts Council England, Black British Book Festival, and others ensure accessibility and inclusivity remain at the forefront. Sessions will stream live online, continuing Hay Festival’s digital commitment to engaging global audiences.
Discover Hay Festival 2025 Explore the magic of Hay Festival 2025 and reserve tickets now Here. Don’t miss James Corden and Ruth Jones’s inspiring session and the expansive array of events on offer.