A new no-holds barred interview series with celebrities has left viewers ‘in tears’ tuning in.
Launching last week, the ITV series The Assembly is based on the French show Les Rencontres du Papotin that aired in 2022 and featured notable figures including Killing Eve star Camille Cottin and even President Emmanuel Macron.
It sees celebrities being questioned by a group of inquisitive interviewers who are autistic, neurodivergent and/or learning disabled, with no topic or questions off limits.
In the years since the format has been adapted in several other countries, including Australia, Denmark, Poland, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.
The four-episode British season features EastEnders star Danny Dyer, Doctor Who’s David Tennant, Little Mix musician Jade Thirwall and sports broadcaster Gary Lineker.
In the premiere episode Danny, 47, faced a string of personal questions in what he called ‘the most open and honest interview that he’s ever given’.
![ROCKERDALE STUDIOS FOR ITV1 AND ITVXTHE ASSEMBLYEPISODE 1Pictured: THE ASSEMBLY INTERVIEW DANNY DYER..This photograph is (C) ROCKERDALE STUDIOS productions and can only be reproduced for editorial purposes directly in connection with the programme or event mentioned above, or ITV plc. This photograph must not be manipulated [excluding basic cropping] in a manner which alters the visual appearance of the person photographed deemed detrimental or inappropriate by ITV plc Picture Desk. This photograph must not be syndicated to any other company, publication or website, or permanently archived, without the express written permission of ITV Picture Desk. Full Terms and conditions are available on the website www.itv.com/presscentre/itvpictures/termsFor further information please contact:patrick.smith@itv.com](https://metro.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/SEI_248628551-f2f5.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&w=646)
He was asked about his wife throwing him out, directing some colourful language at former Prime Minister David Cameron, his dad having a secret family and his daughter Dani going on Love Island.
The second episode then saw David, 54, hold back tears as he was asked about his history supporting the transgender community.
Since tuning in, many people have praised the truly original show, with each episode also ending with a musical performance.
‘What a special programme The Assembly is. First episode tonight was with Danny Dyer. Check it out. I’m not crying,’ Eimear posted on X.
‘I’ve been laughing and crying all through The Assembly,’ Kate shared.
‘Just finished watching The Assembly. Unbelievable television. Heartwarming, and honest from beautiful people. Danny Dyer and David Tennant are superb, the singing is superb, loved every minute,’ Jeff wrote.
‘This show better be renewed and for longer episodes and a longer run. It’s so heartwarming and television at its best,’ Danielle added.
![ROCKERDALE STUDIOS FOR ITV1 AND ITVX THE ASSEMBLY EPISODE 1 Pictured: THE ASSEMBLY INTERVIEW DANNY DYER.. This photograph is (C) ROCKERDALE STUDIOS productions and can only be reproduced for editorial purposes directly in connection with the programme or event mentioned above, or ITV plc. This photograph must not be manipulated [excluding basic cropping] in a manner which alters the visual appearance of the person photographed deemed detrimental or inappropriate by ITV plc Picture Desk. This photograph must not be syndicated to any other company, publication or website, or permanently archived, without the express written permission of ITV Picture Desk. Full Terms and conditions are available on the website www.itv.com/presscentre/itvpictures/terms For further information please contact: patrick.smith@itv.com](https://metro.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/SEI_248628353-64f7.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&w=646)
Others called it ‘refreshing, genuine and beautiful’.
Speaking to the Radio Times recently, the producers of The Assembly revealed it moved from the BBC to ITV as the national broadcaster could not afford to commission a full season.
The show first began as a pilot on BBC One last April to celebrate Autism Acceptance Week, with Welsh actor Michael Sheen being that episode’s guest subject.
‘The BBC were very proud of the show, and it’s been nominated for awards…but they simply weren’t in a position to afford to commission it,’ executive producer Michelle Singer said.
The Assembly is streaming on ITVX.
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