Alison Hammond, the queen of the charismatic and often side-splitting interview, is set to bring her signature charm back to our screens for a special Valentine’s Day episode. Renowned for her ability to transform interviews into unforgettable, often hilarious, encounters, Hammond is revisiting a beloved segment from 2017 – her “Date Night” interview with Hugh Jackman, which famously involved chocolate. This time, however, the recipient of her unique interviewing flair is another beloved Aussie heartthrob.
A Valentine’s Treat from the Thor Star
This Friday morning, viewers can expect a delightful Valentine’s Day special as Alison, 52, is joined by none other than Chris Hemsworth. The Thor star, 42, is pulling out all the stops, treating Hammond to a lavish champagne afternoon tea and a private screening of his upcoming film, Crime 101.
When asked about the extravagant gestures, Hemsworth playfully explained his motivation. “I’m glad you asked… You know as an Australian man, I saw the interaction, or date if you can call it that, that you had with Hugh Jackman and I was pretty disappointed,” he quipped. He elaborated on his perceived shortcomings of the previous encounter, stating, “You bought the flowers and the cake and the champagne and everything and that’s not how Australian men roll. So this time, I wanted to do it and show you how it’s supposed to be done, show him how it’s supposed to be done.”
As a butler poured them bubbly, Hammond, a former contestant on I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here!, declared, “And that’s why you’ve done all this for me? Thank you so much… See Hugh, that’s how you treat a woman. Goodbye Hugh Jackman!” Hemsworth’s cheeky retort? “Who Jackman!”
Reliving the “Date Night” Magic
Alison has previously spoken about her interview with Hugh Jackman, a moment that occurred almost a decade ago and remains a highlight of her career. She fondly recalled the experience, describing it as her “favourite interview,” one that she “turned into a date.” The interaction was so memorable that she even joked, “I think at one point he got a cocktail stick stuck in my tooth. I just love him, Hugh Jackman he’s up there.”
The original interview with Jackman was a masterclass in Hammond’s ability to create an engaging and fun atmosphere. She famously unveiled a table laden with chocolates and champagne, setting the scene for a playful chat. The pair then took turns feeding each other olives, a simple act that added a touch of intimacy and humour to the segment.
The flirtatious banter continued when Hammond broached the topic of Jackman reprising his iconic role as Wolverine. His response was characteristically charming: “That’s it. Unless you’re my Storm,” he said, before planting a kiss on her hand. Jackman himself was full of praise for Hammond, stating, “You are without a doubt, over the years, the best person to interview me. I mean that. I always find it amazing. I’m not retiring by the way so we can have many more of these dates.”
This upcoming Valentine’s special promises to capture that same electric chemistry and light-hearted spirit. With Chris Hemsworth stepping into the role of the doting admirer, viewers are in for a treat. It’s a testament to Alison Hammond’s unique talent that she can consistently create such memorable television moments, turning standard interviews into cherished “date nights” with Hollywood’s biggest stars.
Don’t miss Alison Hammond and Chris Hemsworth on This Morning this Friday, February 13th, from 10 am on ITV1, ITVX, STV, and STV Player. Prepare for laughter, romance, and a true celebration of Valentine’s Day, Australian style.
