Showbiz radio reporting ace Johnny lifts the lid on celebrities – and gives his verdict on Richard Coles’ Strictly stint

Friend to celebrities and leading national radio showbiz reporter, Johnny Seifert, shared his secrets of the trade with journalism students at the University of Northampton.

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Johnny, who produces and reports on talkRADIO, was the latest in a series of special guests invited to chat to undergraduates about breaking into the industry.

The University press office caught up with Johnny after his talk, to ask him what celebrities are like in real life and give his verdict on University’s Chancellor, Rev Richard Coles’ appearances on Strictly Come Dancing.

“Richard Coles was brilliant,” said Johnny. “He was the Ed Balls of this year’s series.

“I was gutted he went out so early on. He did such a great dance during week two, it was so bad, but it was so good. He will be one of those people who ought to go on the Strictly live tour because people want to see people like Richard – he was so much fun.”

Johnny also talked about how he wins the trust of celebrities appearing on talkRADIO, and how some public figures have gone on to become friends.

He said: “With celebrities, treat them as you would a friend. Before they go on air, be familiar and friendly, chat to them, make them a coffee, take time to ask them about what they are up to. Do that and nine times out of 10 they’ll remember you.”

To find out more about the University’s Journalism courses, visit the course pages.