International star James Corden took centre stage at Aberdeen Music Hall last night, delivering a funny, heartfelt and wide-ranging interview as part of the Ultimate Masterclass Festival, hosted by Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce.
The actor, comedian and presenter reflected on his extraordinary rise from Gavin & Stacey to global success as host of The Late Late Show in front of a packed and enthusiastic crowd.
Aberdeen Music Hall packed to its 1,300 capacity
Over the course of the evening - which was sponsored by TotalEnergies, Fifth Ring and D.J. Alexander, and supported by BoConcept, The Chester Hotel, Luxe Scot and PCL Live - Corden shared stories from his early years in British television, the leap to American late-night, and the challenges of balancing creativity, criticism and personal life in the glare of fame.
UMF Host Ryan Crighton
He spoke candidly with UMF host Ryan Crighton about the pressures of the entertainment industry, the joy of writing and performing, and the responsibility that comes with global visibility. He was also candid in discussing his early battles with "crippling stage-fright".
James Corden opens up on stage
From tales of serendipitous meetings and bold decisions to knock roles back, to behind-the-scenes stories about Carpool Karaoke, the audience was treated to an entertaining and searingly honest portrait of one of Britain’s best-known entertainers.
Almost 3,000 people have attended UMF this week
The event blended conversation and comedy, with Corden moving seamlessly between anecdotes, reflections and moments of quick-fire improvisation that showcased his background in both theatre and television.
There were also serious notes, as he spoke about the importance of self-belief, perseverance, and the people who helped him at key moments in his career.
The series aims to bring world-class speakers to the North-east
Corden’s appearance was part of the Ultimate Masterclass Festival’s mission to bring world-class speakers to the North-east, offering insight and inspiration to audiences from across the region.
The show was part of a double header and followed an appearance by documentary legend Louis Theroux on Wednesday. Together the shows brought almost 3,000 people into the city centre.
James Corden
The Ultimate Masterclass Festival continues next week with 'An Evening with Sporting Legends', featuring Harry Redknapp, Gordon Strachan and Paul Lawrie.