Kiell Smith-Bynoe (Part Two)
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In this heartfelt and candid second part of 'Walking the Dog with Emily Dean,' comedian Kiell Smith-Bynoe opens up about profound personal losses, including the recent passing of his mother after a four-year battle with dementia, and the earlier deaths of his father and uncle. Reflecting on grief, legacy, and the passage of time, he shares how these experiences have reshaped his perspective on what truly matters—leading to a deeper appreciation for presence, authenticity, and letting go of people-pleasing. The conversation also delves into his early career roots in improvisational theatre, from his formative years at Theatre Royal Stratford East and Anna Scher's youth theatre to his breakthrough role in 'Stath Lets Flats' and his beloved performance in 'Ghosts,' which he describes as one of the most joyous experiences of his life. Smith-Bynoe discusses the unique chemistry of the 'Ghosts' cast, the show’s unexpected global success, and the bittersweet reality of development delays in legacy media despite its cultural impact. He closes with enthusiasm for his own improv show, 'Cool Story Bro,' which thrives on audience-generated stories and improvisational magic, and shares a touching moment of connection with his dog, Raymond, and the community around him.
Grief reshapes perspective—loss of loved ones taught Kiell to value time, presence, and letting go of small anxieties.
Improvisation from a young age built his naturalistic, nuanced performance style and lifelong love for live comedy.
The success of 'Ghosts' was unexpected but transformative, opening doors while highlighting the slow pace of traditional media development.
Legacy isn't just about numbers—it's about the people who carry your story forward, and Kiell feels a quiet responsibility as the last of his lineage.
Authenticity and warmth in comedy—like in 'Ghosts'—can be both hilarious and kind, without cruelty or ego.
…and 2 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Opening the Conversation: Grief, Legacy, and the Weight of Loss
“It's just that thing of, oh, it's just me then. Do you know what I mean? Like those links with your past go a bit.”
The Roots of Improv: From Playground to Professional Stage
Kiell traces his love for improvisation back to childhood—first through school playground MCing, then to youth theatre at Theatre Royal Stratford East and Anna Scher's. He recounts his first live improv performance at 14 and how those early experiences shaped his naturalistic, instinctive acting style.
Breakthrough Roles: From 'Stath Lets Flats' to 'Ghosts'
“Staff Series 3 cannot be beaten. Yeah it's a really special show.”
The 'Ghosts' Phenomenon: Success, Legacy, and the Slow Pace of Development
“It suddenly feels like, well it's going to take five years and it may not happen. Why would I put myself through that?”
The Heart of 'Cool Story Bro': Improv, Audience, and Authenticity
“We've not had to stop a story yet. Really? Yeah. And also, if it's awkward, we can just say it is.”
“It's just that thing of, oh, it's just me then. Do you know what I mean? Like those links with your past go a bit.”
“It suddenly feels like, well it's going to take five years and it may not happen. Why would I put myself through that?”
“Staff Series 3 cannot be beaten. Yeah it's a really special show.”
Host
Guest
Kiell Smith-Bynoe
person
Emily Dean
person
Ghosts
media
Stath Lets Flats
media
Raymond
person
Cool Story Bro
other
Theatre Royal Stratford East
other
Jamie Demetriou
person
Anna Scher Theatre
other
Dementia
other
Alasdair Beckett-King (Part Two)
Walking The Dog with Emily Dean • 56m • 4/2/2026
Kiell Smith-Bynoe (Part One)
Walking The Dog with Emily Dean • 39m • 4/7/2026
Olly Smith (Part One)
Walking The Dog with Emily Dean • 46m • 4/14/2026
Olly Smith (Part Two)
Walking The Dog with Emily Dean • 58m • 4/16/2026
John Robins (Part One)
Walking The Dog with Emily Dean • 49m • 4/21/2026
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