1 00:00:03,500 --> 00:00:07,969 CREDITS 2 00:02:16,700 --> 00:02:17,700 Hello? 3 00:02:18,980 --> 00:02:20,200 Mr McGuire? 4 00:02:20,980 --> 00:02:21,980 Can you hear me? 5 00:02:23,740 --> 00:02:27,080 Just wanted to say I saw what happened and it wasn't your fault. 6 00:02:29,260 --> 00:02:32,480 If you want me to go to the police, I'd be happy to make a statement. 7 00:02:35,140 --> 00:02:36,720 Maybe I should just do that. 8 00:02:38,460 --> 00:02:39,460 Hello? 9 00:02:40,500 --> 00:02:42,160 Sorry, who is this? 10 00:02:42,700 --> 00:02:43,760 My name is Simon. 11 00:02:44,860 --> 00:02:47,520 I saw the incident tonight outside of your club. 12 00:02:48,700 --> 00:02:50,440 Well, I filmed the whole thing. 13 00:02:54,420 --> 00:02:55,600 You'd better come up. 14 00:03:01,460 --> 00:03:04,270 - Let me take a photo of you! - Read my lips... 15 00:03:04,300 --> 00:03:05,710 I don't get why you're being so... 16 00:03:05,740 --> 00:03:08,200 - I don't care! - Get off right now! 17 00:03:08,380 --> 00:03:10,150 You can see, he's the one that touches you first, 18 00:03:10,180 --> 00:03:11,750 and all you did was push him back. 19 00:03:11,780 --> 00:03:13,590 Exactly. It was an accident. 20 00:03:13,620 --> 00:03:14,710 Oh, definitely. 21 00:03:14,740 --> 00:03:16,680 He just came up to me and started yelling. 22 00:03:18,380 --> 00:03:20,030 - Did you recognise him? - No. 23 00:03:20,060 --> 00:03:21,790 Never seen him before in my life. 24 00:03:21,820 --> 00:03:24,550 You have actually met him a dozen times at various conventions. 25 00:03:24,580 --> 00:03:25,640 His name's Gavin. 26 00:03:26,140 --> 00:03:29,510 - Well, he could've had a knife, or anything. - Oh, yes. 27 00:03:29,540 --> 00:03:31,550 And that's why you had to smash his head on the cobbles. 28 00:03:31,580 --> 00:03:33,800 - I didn't do that! - I know. 29 00:03:34,260 --> 00:03:36,310 Like you said, it was... an accident. 30 00:03:36,340 --> 00:03:39,240 Is that the National Television Award that we won for season three? 31 00:03:39,540 --> 00:03:40,540 "We"? 32 00:03:41,620 --> 00:03:43,920 Well... voted for by the fans. 33 00:03:44,740 --> 00:03:46,040 Can I touch it? 34 00:03:47,260 --> 00:03:48,400 They're heavy, aren't they? 35 00:03:48,860 --> 00:03:50,600 Smash someone's brains in with this! 36 00:03:52,820 --> 00:03:57,390 Listen, Simon, I'm thinking it might be best to get rid of this. 37 00:03:57,420 --> 00:03:59,510 Better not to have it on record. You see what I'm saying? 38 00:03:59,540 --> 00:04:01,550 Oh, but it proves that you're innocent. 39 00:04:01,580 --> 00:04:04,310 Even so... I think I should delete it. 40 00:04:04,340 --> 00:04:05,760 Oh, no, I... 41 00:04:07,980 --> 00:04:08,980 Oh, well. 42 00:04:09,540 --> 00:04:12,710 - So, do you think he'll want to press charges? - Who? 43 00:04:12,740 --> 00:04:14,320 This Gavin chap. 44 00:04:14,740 --> 00:04:16,480 I shouldn't think so. He's dead. 45 00:04:17,220 --> 00:04:18,220 What? 46 00:04:18,860 --> 00:04:21,760 Yeah, I checked on him after you'd ran off, and he wasn't breathing. 47 00:04:22,900 --> 00:04:23,900 Oh, God! 48 00:04:30,900 --> 00:04:32,000 Don't worry. 49 00:04:32,580 --> 00:04:33,800 I sorted it for you. 50 00:04:34,420 --> 00:04:36,520 No-one will ever know you even touched him. 51 00:04:40,860 --> 00:04:42,680 I have to say, though, he did have a point. 52 00:04:43,140 --> 00:04:44,140 What do you mean? 53 00:04:44,260 --> 00:04:46,320 Well, what he was saying about season seven. 54 00:04:47,660 --> 00:04:48,390 Not this again. 55 00:04:48,420 --> 00:04:50,150 Well, some people did think the ending was... 56 00:04:50,180 --> 00:04:52,870 We always knew the ending was going to be deliberately low-key. 57 00:04:52,900 --> 00:04:55,000 - Or boring. - It wasn't boring! 58 00:04:55,300 --> 00:04:57,000 It was diminuendo. 59 00:04:57,500 --> 00:04:59,590 Ninth Circle was always a very cerebral show. 60 00:04:59,620 --> 00:05:00,750 Very dialogue-led. 61 00:05:00,780 --> 00:05:03,360 Anyway, now's not the time to be debating this! 62 00:05:04,660 --> 00:05:06,760 What did you mean when you said you've "Sorted it"? 63 00:05:07,180 --> 00:05:09,070 - I moved him. - Why? 64 00:05:09,100 --> 00:05:10,790 Well, so he wouldn't be found outside your club. 65 00:05:10,820 --> 00:05:12,430 All the fan community know that you go there, 66 00:05:12,460 --> 00:05:14,270 especially after award ceremonies. 67 00:05:14,300 --> 00:05:17,350 I'm sorry you didn't win, by the way, but that was hardly a surprise, was it? 68 00:05:17,380 --> 00:05:19,120 I don't think they should've booed you, though. 69 00:05:19,900 --> 00:05:22,800 - You moved the body? - Yeah. 70 00:05:22,860 --> 00:05:24,870 I dragged him down to Embankment and threw him in the Thames. 71 00:05:24,900 --> 00:05:25,750 So, now he'll just be another drunk 72 00:05:25,780 --> 00:05:27,600 that fell off the bridge in the middle of the night. 73 00:05:27,820 --> 00:05:29,480 Why would you do that, Simon? 74 00:05:30,060 --> 00:05:31,800 You've tampered with a crime scene! 75 00:05:31,980 --> 00:05:33,120 You ran off! 76 00:05:33,820 --> 00:05:35,350 I did it for you, Mr McGuire. 77 00:05:35,380 --> 00:05:37,230 Nobody saw me. I was only trying to help. 78 00:05:37,260 --> 00:05:40,440 What were you doing skulking in the shadows videoing me, anyway? 79 00:05:40,820 --> 00:05:42,960 I have a podcast. 80 00:05:43,060 --> 00:05:45,670 - 'Course you fucking do. - It's called Circum Venting. 81 00:05:45,700 --> 00:05:47,870 I was hoping to catch you and ask you a few questions maybe. 82 00:05:47,900 --> 00:05:49,790 I mean, sometimes, after you've had a few drinks, 83 00:05:49,820 --> 00:05:51,440 you do actually talk to the fans. 84 00:05:51,620 --> 00:05:53,150 Obviously, you weren't in the mood tonight - 85 00:05:53,180 --> 00:05:56,760 - as poor Gavin can testify. - He was the one who attacked me! 86 00:06:01,820 --> 00:06:04,520 Well... I can see you've got a bit of clearing up to do. 87 00:06:05,980 --> 00:06:07,280 Maybe I should be on my way. 88 00:06:08,020 --> 00:06:09,400 Can I have my phone back, please? 89 00:06:15,700 --> 00:06:17,800 Let me give you some money for a black cab. 90 00:06:18,220 --> 00:06:19,600 It's the least I can do. 91 00:06:20,900 --> 00:06:23,310 - Where do you have to get to? - Sunderland. 92 00:06:23,340 --> 00:06:24,920 Not sure it'll take me that far. 93 00:06:25,020 --> 00:06:27,720 I'll make me way to King's Cross, and I'll sleep on a bench. 94 00:06:28,940 --> 00:06:30,910 I hope the police don't question me. 95 00:06:30,940 --> 00:06:32,240 I'm not very good under pressure. 96 00:06:32,900 --> 00:06:34,360 It's lovely to meet you, anyway. 97 00:06:35,220 --> 00:06:36,800 Listen, Simon. 98 00:06:37,300 --> 00:06:40,190 All things considered, it might be best if you stay here tonight 99 00:06:40,220 --> 00:06:42,400 and leave first thing in the morning. 100 00:06:42,700 --> 00:06:44,760 You can sleep in the guest room. 101 00:06:45,860 --> 00:06:49,000 Is that where you keep the severed head of Thaxos from season two? 102 00:06:49,220 --> 00:06:51,600 - It is, yes. - Oh, my God. 103 00:06:52,340 --> 00:06:53,340 I can't believe it. 104 00:06:53,820 --> 00:06:55,480 Thank you, Mr McGuire. 105 00:06:55,900 --> 00:06:57,560 The fans are going to be so jealous. 106 00:07:24,460 --> 00:07:25,460 Morning. 107 00:07:26,780 --> 00:07:27,780 Did you sleep well? 108 00:07:28,100 --> 00:07:30,360 Not really. How about you? 109 00:07:30,860 --> 00:07:32,920 No. I was too excited. 110 00:07:33,180 --> 00:07:34,630 Well, maybe you should be making a move. 111 00:07:34,660 --> 00:07:37,950 I made you a coffee, by the way. Black with two sugars, isn't it? 112 00:07:37,980 --> 00:07:39,640 Yes. Thank you. 113 00:07:40,180 --> 00:07:41,630 I looked for a grapefruit, 114 00:07:41,660 --> 00:07:43,870 cos I read in Empire that's part of your breakfast routine, 115 00:07:43,900 --> 00:07:45,560 but I couldn't find any. 116 00:07:46,100 --> 00:07:48,000 I only do that when I'm writing. 117 00:07:48,500 --> 00:07:49,500 I know. 118 00:07:51,460 --> 00:07:52,760 That's why I wanted it. 119 00:07:55,380 --> 00:07:58,510 When you were approached by Gavin, he was brandishing this notebook. 120 00:07:58,540 --> 00:08:00,640 - Do you remember? - Vaguely. 121 00:08:00,980 --> 00:08:03,270 Well, last night, I shoved it in my bag and I forgot all about it, 122 00:08:03,300 --> 00:08:05,960 but I took it out and I started to read. 123 00:08:07,460 --> 00:08:10,360 He's written a whole alternative finale for Ninth Circle. 124 00:08:11,260 --> 00:08:12,280 And Spencer... 125 00:08:13,940 --> 00:08:15,240 Can I call you Spencer? 126 00:08:16,500 --> 00:08:17,560 It is brilliant. 127 00:08:17,660 --> 00:08:18,960 Fanfiction? 128 00:08:19,380 --> 00:08:21,790 Well, no, it's more sophisticated than that. 129 00:08:21,820 --> 00:08:22,990 He clearly knows his stuff. 130 00:08:23,020 --> 00:08:26,150 For example, we actually get to see who lights the Flame of Aurora. 131 00:08:26,180 --> 00:08:27,790 Nobody lights the Flame of Aurora. 132 00:08:27,820 --> 00:08:29,470 It's extinguished in the flood. 133 00:08:29,500 --> 00:08:31,790 I know, literally a damp squib. Anyway, Gavin's fixed that. 134 00:08:31,820 --> 00:08:35,110 And we finally get a proper ending for the whole Dante/Carter relationship. 135 00:08:35,140 --> 00:08:37,510 What relationship? They don't have a relationship! 136 00:08:37,540 --> 00:08:39,950 Oh, that's not fair. You were baiting us in that direction 137 00:08:39,980 --> 00:08:42,030 - since the Pantheon episode. - No, I wasn't! 138 00:08:42,060 --> 00:08:43,750 The scene in the desert where he's sucking his arm. 139 00:08:43,780 --> 00:08:45,750 That was to get the snake venom out! 140 00:08:45,780 --> 00:08:47,390 It's one of the seven trials! 141 00:08:47,420 --> 00:08:50,670 Well, anyway, they finally get together, and it's really satisfying. 142 00:08:50,700 --> 00:08:53,480 They're two heterosexual men. 143 00:08:53,740 --> 00:08:56,550 Besides which, Carter died in the series six finale. 144 00:08:56,580 --> 00:08:57,710 Yeah, and that was another mistake. 145 00:08:57,740 --> 00:08:59,750 Gavin's brought him back. Just read it, please. 146 00:08:59,780 --> 00:09:00,710 I can't read it. 147 00:09:00,740 --> 00:09:02,520 My agent would never allow it. 148 00:09:03,220 --> 00:09:05,790 Well... it's funny you should say that, 149 00:09:05,820 --> 00:09:07,790 cos she's actually on her way over to have a meeting about it. 150 00:09:07,820 --> 00:09:10,400 And, contrary to what you might think, she sounded really keen. 151 00:09:10,820 --> 00:09:12,680 What do you mean, she's on her way over?! 152 00:09:13,180 --> 00:09:15,550 Please don't be mad, but I used your phone when you were in the shower. 153 00:09:15,580 --> 00:09:17,470 - What?! - Just thought it was worth putting in a call 154 00:09:17,500 --> 00:09:18,950 and sounding her out about it. 155 00:09:18,980 --> 00:09:21,350 She loves the idea, and she's delighted you've relented. 156 00:09:21,380 --> 00:09:25,760 I haven't relented! This is just a fantasy world, Simon. 157 00:09:26,820 --> 00:09:28,830 - I think you should go! - Well, I...I can't go. 158 00:09:28,860 --> 00:09:30,790 I said I'd stay here and take notes at the meeting. 159 00:09:30,820 --> 00:09:32,710 There isn't going to be a meeting. 160 00:09:32,740 --> 00:09:34,360 But what about my podcast? 161 00:09:34,620 --> 00:09:37,120 I'm not going to do your stupid fucking podcast. 162 00:09:37,540 --> 00:09:40,550 - Do you know how many times a week I get asked to do podcasts? - No. 163 00:09:40,580 --> 00:09:42,510 Well, let me tell you, it's a lot! 164 00:09:42,540 --> 00:09:45,920 And it gives me great pleasure to say "No" to every single one of them. 165 00:09:52,820 --> 00:09:54,000 Oh, well, I'm sorry. 166 00:09:55,180 --> 00:09:57,960 At least I've got some video footage of you from last night. 167 00:09:58,900 --> 00:10:00,720 Maybe I could put that up instead. 168 00:10:08,580 --> 00:10:09,580 Come up. 169 00:10:13,100 --> 00:10:14,160 Was that a threat? 170 00:10:15,980 --> 00:10:17,280 Are you threatening me? 171 00:10:19,020 --> 00:10:21,280 I deleted that footage, remember? 172 00:10:23,180 --> 00:10:24,180 From the phone. 173 00:10:25,540 --> 00:10:26,840 It's still in the Cloud. 174 00:10:29,540 --> 00:10:31,360 Don't look at me like that, Spencer. 175 00:10:32,140 --> 00:10:33,880 I'm on your side, remember? 176 00:10:43,300 --> 00:10:45,190 Hello. Loretta Lamb. 177 00:10:45,220 --> 00:10:46,790 - You must be Simon. - That's right, yes. 178 00:10:46,820 --> 00:10:48,160 Lovely to meet you at last. 179 00:10:48,500 --> 00:10:51,950 I've been telling Spencer for ages to get himself a PA. 180 00:10:51,980 --> 00:10:53,480 Hello, darling! 181 00:10:54,460 --> 00:10:56,200 What a lovely surprise! 182 00:10:57,140 --> 00:10:59,190 Sorry about the awards last night. 183 00:10:59,220 --> 00:11:01,390 It's all meaningless, as you know. 184 00:11:01,420 --> 00:11:03,510 Except when one of my clients wins, 185 00:11:03,540 --> 00:11:05,990 in which case, it's absolutely the right decision. 186 00:11:06,020 --> 00:11:07,390 Did you have a late night? 187 00:11:07,420 --> 00:11:09,790 Er, no, no, I-I just came straight back home. 188 00:11:09,820 --> 00:11:11,430 Eddie said he saw you at your club. 189 00:11:11,460 --> 00:11:13,190 Well, I had a swift one, obviously, but... 190 00:11:13,220 --> 00:11:15,600 He wanted to be fresh for today's meeting. 191 00:11:16,820 --> 00:11:19,320 - It's exciting, isn't it? - Yes. 192 00:11:19,620 --> 00:11:21,200 I have to say, I'm very shocked. 193 00:11:21,860 --> 00:11:23,360 Why the U-turn? 194 00:11:23,580 --> 00:11:26,150 You said you'd rather cut your own dick off and sit in vinegar 195 00:11:26,180 --> 00:11:27,880 than go back to Ninth Circle. 196 00:11:28,340 --> 00:11:29,680 Did you really say that? 197 00:11:30,220 --> 00:11:32,470 Well, I've been working on this show for 12 years. 198 00:11:32,500 --> 00:11:34,880 Which is why I'm so surprised you wanted to bring it back! 199 00:11:35,260 --> 00:11:38,590 I thought you wanted to have a crack at something a bit more Jimmy McGovern-y. 200 00:11:38,620 --> 00:11:41,030 You know, all that yearning and Universal Credit. 201 00:11:41,060 --> 00:11:44,350 Something to dampen the gussets of the awards panels. 202 00:11:44,380 --> 00:11:46,040 Oh, sounds a bit grim. 203 00:11:46,100 --> 00:11:48,790 I think doing a proper ending for Ninth Circle is much more appealing, 204 00:11:48,820 --> 00:11:49,470 wouldn't you say, Spence? 205 00:11:49,500 --> 00:11:51,910 Well, I certainly don't want to rush into anything. 206 00:11:51,940 --> 00:11:53,950 I just want to know what my options are. 207 00:11:53,980 --> 00:11:58,280 Well, the good news is, I put in a quick call to Mitch at AMC, 208 00:11:58,420 --> 00:11:59,790 and he's thrilled with the idea. 209 00:11:59,820 --> 00:12:01,710 And the fans would be very excited, I'm sure. 210 00:12:01,740 --> 00:12:03,910 I wouldn't be doing it for the fans. 211 00:12:03,940 --> 00:12:06,310 I'd be doing it for my own personal reasons. 212 00:12:06,340 --> 00:12:08,720 Which is exactly as it should be. 213 00:12:09,380 --> 00:12:11,310 So, can I tell them any details? 214 00:12:11,340 --> 00:12:12,630 Is there an outline? 215 00:12:12,660 --> 00:12:13,800 What stage are we at? 216 00:12:13,860 --> 00:12:14,910 We have an outline. 217 00:12:14,940 --> 00:12:17,230 Some very exciting plot developments. 218 00:12:17,260 --> 00:12:20,110 Characters doing things they should've done in the first place. 219 00:12:20,140 --> 00:12:21,720 Just so I've got this right, 220 00:12:22,100 --> 00:12:25,710 would this be a replacement for the controversial series seven finale? 221 00:12:25,740 --> 00:12:26,800 - No. - Yes. 222 00:12:27,180 --> 00:12:29,030 - Well... - Yes and no. 223 00:12:29,060 --> 00:12:30,550 I haven't really thought it through yet. 224 00:12:30,580 --> 00:12:32,550 'Course you have! Don't be so modest. 225 00:12:32,580 --> 00:12:37,280 To give you an example, Loretta, guess who lights the Flame of Aurora? 226 00:12:37,500 --> 00:12:40,000 Oh, I've no idea, darling. I haven't seen it. 227 00:12:40,140 --> 00:12:42,630 All that Dungeons & Dragons stuff leaves me cold. 228 00:12:42,660 --> 00:12:45,390 - It's not Dungeons & Dragons! - Well, you know what I mean. 229 00:12:45,420 --> 00:12:47,960 Well, anyway, it's Calculus. 230 00:12:48,540 --> 00:12:50,110 - Calculus?! - Yeah. 231 00:12:50,140 --> 00:12:51,470 Calculus is a baby! 232 00:12:51,500 --> 00:12:53,550 Yeah, he crawls towards it and takes it in his little fist. 233 00:12:53,580 --> 00:12:55,230 The whole thing is inadvertent. 234 00:12:55,260 --> 00:12:57,120 The whole thing is fucking stupid. 235 00:12:58,460 --> 00:13:01,320 It's not stupid. It's the way it should be. 236 00:13:02,060 --> 00:13:03,870 The previous ending was all Dante's dream. 237 00:13:03,900 --> 00:13:07,040 - That's how we're squaring it. - Oh! Like Dallas. 238 00:13:07,180 --> 00:13:08,360 I'll get you some biscuits. 239 00:13:11,820 --> 00:13:15,560 Well, I'm so pleased you've changed your mind, Spencer. 240 00:13:15,940 --> 00:13:17,840 I didn't want to say anything at the time, 241 00:13:18,300 --> 00:13:21,520 but the original script was hated by pretty much everyone. 242 00:13:21,740 --> 00:13:22,740 Everyone? 243 00:13:23,620 --> 00:13:26,080 The actors hated it, the execs hated it. 244 00:13:26,500 --> 00:13:30,320 Even the caterers hated it, and half of them can't even read. 245 00:13:30,620 --> 00:13:32,990 Well, that's nice to hear, coming from my own agent. 246 00:13:33,020 --> 00:13:34,030 Oh, come on. 247 00:13:34,060 --> 00:13:37,080 You know it's my job to shield you from anything harmful. 248 00:13:37,300 --> 00:13:38,950 And that's my job, too. 249 00:13:38,980 --> 00:13:42,150 So, Loretta, when do you think we should get the announcement out? 250 00:13:42,180 --> 00:13:44,550 Wait, wait! This is all moving too fast. 251 00:13:44,580 --> 00:13:47,550 It's just that I know someone that runs one of the fan sites, 252 00:13:47,580 --> 00:13:49,390 and I'm sure he would be willing to help out. 253 00:13:49,420 --> 00:13:51,310 Maybe we could announce it on his podcast? 254 00:13:51,340 --> 00:13:54,200 - Oh, let's not dredge that up again. - Why, Spencer? 255 00:13:54,620 --> 00:13:55,960 What would you rather dredge up? 256 00:13:58,220 --> 00:14:01,350 I just mean, isn't it a bit cart before horse? 257 00:14:01,380 --> 00:14:02,510 I don't think so. 258 00:14:02,540 --> 00:14:05,270 And I don't know if Spencer mentioned about a co-writing credit? 259 00:14:05,300 --> 00:14:06,840 No, news to me. 260 00:14:07,580 --> 00:14:08,580 Spencer? 261 00:14:10,940 --> 00:14:11,940 Yes. 262 00:14:12,260 --> 00:14:14,800 Simon's going to help me out with this project. 263 00:14:15,660 --> 00:14:19,240 As a fan, he understands the Ninth Circle better than I do. 264 00:14:19,620 --> 00:14:20,620 Yeah. 265 00:14:20,660 --> 00:14:22,600 I know where all the bodies are buried. 266 00:14:27,180 --> 00:14:31,390 So, welcome back to this incredible episode of Circum Venting, 267 00:14:31,420 --> 00:14:36,270 with me, Simon Smethurst, and my very, very special guest, Spencer McGuire! 268 00:14:36,300 --> 00:14:38,910 So, Spence, I have been digging through 269 00:14:38,940 --> 00:14:42,510 some of the old message boards from the series finale last year. 270 00:14:42,540 --> 00:14:45,760 Palehorse92 said, "They ruined my show." 271 00:14:46,380 --> 00:14:49,510 "The writing was terrible from season four onwards." 272 00:14:49,540 --> 00:14:51,200 That's from Bruiserfan. 273 00:14:51,420 --> 00:14:55,760 "I normally like McGuire's scripts, "but this really was a piece of ship." 274 00:14:56,580 --> 00:14:58,120 What do you think he means by that? 275 00:14:58,940 --> 00:15:00,720 I think he means "A piece of shit". 276 00:15:01,340 --> 00:15:02,720 Oh, yeah. 277 00:15:02,750 --> 00:15:04,960 Yeah, that would make more sense. 278 00:15:05,030 --> 00:15:08,470 Er, how does it feel, Spencer, when you hear comments like that? 279 00:15:08,500 --> 00:15:11,800 Because presumably, you didn't set out to write a terrible ending? 280 00:15:11,830 --> 00:15:13,780 No, I certainly didn't. 281 00:15:13,810 --> 00:15:16,390 We planned for a long time for the denouement, 282 00:15:16,420 --> 00:15:18,930 and aimed for something that would be true to the show's ethos, 283 00:15:18,960 --> 00:15:20,470 but would also be surprising. 284 00:15:20,500 --> 00:15:22,500 But you do accept now that you failed to do that? 285 00:15:22,530 --> 00:15:23,770 Not necessarily. 286 00:15:23,800 --> 00:15:25,470 I always trust my own instincts 287 00:15:25,500 --> 00:15:28,150 cos, without those, as a writer, where would I be? 288 00:15:28,180 --> 00:15:31,410 Well, maybe higher than a 31% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. 289 00:15:31,440 --> 00:15:34,000 I don't write for the people who vote in online polls. 290 00:15:34,030 --> 00:15:35,430 Oh, so who do you write for? 291 00:15:35,460 --> 00:15:36,730 For myself, primarily. 292 00:15:36,760 --> 00:15:38,880 Right, so you were pleased with the last episode? 293 00:15:38,910 --> 00:15:42,110 Yes. And we got a five-star review in the Sydney Morning Herald, 294 00:15:42,140 --> 00:15:43,420 so I wasn't the only one. 295 00:15:43,450 --> 00:15:46,010 So, you listen to the good reviews, just not the bad ones? 296 00:15:46,040 --> 00:15:49,220 No, I... try to keep an open mind. 297 00:15:49,250 --> 00:15:51,740 Right, well, where I think you've been very, very brave is 298 00:15:51,770 --> 00:15:53,880 you haven't just shut yourself off and said you know best. 299 00:15:53,910 --> 00:15:56,550 You've listened to the fans and you've taken on board our opinions. 300 00:15:56,580 --> 00:15:58,380 Because I know, with this new episode, 301 00:15:58,410 --> 00:16:01,480 you want it to be a collaboration with the fandom, don't you? 302 00:16:01,510 --> 00:16:06,590 Yes. The show started out as an authored work, a singular vision that I created 303 00:16:06,620 --> 00:16:09,080 after many years of experience in the industry. 304 00:16:09,110 --> 00:16:12,480 And, now, it's become a property that everyone is invested in, 305 00:16:12,510 --> 00:16:16,640 and it exists purely to be pulled in whatever direction the viewers decide. 306 00:16:16,670 --> 00:16:19,710 Correct! Speaking of which, here's a question that just popped into my head. 307 00:16:19,740 --> 00:16:22,270 Would you ever consider running a competition 308 00:16:22,300 --> 00:16:24,800 to give a fan a part in the new episode? 309 00:16:25,060 --> 00:16:26,520 Are you fucking serious? 310 00:16:26,550 --> 00:16:28,490 Oh, we're going to have to bleep that. Sorry. 311 00:16:28,520 --> 00:16:30,850 - Of course not! - But why? 312 00:16:30,880 --> 00:16:34,280 Well, because... they'd have to be able to act, for a start. 313 00:16:34,310 --> 00:16:35,680 Well, that's not hard, is it? 314 00:16:35,710 --> 00:16:38,010 "My family have been wronged, Dante. 315 00:16:38,040 --> 00:16:39,400 "Is this nothing? 316 00:16:39,530 --> 00:16:40,930 "You call this nothing?! 317 00:16:41,030 --> 00:16:44,020 "For three winters now, our fields have remained fallow. 318 00:16:44,050 --> 00:16:48,850 "And so I ask you - nay, I demand - where is your justice now?" 319 00:16:48,950 --> 00:16:51,190 And the first person to tweet me what episode that's from 320 00:16:51,220 --> 00:16:53,330 will get a Circum Venting badge and a wordsearch. 321 00:16:53,360 --> 00:16:57,250 No. I don't think it's right to be auctioning off parts for fans. 322 00:16:57,280 --> 00:17:00,780 And, yet, there is a role, in the new episode, of the Baron, 323 00:17:00,810 --> 00:17:02,430 who turns against his brother, kills him 324 00:17:02,460 --> 00:17:04,020 and, straight away, seduces his brother's wife - 325 00:17:04,050 --> 00:17:05,440 without giving away too many spoilers. 326 00:17:05,470 --> 00:17:06,970 Oh, of course, you wouldn't want to do that. 327 00:17:07,000 --> 00:17:09,950 And, when I read it, you know who I immediately visualised in that part? 328 00:17:09,980 --> 00:17:11,200 - Who? - Me. 329 00:17:12,380 --> 00:17:13,420 Are you joking? 330 00:17:13,450 --> 00:17:17,540 No. The way he manipulates the situation to get whatever he wants... 331 00:17:17,570 --> 00:17:19,450 You don't think that's something I'd be good at? 332 00:17:19,960 --> 00:17:22,050 We only use professional actors. 333 00:17:22,080 --> 00:17:23,890 Well, let's ask the Circlers. 334 00:17:23,920 --> 00:17:27,040 Write in, let me know in the comments, and I'm going to set up a poll! 335 00:17:27,070 --> 00:17:32,120 Should Simon be allowed to star in the new episode, as well as co-writing it? 336 00:17:32,150 --> 00:17:35,140 Get voting, guys. It's our show now! 337 00:17:53,410 --> 00:17:55,330 I just think you've let yourself down in these last few pages. 338 00:17:55,360 --> 00:17:56,440 OK, fuck it! Get rid of it... 339 00:17:56,470 --> 00:18:00,360 "...my family, Carter. Things will change on my return." 340 00:18:00,980 --> 00:18:03,090 "Carter stands in his tent..." 341 00:18:03,710 --> 00:18:05,220 And the results are in, guys. 342 00:18:05,250 --> 00:18:06,150 And you will not believe it. 343 00:18:06,180 --> 00:18:10,830 87% of you said "Yes", they want to see me audition for the part of the Baron! 344 00:18:10,860 --> 00:18:13,750 I'm so pleased, and thank you so much for all of your thoughts. 345 00:18:13,780 --> 00:18:15,700 I am going to be absolutely brilliant in the part, 346 00:18:15,730 --> 00:18:17,630 and I'm sure Spencer's going to be... 347 00:18:17,654 --> 00:18:21,442 _ 348 00:18:21,446 --> 00:18:24,772 _ 349 00:18:24,796 --> 00:18:28,122 _ 350 00:18:38,470 --> 00:18:40,540 "Hi, Spencer, I forgot my key." 351 00:18:44,380 --> 00:18:45,970 Is this Mr McGuire? 352 00:18:47,350 --> 00:18:48,190 Yes. 353 00:18:48,220 --> 00:18:50,600 Sorry to disturb you. We met on the awards night? 354 00:18:50,630 --> 00:18:51,670 My name's Gavin. 355 00:18:58,860 --> 00:19:01,350 Thing is, Mr McGuire, it was all Simon's idea. 356 00:19:01,380 --> 00:19:03,380 He can be very persuasive. 357 00:19:03,420 --> 00:19:04,930 I just wanted you to read my stories, 358 00:19:04,960 --> 00:19:07,250 but he just said you'd throw them away and never look at 'em. 359 00:19:07,280 --> 00:19:08,690 That's probably true. 360 00:19:08,720 --> 00:19:12,310 Had some fake blood left over from when we did The Walking Dead at Comic-Con. 361 00:19:12,520 --> 00:19:13,710 Can't believe you didn't see me breathing. 362 00:19:13,740 --> 00:19:15,340 You must've been very drunk. 363 00:19:18,290 --> 00:19:20,400 Sorry. I'm so nervous. I'm such a big fan. 364 00:19:21,300 --> 00:19:23,270 I've brought some things for you to sign, if you don't mind? 365 00:19:23,300 --> 00:19:26,370 Yes, of course. I just need to make one phone call. 366 00:19:30,250 --> 00:19:33,010 I've got a nice big silver pen for this, if you don't mind. 367 00:19:33,480 --> 00:19:35,290 Can I speak to Loretta, please? 368 00:19:37,110 --> 00:19:39,430 I can't believe you're going to be making my episode! 369 00:19:39,460 --> 00:19:41,050 It's Spencer McGuire. 370 00:19:41,670 --> 00:19:43,040 Yes, I'll hold. 371 00:19:43,130 --> 00:19:45,150 You know, something I always wanted to ask you, Mr McGuire, 372 00:19:45,180 --> 00:19:48,380 if you don't mind? You know when Carter emerges from the swamp 373 00:19:48,410 --> 00:19:51,440 in season one episode four, and he looks up at the fruit - 374 00:19:51,540 --> 00:19:53,040 what was he thinking then? 375 00:19:53,070 --> 00:19:55,790 I don't fucking know. It was ten years ago. 376 00:20:03,430 --> 00:20:04,410 What's going on? 377 00:20:04,440 --> 00:20:06,900 Simon! This is Gavin. 378 00:20:06,930 --> 00:20:08,680 I believe you two know each other? 379 00:20:09,220 --> 00:20:12,120 Like Carter, he seems to have come back from the dead. 380 00:20:13,780 --> 00:20:16,030 What are you doing here, Gavin? You've ruined everything. 381 00:20:16,060 --> 00:20:17,310 Couldn't help yourself, could you? 382 00:20:17,340 --> 00:20:18,620 You said I'd be able to have access to him. 383 00:20:18,650 --> 00:20:20,450 "Eventually" I said "eventually"! 384 00:20:20,480 --> 00:20:21,790 I want some time with Mr McGuire. 385 00:20:21,820 --> 00:20:23,650 It's not fair, you having him all to yourself that wasn't the plan. 386 00:20:23,680 --> 00:20:25,640 Of course it was! You're supposed to be dead! 387 00:20:25,670 --> 00:20:28,870 Loretta, can you give me a call back as soon as possible, please? 388 00:20:28,900 --> 00:20:30,680 Something urgent I have to discuss with you. 389 00:20:30,710 --> 00:20:33,510 I was waiting for him to sign a contract so he couldn't back out of it, dummy! 390 00:20:33,540 --> 00:20:36,600 Yeah, all the while living with him and doing podcasts with him! 391 00:20:36,630 --> 00:20:38,220 Set yourself up as the queen bee of the fandom! 392 00:20:38,250 --> 00:20:39,980 I've got an actual relationship with him, 393 00:20:40,010 --> 00:20:41,970 not some sort of fantasy world that's all made up! 394 00:20:42,000 --> 00:20:44,260 I'm his equal. He respects me. Don't you, Spencer? 395 00:20:44,290 --> 00:20:45,310 He doesn't even know you! 396 00:20:45,340 --> 00:20:47,580 Did you tell him you have Photoshopped pictures of him with no clothes on? 397 00:20:47,610 --> 00:20:50,220 They were DMed to you in private. It was not for a public forum! 398 00:20:50,250 --> 00:20:52,010 All right, that's enough. 399 00:20:53,210 --> 00:20:54,570 Now, I don't want to press charges, 400 00:20:54,600 --> 00:20:58,780 but, unless you leave my property now, I will go to the police. 401 00:20:58,830 --> 00:21:01,170 Spencer... the project. 402 00:21:01,590 --> 00:21:03,950 What, did you really think I'd revisit my own work 403 00:21:03,980 --> 00:21:06,590 and overwrite it with this dogshit? 404 00:21:09,620 --> 00:21:10,740 I thought you liked it. 405 00:21:11,140 --> 00:21:13,210 Well, I had to say that, didn't I? 406 00:21:13,590 --> 00:21:15,510 But you've got nothing over me now. 407 00:21:15,950 --> 00:21:19,310 I'm not writing any more Ninth Circle. Why would I? 408 00:21:20,150 --> 00:21:22,810 Because, for some people, it's more than just a TV show. 409 00:21:23,190 --> 00:21:24,900 We only want to celebrate what you do. 410 00:21:24,930 --> 00:21:26,840 Oh, get out! 411 00:21:27,180 --> 00:21:29,650 You should be flattered that we care so much. 412 00:21:30,190 --> 00:21:32,530 Think you would've had seven seasons without a big fanbase? 413 00:21:32,560 --> 00:21:35,270 Oh, so suddenly you're the reason for my success, are you? 414 00:21:35,300 --> 00:21:37,140 Well, in part, yes. 415 00:21:37,190 --> 00:21:40,450 We're the ones who spend all our money on DVDs and merchandise. 416 00:21:41,530 --> 00:21:42,770 We're the ones who go to the conventions 417 00:21:42,800 --> 00:21:45,500 and pay, what, 60 quid for a selfie with Michael Maloney, 418 00:21:45,530 --> 00:21:46,930 because he was an advocate in season one. 419 00:21:46,960 --> 00:21:48,750 We do it because we care. 420 00:21:49,630 --> 00:21:52,400 We're a community of loyal friends that love each other very much. 421 00:21:52,430 --> 00:21:54,720 And if you can't see that, Mr McGuire, then... 422 00:21:55,170 --> 00:21:56,350 I pity you. 423 00:21:58,130 --> 00:21:59,490 Come on, Simon. 424 00:22:18,840 --> 00:22:20,050 How dare you! 425 00:22:21,060 --> 00:22:22,750 You call yourself a fan? 426 00:22:23,750 --> 00:22:27,190 What gives you the right to question this great man's integrity?! 427 00:22:27,610 --> 00:22:30,830 To think that this beautiful thing that he has created 428 00:22:30,860 --> 00:22:35,010 has become the sickening glue, the catnip, 429 00:22:35,040 --> 00:22:38,620 the flame that has drawn you insects together! 430 00:22:39,090 --> 00:22:44,110 Like a nest of wasps in an attic, it's given you a misplaced sense of agency. 431 00:22:44,140 --> 00:22:47,810 There may be a lot of you, but you don't have a voice. 432 00:22:47,840 --> 00:22:49,140 You don't! 433 00:22:49,750 --> 00:22:51,220 You're just pests. 434 00:22:53,010 --> 00:22:56,130 You're pests who need fumigating! 435 00:23:09,790 --> 00:23:10,820 Simon... 436 00:23:12,730 --> 00:23:13,930 What have you done? 437 00:23:15,820 --> 00:23:17,950 You said yourself - I had nothing over you. 438 00:23:19,750 --> 00:23:21,180 Well, now I have. 439 00:23:21,650 --> 00:23:23,260 Wh-what are you talking about? 440 00:23:23,290 --> 00:23:24,300 Think about it. 441 00:23:25,170 --> 00:23:27,990 You've just delivered a draft script that you've stolen from a fan. 442 00:23:28,020 --> 00:23:30,100 The fan finds out about it, comes to confront you... 443 00:23:30,610 --> 00:23:33,210 - And you've killed him to shut him up. - No... 444 00:23:33,450 --> 00:23:34,680 No, I'm going to call the police. 445 00:23:34,710 --> 00:23:35,960 I'm going to tell them the truth. 446 00:23:35,990 --> 00:23:38,230 You make up stories for a living. 447 00:23:39,820 --> 00:23:40,870 I've got the video footage of you 448 00:23:40,900 --> 00:23:44,120 fighting with Gavin and pushing him down. 449 00:23:44,150 --> 00:23:45,800 I've got the notebook in his handwriting. 450 00:23:45,830 --> 00:23:47,750 His fingerprints all over the place. 451 00:23:48,940 --> 00:23:50,580 It doesn't look good, does it? 452 00:23:52,180 --> 00:23:53,670 Come on, Spencer. 453 00:23:54,480 --> 00:23:56,300 You've already killed him once. 454 00:23:57,980 --> 00:24:00,140 This just makes it more believable. 455 00:24:03,310 --> 00:24:05,290 I really don't want to send you to prison. 456 00:24:06,590 --> 00:24:07,740 But I would. 457 00:24:11,020 --> 00:24:12,900 I just want us to be together. 458 00:24:20,940 --> 00:24:22,880 You know it's the only option, Spencer. 459 00:24:25,470 --> 00:24:27,530 Some things just feel right. 460 00:24:44,980 --> 00:24:46,780 You make yourself comfortable. 461 00:25:04,280 --> 00:25:06,550 Don't want him looking at us, do we? 462 00:25:21,620 --> 00:25:22,620 You see... 463 00:25:23,530 --> 00:25:25,330 together, we're stronger. 464 00:25:26,690 --> 00:25:29,150 We can rule this kingdom forever... 465 00:25:29,850 --> 00:25:30,850 And ever... 466 00:25:31,590 --> 00:25:32,590 and ever. 467 00:27:06,000 --> 00:27:07,490 Sorry about the mess. 468 00:27:08,580 --> 00:27:09,790 I hope it doesn't stain. 469 00:27:10,880 --> 00:27:13,100 So, how did he get on? Did he get it? 470 00:27:13,780 --> 00:27:14,950 Get what? 471 00:27:16,310 --> 00:27:17,430 The audition! 472 00:27:18,150 --> 00:27:20,270 Killing me, seducing you... 473 00:27:20,520 --> 00:27:22,190 It's the Baron's story arc. 474 00:27:23,950 --> 00:27:25,310 He said you didn't think he was right for the part, 475 00:27:25,340 --> 00:27:26,940 so he wanted to persuade you. 476 00:27:26,970 --> 00:27:28,890 I'm sorry for lying. 477 00:27:29,280 --> 00:27:30,390 Oh, God! 478 00:27:30,730 --> 00:27:32,900 Did you like the big speech about the insects? 479 00:27:33,600 --> 00:27:34,710 I wrote that. 480 00:27:35,400 --> 00:27:37,730 Yes, it was very convincing. 481 00:27:38,460 --> 00:27:41,350 Before he comes back, can I get you to sign those things now? 482 00:27:43,120 --> 00:27:45,800 I'm so excited to be working with you, Mr McGuire. 483 00:27:45,880 --> 00:27:47,940 I think we're going to make a great partnership. 484 00:27:47,970 --> 00:27:52,150 Your stories are fantastic, but I always felt your dialogue was a bit weak. 485 00:27:52,880 --> 00:27:54,820 That's... that's... 486 00:27:55,910 --> 00:27:57,690 Can you make this one out to...? 487 00:28:02,720 --> 00:28:05,400 Five-star reviews across the board. 488 00:28:05,430 --> 00:28:09,810 The Guardian says, "This has rejuvenated McGuire's career." 489 00:28:10,010 --> 00:28:13,590 Variety say, "Finally, we get the ending we deserved." 490 00:28:13,750 --> 00:28:15,780 - It's a triumph, darling. - Good! 491 00:28:15,810 --> 00:28:20,760 Now, I spoke to Mitch last night, and he doesn't want to give you another series. 492 00:28:20,790 --> 00:28:21,740 - Really? - No. 493 00:28:21,770 --> 00:28:23,620 He wants to give you two more series! 494 00:28:23,650 --> 00:28:26,040 That takes us on to season nine. 495 00:28:26,070 --> 00:28:28,030 I hope you've got plenty of ideas. 496 00:28:28,060 --> 00:28:30,750 Oh, I'm sure I'll be able to think of something. 497 00:28:30,780 --> 00:28:31,620 Jolly good. 498 00:28:31,650 --> 00:28:34,700 And If you want any help, there's plenty of young writers out there 499 00:28:34,730 --> 00:28:37,690 who'd be happy being paid peanuts just to work with you. 500 00:28:37,720 --> 00:28:39,310 Well, why pay them at all? 501 00:28:39,700 --> 00:28:43,360 I can always steal their ideas and then dump them in the Thames. 502 00:28:43,650 --> 00:28:45,170 You are funny! 503 00:28:45,640 --> 00:28:47,990 Well, I'll let you get on and enjoy your morning. 504 00:28:48,020 --> 00:28:49,890 Oh, and one last thing. 505 00:28:49,920 --> 00:28:52,440 Did you have a short quote to give me for the press release? 506 00:28:52,470 --> 00:28:53,790 One line will do. 507 00:28:53,820 --> 00:28:55,620 Just say, "I did it... 508 00:28:58,170 --> 00:29:00,120 "I did it for the fans." 509 00:29:01,445 --> 00:29:07,445 CREDITS