Charlie Higson on King Zero - Book Club
Summary
Richard Herring announces the final live RHLSTP shows at Leicester Square Theatre in 2026 before shifting to remote formats. He then hosts a book club segment with author Charlie Higson, who discusses his new James Bond novel, King Hero. They explore the research behind the story’s Saudi Arabian setting, the challenges of modernizing Bond’s character, and Higson’s previous work on the Young Bond series and Fighting Fantasy books.
Topics discussed
Announcement of final Leicester Square Theatre shows
Updates on other podcasts and projects
Sponsorship: Citizens Bank
Introduction of guest Charlie Higson and 'King Hero'
Research depth and non-fiction style in thrillers
Saudi Arabia setting and MBS's ambitious projects
Film production challenges and location details
Working with the Ian Fleming Estate and timeline
Setting the Young Bond books in the 1930s
Modernizing Bond and addressing fan expectations
Bond's character evolution and progressive themes
Writing Bond's inner life and emotional depth
Fleming's history and the character of M
Sponsorship: Zen Nicotine Pouches and Liquid IV
Navigating fan backlash and franchise ownership
Marketing Young Bond to a younger audience
Political themes and contemporary villains
Moral ambiguity and dark humor in the novel
Researching violence and gore for authenticity
Fleming's darker themes and the 'Casino Royale' scene
Film rights history and Amazon acquisition
Imagining the actor for the new Bond film
Writing Fighting Fantasy and interactive storytelling
Nostalgia for 90s media and gaming
Book recommendations and upcoming sequel
Closing remarks and sponsorships
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