The irrepressible Boy George opened up about his love of songs, his music, taking acting classes and Culture Club's upcoming tour on this morning's Sunday Brunch, on Channel 4. As well as British pop royalty, hosts Tim Lovejoy and Simon Rimmer's guests included broadcaster, debut novelist and Lancashire lass Sarah Cox - and Hullraisers actress Leah Brotherhead.
There were laughs and insights a plenty on the popular, laid-back, light-hearted programme, which celebrated its 10th birthday earlier this year. The guests were clearly enjoying themselves as they talked about their careers and upcoming ventures - and, of course, some food and drink tasting.
Culture Club fans were treated to another viewing of the band's classic eighties video of their chart hit 'Do You Really Want to Hurt Me' as Boy George settled in on the sofa for his chat with Tim and Simon. "It was a time of electro music," he said. "I actually wanted to do something faster.
READ MORE: Boy George's net worth, relationship history and biggest hits with Culture Club
"It thought it was too slow, and I should have been doing stuff more like Madonna." He added: "It's funny because I'm not that person anymore. I can only deal with how I am now. When I watch that person now, it's hilarious - I think 'Who is that Queen?'."
Explaining the reason he appeared barefooted on Top of the Pops, George said it was on account of his obsession with sixties diva Sandy Shaw. " Talking about his love of music, he said: "I actually like songs, I'm not interested in singers. Some of my favourite singers can't sing, like Bob Dylan - I want to hear truth and humour."
He added that he enjoys listening to surreal lyrics the most - songs such as Lou Reed's Walk on the Wild Side. "That's just so surreal," he said.
Viewers got to see a clip from his latest track - 'The Boy Who Sat by the Window'. Georgle also spoke about releasing records and his upcoming tours with Culture Club. "I turned 60 last June and wanted to put out 60 songs to celebrate it. I think at the moment I'm on 28 now.
"I've probably released more records in the last three months than most people probably do in their whole careers. I just love pop music. I am my record label, so I'm my own boss and can do what I want."
As flamboyant and stylish as ever, and seemingly in a very good place in his life, George wore a giant green hat that wouldn't have looked out of place on the set of the Gangs of New York film. Culture Club will be headlining a 'Heritage Live' gig at Kenwood House, in Hamstead, London, on Friday June 17.
They will be supported by other British pop legends - Bananarama and Lulu, and DJ Fat Tony. George said his band will be playing some shows in Las Vegas. "We're always touring, but or the last two years haven't been able to," he said. "I've always wanted to do shows in the US, so we're going to Vegas, which is exciting."
He also revealed that he has been taking acting lessons. "I've been taking acting lessons for the last two years," he said. "I helps build my confidence up on stage. It's like a bit of therapy for my singing and helps me in my performance." George explained that it helps him to relax and connect with the audience.
Viewers were delighted to see Boy George looking so happy and well, with many taking to the Sunday Brunch's official Twitter account to express their approval. "The new song is class. Very later Bowie," said Michael Treanor.
"Really enjoyed listening to him this morning, I’m not usually a fan, but he was funny and engaging," wrote @natruss7. While Tina Rice added: "Perfect Sunday morning, food and @boygeorge...lovely interview x."
BBC Radio 2 tea time presenter Sara Cox was on the sofa to promote her debut novel 'Thrown', which will be available to buy from May 12. Set in her home town of Bolton, the story revolves around three women whose paths, troubles and travails cross when they join a pottery class at a local community centre.
They include the character of Shiela, who she describes as a cross between Coronation Street's Bet Lynch and legendry American actress and singer, Bette Midler. The plot includes "infidelity and exes", including an ex-partner who may or may not be in prison, and how people "can come together and change".
On the creative writing process, she said: "I had the idea and as I was writing the characters almost formed in front of me, almost telling me where to go next. That's the fun bit - making stuff up."
Leah Brotherhead, who plays Toni in the hit Channel 4 comedy series Hullraisers, revealed that there are plans to do a second series of the show. She also spoke about playing Cathy in an upcoming theatre production of Emily Bronte's Wuthering Heights, which will be visiting Berkley and Los Angeles, California, and Chicago.
Jay See, commenting on Twitter, said: "Absolutely loved binge watching Hullraisers! My new catchphrase is 'If it doesn’t make me feel incredible it’s got to go' - in a Hull accent."
Other guests on today's show included Kiell Smith-Bynoe, chef Jeremy Pang, and a live performance from Scottish indie pop band Belle and Sebastian.
