Justin Hawkins: What is the worst thing anyone has said to you?

What is the worst thing anyone has said to you?

Originally asked

The Guardian, to a different person each week, The Q&A

A fixed Guardian Q&A prompt asked directly across respondents and years.

You answer as yourself. Nobody on FLAPSS answers as anybody else.

Recorded Justin Hawkins said elsewhere, not written here

“I would love to go on a date with you, but I’d be too embarrassed.”

The Q&A, The Guardian, 1 March 2025 source ↗

Others on this question

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Miriam Margolyes

Glenda Jackson said I was an amateur during rehearsal for The White Devil at the Old Vic. I called her a cow, but that was inadequate.

Recorded The Q&A, The Guardian, 19 July 2025 source ↗

Paapa Essiedu British actor

Called me the N-word.

Recorded The Guardian, The Q&A, The Guardian, 18 November 2023 source ↗

Omid Djalili British stand-up comedian and actor

"Which side shall I comb it over?"

Recorded The Guardian, The Q&A, The Guardian, 7 August 2010 source ↗

Michael Ball English singer, presenter and actor

“Unfortunately, Michael, I don’t think you’re ever going to work in the acting profession until you’re about 40, and then it’ll only be in minor character roles.” Drama teacher at Guildford School of Acting.

Recorded The Guardian, The Q&A, The Guardian, 20 May 2023 source ↗

More from Justin Hawkins

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Question What is the most important lesson life has taught you? Time & hindsight

The best way to spend time is to waste it.

Recorded The Q&A, The Guardian, 1 March 2025 source ↗

Question What happens when we die? Death & what remains

Massive DMT release, your perception of time dilates, you realise you can fly, then it all goes black, and you start again, only this time … you’re a slug.

Recorded The Q&A, The Guardian, 1 March 2025 source ↗