The Richard Dimbleby Lecture

Jonathan Dimbleby looks back on half a centenary of the BBC's annual lectures, inspired by his broadcaster father Richard – the ‘voice of the nation'. Since 1972, leading figures from the arts, sciences, judiciary, politics, broadcasting, the forces and even the royal family have delivered speeches that have always been provocative, challenging and at the cutting edge of their particular field.

Jonathan looks through a personal selection of programmes and explores how thoughts expressed decades ago can still resonate today. Amongst the speakers featured in this collection are President Bill Clinton, Jeanette Winterson, Terry Pratchett, Bill Gates, Tim Berners-Lee, Stella Rimington and King Charles III.

Actor David Harewood OBE delivers the 2023 Richard Dimbleby Lecture, exploring the challenges overcome by his parents' generation and his own personal journey of self-identity.

Former England football manager Sir Gareth Southgate delivers the 2025 Richard Dimbleby Lecture. Gareth reflects on his personal journey, what he has lived through and what he has learned as a leader. He will explore the concept of belief, examine the power of unity and highlight the importance of resilience, especially for young people in a fast-changing and challenging world.

Following the lecture, there will be a Q&A with the invited audience, providing further insight into Gareth's perspective on leadership, how he transformed the culture of the national team and the importance of inclusivity and integrity.

Introduced by David Dimbleby from Senate House at the University of London.