Simon Cramp, Self-advocate, Campaigner and Lifetime Member of Learning Disability England, reviews new ITV Series The Assembly.

The Assembly is a new entertainment series where celebrities are questioned by a group of inquisitive interviewers who are autistic, neurodivergent and/or learning disabled.

Simon has been avidly following the new series and giving his thoughts on each episode along the way.

Episode 1 – Danny Dyer

“It was emotional and tearful and in the words of Danny Dyer it was ‘f—-ng brilliant’. He taught them things and the autistic, learning disabled and neurodivergent interviewees fired questions back at Danny and he then got to ask questions back. It was amazing how it was produced, there was questions asked then you could see the interviewee really struggling and the space that was left there developed so much tension and drama. It was only about 30 mins long, or short, but it was punchie. Can’t wait for the next episode with David Tenant.”

Episode 2 – David Tenant

“As Tenant said, it was very intense and very powerful. There were some very deep questions given to Tenant and I think he tried to show respect and be careful with his answers. The character the chap did from Macbeth, wow it was amazing – The lady chipped in when she needed to to help Tenant with his bit.

I thought Tenant, really joined in and was very good and there was beautiful music made.”

Episode 3 – Jade Thirlwall

“Wow—this was so emotional and powerful, like the guest said, “I really enjoyed it.” The interview was brutal in the questions but passionate and respectful. There was a real sense of love and connection by the end.

A moving song played halfway through, which was powerful. Jade described things as “sick”—a cool, youthful way of saying something was brilliant. Later, people with learning disabilities, autism, and neurodivergence performed incredible breakdancing. It was joyful, full of hugs and celebration.

Jade was asked personal questions about being a Muslim, handled with care. I hope politicians and leaders hear this as it spoke to bigger issues like unfair stereotypes and how often Muslims are wrongly blamed.

The programme was a reminder of what matters: hope, love, respect, and inclusion. It moved me to tears in the best way. It showed how kind and engaged celebrities can be, and that everyone—regardless of background or ability—belongs, inspires, and matters just as much as anyone else.

Episode 4 – Gary Lineker

“The interview with Gary Lineker was emotional, funny, and heartfelt. It began with a question about his father and moved into deep topics like losing his parents and his son’s cancer. Gary was open, thoughtful, and respectful throughout.

There were lighter moments too—jokes about Piers Morgan, the “Hand of God” goal, and Gary describing himself as a “gambler” when scoring goals. Bless Gary, he even joined in a funny sign sing.

Serious topics were handled with care, like his firm stance on not attending the 2034 World Cup in Saudi Arabia. When asked what he wanted to be remembered for, he gave a clever answer about starting, moving, and ending in “the box.”

The episode ended with dancing, laughter, and visible emotion from Gary. It was a powerful, engaging interview full of honesty, respect, and connection with both the guests and audience.”