A remarkable new podcast is about to offer theatre lovers something genuinely rare: an intimate, affectionate and candid portrait of Stephen Sondheim, told not by critics or historians, but by the people who knew him best.

Created by Sondheim’s close friends Martin Milnes and Peter E. Jones, Loving You: The Untold Sondheim is a groundbreaking twelve-part series that lifts the curtain on the man behind the musical theatre legend.

Here are five things to know about one of the most anticipated theatre podcasts of 2026.

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1. This is Sondheim beyond the spotlight

Rather than analysing scores or breaking down lyrics, Loving You focuses on the human being behind the genius. Each episode explores a different aspect of Sondheim’s life – his friendships, private passions, insecurities and sense of humour – creating a portrait that feels personal rather than academic.

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2. The guest list reads like theatre royalty

The newly released trailer alone features voices from across film, Broadway and the West End, including Julie Andrews, Patti LuPone, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Mia Farrow, Ronan Farrow and Maria Friedman.

Across the series, listeners will also hear from legends such as Bernadette Peters, Judi Dench, James Lapine, John Kander, Jonathan Tunick and many more. Family memories are shared by Sondheim’s half-brother, Walter E. Sondheim.

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3. Original cast members tell the stories first-hand

Newly announced guests include performers who helped bring Sondheim’s work to life from the very beginning, including Christine Baranski, Len Cariou, Donna McKechnie, Millicent Martin, Julia McKenzie, Ann Morrison and Kurt Peterson.

Their recollections give the podcast a richness and immediacy that only lived experience can provide.

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4. Sondheim’s own words are brought to life

One of the series’ most striking features is the inclusion of Sondheim’s personal emails, performed by Alistair McGowan. These moments allow listeners to hear Sondheim’s voice – witty, warm and exacting – in a way that feels uncannily close.

Younger versions of the creators are portrayed by Daniel Cane and Eddie Andrews, while Sondheim’s famously prickly neighbour Katharine Hepburn is brought to life by Charlotte Page. The result is storytelling that feels theatrical without ever losing its intimacy.

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5. It’s made by people who truly knew him

This isn’t an outsider’s tribute. Milnes writes, devises, directs and co-produces the series, while Jones – Sondheim’s first love, lifelong friend and archivist – provides the original score and deep personal insight.

The podcast is executive produced by Jason Caffrey of Creative Kin Ltd, ensuring the project is shaped by trust, affection and shared history.

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When and where to listen

• First two episodes: Thursday 5 March 2026
• Next two episodes: Thursday 12 March 2026
• Thereafter: One new episode released weekly
• Available on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Amazon

🎥 Follow and watch the trailer on Instagram: @lovingyousondheimpodcast

Loving You: The Untold Sondheim is more than a podcast. It’s a rare invitation into the private world of a man whose work reshaped musical theatre – and whose story is finally being told with the depth, honesty and love it deserves.