Shy interviewer asks Michael Sheen the BEST question 💛 | The Assembly - BBC

POV: When the nerves kick in
#TheAssembly #MichaelSheen #iPlayer #AutismAwareness #LearningDisabilitiesAwareness #NeurodivergenceAwareness
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The Assembly sees a cast of 35 interviewers who are autistic, neurodivergent or learning disabled, question an A-list celebrity for one extraordinary TV interview.
In this half-hour special, it’s multi-award-winning actor and director Michael Sheen who is to face the grilling of a lifetime from the unique collective. No subject is out of bounds, no question is off the table. On subjects as diverse as ex-girlfriends and on-screen kisses to the OBE he gave back or his favourite motorway, how will the Good Omens star fare as The Assembly bring their unique approach to the celebrity interview?
All our TV channels and S4C are available to watch live through BBC iPlayer, although some programmes may not be available to stream online due to rights. If you would like to read more on what types of programmes are available to watch live, check the 'Are all programmes that are broadcast available on BBC iPlayer?' FAQ 👉 bbc.in/2m8ks6v.

[@JackhammerJesus]

I have so much respect for Leo refusing to let anyone else ask his question for him.

[@mypointofview1111]

It was important for Leo to ask his question rather than let someone else do it for him. He needs to let his voice be heard and not be hurried by others

[@jimmyrade7815]

YES. People need to stop coddling and babying people who just do things differently

[@kimberlyhonig8030]

Right? I’m so proud that he asked the question. He did great!

[@chomskybhoy]

And when he was ready Leo was unbelievably articulate as well. Michael Sheen is such a great guy and handled that so well

[@shoelacedonkey]

@@jimmyrade7815 I don't see it as coddling or babying, but rather try to be helpful in their own way. It's never a bad thing to ask to help someone... he just took the opportunity to deny the help and do it himself. Good for him.

[@helenbaumander3953]

I love that Michael encouraged him to take the time he needed instead of telling him there's not need to be nervous.

[@Trapper_Creek_2024]

So true!

[@ImogenC-rt3fm]

❤❤❤

[@OneAndOnlyTyker]

It's the simple things. The use of language 😢

[@mrchris389]

Both handled that brilliantly.

[@cinnamonfirefly]

Would you please explain to me why you think that might have not been a good response if he had said “don’t be nervous”, I don’t understand?

[@Syd7088]

The way Michael Sheen looks at Leo makes me teary. He gave Leo such a powerful and warm look.

[@ladyethyme]

Agreed

[@daniellamcgee4251]

Because we all need to be seen, and treated with respect, patience, understanding and kindness.

[@dgwebguy6815]

Couldn't agree more. Such a short, but powerful and beautiful moment. For the both of them. This definitely warmed my heart. Amazing camera work and editing as well to highlight all of the emotion. Bravo to all.

[@Dongle22222]

It kind of scared me

[@ATY676]

It's the smile we all need when but never have.

[@Moolhood]

My man Leo said he was nervous then proceeded to ask his question like the most professional journalist there is. This is now one of my new favourite videos on the internet.

[@rayaqueen9657]

Same. Put me to shame with my expectations!!!

[@dansingking]

100!

[@t0mahawkj0nes]

I was surprised it came out so clear in one go.

[@beingagift]

Leo’s courage. Michael’s generosity. Beautiful.

[@kiriakoz]

I love how Michael just looked at him and smiled to make it clear that he was in no rush. Reminds me to have more patience in my life.

[@rivierapalms6485]

You’ve captured my thoughts so well in just a few words. Nice ❤

[@davidloveday8473]

Beautifully put.

[@jacocilliers2145]

Amazing to see,so inspiring

[@anniemack4282]

Best of humanity, innit.

[@joycemiller-bean1814]

Not only do I admire Michael’s thoughtfulness and patience with Leo’s shyness, I love the fact that Michael was not in the least condescending in his answer. 👏🏾

[@ElleElle7830]

And the immediate "That's an excellent question." Pure class.

[@Mhill08]

After the initial hesitation his voice came out in a surprisingly erudite way. Thought-provoking question as well.

[@JF-kv1gm]

When Leo started to ask his question, I got the shivers. What a beautiful, eloquent, clear and unrushed delivery. Congratulations, Leo, on a brilliantly pondered question.

[@ukcliffjones]

Same. It was belter of a question as well.

[@dreamlodge]

Agree wholeheartedly. A voice made for the microphone.

[@W1NT3R_5P1R3]

Yep, just needed to take some time to get there but knew exactly where he was going.

[@offwegothen]

Exactly. When he asked his question, I thought he would make a great journalist. I'm shy, I can't put together a sensible sentence during a conversation, even with close people - I speak too quickly, unclearly, I stutter, it's always a disaster, I really don't like speaking. I am much better at written communication. But I think Leo would be good in both forms.

[@Amb3rjack]

That was just about the clearest, most easily understandable question I have ever heard anyone ask on TV. That lad, with maybe a little coaching to overcome his apprehension, should become a public speaker. He really does have a rare talent.

[@johaywood982]

We don't deserve Michael Sheen. But I'm so glad we got him anyway. What an absolutely decent human being!!

[@Erik_Nyl]

"We’ll get there", that sentence alone means more than you can imagine! As someone struggling with deep social anxiety. Leo is a champ for asking this

[@MayimHastings]

Erik, same. You are not alone, we are everywhere. Big hugs 🤍🙏🕊

[@g3ozify]

I love the guy next to him at 00:35 telling him "just engage your courage" like a sidekick in a videogame, casting a supportive aura onto him. Great energy from everyone.

[@e.beauchamp]

I thought that was absolutely beautiful

[@user-us1gs6yo3k]

Watching Michael Sheen stay calm and quiet while Leo took the time he needed was a Master class in what good communication is all about. You never know what wisdom can come unless you take the time to sit and wait for the other speaker to be ready. Sometimes it takes more than one try - what came out of Leo's mind was so beautifully articulated.

[@JF-kv1gm]

So well said, thank you!

[@tehauctioneer]

I love how Michael encouraged him not only by giving him time to ask his question, which was amazingly well said by the way, but he encouraged him more by giving him a very well thought out answer that equalled the well thought out question to show him his value. Awesome.

[@StephenWalters-cb7xj]

The way Sheen smiles at Leo is so understanding and adorable. Class act.x

[@rivierapalms6485]

Spot on - it looked so natural too. Heartwarming stuff

[@DR-bp1yu]

I didn't think I could have more respect from Michael Sheen. He immediately understood the situation, became fully empathetic and present, held space for Leo, didn't try to coax him, being very understanding instead and took it to the next level by not acting as if Leo had been any different. He understood that he was going to overcome this and made it totally ok for him to reach that point!

[@Celeste-in-Oz]

Michael Sheen demonstrates a brilliant example of how to treat different minds with equal respect. And the fruits speak for themselves.

[@JWMcLay]

Beautifully and eloquently phrased. Thank you from the bottom of my neurodiverse heart and mind.

[@interestedbystander196]

Leo is a great speaker. Eloquent, articulate, good delivery and tone, clear. Good job, young man.

[@semmert]

crazy how articulate and well spoken he was once he was able to get it out.

[@weatherwitchandfelinefamiliars]

The way Sheen looks at Leo with such kindness and compassion is beautiful. But I was Not expecting such a magnificent voice with crystal clear diction from Leo, what a beautiful voice he has ❤

[@catherinemetauten3649]

I love how Michael Sheen took his time with this young man and showed such a keen interest in him. Also, Mr. Sheen answered him in a way that treated him with respect and didn’t look down on him. Well done Michael and especially well done Leo.

[@anamorphosys85]

In these fast living times, we tend to forget to slow down and take a closer look around us. There are people struggling with every day life and those are often overlooked. It's so touching to see them properly and give them the proper time to let them express themselves. ❤ and Michael Sheen's patience and generosity should be an example to us all. 🙌

[@Erinba]

Yes this exactly - my husband gets so impatient with people in the supermarket to the point I started crying about it the other day - I just wanted him to realise that some people are slow and struggle and have things on their mind and to be patient and kind ❤

[@RhondaKL]

This brought tears to my eyes,especially as I am a mother to a daughter with autism. Leo’s courage and strength to work himself through his anxiety and ask an interesting question was heartwarming,and Michael Sheen treated Leo with the respect and dignity that I wish all people would do.

[@denisethegood]

Just wow! I am very shy AND suffer from quite severe social anxiety. I can’t even imagine the stress of being among a crowd, and asking questions to a famous actor you admire … and all that in front of cameras with a mic in your hand! I am a huge fan of all of you kind beautiful people ❤❤❤

[@js4513]

Mr. Sheen’s gentle smiles and reassuring words define grace and compassion more perfectly than a million words could ever do.

[@komkommer22]

Michael Sheen is the kindest, greatest man. And funny as well. What a treasure.

[@DaveLowe28]

Top question and great to see Michael's patience! Half the time, just being patient is the absolute best thing you can do for someone neurodivergent.

[@m.c.3541]

And this is why I love Michael Sheen. Warm, kind, encouraging, and simply human. Wonderful.

[@customer5032]

Oh my gosh I love Michael Sheen, such a great actor. Now my respect for him just went up another notch.

[@kinsley7777]

Leo recently led that question off like a Rhodes Scholar … clear and concise … well done !

[@EarthHart1]

As Michael said, that was a great question. Good for you Leo.💚

[@llchapman1234]

Sheen was wonderfully calm, just giving this young man the time he needed.

[@ilya.b]

What a wonderful interaction! Anyone who has anxiety, especially over any public event and especially over pablic speaking can relate to Leo. And the kindness, compassion and patience of Michael and public encouragement and support is what we all need in moments like this. And I agree with Michael and everyone in the comments section, it was a fantastic question and Michael reply was wonderful, too.We all should strive to communicate like that. Leo is incredibly brave and smart and very relatable. I Love every second of this video.

[@ilya.b]

This demonstrates, that if you anxious or shy or uncertain in something it doesn't mean that you're doing something wrong. It was a fantastic question and a little bit of time is all Leo needed and how wonderful that Michael and the audience gave him this time and we all got to hear the question and the reply. Wonderfull.

[@angelaburrow8114]

​@edith9268 The whole video of The Assembly had me in tears, letting people with no or little voice in our world interview one of the greatest living British actors. There were no questions off limits which led to some interesting questions that must have had Michael squirming inside, such as "What's it like having a wife who's only 5 years older than your daughter?" To his credit, no matter whether the question was insightful, close to the bone or even banal, he thought carefully about his answer & gave clear, honest answers. He memorised people names & after the Q&A had ended, he mixed with the interviewers, recalling their names & their questions. He told one young man who had recited the poem Do Not Go Gentle into that Good Night by Dylan Thomas that he had a fantastic voice, which was true. He spoke it masterfully, clearly & from memory with lots of appropriate emotion. A young lady talked about the difficulty autistic people have in getting a job & it lead to a discussion about able-bodied actors playing disabled characters instead of hiring a disabled actor. Michael really interacted beautifully with everyone. I knew he was a decent person, but this was a masterclass in how to treat a disabled person. It's something many people struggle with. I am educated with a masters degree, yet when I'm out in my wheelchair, people speak over me, addressing whoever is pushing my wheelchair. You're treated like a baby, only one who is more of a burden than usual. I should imagine that, when you have a learning disability, you're treated even worse. It was an enjoyable programme & I'd recommend it. It was full of humour but also thought-provoking. (Edit: fixed a typo. Isn't autocorrect wonderful? /s:)

[@romeowandrainbow1040]

This video clip gave me life 🤍 and also some faith in humanity. So much of what I see on KZbin does the opposite

[@OwenL2020]

This makes me love Michael Sheen so much. Letting this young man conquer his shyness and anxiety without pressure or apologizing. What a gentleman.

[@dannyd493]

Michael... What an absolute gentleman ❤❤

[@LondonGirlLondonGirl]

Michael is so lovely and encouraging ❤ Leo is very brave ❤

[@ouiouipiggy4390]

Michael Sheen - what simple kindness & patience, so rarely shown by anyone these days! Respect!

[@DwayneHicksCpl]

What an amazing example of what we should all strive to be.

[@sharonadlam3195]

Michael Sheen's patience and generosity ensures that Leo is able to go away having had an amazing experience. Micheal's an outstanding actor and obviously a great human being as well.

[@IndieRockerHippy]

Michael being so patient and kind to him actually brought a tear to my eye. What a great guy. Well done Leo

[@ajulyrose9101]

Brought me to tears. What wonderful humanity.

[@jamesclerk815]

Glad I'm not the only one.

[@dressmaking]

Me too!

[@flaura_99]

They both have beautiful smiles. I'm glad they shared this moment, I'm sure it's a lovely memory for the two

[@JohnSmith-cq7lk]

Love how his voice is so clear and powerful when it came out.

[@Major42]

I suffer from social anxiety and Michael Sheen seems like the type of guy who can make my anxiety to go down. PS can highly recommend the movie Frost/Nixon.

[@lilylila3144]

He really does. Do you know that short audio (well video, but it's the audio that counts) that he made for a fan a few years ago to (presumably-I don't know the original request) help him overcome anxiety attacks? I have saved it on all my devices, it helps me a lot, his voice has an incredibly soothing, comforting effect and I think it's also the fact that it just exudes kindness and care...

[@Tiemen3]

The way Michael Sheen smiled at him, is the warmest, kindest, most generous, caring smile I've ever seen. Just a smile that says "its ok, I'm proud of you and I believe in you and you have nothing to prove, I just want you to feel and do whatever you want to feel and do, the way you want to feel and do it". There is no one on earth who is better suited to play a literal angel

[@MsAnnieBaker]

Take your time is the kindest thing to say to someone who is anxious 😊

[@theoriginaledi]

This is a deep truth. I wish more people understood it. Thank you for putting it here for people to see.

[@chrismcnutt8970]

Ahhh. That one sweet genuine video in a sea of nonsense. I love everything about this clip. Applause all around ❤

[@theresenydahl9531]

Such a precious moment, thank you Leo and Michael❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@lifeontheround]

Leo's voice is beautiful. Michael is sensitive to it all. Amazingly gentle ❤

[@donlevy6919]

I'm glad that everyone was encouraged Leo. And Michael Sheen was so nice.

[@mypointofview1111]

When Leo speaks he has such a commanding voice. Hopefully as time goes on he will gain the confidence to use his voice to project his thoughts much more.

[@EricaGamet]

I was taken aback at the timbre of his voice... after the shy beginning. Such a wonderful question and well worth the wait. Lovely all 'round.

[@bethstratton3391]

Michael Sheen is so respectful of people and allows others the opportunity to express themselves fully and authentically. Leo asks his question calmly and clearly with passion. Michael gives a rounded answer maintaining eye contact to emphasise their genuine connection in that moment and thanks Leo making him feel his question was truly appropriated. ❤

[@Aj_Alchemy]

Leo delivery that question beautifully. I'd have stuttered or mumbled half of it... Michael being patient was so nice to see too!

[@Trully1949]

You just boosted this kids confidence level 1000%. I wish all parents would do this.

[@blqeddie2946]

Well done Leo. What a wonderful man Michael Is, he did his best to make Leo feel at ease ❤

[@NickDoble]

Leo asked his question so well in the end. Michael Sheens warming smile was pure welcoming kindness, what a legend!

[@rivierapalms6485]

Leo did a far better job than I would do. That is a very nerve-racking environment and he nailed it. So eloquent ❤

[@aartadventure]

This whole interaction was really sweet and wholesome. Interesting question too. The guy asking has a fantastic smile as well.

[@erikgreenip3191]

His courage knowing how difficult it would be on himself to ask is epic. Great job.

[@numsidumsragitsch]

I'm in love with Michael Sheen now.

[@theoriginaledi]

🙂 I told my niece yesterday, shortly after I discovered this video, "I've always liked Michael Sheen a lot but now I think I'm a little bit in love with him."

[@johnwinstondarby]

Michael Sheen is a beautiful and kind person. I admire him greatly

[@kenhaley5450]

Fascinating programme and no shying away from the challenges these young adults face. Michael Sheen was truly brilliant in the way he handled the questions and his response to those asking them. The best hour of TV I’ve watched in a long, long time.

[@siryert]

Huge respect for both Leo in not quitting and Michael for the amazing respect he showed to Leo. That was a beautiful moment!

[@ChereePollard]

The genuine kindness, patience and support you could see in Michael's eyes was beautiful to watch.

[@adamthorntonillustration9281]

I feel that I could have waited with Michael and Leo for a lot longer. Beautiful time well spent.

[@grateful277]

oh my god i cant wait to watch this. this is what we all need - humanity love and compassion

[@nitab1971]

He's a brilliant actor, and a loving human being.

[@susanhuffaker4368]

Leo is wonderful, and I just became a much bigger Michael Sheen fan. He treats Leo as we should all treat each other. This is humanity at its best.

[@ATY676]

I don't think I've ever seen a more beautiful smile.

[@e.beauchamp]

The eyes that smile along right? Beautiful.

[@sybariticcupboardrat3763]

People with communication trouble REALLY appreciate it when people make the effort to be patient and listen. I had a kid tell me that she'd never met an adult that was so easy to talk to right away, just because I didn't get annoyed with her stutter, I didn't treat her like she was dumb, and I didn't talk over her. I got called cool by a 13 year old...for being polite! Think about that.

[@gecko7167]

My brother had a stutter when he was around that age, thank you for being a kind human we need more like you

[@jennymossa9492]

Well done Leo!❤

[@Phil_Tutty]

That whole half hour was amazing. Every single one of the questions was brilliant. It should be made compulsory that anyone wishing to go on a talk show and hawk their movie/film/show/book should have to be questioned by these guys first.

[@tieferwasser8318]

hi, I'm not British, so I'm not familiar with this format. Could you please tell me who these guys are?

[@Phil_Tutty]

@@tieferwasser8318 This is the first time that something like this had been shown in the UK. I don't know where they chose the people who did the interviewing from or anything about them but the producers did a good job of getting people on different parts of the autistic spectrum and with different neurodivergent traits.

[@jakecoventry9004]

I agree it was brilliant.

[@doonewatts7155]

I wish Michael Sheen could smile like that at me one day. What a kind man

[@JohnnyTheDoe]

1) Leo is a CHAMPION for not allowing his nerves to get the better of him in a moment that clearly meant so much to him; and 2) Michael is exceptionally gracious to recognise this and allow Leo the time he needs so that the moment matters, not the nerves.

[@tonyaldridge8917]

that's how i feel every time i have to do sth like that and noone ever sees it, all they see is me messing up asking a question, unlike Leo who asks it wonderfully, respect

[@lilylila3144]

How many more beautiful questions and incredible thoughts there would be in the world if we were all respectful and encouraging like Michael Sheen! And brave like Leo of course. Doubly brave, if Michael Sheen had smiled at me like that, I would have melted into a little puddle 😅

[@First._.Last.]

There is so much compassion, patience, and support here - and from all sides. It would change lives if we were to treat and be treated in this manner.

[@chocolatechipkookie3439]

Well done Michael that was brilliant to give the guy time to speak. You made his day.

[@elanimate5716]

I love Micheal Sheen as an actor and watching this only makes me love him more. Being the perfect example of an incredible human being by both being patient and encouraging towards Leo, giving him the time and space he needed to find his voice to ask his question. He saw Leo’s needs and made the whole situation feel more accommodating for him and Leo showed a huge amount of courage to compose himself perfectly and ask his question to such an inspirational and beloved actor. Honesty, I’m not sure if I’d be able to do it myself given the situation. An incredible interaction between two amazing people 💜

[@mweingar]

Proof humans have the capacity for decency and mutual respect. More please.

[@fc4660]

Brilliant Leo. He was a determined man on a mission and was able to see everyone off and ask his question. Great voice too. Michael knew that encouragement without words goes a long way

[@johnbayles1426]

Has anyone said we must protect this man at all costs yet? This man is a gem.

[@TheBClark88]

Michael Sheen has always been an absolute class act. What a gent.

[@Tito_ATin]

It's fascinating that as soon as he was able to start, the question just flowed smoothly and confidently. Good job Leo, and kudos to Michael for his empathetic generosity 🙏

[@AspieDad_Sims]

What a masterclass of how to listen. With my own flavour of autism, someone trying to fill in the words or not waiting for an answer feels like being interrupted, it’s very jarring. A beautiful job by Leo and Mr. Sheen

[@garbageenthusiast]

I love that the rest of the room were cheering him on. You don't feel peer pressure, you feel peer reassurance which is so rare and amazing. Ngl this made me tear up. YOU DID GREAT, LEO!! ❤

[@Loupdelou-ly1ve]

How wonderful would it be to have a father like Michael Sheen and a brother like Leo. In my made-up family, I'd be smiling, crying, laughing and proud 24/7 🥰🥰

[@danl.2220]

I did not think that a question/answer clip would bring a tear to my eye but I think its simply just a human recognizing a difficulty in another human and being a complete generous human being about it.

[@McLoed22]

Michael Sheen is such a lovely man and Leo showed such courage in asking an amazing question. Also with a clarity and brevity I was not expecting from someone so clearly nervous.

[@brianpalmer3846]

This may be the most beautiful moment I've seen in long time..., from both Leo and Michael. This was truly touching

[@DavidWilliams-zn2nc]

Michael Sheen…… forever “ the Welshman’s Welshman “ ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️What a Man!

[@TheThejpmshow]

If only everyone could be as lovely and as patient as Michael. Never judge.

[@3ch1dna07]

Michael Sheen is an incredible human being who gets nothing but love and respect from me as does this wonderful, shy questioner. ❤

[@incuninja]

Michael Sheen is an absolute model of human kindness here. ❤

[@innereyeproductions992]

The humanity of this moment is incredibly moving and inspiring.

[@risk5riskmks93]

The kindness in his eyes

[@dominiccrimmings6925]

That ladies and gentlemen, is what the rest of the world should be like: Caring, patient, understanding and communicative. Both Leo and Michael are obviously utterly fantastic people. This video makes me think that all isn't lost in the world.

[@hkburrows]

This just elevated Michael Sheen to one of the nicest people in the world. And well done Leo, you persevered and asked a brilliant question eloquently.

[@lucyk.5163]

Michael's smile is so kind and so genuine! You can really see he's not faking it nor being polite for the sake of the cameras! It's not a persona, it's true compassion and patience and understanding. My respect for him just multiplied by a billion times. This is proof that there is a lot of truly good, compassionate people in this world❤

[@dwiputrisutanto1945]

This so wholesome. A masterclass in compassion (Sheen) and bravery (Leo)

[@alfamonk]

made me tear up - the warmth from Sheen, and Leo's courage and clear, unwavering voice. beautiful

[@srwarner3346]

WOW !! THe emotional roller coaster WE are on as autists !!! His beauty of spirit on full display ~~Then slays the all with an amazingly complex , precise question! Autists are amazingly gifted spirits . Love you Leo !