Conversations from a Long Marriage: Series 7: A BBC Radio 4 Comedy Drama

Joanna Lumley and Roger Allam return as the loving, long-married couple, in the seventh series of Jan Etherington’s award-winning comedy

‘Beautifully written’ Observer

Joanna and Roger have weathered a few storms in their 40-year marriage, but their passion for each other hasn’t dimmed and they’re still loving, laughing and sparring together.

Series 7 finds them adjusting to life in their new home by the seaside and dealing with unfriendly locals, an endless stream of visitors – and the discovery that an old flame of Roger’s is living in the same village. There’s heartbreak and misunderstandings in store when their friend Paula has to go into a hospice, and grieving husband Ray misconstrues Joanna’s attempts to console him. Meanwhile, Roger attempts to be more spontaneous, but a phone call reveals that he’s been keeping a secret – much to Joanna’s fury.

When Ray brings an unexpected guest to stay with them who looks just like Joanna, Roger is concerned. And he’s infuriated (and more than a little jealous) when Joanna invites his least favourite person, celebrity adventurer Rix Roden, to open the village fete – and then goes swimming with him...

Written by Jan Etherington, this warm, witty two-hander was inspired by her own long marriage to Gavin Petrie (with whom she created the acclaimed series Second Thoughts, Faith in the Future and Next of Kin) and stars two of Britain’s greatest and most beloved actors.


Cast and credits
Written by Jan Etherington

Starring Joanna Lumley and Roger Allam

Produced by Claire Jones
Production coordinator: Giulia Lopes Mazzu
Sound engineer: Wilfredo Acosta
Sound designer: Jon Calver

A BBC Studios Production for Radio 4

First broadcast BBC Radio 4, 4 May-8 June 2026

© 2026 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd. (P) 2026 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd