Irish Gogglebox star Dominc "Dom" Collins garnered significant attention during a 2017 appearance on The Graham Norton Show when he recounted a story that left guest Madonna visibly stunned. Collins, who appeared on the Virgin Media series alongside his wife Steph, shared an anecdote about a past encounter involving the pop icon, prompting a memorable reaction from the singer.
The Origin of the Red Chair Encounter
The Graham Norton Show red chair segment is a staple of the long-running BBC talk show, where audience members tell stories to Graham Norton and his celebrity guests. If the guests find the story entertaining, the storyteller leaves safely; if they are unimpressed, the storyteller is tipped backward in the chair.
According to reports from the time, Dominic Collins took his seat in the red chair to share a personal experience involving Madonna. Collins explained that he had previously worked in the hospitality industry and had an interaction with the singer. As he recounted the details of the encounter, the studio audience and the celebrity guests, including Madonna, listened intently.
Why the Story Resonated with Madonna
The interaction became a highlight of the episode due to Madonna’s genuine reaction. As Collins reached the climax of his story, the Material Girl singer appeared visibly shocked by the revelation.
While many red chair stories rely on humor or absurdity, Collins’ account managed to capture the room’s attention by bridging the gap between a fan’s perspective and a celebrity’s private life. The story did not result in Collins being tipped, as the guests—including Madonna—were sufficiently intrigued to allow him to depart the chair with his dignity intact.
The Impact of Gogglebox Stars on Talk Shows
The incident highlighted the crossover appeal of reality television personalities appearing on high-profile talk shows. Dominic and Steph Collins, known for their witty commentary on the Irish version of Gogglebox, were already established fan favorites when they made the appearance.
Their participation in the show demonstrated how reality TV stars are increasingly integrated into the wider celebrity ecosystem. By sharing a candid, personal moment with a global superstar like Madonna, Collins provided a memorable television moment that continues to be referenced by fans of the series years later.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the "red chair" on The Graham Norton Show?
The red chair is a recurring segment where audience members are invited to tell a short story. If the celebrity guests on the sofa do not like the story, they pull a lever that tips the chair backward, dumping the storyteller off.
Was Dominic Collins tipped off the chair?
No. After telling his story about Madonna, the guests—including Madonna herself—were impressed enough by the account that he was allowed to leave the chair without being tipped.
Are Steph and Dom still on Gogglebox?
Steph and Dom Collins were original cast members of Gogglebox Ireland (and previously the UK version), but they eventually stepped away from the series to focus on other ventures, including their hotel business.