Brian Cox: ‘When you know poverty you know what socialism is, and that we have to look after our people’

Veteran actor appeared on Radio 4’s ‘Desert Island Discs’ to speak about his career, childhood, and favourite songs

Succession star Brian Cox is the latest guest to appear with host Lauren Laverne on Desert Island Discs, where he spoke about his life, career, and favourite music.

The Golden Globe-winning actor, who plays multi-millionaire antagonist Logan Roy on the hit HBO show, said his socialism is rooted in his experience of poverty as a child.

His father died when he was eight years old, and his mother was placed in an institution after suffering from severe mental illness.

“When you know poverty you know what socialism is and that we have to look after our people,” Cox said.

The 73-year-old also admitted that he is a “bit of a hoarder” when it comes to clothes, and chose a sewing kit as his luxury item for the island.

“It is one of those things you are left with, an insecurity. It has to come out somewhere.”

Cox chose tracks by The Beatles, Jacques Brel, Joni Mitchell and Johnny Cash – find the full interview here.

HBO has delayed the production of Succession’s season 3 due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, but the first two seasons are available on Digital Download now on all major platforms.