Kelly Hoppen: What disappointment has stayed with you longest? — FLAPSS

The question

What disappointment has stayed with you longest?

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The Guardian, to a different person each week, The Q&A

This exact question recurs in The Guardian's institutional Q&A pool.

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Kelly Hoppen

Recorded said elsewhere, not written here

I had an opportunity many years ago to move to America and be given a daytime TV show. The kids were quite young and I decided not to, but looking back I wish I had done it.

The Q&A, The Guardian, 28 September 2024 source ↗

Others on this question

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Jennifer Egan Novelist, short story writer

That Al Gore was denied the American presidency in 2000.

Recorded The Guardian, The Q&A, The Guardian, 4 November 2011 source ↗

When a relationship I’ve been invested in stops working. And yet, here I am, happy as you like.

Recorded The Q&A, The Guardian, 16 March 2024 source ↗

Marian Keyes Irish writer

Not having had children.

Recorded The Guardian, The Q&A, The Guardian, 16 January 2021 source ↗

Rory Kinnear English actor

Finding cucumber in things is a continual disappointment.

Recorded The Guardian, The Q&A, The Guardian, 12 August 2017 source ↗

More from Kelly Hoppen

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Question What lesson has mattered most in your life? Time & hindsight

Living life to the full, not having regrets and not trying to plan your future too much. Just enjoy every minute.

Recorded The Q&A, The Guardian, 28 September 2024 source ↗

Question What trait do you most dislike in other people? Values & belief

I can’t bear people who lie.

Recorded The Q&A, The Guardian, 28 September 2024 source ↗

Question When were you most embarrassed? Failure & regret

Years ago in a safari park in South Africa, and getting all dressed up for dinner. Walking across the lawn, I didn’t realise there was a swimming pool that hadn’t been lit and walked straight into the shallow end fully clothed. It still haunts me. I remember trying to get out as if no one would notice.

Recorded The Q&A, The Guardian, 28 September 2024 source ↗

Question Who deserves an apology from you, and for what? Failure & regret

My mum. I was horrendous growing up – I was always arguing with her.

Recorded The Q&A, The Guardian, 28 September 2024 source ↗

Question How would you describe what love feels like to you? Relationships

When my daughter and my stepdaughters were feeling unhappy, we used to pretend to unlock something in their heart and then pour golden liquid into them, and it always warmed them. For me, that’s what love feels like – a warm feeling inside.

Recorded The Q&A, The Guardian, 28 September 2024 source ↗

Question How would you sum yourself up in three words? Identity & self

Fiercely loyal, funny, easy-going. I’m sure my daughter and stepdaughters wouldn’t agree with the last bit, but I think I am.

Recorded The Q&A, The Guardian, 28 September 2024 source ↗

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