Jon Almaas: From TV Host to Farmer, "Practical Info," and a Christmas Special with Bård, Else, and Steinar
He's been a household favorite since his days on "Nytt på nytt" (Norway's favorite comedy panel show), and now it seems Jon Almaas has decided to be more present than ever. Whether it's as a farmer in Hallingdal, host of the incredibly popular podcast "Practical Info with Jon Almaas," or as a participant in this year's TV Christmas special, he's simply unavoidable. And why would we want him to be?
From TV Studio to Barn: Farm Life with a Little Help
Most people still associate Jon with his hosting duties, but in recent years, he's actually spent just as much time on his farm. He's thrown himself into the daily life of a farmer with a twinkle in his eye and his hands in the soil. And yes, he's the first to admit that life as a farmer isn't all pastoral bliss. Last year, he received a sum in subsidies which, as he himself puts it, "wouldn't make farming viable without." It's refreshingly honest and so typically Jon: he doesn't sugarcoat things, whether on screen or behind the wheel of a tractor.
"Practical Info" – The Podcast That Became a National Treasure
These days, however, it's through the airwaves that Jon probably reaches the most people. Alongside his recruited partners, Bård T. Johansen from the "Nytt på nytt" universe, and of course Else K. Furuseth and Steinar Sagen, he's created a minor media phenomenon. "Practical Info with Jon Almaas" has become the go-to place where listeners get exactly that – practical information on everything from gardening to political scandals, served with a unique blend of deadpan humor and genuine curiosity.
- Bård T. Johansen: The dry-witted partner who always asks the weird questions.
- Else K. Furuseth: The journalist with the gentle voice and the hard facts.
- Steinar Sagen: The radio legend who makes everything sound like a good story.
The chemistry is so good it's almost impossible to listen without smiling. And when the four of them get together for a Christmas special, well, we know we're in for a holiday treat with just the right mix of heartfelt moments and good-natured fun. Expect discussions ranging from the perils of the Christmas dinner to the year's worst gifts – all delivered with that signature Almaas twist.
Private Life: Peace, and a Little Turmoil
Even a beloved TV host has his struggles. Jon has had to face criticism and unwanted attention regarding his private life. For instance, he's had to navigate the complexities of love taking unexpected turns. As he once candidly put it, referring to a family pet: "You just have to accept that she has other men besides me." It's the kind of statement that raises an eyebrow, but also serves as a reminder that celebrities are ordinary people dealing with the same everyday challenges. He's taken any criticism in stride, responding with the calm authority that only a man with both Eurovision Song Contest and sheep-shearing on his resume can muster.
Still the People's Champ
Jon Almaas proves time and again that he's more than just a TV host. He's an institution. Whether we're following him on his podcast, watching the Christmas special, or seeing him navigate farm life, he does it with a charm that's entirely his own. And if you happen to miss something, don't worry: there's sure to be more practical info coming your way.