Great Company with Jamie Laing
Episode: BIG ZUU: BALANCING FAITH, GRIME & HOW HE TACKLES HIS INSECURITIES
Release Date: May 27, 2025

Introduction

In this compelling episode of Great Company with Jamie Laing, host Jamie Laing, accompanied by producer Jemima, welcomes the multifaceted entertainer Big Zoo. Known for his vibrant presence in music, television, culinary arts, and social media, Big Zoo delves deep into his personal journey, faith, and the challenges he faces in balancing his diverse career and personal life.

Personal Background

Big Zoo, whose real name is Zahir Hassan, shares his rich cultural heritage, highlighting his Sierra Leonean and Lebanese roots. He recounts the harrowing experiences of his family during the Sierra Leone Civil War, detailing how his mother fled to the UK while eight months pregnant, uprooting their lives and relocating to a foreign country with limited resources.

• Quote: "If the war never happened, I'd never be here." (08:26)

He describes the struggles of growing up in temporary housing and the loss of his uncle during the war, painting a vivid picture of resilience and adaptation.

Career Highlights

Big Zoo discusses his achievements in the entertainment industry, notably winning two BAFTAs for his work. He reflects on the experience of accepting the awards, emphasizing the significance of representation and the challenges of navigating predominantly white and non-diverse award spaces.

• Quote: "We earned it 100%. You won that year." (23:04)

He also touches upon his ventures in music and his collaboration with his cousin, A.J. Tracy, highlighting their upcoming show Rich Flavors on Sky, which explores extravagant culinary experiences around the world.

Diversity and Representation

A substantial portion of the conversation centers on the imperative of diversity in the workplace, especially within the creative industries. Big Zoo articulates the necessity of diverse voices to foster innovative and representative content.

• Quote: "You can only have diversity in thought if people are represented." (29:40)

He shares his personal efforts to enhance diversity in his projects, advocating for inclusive practices that go beyond mere tokenism, thereby enriching the storytelling and authenticity of media productions.

Volunteering and Social Work

Big Zoo passionately discusses his commitment to volunteering and youth work. Drawing from his own experiences of receiving support during his upbringing, he underscores the importance of giving back to the community and providing guidance to young individuals navigating similar challenges.

• Quote: "Volunteering should be something we all do at least once a month." (38:11)

He reminisces about his time with City Year and the profound impact it had on both his personal growth and the lives of the youth he mentored.

Faith and Identity

Exploring the intersection of faith and career, Big Zoo opens up about his relationship with Islam. He reflects on how his faith shapes his identity and influences his work, particularly in an industry where aspects of his religious beliefs, such as music being deemed haram by some interpretations, coexist with his creative expressions.

• Quote: "I'm a pious person. I believe in [Allah] a lot." (55:50)

He emphasizes the importance of personal interpretation of religious texts and the balance between adhering to faith and pursuing one's passions.

Insecurities and Personal Insights

Big Zoo candidly addresses his insecurities, particularly about his loud and boisterous nature, which he feels can sometimes be misconstrued or used against him. He discusses the impact of online criticism and the struggle to maintain authenticity amidst public scrutiny.

• Quote: "Sometimes I'm insecure about how loud and boisterous I am." (53:45)

Despite these challenges, he remains steadfast in his confidence and commitment to being genuine, sharing strategies he employs to cope with negative feedback.

Quick Fire Questions

Towards the end of the episode, Jamie and Big Zoo engage in a series of light-hearted rapid-fire questions, offering listeners a more personal glimpse into Big Zoo's preferences and quirks.

• Favorite Phrase: "Bomber clock." (63:08)
• Greatest Compliment: "Anytime someone compliments my energy." (63:14)
• Insecurity: "My mouth – I talk a lot." (63:28)
• Last Time He Cried: Watching "The Pursuit of Happiness" clip. (63:39)
• Guilty Pleasure: Sweets. (64:06)
• Turn Off: Being rude to random people. (64:15)
• Turn On: Loving and caring people. (64:25)
• Favorite Swear Word: "Prick." (64:56)

Conclusion

The episode concludes with heartfelt exchanges between Jamie, Jemima, and Big Zoo, underscoring the importance of honesty, vulnerability, and the continuous journey of self-improvement. Big Zoo's blend of humor, depth, and authenticity leaves listeners inspired and eager to support his ongoing endeavors.

Notable Quotes:

• "If the war never happened, I'd never be here." (08:26)
• "We earned it 100%. You won that year." (23:04)
• "You can only have diversity in thought if people are represented." (29:40)
• "Volunteering should be something we all do at least once a month." (38:11)
• "I'm a pious person. I believe in [Allah] a lot." (55:50)
• "Sometimes I'm insecure about how loud and boisterous I am." (53:45)

This episode provides a profound exploration of Big Zoo's life, offering insights into his cultural background, professional achievements, and personal beliefs. It serves as an inspiring narrative for those interested in the harmony between faith, creativity, and personal growth.