The article revisits the Sex Pistols' notorious 1976 appearance on the ITV programme Today, a moment widely credited with catapulting punk rock into mainstream British consciousness. The band was reluctant to appear but agreed after manager Malcolm McLaren warned they would lose a week's wages if they refused, and to cope with their nerves and disdain for the format, several members drank heavily beforehand, leading to the chaotic, expletive-laden exchange that became infamous.

Bassist Glen Matlock recalled the band's initial refusal to get into the limousine sent for them, only relenting after McLaren's threat over pay. Guitarist Steve Jones later admitted to downing around four bottles of Blue Nun wine before filming, saying he barely remembers the interview itself beyond being drunk. The incident followed the band's rise through pub rock and early gigs covered by the New Musical Express, and it cemented punk's abrasive, unapologetic image in the public eye.