Pop Chat
We help you make sense of the cultural drama blowing up the internet. Every Wednesday, host Elamin Abdelmahmoud (Buzzfeed) is joined by Kevin Fallon (The Daily Beast) and Amil Niazi (Refinery 29, The Cut) to dissect and debate the biggest pop culture stories of the week.
Tue, February 07, 2023
More advanced AI, more deepfake problems
Tech journalists Alyssa Bereznak and Samantha Cole weigh in on the deepfake porn scandal with gaming streamer Atrioc that rocked the world of Twitch last week, and its impact on female streamers like QTCinderella. Plus, Juno Award-winning producer Rich Kidd joins Elamin to give a bit of a back story behind the theme music for Commotion, which he produced.
Mon, February 06, 2023
Grammy-mania, and one year of Wordle-domination
Music journalists Richie Assaly and Maura Johnston give us the morning-after report on the big winners, the surprises and snubs from the 65th annual Grammy Awards. Plus, it's been a year since the New York Times bought Wordle. Writer and game developer David Shariatmadari helps Elamin look back on the game's success as well as preview a new brain teaser for word sleuths.
Fri, February 03, 2023
Let the joust for Renaissance tour tickets begin
Friday Wrap Panel with Rad Simonpillai & Amil Niazi: Beyoncé's announcement of a Renaissance World Tour has a Ticketmaster-sized cloud hanging over it, M. Night Shyamalan's latest film Knock at the Cabin is hitting theatres this weekend, and the latest media outlet to announce a string of layoffs this month is pop culture news site Gawker, which will shut down after relaunching just two years ago.
Thu, February 02, 2023
The fate of the Vancouver Folk Fest, and what's new with NOW Magazine?
With the Vancouver Folk Music Festival cancelling its 2023 edition and possibly shutting down for good, Elamin checks in with two regular attendees, Lisa Christiansen and Naomi Moses, to tell us why this event is so important to the city and how it could be saved. Plus, CBC columnist and culture critic Huda Hassan joins Elamin to unpack the milestones, controversies and implications tied to the recent acquisition of Toronto legacy magazine NOW by rising media journalist Brandon Gonez and his company Gonez Media Inc.
Wed, February 01, 2023
Juno Award noms and the return of Shah Rukh Khan
Music journalists A. Harmony and Niko Stratis give their highlights and reactions to yesterday's Junos nominations announcement and what they might say about the state of the Canadian music industry in 2023. Plus, Bollywood has been in a slump the past couple of years — but Shah Rukh Khan's new film appears to be reviving the genre. Smashing all kinds of records since it opened last week, audiences are going wild for Pathaan. Aparita Bhandari tells Elamin why this is a comeback story worth paying attention to.
Tue, January 31, 2023
What's the deal with Andrea Riseborough's Oscar nomination?
Canadian entertainment reporter Teri Hart explains how the controversy around Andrea Riseborough's Best Actress Oscar nomination for the little-known film To Leslie came to be, and what happens next. Plus, with The Last Of Us dominating our Sunday night viewing schedule, Elamin catches up with Felix Gillette and John Koblin, authors of It's Not TV: The Spectacular Rise, Revolution, and Future of HBO, to talk about what makes the streaming giant so good at getting people's attention — and keeping it.
Mon, January 30, 2023
Re-thinking the myth of Pamela Anderson, revealing a Juno category and more
Pamela Anderson was one of the biggest stars of the '90s. Now, she's telling her story in the Netflix documentary Pamela, a love story. Culture writers Alessa Dominguez and Kathleen Newman-Bremang join Elamin to talk about the ongoing trend of celebrities taking control of their own narratives through documentaries. Plus, Elamin reveals the nominees for Rap Album/EP of the Year category at this year's Juno Awards, and we remember American guitarist Tom Verlaine and Tyre Nichols
Trailer · Tue, January 24, 2023
Introducing: Commotion with Elamin Abdelmahmoud
Introducing our new show: Commotion with Elamin Abdelmahmoud! Every weekday, culture writer and professional fan Elamin will bring you thoughtful and vibrant discussions in just 30 minutes. With the help of superfans and experts alike, Elamin will cover the most urgent and joyful stories in arts, pop culture and entertainment. Welcome to the group chat!
Trailer · Mon, January 16, 2023
Coming Jan. 30: Commotion with Elamin Abdelmahmoud
Introducing our new show: Commotion with Elamin Abdelmahmoud! The host you know and love will bring you thoughtful and vibrant discussions daily in a new 30-minute format. With the help of superfans and experts alike, Elamin will cover the most urgent and joyful stories in arts, pop culture and entertainment. Welcome to the group chat!
S3 Enull · Wed, December 14, 2022
Bonus Episode! Titanic @ 25 live show
It's been 25 years since James Cameron's blockbuster Titanic changed filmmaking forever. Host Elamin Abdelmahmoud is joined by Amil Niazi and special guest Cameron Maitland to discuss everything Kate + Leo + iceberg. This special episode was recorded live at the Hot Docs Cinema in Toronto on November 17. Drop it in the Group Chat: 55:53
S3 Enull · Thu, December 08, 2022
The last Pop Chat + the best of 2022
It’s the end of an era. On the final episode of Pop Chat, Amil, Kevin, and Elamin reflect on their favourite moments. We also recap the year in music, from the return of Beyoncé to Kanye’s anti-semitism, and share our thoughts on the best television shows of 2022. We are so grateful to everyone who listened to Pop Chat, thank you for riding with us. Warm-up question: 1:01 Year in music: 5:35 Year in movies: 32:37 Drop it in the Group Chat: 51:05
S3 Enull · Wed, November 30, 2022
The rise of Yellowstone and Knives Out: Glass Onion
How did Yellowstone become the biggest show on TV? We talk about its rise and how its creator, Taylor Sheridan, became the biggest name in TV. And we talk about Glass Onion, the Knives Out sequel, and Netflix’s confusing release strategy. Warm-up question: 1:02 Knives Out: 7:12 Yellowstone: 25:24 Drop it in the Group Chat: 49:29
S3 Enull · Wed, November 23, 2022
Swifties take on Ticketmaster
We get into how the Taylor Swift fandom is looking to take on Ticketmaster, after the giant ticketing website left millions of fans without tickets to see Swift and in turmoil over the process. Plus, is there a horror resurgence taking place at the movies? Warm-up question: 1:45 Ticketmaster: 5:15 Horror renaissance: 17:05 Drop it in the Group Chat: 27:12
S3 Enull · Wed, November 16, 2022
Dave Chappelle's monologue and the return of Black Panther
Dave Chappelle's SNL monologue addressed Kanye West's anti-Semitic tweets and Kyrie Irving's ban from the NBA. Chappelle made headlines as the comedian was accused of normalizing anti-semitism. We dissect the monologue and its fallout. And: the Black Panther has returned — we dive into the sequel and reflect on how it treats grief and the loss of Chadwick Boseman. Warm-up question: 0:52 Chappelle on SNL: 10:03 Wakanda Forever: 29:33 Drop it in the Group Chat: 44:29
S3 Enull · Wed, November 09, 2022
Drake makes people mad, The Crown is back
On his new album, Drake seems to take shots at Serena Williams and Megan Thee Stallion. We talk about Drake’s role in pop culture. And The Crown has returned for season 5 — we discuss whether the show about the British royal family goes too far. Warm-up question: 1:55 Mad about Drake: 5:10 The Crown returns: 22:35 Drop it in the Group Chat: 41:10
S3 Enull · Wed, November 02, 2022
White Lotus Season 2 and Twitter's Future
With the premiere of a new season of White Lotus, Ruben Ostlund's Triangle of Sadness and horror film The Menu, Pop Chat talks about the "eat the rich" fall line-up and why we love to see rich people roasted. Plus, we talk about Twitter's future under Elon Musk and whether Kevin, Amil and Elamin would pay to keep their blue check. Warm-up question: 1:02 Eat the Rich: 8:07 Elon's Twitter: 27:59 Drop It In The Group Chat: 45:01
S3 Enull · Wed, October 26, 2022
Taylor Swift and Great British Baking Show
With the stratospheric release of Midnights, we ask what’s behind Taylor Swift’s pop star persona PLUS, the Great British Baking Show used to be necessary comfort viewing, but audiences have gone sour on the show’s offensive themes and over-the-top challenges. Warm-up question: 1:02 Taylor Swift: 5:10 GBBO: 25:11 Drop It In The Group Chat: 40:49
S3 Enull · Wed, October 19, 2022
Bravo TV Takeover + Celebs Silent on Iran
We get into why the Bravo universe has grown to such a degree and come to dominate television. Plus we ask why we turn to celebrities in moments of strife and upheaval and why celebs are mostly staying silent on Iran. Warm-up Question: 1:00 Bravo TV Takeover: 10:46 Iran and celebrities: 38:00 Drop it in the Group Chat: 56:52
S3 Enull · Wed, October 12, 2022
Death of Late Night TV, and the problem with Kanye
With Trevor Noah leaving The Daily Show and James Corden, Samantha Bee and Desus and Mero off-the-air as well, we ask if the late-night genre is truly dead. Plus, Kanye West — now known as Ye — has crossed another line, but will this finally be one step too far for the controversial artist or will he get another second chance? Warm-up question: 1:00 The death of late night television: 9:58 Kanye: 30:19 Drop It In The Group Chat: 46:01
S3 Enull · Wed, October 05, 2022
Bros and Blonde
There was a lot of hype and expectation around the new gay rom-com Bros — critics loved it but audiences stayed away. We unpack why and if the idea of the “important” movie is losing steam with audiences. Plus, the new Marilyn Monroe movie Blonde is out and it’s dividing audiences with its intense focus on the star’s trauma. Pop Chat asks if we’ll ever get the Marilyn Monroe story right? Warm Up Question - 1:07 Bros - 8:18 Blonde - 33:27 Drop It In The Group Chat - 52:23
S3 Enull · Wed, September 28, 2022
Adam Levine's sexts and HBO's Industry
OK, yes, we all had our fun with the Adam Levine sexting story. But the scandal involving the Maroon 5 singer tells us something bigger about how TikTok has changed the machinery of celebrity gossip. Plus: HBO's Industry is the best show on television, so how come no one is talking about it? We break down what it takes for a show to break through. Hint: Learn from Succession. Warm Up Question - 01:10 Adam Levine's sexts - 10:01 Industry - 28:46 Drop It In The Group Chat - 47:48
S3 Enull · Wed, September 21, 2022
Kelly Clarkson takes over Ellen's spot and inside the Ezra Miller story
It's been 20 years since Kelly Clarkson won American Idol. We talk about the enduring celebrity of the pop star including how she's poised to take over Ellen's coveted afternoon talk show slot. Plus, despite shocking allegations against Ezra Miller, DC and Warner Bros are pushing ahead with a 2023 release of The Flash. We get into the claims against the star and if superhero movies are too big to fail. Warm Up Question - 01:20 Kelly Clarkson - 06:50 Ezra Miller's troubles - 25:48 Drop It In The Group Chat - 37:29
S3 Enull · Wed, September 14, 2022
Lea Michele's Funny Girl Drama + Fall Film Preview
Lea Michele's Funny Girl debut on Broadway. Plus: Bros, The Whale, and a preview of fall's biggest films set to take over awards season. Warm Up Question - 01:04 Funny Girl - 10:17 TIFF picks - 25:36 Drop It In The Group Chat - 39:11
S3 Enull · Wed, September 07, 2022
Don’t Worry Darling Drama + Diversity Hits Middle Earth
Olivia Wilde’s new feature film is already steeped in rumours, gossip and drama before it’s even hit the theatres. We talk about what’s happening behind the scenes with Wilde, Harry Styles and Florence Pugh. Plus, House of Dragons and Lord of the Rings compete to be fall’s biggest fantasy show — do they succeed? Warm Up Question - 00:01:29 Don't Worry Darling Drama - 00:09:24 Diversity Hits Middle Earth - 00:27:20 Drop It In The Group Chat - 00:43:28
Bonus · Fri, July 01, 2022
Pop Chat Introduces: Buffy
Buffy Sainte-Marie is one of the most prolific singer-songwriters of the past century. For 60 years her music has quietly reverberated throughout pop culture, and provided a touchstone for Indigenous resistance. In this five-part series, Mohawk and Tuscarora writer Falen Johnson explores how Buffy’s life and legacy is essential to understanding Indigenous resilience. More episodes are available at hyperurl.co/buffy
S2 Enull · Thu, June 30, 2022
What to Watch This Summer
From kids shows like Bluey, to Only Murders in the Building season 2 and Jordan Peele's Nope, we share the movies and TV series we're excited about this summer. Warm Up Question - 00:1:30 Children's Entertainment / Bluey - 00:9:15 Movies, TV Series & Music of the Summer - 00:29:00 Drop It In The Group Chat - 00:55:40
Wed, June 22, 2022
Pop Chat Live! We Talk Late 90s/Y2K with George Stroumboulopoulos
The FIRST EVER Pop Chat live show!! From chunky sneakers to wide leg denim and Britney Spears, the style and the celebrities of the late '90s and early 2000s are everywhere. We look closely at what’s making us yearn for this era. And the iconic compilation album Big Shiny Tunes 2 turns 25 this year. We invite Canadian music and culture legend George Stroumboulopoulos to dissect the legacy of Big Shiny Tunes and how it shaped our cultural landscape. The Return of 90s/Y2K Fashion - 00:11:40 90s/Y2K Revisionist History - 00:19:00 Drop It In The Group Chat - 00:35:45 George Stroumboulopoulos and Big Shiny Tunes 2 - 00:39:50
Thu, June 16, 2022
How Adam Sandler Stays Winning and the Barry Finale
Adam Sandler is back with a new Netflix film — Hustle topped the streamer’s charts, and it is a hit with critics. But even in failure, Sandler is beloved. How does Adam Sandler churn out so many hits even if critics aren’t always on board? And Barry is the best show on TV. The season 3 finale had so many people in shock. However, for some, this is the first time they’ve ever heard of the show starring Bill Hader. If Barry is so good, why is it so under-watched? Warm Up Question (Favourite Bad Adam Sandler Movie) - 00:01:45 Adam Sandler - 00:07:45 Barry - 00:33:00 Drop It In The Group Chat - 00:49:00
S2 Enull · Thu, June 09, 2022
Top Gun and Tom Cruise Return, Fire Island Wins Over Everybody
Nearly 40 years later, Tom Cruise has given us a sequel to Top Gun, and the movie keeps breaking box office records. We get into the mystical, unearthly abilities of Tom Cruise to entertain and carry a movie. And Fire Island is a new sweet gay romcom that gay and straight audiences are loving. We discuss the unreasonable pressures that get placed on a movie from a marginalized community, and whether Fire Island needs to be everything to everyone. Segments Warm Up Question - 00:03:30 Top Gun/Tom Cruise - 00:11:40 Fire Island - 00:35:35 Drop It In The Group Chat - 00:56:55
Thu, June 02, 2022
Reaction to Depp/Heard Verdict + Stranger Things Season 4
Well, the verdict is in. Amil, Kevin and Elamin react live to the jury's ruling in the Johnny Depp and Amber Heard defamation trial, and consider its impact going forward. Plus: After a three-year absence, Netflix’s massively popular signature series Stranger Things is back for a fourth season, and fans are incredibly thrilled. This new season comes with a massive budget — $30 million per episode — and the story takes us outside of the familiar territory. But is the show trying to do too much? Warm Up Question - 00:03:15 Depp/Heard Verdict - 00:09:00 Stranger Things - 00:30:45 Drop It In The Group Chat - 00:51:15
S2 Enull · Thu, May 26, 2022
Series Finale of 'This Is Us' and 3 SNL Greats Say Goodbye
This Is Us, the hit series that got famous for reliably making everyone cry, just wrapped up its final season. We discuss why it might be the last network drama of its kind. Plus: Saturday Night Live just said goodbye to three of its biggest stars. Kate McKinnon, Pete Davidson and Aidy Bryant have left the show. We discuss how SNL’s role as a launching pad has changed, and where these stars go from here. Segments Warm Up Question - 00:01:40 SNL Departures - 00:06:55 This Is Us - 00:31:00 Drop It In The Group Chat - 00:53:00
S2 Enull · Thu, May 19, 2022
The Latest on the Depp/Heard Trial plus The Kardashians Reign Supreme
The world was ready to say goodbye to the Kardashians at the end of their E! reality show. But less than a year later, their new reality spinoff marked Hulu’s biggest premiere in U.S. history — and boy have they turned it up a notch. This week, we interrogate how the Kardashians have managed to be more relevant than ever. Plus: HBO Max’s The Flight Attendant is back for a second season. We consider how the show has evolved to give us one of the most searing portrayals of addiction and sobriety in recent memory. And finally an update on the Amber Heard and Johnny Depp trial — and what it reveals about the crude terms in which the culture understands domestic violence. Depp/Heard Trial - 00:01:30 The Kardashians - 00:11:45 The Flight Attendant - 00:33:00 Drop It In The Group Chat - 00:52:30
S2 Enull · Wed, May 11, 2022
Can Celebrities Make A Difference in the Roe v. Wade Story?
After abortion rights came under attack in the U.S., celebrities spoke out in droves. Musician Phoebe Bridgers shared her abortion story, while Olivia Rodrigo paused a concert to address the issue. Saturday Night Live dedicated many segments to discuss the overturning of Roe V Wade. But does celebrity action matter? And HBO's The Staircase is the talk of the town. The drama based on the legendary true crime documentary has everyone's attention, and it's forcing us to ask some hard questions. Namely: what is it that we want out of true crime? And have we taken it too far? Plus in Drop It In The Group Chat: We Own This City, Happening, and Moonfall. Warm Up Question - 00:02:05 Celebrities and Roe V Wade - 00:07:00 The Staircase - 00:33:00 Drop It In The Group Chat - 00:53:00
S2 Enull · Wed, May 04, 2022
What 'Everything Everywhere All At Once' Says About the Millennial Apology Fantasy
Indie film Everything Everywhere All At Once is a word-of-mouth sleeper success! We talk about why the movie is breaking records and what it says about intergenerational trauma and motherhood. PLUS, Heartstopper and Crush herald in a new wave of joyful, romantic and sweet gay teen rom-coms. Why is this new genre so important right now? Then in Drop It In The Group Chat: I Love That For You, Bluey and John Waters' new book. Segments Warm Up Question (Met Gala fails) - 00:02:05 Everything Everywhere All At Once - 00:10:20 Heartstopper and teen LGBTQ+ rom-coms - 00:28:00 Drop It In The Group Chat - 00:49:35
S2 Enull · Wed, April 27, 2022
TV Fatigue and Unpacking the Johnny Depp / Amber Heard Trial
In the last two weeks alone, over 100 new seasons of TV have premiered. From Netflix to HBO to Apple TV+, we talk about the consequences of being flooded with too much TV. Plus: Johnny Depp and Amber Heard are currently engaged in a very public, very ugly court battle — and the internet can't stop watching. We talk about the trial as public performance, and unpack the damage it's doing. Segments Warm Up Question (Elon Musk bought Twitter?) - 00:01:45 Too Much TV - 00:06:35 Amber Heard / Johnny Depp Trial - 00:33:55 Drop It In The Group Chat - 00:48:44
S2 Enull · Wed, April 20, 2022
Fantastic Beasts Bombs: Are Fans Finally Turning on the Harry Potter Universe?
The new Fantastic Beasts movie bombed. The franchise has been plagued with crises, from Ezra Miller’s arrest, to JK Rowling’s statements about gender and Johnny Depp’s legal battle with his ex Amber Heard. But with a new box office low, is the Harry Potter universe finally losing its power? Plus: the Housewives may get all the headlines but Below Deck is Bravo’s biggest hit. How did a show about a yachting become the most popular reality TV show by a long shot? Related: do you also wish Captain Lee was your dad? Segments Warm Up Question - 00:01:45 Harry Potter - 00:06:55 Below Deck - 00:35:25 Drop It In The Group Chat - 00:57:35
S2 Enull · Thu, April 14, 2022
Why Is Everyone Talking About The Ultimatum?
From the drama of Colby and Madlyn, to the potential of Jake and Rae, Netflix’s newest reality show The Ultimatum is the talk of the internet. It seems like everyone is weighing in, and a lot of people are calling it toxic. We discuss how reality TV has turned marriage into a spectacle. And romance is BACK. From Sandra Bullock’s new movie The Lost City, to Nancy Meyers' come back, we get into the return of the rom-com and talk about how the genre has always been overlooked. Plus on Drop It In The Group Chat: Slow Horses, Aline and How Email Took Over the World. Segments Warm Up Question (Bennifer) - 00:01:45 Rom-Coms Return - 00:07:68 The Ultimatum - 00:29:25 Drop It In The Group Chat - 00:49:30
Wed, April 06, 2022
Why Abbott Elementary is TV's Next Big Hit
Abbott Elementary is pulling numbers comparable to Modern Family. Audiences and critics are obsessed with this show. How did a network sitcom become TV’s biggest surprise? And: From Will Smith and the Slap to a Grammys show that featured brilliant performances but very few actual Grammys handed out, we ask: what do we want from award shows now? Segments Warm Up Question (most iconic 2022 Grammy performances) - 00:01:45 Award Shows - 00:08:05 Abbott Elementary - 00:26:15 Drop It In The Group Chat - 00:47:35
S2 Enull · Wed, March 30, 2022
The Aftermath of “The Slap” + Bridgerton Season 2
It's been a few days since Will Smith slapped Chris Rock at the Oscars. Since then, Smith has apologized while others have called for him to be stripped of his Best Actor award. We process The Slap, and how it complicates Will Smith's win and legacy. Plus: Bridgerton is back! We discuss what makes the show work, and how Netflix is so successful at making it the buzziest show out right now. Segments Warm Up Question - 00:01:30 Will Smith Slap Aftermath - 00:12:20 Bridgerton - 00:35:20 Drop It In The Group Chat - 00:52:45
S2 Enull · Mon, March 28, 2022
Will Smith Just Slapped Chris Rock: Oscar Night Reactions
Immediately following last night's Oscars whirlwind, culture writers Amil Niazi, Kevin Fallon, and Elamin Abdelmahmoud took to Twitter to process THAT moment. Will Smith made Oscars history at the 2022 Academy Awards after he charged the stage and slapped Chris Rock in response to a joke the comedian made about Jada Pinkett Smith. AND THEN Smith went on to apologize for the event in his emotional speech for Best Actor, which he won later in the night. Catch real-time reactions from the Pop Chat team in this special bonus episode.
S7 Enull · Wed, March 23, 2022
Our Big Oscars Show: Hot Races to Watch and Controversies
The Oscars are pulling out all the stops to get the audience back. Three comedians to host? Check. Cutting eight awards from the televised program? Check. DJ Khaled to present…check? Who are the Oscars for, and who is the audience they’re trying to woo. We discuss that and the most watched races. And Apple TV’s new series, Severance, is a hit. The show, directed by Ben Stiller and starring Adam Scott, is about the separation of your work self and your non-work self. What does it have to say about how work has changed us? Plus on Drop It In The Group Chat: Life & Beth, A.P. Bio and Charli XCX's new album. Segments Warm Up Question - 00:01:50 Oscars - 00:09:40 Severance - 00:34:50 Drop It In The Group Chat - 00:54:45
S2 Enull · Wed, March 16, 2022
Turning Red and Disney's Response to the "Don't Say Gay" Bill
Disney’s latest film, Turning Red, is proof that the House of Mouse is succeeding in its effort to tell more diverse stories. But Disney is also coming under criticism for staying silent about an anti-gay bill. And with The Dropout, WeCrashed, and Super Pumped: The Battle for Uber, Hollywood finally sets its eyes on the entrepreneur. What do these shows have to say about the mythology of the tech CEO? Plus on this week's Group Chat: The Founder, Severance and The Lost City. Segments Warm Up Question (favourite 2000s boy band) - 00:02:00 Turning Red / Disney - 00:07:10 Tech CEO TV - 00:32:40 Drop It In The Group Chat - 00:48:30
S2 Enull · Thu, March 10, 2022
Dissecting The Batman and What's Behind Rudy Giuliani's Appearance On Reality TV
The new Batman, played by Robert Pattinson, is the third iteration of the character in just 10 years. Yet despite the Batman overload, audiences are clamouring to see it. Are studios getting more conservative with their releases because of the superhero supremacy at the box office? Will the superhero movie bubble ever burst? And the new season of the Masked Singer made headlines for inviting Rudy Giuliani. Do reality shows invite controversial figures on for ratings? Or is it a legitimate play for redemption?
S2 Enull · Wed, March 02, 2022
How Pop Culture is Responding to Ukraine and Debating Kanye West's Jeen-Yuhs
There is just one story right now, and that's Russia's invasion of Ukraine. From tweets to speeches, we talk about how pop culture is responding to the crisis in Ukraine, and we ask: what is culture's role in helping us process heavy news? Plus: A new Kanye West documentary on Netflix gives insight into the origin story of the most significant pop star of his time. We discuss whether the way we talk about Kanye is doing him a disservice. Segments Warm Up Question (moments social media got it wrong) - 00:01:44 Pop Culture's Response to Ukraine - 00:07:01 Jeen-Yuhs - 00:30:42 Drop It In The Group Chat - 00:58:03
Thu, February 24, 2022
Pop Chat Introduces: The Secret Life of Canada
The Secret Life of Canada is a podcast about the country you know and the stories you don't. Join hosts Leah-Simone Bowen and Falen Johnson as they reveal the beautiful, terrible and weird histories of this land. The Secret Life of Canada is back with season 4 and in this episode, you’ll hear the story of how vaudeville performer Nora Hendrix ended up in Vancouver in the early 1900s, and became a fixture in Hogan's Alley, the neighborhood at the center of Vancouver's Black community. You’ll also hear about her grandson who would live with her in Hogan’s Alley from time to time. His name was Jimi Hendrix. More episodes are available at http://hyperurl.co/secretlifeofcanada
S2 Enull · Wed, February 23, 2022
Love Is Blind Is Back, And The New Bill Cosby Documentary
Love Is Blind, Netflix's flagship dating reality show, has returned for a second season and people can't stop watching. We'll get into the appeal of Love Is Blind and what makes the show work. Plus: a new documentary from comedian W. Kamau Bell answers the challenging question, "How do we talk about Bill Cosby?" Segments Warm Up Question (favourite reality show) - 00:02:01 Love Is Blind - 00:07:55 Bill Cosby Doc - 00:27:28 Drop It In The Group Chat - 00:49:00
S2 Enull · Thu, February 17, 2022
Inventing Anna and The Tinder Swindler: Unpacking Our Obsession with Grifters
Between Netflix’s Inventing Anna and the popularity of The Tinder Swindler, our love of scammers is having a moment. What do we get out of these sensational stories of grift? And: the Olympics are not lacking in drama, but they are not generating the same conversations they usually do. What’s with the lull? Are the Olympics losing their cultural relevance? Segments Warm Up Question (favourite scam movie) - 00:01:45 Inventing Anna/Tinder Swindler - 00:7:30 Olympics - 00:32:50 Drop It In The Group Chat - 00:53:00
S2 Enull · Wed, February 09, 2022
Did The Oscar Noms Get It Right? Plus: Is Pam & Tommy Exploitative?
Oscar nominations are in, and against all odds, the Academy got it mostly right! We discuss the surprises and snubs, and what the award show can do to stay relevant. Plus: Pam & Tommy, the new series about Pamela Anderson and Tommy Lee, relitigates how we understand their sex tape scandal. But can these shows that seek to reframe the past ever avoid being exploitative? Segments Warm Up Question (most chaotic Oscar moments) - 00:01:45 Oscar Noms - 00:09:40 Pam & Tommy - 00:29:30 Drop It In The Group Chat - 00:51:45
S2 Enull · Wed, February 02, 2022
Joe Rogan vs Everybody: Is Spotify Abandoning The Music?
Joe Rogan has the most popular podcast on the planet. All eyes are on Spotify after musicians like Neil Young and Joni Mitchell pulled their music off the streaming platform because of Rogan's podcast. Does Spotify's backing of Rogan mean they're abandoning their focus on music? And there's a new Janet Jackson documentary that invites us to reconsider her massive legacy. Her career was derailed after the "wardrobe malfunction," and in 2022, we all have a lot to atone for. What did we get wrong about Janet? Segments Warm Up Question - 00:02:00 Joe Rogan & Spotify - 00:06:05 Janet Jackson - 00:31:30 Drop It In The Group Chat - 00:53:30
S2 Enull · Wed, January 26, 2022
Does Euphoria Use Trauma As A Shortcut For Prestige?
HBO’s Euphoria is back for a new season. The high school drama starring Zendaya regularly shocks viewers with its extreme portrayals of sex, drugs, and violence. But do teen shows have to be realistic? And with all of the internet talking about the dating habits of West Elm Caleb, we discuss how TikTok's For You page can be a powder keg for public shaming. Plus, in Drop It In The Group Chat, we talk about Tana French, The Gilded Age, and Meat Loaf's legacy. Segments Warm Up Question (best teen TV show) - 00:02:00 Euphoria - 00:06:00 Tik Tok public shaming - 00:30:00 Drop It In The Group Chat - 00:52:40
S2 Enull · Wed, January 19, 2022
Is Encanto A Game Changer For Disney?
This week, the soundtrack for Disney’s Encanto dethroned Adele from the top of the charts. Thousands are expressing their love for the animated film, and making TikToks to its infectious songs. How did Encanto become a phenomenon? We gotta talk about Bruno and Mirabel and why this movie is resonating so much. Plus: are you playing Wordle, too? The word-guessing game has gone viral — for the fun, yes, but also for the ways it’s bringing people together. We discuss the popularity of Wordle and what we get out of it. This week in Drop It In The Group Chat, we touch on The Undoing of Joss Whedon, Abbott Elementary, and Peacemaker. Segments Warm Up Question (most underrated Disney song) - 00:02:00 Encanto - 00:10:45 Wordle - 00:40:00 Drop It In The Group Chat - 00:57:25
S2 Enull · Wed, January 12, 2022
Should Spider-Man Get An Oscar?
Somehow, Spider-Man: No Way Home is still the top movie at the box office. It has been at the top for four weeks, while Oscar-buzzy movies struggle to draw audiences. Now, there's a campaign to get Spidey nominated for Best Picture. But do superhero movies belong in the Oscar conversation? And after the passing of Bob Saget, Sidney Poitier, and Betty White, we discuss the way social media has changed our relationship to grief and celebrity. In this week's Drop It In The Group Chat we talk Encanto, Amanda Petrusich's piece The Decline of Yelling, and Keyla Monterroso Mejia. Segments Warm Up Question (Most baffling part of the Golden Globes twitter ceremony) - 00:02:10 Spider-Man for Best Picture - 00:07:30 Grief Twitter - 00:32:20 Drop It In The Group Chat - 00:41:20
S2 Enull · Wed, January 05, 2022
Why Is Netflix’s Don’t Look Up So Divisive?
The new film Don’t Look Up, a climate change allegory starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence, became a hit for Netflix. But why is it dividing critics so intensely? And Showtime’s Yellowjackets and HBO’s Station Eleven are the most buzzy shows out right now. They’re also really dark. Are we finally ready to have our grim reality reflected in our TV? In this week's Drop It In The Group Chat we talk bell hook's and All About Love, Betty White and The Mary Tyler Moore Show, Insecure, plus, Joan Didion and Slouching Towards Bethlehem. Segments Warm Up Question (Anti-New Year's Resolutions) - 00:01:55 Don't Look Up - 00:05:00 Yellowjackets / Station Eleven - 00:25:40 Drop It In The Group Chat - 00:41:20
S2 Enull · Wed, December 22, 2021
Bennifer, Britney and Squid Game: Countdown To 2021's Biggest Pop Culture Stories
Pop culture seemed like the only way for us to notice the passage of time this year. As 2021 comes to a close, we count down the biggest pop culture stories that helped us process this past year. From the celebrity couples that captured our attention, to Britney Spears's road to freedom, to the never ending debate about cancel culture, we cram every major pop culture moment into one episode you don't want to miss. Strap in, and let's go! Segments Warm Up Question - 00:01:25 Pop Culture Countdown - 00:04:30 Group Chat (Anti-Christmas Christmas Movie Recommendations) - 01:06:00
S2 Enull · Wed, December 15, 2021
Sex And The City, And Our Great Big 2021 Recommendations Show
Carrie, Miranda, and Charlotte are back on TV! But the world has changed since the last time Sex and the City was on the air. For one thing, shows like Girls and Insecure had advanced how we think about friendship between women. For another, they have to confront the lack of diversity. So is the reboot working? We get into it. Plus: from Sex Education to West Side Story, we pile in all the big TV shows and movies and books you might’ve missed in 2021, so you can go back and find them! It’s our big recommendations episode! Segments Warm Up Question (Succession finale reactions) - 00:02:00 Sex and the City Reboot - 00:06:20 Best of Culture, 2021 - 00:28:00
S2 Enull · Wed, December 08, 2021
Harry Styles Launches A Beauty Brand And Holiday Movie Season
This week, Harry Styles launched a brand new nail polish line. Styles get a lot of attention for his playful gender-bending. But some have criticized him for capitalizing on LGBTQ politics, and say he gets too much credit. We dig into Harry’s journey. And: it’s good bad Christmas movie season! Once upon a time, Hallmark and Netflix Christmas movies were considered cringeworthy. Now, they’re more popular than ever. What do we get out of watching these movies? And what the hell is “A Castle for Christmas?” Plus, in this week's Drop It In The Group Chat we talk Yellowjackets, The Ringer's take on Succession's latest episode, and Charlie Warzel's newsletter Galaxy Brain. Segments Warm Up Question (Covid check-in) - 00:01:55 Harry Styles - 00:08:05 Christmas Movies - 00:23:20 Drop It In The Group Chat - 00:44:25
S2 Enull · Wed, December 01, 2021
The Appeal Of Selling Sunset And Get Back With The Beatles
What’s the draw behind Netflix’s Selling Sunset and shows like it? What makes a generation that can’t afford homes so obsessed with Love It Or List It and the rest of the real estate reality slate? And with a new three-part documentary about The Beatles from director Peter Jackson, we talk about Get Back's standout moments and why 2021 has seen such an interest in music documentaries. Plus we pay tribute to late greats Stephen Sondheim, Virgil Abloh, and Michael K. Williams. Warm Up Question (Spotify wrapped surprises) - 00:01:55 Selling Sunset - 00:06:55 Get Back - 00:26:45 Drop It In The Group Chat - 00:46:50
Fri, November 26, 2021
Pop Chat Introduces: The Q Interview with Adele
Join host Tom Power for an intimate look at big conversations with some of the most inspiring artists and creators of our time including Adele who recently talked about how making her new album ’30’ helped her through a difficult separation. Find the full episode and more at smarturl.it/theqinterview
S2 Enull · Wed, November 24, 2021
SNL get its groove back and Lady Gaga’s Oscar Buzz
Saturday Night Live skits are going viral. Cast members like Pete Davidson and Colin Jost are A-list celebrities. And more importantly … it’s funnier and more relevant than it’s been in years. How did SNL get its groove back? Plus, Elamin, Kevin and Amil go through the big fall and winter movies like House of Gucci, Dune and Power of the Dog, and discuss the front runners poised for Oscar noms (Hint: An Oscar for Bella Swan?). Warm Up Question (Reactions to Adele's new album) - 00:02:10 SNL - 00:08:25 Fall Movies - 00:33:30 Drop It In The Group Chat - 00:59:15
S2 Enull · Wed, November 17, 2021
Taylor Swift Re-releases Red (Taylor's Version), Why is Everyone Freaking Out About It?
Somehow, Taylor Swift managed to dominate the discourse with the re-release of an album she put out nine years ago. Red (Taylor’s Version) smashed a bunch of records and reignited interest in her past relationships, particularly with Jake Gyllenhaal. We get into the business of Taylor Swift and how she manages to capture people’s attention. And Will Smith’s King Richard is about to arrive, timed with his new memoir, Will. We dissect the kind of celebrity Will Smith wants to be — is he resonating in the same way? Plus, in this week's Drop It In The Group Chat we talk Keyla Monterroso Mejia's performance as Maria Sofia on Curb Your Enthusiasm, The Ringer's podcast Every Single Album: Taylor Swift, and JoJo Siwa on Dancing with The Stars. Segments Warm Up Question (What should Britney do with her new freedom?) - 00:02:00 Taylor Swift - 00:07:30 Will Smith - 00:29:40 Drop It In The Group Chat - 00:44:50
S2 Enull · Wed, November 10, 2021
On Travis Scott And Drake's Responsibility In The Astroworld Tragedy + Why Chris Pratt Keeps Getting Voted Worst Chris
Last weekend, eight people died at Travis Scott’s festival, Astroworld. Scott is a performer who invites intensity to his live performances. Now Scott, Drake, and concert promoter Live Nation are facing lawsuit. We discuss the artist’s responsibility in ensuring safety at their concerts. And: On the Internet, Chris Pratt is regularly labelled the worst of the Chrises. But in the box office, he keeps carrying franchises like Guardians of the Galaxy, Jurassic World, and the Lego Movie. He’s a bankable star! What’s with the divide between how he’s talked about and the opportunities he keeps getting? Plus, in this week's Drop It In The Group Chat, we talk Belfast, James Bond / No Time To Die, and Yeezy's new boots. Segments Warm Up Question (Is James Corden that bad!?) - 00:02:45 Astroworld - 00:10:50 Chris Pratt - 00:32:00 Drop It In The Group Chat - 00:51:40
Wed, November 03, 2021
The Panel Talks Eternals And Spencer
With arrival of Eternals, the 26th(!!) movie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, we ask: are audiences ready to move on from superheroes yet? And a new Princess Diana movie is out — we discuss whether it offers anything new, and unpack our ceaseless fascination with the royal.
S2 Enull · Wed, October 27, 2021
What The Alec Baldwin Shooting Teaches Us About Safety On Set, And The Trouble With ‘You’
Last week, actor Alec Baldwin fatally shot cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on set. Police are still investigating the incident, but the tragedy has launched a broader discussion about safety for film workers, so we get into the grim realities of working behind the scenes in Hollywood. And why is Netflix’s “You” such a hit? What is it about the trope of the killer with a heart of gold that compels us? We unpack the popularity of an unlikely hit.
S2 Enull · Wed, October 20, 2021
Adele And Succession Have Returned
Finally, we have our No. 1 boy back! With the arrival of a new season of Succession, we talk about why Kendall and the rest of the Roy family have our full attention. And what is it about Adele that makes the world stop and listen?
S2 Enull · Wed, October 13, 2021
Should Dave Chappelle's Special Be Removed From Netflix?
The most talked-about new release on Netflix this week is Dave Chappelle's latest special. But instead of making headlines for pushing comedy, Chappelle is making headlines for missing the mark. We discuss the fallout of the special. And with a four-part reunion on the way, we unpack the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, and ask: should the cameras even be rolling? With accusations of serious crimes on the table, is reality TV going too far?
S2 Enull · Wed, October 06, 2021
Can We Finally Leave Britney Alone?
Somehow there’s been 25 James Bond movies. Is it finally time for 007 to change with the times? And with the release of yet another Britney Spears documentary, we ask: have we learned anything when it comes to framing Britney’s story? (Hint: no)
S2 Enull · Wed, September 29, 2021
Why Everyone Is Watching Squid Game
Netflix’s Squid Game is dominating the Netflix charts. How did this Korean dystopian drama become the talk of the internet? Plus: from Nine Perfect Strangers to Mare of Easttown, a lot of shows *look* prestige-y but is prestige TV delivering on its promise right now?
S2 Enull · Wed, September 22, 2021
Why Is Lil Nas X So Good At Grabbing Your Attention?
One thing that is guaranteed: you will know what Lil Nas X is up to. The pop star has managed to get headlines for just about everything, from giving the devil a lap dance to a maternity shoot for his album. What do his methods of getting noticed say about the future of pop stardom? Plus: The Emmys and the Met Gala tell us Hollywood is just about ready to get back to normal. Should it?
Bonus · Sat, September 18, 2021
Introducing: The Q Interview
From our friends at the award-winning CBC show Q with host Tom Power comes a brand new podcast called The Q Interview. It’s an intimate look at big conversations with some of the most inspiring artists and creators of our time. Hear about the joke that got Jerry Seinfeld his first big laugh onstage, how Simu Liu landed his role as a Marvel superhero, and much, much more. Find more episodes at smarturl.it/theqinterview
S2 Enull · Wed, September 15, 2021
What LuLaRoe Is Really Selling
A new documentary about LuLaRoe has everyone talking about the sinister aspects of pyramid schemes. And: people have very strong opinions on the personal life of comedian John Mulaney — is this level of investment unhealthy? Or is this the very point of celebrity?
S2 Enull · Wed, September 08, 2021
What’s Behind The Ted Lasso Backlash
How did Ted Lasso, the nicest show on TV, develop a backlash for being… TOO nice? Plus: how did an advanced copy of a novel become the hottest item of the summer? We unpack the buzz around Sally Rooney’s new book. With Elamin Abdelmahmoud, Kevin Fallon and Amil Niazi.
Trailer · Wed, September 01, 2021
Pop Chat Season 2: Trailer
Pop Chat is back for a second season! Every Wednesday, host Elamin Abdelmahmoud will be joined by entertainment reporter Kevin Fallon and culture writer Amil Niazi to debate, discuss and work through the biggest cultural stories of the week. Coming to your feed September 8.
S1 Enull · Wed, June 30, 2021
Summer Blockbusters And Bad Celebrity Tattoos
Were you once rooting for Rihanna and Drake? Of course you were. Who wasn’t. Now Rihanna got rid of the matching tattoo she had with Drake — and people are upset! We get into celebrity tattoos and why we care about them. And: the movies that will save us this summer! Starting with, of course, F9. And because it’s the last episode of our season, a very special edition of Drop It In The Groupchat!
S1 Enull · Thu, June 24, 2021
Bonus: Processing Britney's Testimony
Britney's testimony in her conservatorship case left the world horrified. Writer Angelina Chapin has been reporting on the #FreeBritney movement, and she walks us through the key takeaways and what's next for Britney.
S1 Enull · Wed, June 23, 2021
Britney Spears Finally Speaks Out, Plus Chris Meloni: Special Thicctims Unit
People can’t stop thirsting after Chris Meloni — we get into how we got here (probably lots of squats). Then: Victoria’s Secret wants to tell a different story. Is anyone buying it? Plus: From the bottom of Britney’s heart, we’re finally going to hear from Britney — we discuss the evolution of the #FreeBritney discourse. Note this episode was recorded before Britney took the stand and does not get into details of her testimony.
S1 Enull · Wed, June 16, 2021
Will Superhero Movies Kill Creativity In Hollywood?
We’re getting ready for a hot intellectual property summer: Loki, Black Widow, Cruella, Fast and Furious NINE. These projects are not new per se — they’re splinters off of already bankable projects. Some say this reliance on what’s safe is killing Hollywood’s creativity. Is that true? Plus: with Riz Ahmed bringing attention to Islamophobic stereotypes in film and TV, we get into the relationship between one-dimensional tropes and the real world, and where change is necessary.
S1 Enull · Wed, June 09, 2021
Naomi Osaka Says No, Bo Burnham Meets The Moment
Naomi Osaka is setting boundaries, and in the process transforming the conversation about sexism in tennis. And Bo Burnham has been trapped Inside, like the rest of us — we get into his transcendent comedy special and why we don’t need any more pandemic art.
S1 Enull · Wed, June 02, 2021
Mare Of Easttown, The Friends Reunion, And The Return Of Appointment Viewing
Mare of Easttown had us all glued to our TVs on Sunday nights like it’s 2003 all over again. How did that happen????? Is binging 12 hours of TV in one day done now? Are we back to the days of appointment viewing? Also, did you watch that Friends reunion? Was it satisfying? Because it could be the future of TV reunions.
S1 Enull · Mon, May 31, 2021
Bonus: Reacting To The Mare of Easttown Finale
The Pop Chat panel makes sense of that tragic final episode of the HBO hit! Spoilers ahead!
S1 Enull · Wed, May 26, 2021
Olivia Rodrigo Is Giving Older Millennials Big Feelings
God, it's brutal out here. Olivia Rodrigo's new album landed to acclaim from fans and critics alike — but it's also making some people feel old. We unpack what's going on there. And how is Prince Harry so good at using the established rules of celebrity? And why is his brother.............not?
S1 Enull · Wed, May 19, 2021
Ziwe, Ellen, And Mare Of Easttown
While Ellen's departure signals we may be done with a certain tone of talk shows, Ziwe's new show tells us we're in a new era of what we want talk shows to be. Plus: Mare of Easttown and TV's recurring obsession with murdered young women (and the tortured detectives who have to solve the case).
S1 Enull · Wed, May 12, 2021
Bennifer Is Back! Let's Talk About Ben Affleck
Ben Affleck torments us. One moment, he's the tragic guy sending videos to women who unmatch him on dating apps. The next, he's (maybe?) back with Jennifer Lopez, and we're all freaking out. Hate it or love it, Ben Affleck is one of the most compelling celebrities working right now — and we're going to get INTO IT.
S1 Enull · Wed, May 05, 2021
Errbody In The Club Gettin' Cheugy
Why is Gen Z calling millennials "Cheugy?" What does it even mean? We get into the newest battle in the generation wars. And then, pals, it is time to talk about NFTs. So sorry, we know you've been putting this off as long as you can, but now that a meme has sold for half a million dollars, we discuss how we got here, and how NFTs might reshape the online world.
S1 Enull · Wed, April 28, 2021
How Drag Race Came To Dominate TV
Parenting and working in a pandemic has meant giving up on the idea of limiting screen time. It's the only way to stay sane. And though the 13th season's RuPaul's Drag Race just ended, next week another spinoff will launch. We look back at how the show has changed the performance of drag, and reflect on the people this leaves behind.
S1 Enull · Mon, April 26, 2021
Bonus: Pop Chat Reacts To The Oscars
It was the first Oscars ceremony of the pandemic and what a ceremony it was. From heartfelt speeches that went long to Glenn Close's surprise knowledge of Da Butt and of course THAT ending, the Pop Chat panel makes sense of Hollywood's biggest night.
S1 Enull · Wed, April 21, 2021
Does Amazon's "Them" Exploit Black Trauma?
Amazon’s new series, “Them,” is superficially in the vein of Jordan Peele’s horror. But in practice, it’s a series obsessed with showing Black trauma. Who is the audience for this? Plus: the Oscars are this weekend. Remember the Oscars? Yeah, alright, we don’t either. We talk about what to expect.
S1 Enull · Wed, April 14, 2021
Is Zoom Giving Us Body Dysmorphia?
We now have to spend hours looking at our faces in screens. The result? A noticeable uptick in plastic surgery, injectables, veneers... basically, all the ways we can change our faces. Is this reality here to stay? Plus: Netflix, baby, what is you doing? Why are these the top movies? Is the problem the algorithm? Or is it... us?
S1 Enull · Wed, April 07, 2021
Lil Nas X And The Satanic Panic He Inspired
From Demi Lovato to Billie Eilish and Taylor Swift, pop stars are turning to the documentary format to take control of their narrative. Is it working? And Lil Nas X had 'em shook with his new video. What the controversy over his devil lap dance says about us right now. With special guests Laura Snapes, deputy music editor at the Guardian and Craig Jenkins, music critic for New York Magazine. Trigger Warning: This episode mentions sexual assault.
S1 Enull · Wed, March 31, 2021
Will David Dobrik Be Held Accountable?
David Dobrik is one of the most famous YouTubers on the planet. But after allegations of sexual misconduct against him and members of his Vlogsquad surfaced, it’s raising questions about whether the power of YouTubers should be regulated. Plus: the last season of Keeping Up with the Kardashians is here — what’s the legacy of the show?
S1 Enull · Wed, March 24, 2021
Snyder Cut Uncut
So the stans did it. Fans manifested Zack Snyder's cut of the Justice League movie into existence, and now the rest of us have to contend with an exhausting four-hour epic. We get into why the Snyder Cut may soon be forgotten, but its release may well change streaming. Plus: we discuss the hypersexualization of Asian women in Hollywood, and anti-Asian racism with guest Tanya Chen.
S1 Enull · Wed, March 17, 2021
Millennials vs Gen Z: Pick A Side(part)
The greatest trick the devil ever played was convincing people he didn't exist. The greatest trick Boomers ever played was convincing young people they should fight each other. What is going on with all this Millennials vs Gen Z cringey content? How did this generational TikTok war even start? And how do Gen Xers avoid getting dragged? We also talk about the high and low points of the Grammy awards, and that awkward Billie Eilish moment.
S1 Enull · Tue, March 09, 2021
Let's Talk About That Oprah Interview With Meghan And Harry
As if there’s another story this week. Meghan Markle and Prince Harry made some shocking revelations when they sat down with Oprah. It’s a lot to digest — so let’s do it together. We also dive in to the WandaVision finale and why the series expands what audiences expect from Marvel.
S1 Enull · Wed, March 03, 2021
Gimlet And The “Test Kitchen” Fiasco
Gimlet Media wanted to cover the juicy scandal at Bon Appetit. Instead, it flung itself into its own scandal — one that left its crowning jewel podcast “Reply All” paused, raising questions about where it goes next. We discuss how we got here, and what it takes to get serious about meaningful diversity in media.
S1 Enull · Wed, February 24, 2021
Allen v. Farrow Changes The Woody Allen Discourse
A new, heavily-edited Kendall Jenner photo has shocked the internet. We get into how the Kardashians have prompted new conversations about unhealthy beauty standards. We also discuss HBO's new documentary, Allen v. Farrow, and whether it could be the catalyst to force Hollywood to stop working with Allen. With special guest Scaachi Koul.
S1 Enull · Wed, February 17, 2021
Britney Spears, Taylor Swift And The Fight Over Agency
Taylor Swift is re-recording her albums to take back control over her music. A new documentary about Britney Spears reveals how the narrative about the pop star's life has never been accurate. This week, we dive deep into how the music industry machine exploits young pop stars — and how that may be changing. Featuring special guest Laura Snapes, deputy music editor for The Guardian.
S1 Enull · Wed, February 10, 2021
Marilyn Manson, The "I May Destroy You" Snub, And Whose Stories Matter
Nominations for "Emily In Paris," while ignoring "I May Destroy You"? What is even going on at the Golden Globes? And what does it say about Hollywood's chronic blindspots? We also talk about the allegations against Marilyn Manson and what they reveal about abusers who are allowed to flourish out in the open, while victims get overlooked.
S1 Enull · Wed, February 03, 2021
LIVE SHOW: Why We Turn To Nostalgia, With You’re Wrong About’s Sarah Marshall
What are you rewatching right now? The pandemic has made us turn to the past. Whether it's through watching old shows or anticipating reboots of classics, we untangle the draw of nostalgia. With special guest Sarah Marshall, the host of the incredible podcast You're Wrong About. We recorded this one live at the Hot Docs Podcast Festival!
S1 Enull · Wed, January 27, 2021
The Stunning Rise Of Drivers License
How did a song by a relative unknown force its way to No. 1? We talk about Olivia Rodrigo’s "drivers license" and what its climb says about TikTok’s power in the music industry. Is this the norm now? Are you getting old? Here’s your existential crisis.
S1 Enull · Wed, January 20, 2021
Black Futures, With Jenna Wortham And Kimberly Drew
Where do you begin to process the last four years? All the grief, the joy, the heaviness, the fear — it's all so much to unpack. But...you have to start somewhere. We start with New York Times writer and podcaster Jenna Wortham and curator and activist Kimberly Drew. They give us their insights and reflections on the moment, and we talk about their new anthology book Black Futures, and how it reimagines possibilities for Black people.
S1 Enull · Wed, January 13, 2021
Talking Celebrity Gossip With Lainey Lui
From Hilaria Baldwin's accent to the KimYe divorce to Armie Hammer's...[ahem] proclivities, it has already been a banner year for celebrity gossip. What is it about gossip that pulls us in? Why are we drawn to the hot goss of beautiful people? And ... is it time for us to bench our celebrity obsession? Panelist Sarah Hagi and the queen of gossip Lainey Lui join us for this one.
S1 Enull · Wed, January 06, 2021
Rapper Saweetie On Making Music In A Pandemic
This week's special guest is recording artist and massive internet sensation Saweetie! She joins Pop Chat to talk about how musicians are dealing with the pandemic, the ways social media is changing the industry, her upcoming project Pretty Bitch Music and MORE. Tap In!
S1 Enull · Wed, December 16, 2020
Television's Best (And Worst) Of 2020
From Schitt's Creek to The Vow, panelists Kevin Fallon and Amil Niazi reflect on the biggest TV stories of 2020 — offering up a few recommendations along the way. Plus, Elamin chats with India Oxenberg about life after NXIVM and her experience producing Seduced as a survivor of the cult. Part three of our year-end series (and our last show of the year!)
S1 Enull · Wed, December 09, 2020
How Food Became One Of The Hottest Stories Of The Year
From celebrity scandals to major industry shakeups, food writer Alicia Kennedy and reporter Navneet Alang join Pop Chat to unpack this unprecedented year in food. Part two in our year-end series.
S1 Enull · Wed, December 02, 2020
2020: The Year Of TikTok
Memes got us through a pandemic. Influencers missed the moment. TikTok is ascendant. In the first episode of our year-end series, we're looking back at the year in internet culture, and how 2020 changed us. Special guest Taylor Lorenz of the New York Times joins Pop Chat panelist Hussein Kesvani, and they take us through the year in being extremely online.
S1 Enull · Wed, November 25, 2020
Hanif Abdurraqib On Music And Memory
Unpacking the year in music and fandom with the poet, author and host of Lost Notes Season 3.
S1 Enull · Thu, November 19, 2020
Live Show: What’s Behind The #FreeBritney Movement?
Our first live show, at the Vancouver Podcast Festival! We take a deep breath and talk about how the last four years of the news cycle broke us. We also dive in to the #FreeBritney movement and what the culture owes Britney Spears.
S1 Enull · Wed, November 11, 2020
This Is Us and Grey’s Anatomy Tackle The Pandemic
From “This Is Us” to “Superstore,” television is starting to reflect life in the pandemic. But some shows do it better than others. And last week, Johnny Depp resigned from the “Fantastic Beasts” movie series after he lost a libel suit. Will his reputation face any damage at all? Plus: our tribute to Alex Trebek, a real one forever.
S1 Enull · Wed, November 04, 2020
What Pop Culture Had To Say About Trump
After Trump was elected, artists said “well... think of the art that might come out of this.” Four years later, was that the case? Did the Trump presidency birth a new renaissance of rebellious pop culture? And also: what is it about Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez that riles up the left and the right? Why do we insist on turning our politicians into celebrities?
S1 Enull · Wed, October 28, 2020
Borat Sticks The Landing
It’s been 14 years since the first Borat movie, but Wawaweewa, the new film interrogates white supremacy and misogyny in a fresh way. Also: why we are obsessed with comparing the Chrises (Evans, Hemsworth, Pratt, Pine), and why must the bad Chris be defended? We dip into the Chriscourse. Very sorry for calling it that.
S1 Enull · Wed, October 21, 2020
What The Billie Eilish Photo Teaches Us About The Limits of Body Positivity
After a photo of Billie Eilish went viral, the body-shamers came out in full force. Then, to counter them, a flood of people calling Eilish “brave.” We need better options to describe real life — and simply just existing in a body. Scaachi Koul joins the Pop Chat panel to imagine a more useful vocabulary.
S1 Enull · Wed, October 14, 2020
Emily In Paris And The Politics Of Hate-Watching
Millions of people are watching Netflix’s “Emily in Paris.” They are doing this despite wholeheartedly believing that it is... not.. good? The Pop Chat panel pack their bags and unpack "Emily in Paris." Plus: will celebrities ever stop saying “vote!” like it’s the most groundbreaking message? The marriage of pop culture and politics endures. Or rather: we endure it.
S1 Enull · Wed, October 07, 2020
SNL Can’t Meet The Moment
There was a time when SNL met the moment, and used the sharp knife of satire to say something — anything — about how we live now. As the legendary show kicks off its 46th season, we ask: does SNL still got it? We also reflect on the Internet reaction to Chrissy Teigen’s tragic news about pregnancy loss and examine the expectations and performance of online motherhood.
S1 Enull · Wed, September 30, 2020
How Breonna Taylor’s Death Became A Meme
Breonna Taylor was shot and killed by police. The internet rallied to keep her name in the news — by turning it into a meme. But does online activism translate to IRL justice? And how do those memes serve her memory? Plus: The Social Dilemma freaked a lot of people out about social media. But does that mean any of us will change our behaviour? And of course, the panel drop their recommendations in the group chat — the wholesome and the saucy.
S1 Enull · Wed, September 23, 2020
Schitt's Creek Is Just That Nice
Schitt's Creek cleaned up at the Emmys. What does its success tell us about who gets to make television? We also talk about Emily Ratajkowski’s recent essay for The Cut and whether there’s a double-standard when it comes to celebrity nudes.
S1 Enull · Wed, September 16, 2020
The Kardashians Have Left The Building
Reality TV’s royal family is abdicating the throne. After 14 years and 20 seasons, Keeping Up With The Kardashians is ending. Love ‘em or hate ‘em, they changed the face of pop culture. The panel reflects on the legacy of the house Kris Jenner built. And the Emmys are this weekend and zzzzzz, who even gets excited about award shows anymore? The case for and against award shows. Give Roman Roy an Emmy, you cowards. The Pop Chat panel has #thoughts. Shireen Ahmed, Kevin Fallon, and Amil Niazi join host Elamin Abdelmahmoud to get into it.
S1 Enull · Wed, September 09, 2020
Dancing with Carol Baskin + Tenet's Big Gamble
What do the opposite approaches of Mulan and Tenet's blockbuster openings tell us about the future of the film industry? And why does reality TV’s takeover of Dancing with the Stars matter?The Pop Chat panel gets into it. Featuring Kathleen Newman-Bremang, Angelina Chapin, Kevin Fallon, and host Elamin Abdelmahmoud. Don't forget to find us on Twitter: @popchatcbc
loading...