Don’t let those big blue eyes full you, M3GAN is one lethal bad bitch.
Paranoid Android: M3GAN Has Arrived!
Persephone could think of no better way to usher in 2023 then to invite best friend and collaborator Roger Conners to join her to discuss the much anticipated “robot companion goes wrong” thriller M3GAN. In this week’s episode we discuss technology as a nurturing tool, our fixation with tech and the seductive but deadly charm that is M3GAN. What can’t M3GAN do? Be your adopted child’s emotional touchstone? Check. Serve as a home school teacher for your child? Check. Protect your child with deadly consequences? Check, Check! Tune in and listen to our musings about our new favorite A.I. horror doll!
A great early surprise in the growing horror-comedy, world. Don’t miss the fascinating M3GAN!
The “Making of M3GAN” and the child who brings her to “life” might be even more interesting than the film itself.
These Gays Are Trying To Murder Me!
Tanya McQuoid…We Never deserved you.
Appointment television might seem like an antiquated concept of the past given the onslaught of streaming services enabling us to binge an entire series in one evening, but there are exceptions. In this case, the much anticipated season 2 of HBO’s The White Lotus had most people glued to their TV’s every Sunday night at 9pm for the last 7 weeks! Moving from Hawaii to another luxury resort in Sicily, Season 2 amps up the woes of wealthy Americans as they explore the seductive and curse-filled terrain of Taorima, Sicily. On this week’s PCP, Persephone is joined by return guest McKenzie Merriman and first time guest and musician Nick Seink as we delve into the themes of this season, how it connects or differs from Season 1, and how writer Mike White continues to challenge our expectations of prestige television.
With a brand new cast and the return of Season 1 fan favorite Tanya McQuoid (played by the tragically hilarious Jennifer Coolidge) Season 2 received an early buzz but cautious optimism. “How could it measure up to Season 1?,” asked the naysayers. Mike White’s brilliant writing coupled with a new backdrop and an exciting ensemble of actors squashed any doubts!
There are no wasted moments in The White Lotus, including the haunting title sequence!
The stars of season 2 of The White Lotus tell Rotten Tomatoes about working in a scenic paradise with stellar castmates and Emmy-winning creator Mike White.
Casey Anthony is Ready for Her Close Up
Really, who is this woman?
Breaking her eleven year silence, controversial “person of interest” Casey Anthony, who was acquitted of murdering her two-year-old child Caylee in 2011, has re-emerged on the Peacock Network in a 3-part “documentary” series where she gives her side of the story. In this week’s PCP, we discuss this controversial murder case and the mind boggling Peacock special that has our heads throbbing! Joined by first time guest Maggie McClave and return guest Sarah Hess, we discuss if and how this new “documentary” impacts our opinions on the case and the woman in question.
After watching this three part “documentary”, you may be faced with more questions than answers.
Well, the face of disgust says it all. Most people aren’t very pleased about this new special, especially Nancy Grace.
Just try following this timeline alongside Casey’s plethora of lies and half truths.
Is this a glare one of anger or latent longing? We’re discussing HBO’s first season of House of the Dragon
More Dragons, More Problems
The long awaited first season of HBO’s House of the Dragon just wrapped and similar to it’s predecessor Game of Thrones, we are on now on the precipice of war at the end of first season! This week on the PCP, Persephone is joined by first time guest and super-fan Paula Kampf as we discuss the riveting first season of HOTD including the treatment of the pivotal female characters, familial power struggles, incest marriage alliances, succession of the crown, and so many dragons! This episode is FILLED with spoilers so proceed with caution before listening or plan on watching all ten episodes. Dracarys!
While the first season of HOTD lived up to this epic trailer, we are only just beginning with the tragic story of the Fall of the Targaryen dynasty!
Feeling overwhelmed by the confusing family tree of the Hightowers and Targaryens? Of course you are! Thanks to my friend at Useful Charts, we have a little something to help you out as you head into the HOTD universe!
Did you know that the GOT universe was inspired by the real-life “War of the Roses” in medieval England in the late 18th century. Watch above for more insights!
Why are the Targaryen’s so hell-bent on ruling all of Westeros? A brief history of the Targaryen Conquest of Westeros based on the series A Song of Ice and Fire by George R. R. Martin.
Get to know the delightfully charming cast of HOTD and learn what they “nicked” from the set!
Doing Marilyn Dirty: The Problem with Blonde
On this week’s PCP, Persephone discusses the long anticipated movie Blonde and the character assassination of an American icon. This podcast is filled with spoilers, so please watch the movie on Netflix before tuning into the pod!
In spite of a horribly flawed movie, Ana de Armas gives a blistering and haunting performance as Monroe.
The Netflix movie is based on the 2000 bestseller Blonde by acclaimed writer Joyce Carol Oates. Oates. In this interview, Oates talks about her process of getting into the mind of Marilyn in this fictional account of her life.
While there have been countless actresses who have played Monroe from Mira Sorvino to Ashley Judd to Michelle Williams - Cuban-born Ana de Armas might be the one who physically resembles her likeness the most.
Good Luck to You, Leo Grande dares to ask, is there an expiration date to pleasure? Irish newcomer Daryl McCormack squares off with the formidable Dame Emma Thompson in this charming movie.
Good Luck to You, Leo Grande and the Journey to Pleasure
When do we stop seeking pleasure and sexual fulfillment? We discuss this and much more in this week’s PCP while Persephone is joined by friend and clinical expert in sexuality and relationships Rachel Drotar as we discuss the delightful Good Luck to You, Leo Grande.
Parallel Pop: Marlon Brando and Jared Leto
BONUS EPISODE!
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BONUS EPISODE! 〰️
This week Persephone brings you Parallel Pop, a bonus special episode focusing on the similarities between two wildly controversial actors: Marlon Brando and Jared Leto. Persephone discusses their use of method acting and how their personal lives have directly impacted - for both good and bad - into performances throughout their respective careers.
Kim K being an icon like no other as she enters SNL studios. In the last year leading up to the airing of The Kardashians, people would learn Kanye would walk out during the monologue of her momentous appearance and the Pete Davidson era would begin.
While the juggernaut of reality TV, Keeping Up With the Kardashians officially ended in June 2021, ending a 14 year relationship with the E! Network as their flagship program, “the family” would not go quietly into the night, often appearing on social media and the tabloids multiple times in one day. In the year between the launching of Hulu’s new The Kardashians, we have experienced a barrage of Kardashian news from Kim/Kanye/Pete sparring to the exhausting love affair between Kourtney and Travis Barker. With a much higher production value and budget, does this “new” show have what it takes for us to continue to watch the lives of this perplexing family play out when we already know what’s going to happen? On this week’s PCP, Kar-Jenner expert Roxy Reminick joins Persephone to parse out the details!
The drone cameras might give you motion sickness and the outfits continue to be a combination of dazzling and bizarre. Hulu’s The Kardashians is giving the fans exactly what they want, just in a nicer package.
There is not a better Kardashian impersonator than this woman - especially when it comes to Kourtney and Kim.
This riveting true crime gets the prestige treatment with HBO’s The Staircase starring dramatic heavyweights Colin Firth and Toni Collette.
Falling Down The Staircase
On December 9th 2001, Kathleen Peterson, a 48-year old executive, wife and mother, was found dead at the bottom of a stairwell at her lavish home in Durham, North Carolina. This incident would set the southern town on fire once it was revealed that local law enforcement suspected her husband , pipe-smoking writer Michael Peterson, of murder. First released as a compelling documentary in 2004 by the same name, HBO Max has gifted us a star-packed mini-series dramatizing not only the incident and the subsequent trial, but also events leading up to Kathleen’s demise. On this week’s PCP - with return guest Anna Rose - we discuss the case including the dynamics of the blended Peterson family, mysteries of Michael’s past and how this dramatization compares to documentary.
HBO Max helps color in the nuances of Peterson family, especially the often arrogant Michael.
The documentary - by the same name - provides a comprehensive and compelling examination of the Peterson case from both sides.
The tragic death of Kathleen had a resounding impact on the Peterson/Atwater blended family. Click HERE to learn more about the kids and where they are now.
In our opening tangent, Anna Rose and I devote some time to the 2022 Met Gala, the theme, the standout fashions and the exhausting presence of Jared Leto and his doppelganger. Click HERE for a collection of looks.
Ex-spouses and the most compatible and incompatible of lovers, Amber Heard and Johnny Depp.
Amber and Johnny: When Twin Flames Consume Each Other
In this week's PCP, special first time guest George Winstone joins Persephone to discuss the Johnny Depp/Amber Heard defamation trial and what it means outside of the realm of "celebrity." George provides an astrological blueprint of Johnny and Amber, providing insight on how these forces could have impacted the ultimate demise of this relationship. Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussion on physical and emotional abuse along with self-harm.
How did this combative duo get together?
In 2018, Amber Heard (seen here as Meera in Aquaman) penned a controversial Op-Ed in The Washington Post regarding the impact domestic violence had on her life. While Depp was not named directly in the article, upon it’s publication Depp was dropped from both the lucrative Pirates of the Caribbean and the Harry Potter franchises.
Human fecal matter in the bed as revenge?
It was all laughter until Jada’s eyeroll and then things pivoted dramatically.
That Oscar Slap and Doom Watching Start-Up Culture
We may never know really went down at the 94th Annual Academy Awards between Will Smith and Chris Rock, but that won’t keep Persephone from ruminating and theorizing about it on this week’s episode! Persephone unpacks the slapping scandal and what might have led up to it, plus briefly discussing some of the night’s wins and other surprises - since no one else seems to be mentioning them. In the second half of the show, Persephone shares her thoughts on the barrage of new “start-up failure” series treatments based on true stories including The Dropout, We Crashed and Super Pumped: The Battle for Uber. Is it about “changing the world” or just wanton narcissism and greed? Tune in to find out!
I’m only posting this because it’s my duty as a pop culture podcast host but I can’t watch this anymore.
Jada Pinkett Smith has been pretty vocal in the last few months regarding her struggles with alopecia so we gotta hope that Chris Rock just delivered a dated joke and this wasn’t a more personal dig.
There are two sides to every story. August Alsina, Jada Pinkett Smith’s former lover discussed his relationship with Jada.
The entire Oscar night wasn’t a complete dumpster fire. Lady Gaga exhibiting grace and respect for an ailing Liza Minelli was the way to end a rocky evening.
Hulu’s Dropout: Tune in for the fascinating tale of huckster Elizabeth Holmes played brilliantly by Amanda Seyfried.
Was Rebecca Neuman the Lady Macbeth behind the charismatic Adam Neuman or just someone searching desperately for identity? Check out Jared Leto and Anne Hathaway’s riveting portrayals of this real life power couple in Apple TV’s WeCrashed.
Ben Affleck is a shark-eyed emotionless “cuck” in Adrian Lyne’s Deep Water.
The Thrill is Gone: Reviewing "Deep Water" and a Kanye Wellness Check
This week on the PCP, Persephone and return guest Anna Rose split a bottle of red wine while suffering through the much anticipated Ben Affleck/Ana de Armas erotic thriller Deep Water. Suffice it to say, one bottle of wine was not enough to help us make it through this shallow attempt at titillation and marital misdeeds in this underwhelming flick, but at least our commentary is fun! We watched this one - so you could save your time and go straight to our review. As a bonus, Anna and I discuss the troubling latest news regarding Kanye West and if this behavior is part of his performative art, a cry for help or a combination of both.
The trailer is so promising, but the movie is so triflling.
I’m blaming it on the pandemic, The media when crazy in 2019 when co-stars Ana de Armas and Ben Affleck began dating after (or during?) wrapping Deep Water, often being photographed walking her tiny dog or drinking iced coffees from Dunkin Doughnuts. The couple even wore matching heart necklaces at one point! Alas, it was never meant to be with the couple splitting one year later and Affleck boomeranging back to Jennifer Lopez and Armas pairing up with a Tinder executive.
Calling it in - Affleck’s energy in the listless Deep Water.
We are worried, y’all.
Did they find love in a hopeless place? Check out Season 2 or Netflix’s Love is Blind now or just let us spoil it for you!
Love is Blind and Messy
It’s the enthusiastic return of Netflix’s dating show Love is Blind and it’s exactly what we expected: cringeworthy/shocking/predictable and completely unpredictable! Persephone is joined this week by Cleveland-based theatre artist Amiee Collier to unpack the series and ask the big questions regarding the believability of the connections, our favorite (and not-so-favorite) cast members, and who we think will “go the distance.” This much requested episode is filled with spoilers - so be warned!
So addicting, Netflix did it again. The Love is Blind, Season 2 trailer.
So, what the hell are the rules with this show that you might now know about? Watch this brief YouTube video for some behind-the-scenes.
Were you a fan of Season 1 of Love is Blind? Did you “shame-eat” every episode and special like Persephone including “After the Altar?” Watch this video for even more details on the Season 1 cast.
Julia Garner leaning into her role as Anna Delvey in Netflix’s “Inventing Anna.”
“Inventing Anna” with Anna
On this week's much anticipated episode, New York artist Anna Meyer joins Persephone as we discuss America's chicest and most unpleasant con-woman, Anna Delvey and the Netflix series, "Inventing Anna." Join us as we parse out fact vs. fiction, the Shonda Rhimes hyperbole problem, and trying to discern between true story and dramatic narrative.
Is truth stranger than fiction? The actual Anna Sorokin, her peculiar accent - not to mention her complete lack of accountability - highlighted on 60 Minutes Australia in 2021.
If you are looking for subtle, understated performances, you will not find one in Netflix’s “Inventing Anna.” Everyone, especially Julia Garner, is deeply immersed in “Shondaland” and “Shondalandisms” in this series.
While characterized in the series as a disloyal opportunist, the real Rachel Williams is a much more sympathetic person when being interviewed by ABC News. Rachel would go on to write the book, “My Friend Anna,” about Rachel’s experience being grifted by fake heiress Anna Delvey.
Cheddar provides a hilarious description of how Anna Sorokin (Delvey) was able to nimbly fool New York’s rich and influential for so long.
94th Annual Academy Awards Nominations
Somehow its Oscars Awards season again so your trusty Persephone is back and dropping three episodes devoted to the 94th Annual Academy Award nominations! With the ceremony returning to their traditional home at LA's epic Dolby Theatre and a return to a host format, will the March 27th event feel more reminiscent of the Oscars of yore or will the malaise of COVID-19 still hang thick in the air? While time will tell on these questions, during this three-part series Persephone and special first time guest and Oscar expert Stuart Hoffman will dive deep into the nominee pool and who we think should win compared to who we think will win. A can't miss multi-part episode for film and Oscar fans!
So who is exactly nominated this year? Check out this brief Washington Post rundown of our contenders in 2022.
Some surprises, but also some of the usual suspects.
For the first time ever, three women are hosting the Academy Awards.
“It’s just such an honor even to be nominated!” Yeah, yeah, but our favorite celebrities really enjoy winning.
Let’s face it, these award ceremonies can DRAG, so I can only hope that awkwardness will be delivered in spades on March 27th.
An overly patient Pam Anderson (played by Lily Collins) gets to know impulsive livewire of a new husband Tommy Lee (played by Sebastian Stan) in Hulu’s Pam and Tommy.
Getting Naked with Pam and Tommy
Before the Kim Kardashian of it all, the only viral celebrity sex tape that mattered was the one linked to those kooky newlyweds Pamela Anderson and Tommy Lee in 1995. This week on the PCP, Persephone is joined by reality tv superfan Peter Clark as we dive into Hulu’s miniseries Pam and Tommy - a pretty accurate re-telling of the brief courtship between America’s biggest sex symbol of the 90’s and rock-n-roll’s bad boy drummer. With Lily James and Sebastian Stan impressively inhabiting these roles, the series is an interesting reflection on how celebrity was treated at the height of paparazzi culture while people were still figuring out the monetary capabilities of the internet. What was the real story behind this love affair and did the sex tape scandal ruin their chances of happily-ever-after or where they a “doomed from the beginning” couple? Peter and Persephone will discuss our thoughts on the power couple, that mid-90’s vibe, and how this celebrity sex tape set a precedent for much more to come.
Rand Gauthier (seen here as porn actor Austin Moore) once starred in more than 75 pornographic movies before becoming an electrician and working briefly for the Lee’s. Rolling Stone covered how Rand got involved in stealing from the couple in this 2014 article which would become the basis of the Hulu miniseries.
Pam and Tommy is definitely one of the most salacious and/or exploitative (depends on who you ask) new additions to the February lineup but well worth checking out for the transformational performances of Lily James and Sebastian Stan as the titular characters.
So, what does is really take to become one of the most notorious couples of the mid-90’s?
Before there was Pam, there was the Crue.
The most infamous celebrity sex tape ever would first be distributed via the Internet from Love Club but would make it onto VHS and later DVD and manufactured by Vivid Entertainment by 1998.
Just listen to the podcast, it will all make sense.
Rue, played seamlessly by Zendaya, doing the very most in HBO’s Euphoria. Season 2 is airing now.
Teenage Wasteland: HBO’s Euphoria
Our focus on the horrors of being a teen continue as we examine the beauty and nightmarish hellscape that is HBO’s Euphoria as it rockets into its second season. Created by Sam Levinson and featuring Emmy-award winner Zendaya in a career defining performance as Rue, this series dives headlong into addiction, sexuality, love, violence, and gender - all set to an unmistakable score by Labrinth. Tune in this week as special first time guest Mo Eutazia Dugger joins Persephone to discuss the impact of this series, why we are so drawn to messy characters, and what we are feeling about the future of the controversial series. This episode contains spoilers from season one and two!
No one has it easy on Euphoria, regardless of social posturing and some of the best makeup design on television. View this article on ScreenRant that ranks the most tragic pasts of our Euphoria cast members.
Did you know creator Sam Levinson took much of this show’s story inspiration from his own life? Or that Angus Cloud, who plays Fez, was discovered walking down the street? Click HERE to read some untold truths of Euphoria from The List.
Not for the faint of heart - or anyone with sensory sensitivities - the electrifying, genre-mixing, season 2 trailer for Euphoria!
A brief moment of levity from the harrowing and brilliant Yellowjackets.
Girls Gone Wild: Showtime’s Yellowjackets!
Showtime pulled a bloody rabbit out of it's hat when dropping the 90's-era teen survival drama Yellowjackets in late November, brilliantly situated alongside the reboot of Dexter: New Blood on their Sunday lineup. A tautly wrapped drama focusing on a girls varsity soccer team who inexplicably survive 19 months in the Canadian wilderness after their plane crashes while in route to a national championship, Yellowjackets seamlessly shifts between two timelines - 1996 and 2021. What really happened in the wilderness and who survived the 25-year tragedy is the driving action of this series with enough hidden clues and "Easter eggs" to warm the heart of any rabid Reddit superfan! Tune in this week as special return guest McKenzie Merriman joins Persephone to discuss this first season, our theories, our character favorites and how Yellowjackets is raising the bar for the rest of genre television. This episode is filled with spoilers - be forewarned!
Mid-90’s nostalgia mixed with mystery, terror and female power dynamics. Yellowjackets delivers it all!
How would you do out in the Canadian wilderness? Check out this hilarious video of cast members thoughts on survival tools.
Get to know the spirited female cast of Yellowjackets at the Vulture Festival.
From PJ Harvey to Salt N Pepa to Jane’s Addiction to Wilson Phillips, the strategic music drops in each episode of Yellowjackets expertly highlight the action (sometimes terrifying, sometimes hilariously) of every episode. Click HERE for Vague Visages song guide to each episode.
The Best (and Worst) of 2021
While our feet are now firmly planted in 2022, this week we look back on 2021 and discuss the very best (and very worst) in what pop culture had to offer in the last year. Whether it was delighting in watching the top 3% suffer under the weight of their own misery in shows like The White Lotus and Succession or the warmth that only Jason Sudekis provides in Ted Lasso, we watched it all and are sharing our thoughts! Return guest host Anna Rose joins Persephone to compare lists and pontificate about the year in review. Tune in to hear about things you should have already watched (or ignored) if you rarely left your house this last year in 2021.
Find yourself a gal who can “hoover” a hoagie from the local Wawa while solving crimes (and still look beautiful.) Kate Winslet’s contribution to 2021 in the compelling Mare of Eastown on HBO Max made it on both of our lists.
JonBenet Ramsey, age 6, winning one of a handful of beauty pageant titles. JonBenet would be found murdered on December 26, 2021 at her home in Boulder, Colorado.
The JonBenet Ramsey Cold Case 25 Years Later
On December 26, 1996, six-year-old beauty queen JonBenet Ramsey was found murdered in her affluent family's mansion in Boulder, Colorado. An incompetent police force, a bungled crime scene, uncooperative family members and an overwhelming amount of peculiar inconsistencies have all led to this tragedy remaining cold for the last 25 years. Her murder — which is still unsolved — became one of the decade's most famous police investigations. On this week's PCP, Persephone and special first time guest Troy Escamilla discuss this harrowing case, including controversial theories, the evidence, the rumors and how the media couldn't get enough of the child beauty pageant angle. In a bizarre pop culture connection, this case would ultimately inspire the popularity of programs like Toddlers and Tiaras and Dance Moms. Tune in for this “can’t-miss” true crime/pop culture crossover!
Like mother, like daughter. Former Miss West Virginia Patsy Ramsey shining bright.
Recently, 20/20 re-examined some of the evidence in this controversial case.
In a controversial move, John and Patsy Ramsey granted CNN an exclusive interview after their daughter’s funeral in Atlanta. Since the Ramsey’s had refused to a formal interview by Boulder police at this time, this move would further raise suspicion about the parents.
The infamous Patsy Ramsey 9-1-1 call upon discovery of the ransom note.
In 2016, JonBenet’s brother Burke Ramsey broke his silence and granted an unnerving interview with Dr. Phil.
In 1999, Boulder law enforcement officer Linda Arndt, who was present when Jon Ramsey discovered JonBenet’s body, was interviewed by ABC News. Arndt contends that she knows who murdered JonBenet.
In 2006, former teacher John Mark Karr falsely confessed to murdering JonBenet.
Check out the haunting 2017 documentary film about the death of JonBenét Ramsey and the large impact it left behind directed by Kitty Green.
Chris Noth (Mr. Big) settling into a brief but happy domesticity with wife Sarah Jessica Parker (Carrie).
And Just Like That…SATC Returns
Did we really need to dust off Sex and the City in 2021 and reboot it? Were fans clamoring to return to a fancy and privileged AF NYC in a post-COVID, post-Trump world? Regardless of how you feel about the SATC machine, HBO Max just dropped the first two episodes of And Just Like That…, picking up about 10 years after the disastrous SATC 2 movie with Carrie, Charlotte, Miranda but without Samantha - due to a falling out between SJP and Kim Cattrall that the general public might never understand. What are Persephone’s first reactions to this reboot? Does the dynamic work without Cattrall? Does is have legs or should they have left well enough alone? Tune in now for a SPOILER-FILLED podcast!
Ugh, this trailer is tough to watch.
“We’ve never been friends.” Ouch. What in the hell happened up in here?
Maybe we will never know what caused the rift between SJP and Kim Cattrall.
Was this planned or a “wardrobe malfunction?” Regardless, we revisit the most infamous breast of the early 2000’s in the FX for Hulu documentary The New York Times Presents Malfunction: The Dressing Down of Janet Jackson.
Revisiting “Nipplegate” and the Janet Jackson Superbowl Scandal
As we move into the new year, it seems abundantly clear that the media is obsessed with looking back to the early ‘aughts and reflecting on how we treated our pop stars - especially the female ones - when they sauntered into controversial territory. On this episode of the PCP, Persephone reflects on the infamous Superbowl 2004 “Nipplegate” scandal, how the media vilified Janet Jackson while protecting Justin Timberlake, and the other power players at the epicenter of this culture war. Make sure to check out FX’s The New York Times Presents: The Dressing Down of Janet Jackson before unpacking this podcast with Persephone!
It’s debatable if we learn anything really new or surprising in this mini-doc on the 2004 “Nipplegate” controversy, but it’s at least refreshing to hear people admit that there was a disparity of treatment between responsible parties.
In retrospect and per the documentary, Miss Jackson was the performer the NFL was least worried about leading up to the 2004 Halftime Show. Their concerns were more centered on Kid Rock’s supposed disrespectful use of the American flag and Nelly and P. Diddy’s suggestive song lyrics. Most people don’t even remember anyone else besides Janet and Justin, though.
This is the documentary to anticipate - set to premiere on Lifetime and A&E in January 2022.
In other news, former “virgin” Bachelor Colton Underwood is getting his second act after a controversial couple of years.
Lady GaGa playing murderess Patrizia Reggiana Gucci in House of Gucci
November PCP Purge
The November Purge is upon us, so it’s time to sit back, relax and listen to Persephone and guests dish about some hot gossip and pressing pop culture topics impacting them on all fronts. Topics during this wild ride include our true feelings about the long awaited House of Gucci, JoJo Siwa as a queer teen ballroom queen, our competitive dating show set in Cleveland, that troubling Maddie Ziegler/Sia relationship, the enduring legacy and impact of Tyra Banks, Kristen Stewart’s Oscar buzz as Lady Diana and much more! Persephone is joined by fellow podcaster and collaborator Roger Conners alongside his boyfriend and first time guest, Gustavo Folhadella! You don’t want to miss this slightly unhinged, NSFW episode!
What evil producer decided to put JoJo - queen of the prominent forehead - in terrifying Pennywise guise? Great dancing, terrifying effect.
When are we going to stop putting prosthetics on Jared Leto to “become” old bald men? If you must, learn about his process in becoming Paolo Gucci. Also, he is a low key cult leader and I am sure this will come out in the next five years.
Two Broadway queens - Shoshanna Bean and Cynthia Erivo - giving us some Taylor Swift like you have never heard before, accompanied by a string ensemble of course.
The haunting Spencer with Kristen Stewart is Oscar bait if I have ever seen it.
YouTuber Sloan has a much more affectionate take on Maddie Ziegler - especially in light of her relationship with Sia.
Because we can’t stop talking junk holistic health and vagina eggs.
Remember when they tried to turn Tyra Banks into a pop star in 2007? We do - here is the evidence.
Is this a case of the higher the hair, the closer to God?
Big Hair, Skinny Bodies and a Religious Diet Cult
On this week’s PCP we discuss larger than life evangelical Gwen Shamblin Lara, her rise to fame and power in the Remnant Church, and her terrifying and abusive weight loss philosophy that bolstered her fortune and destroyed many in it’s path. With the help of HBO Max’s multi-part documentary The Weigh Down: God, Greed and the Cult of Gwen Shamblin Persephone examines how one skinny woman - and her out of work actor second husband - scammed their way to success.
In the early 2000’s, Gwen was an inescapable and affable presence on the talk show circuit. Here with Tyra, Gwen’s methodologies seem most aligned with intuitive eating but people would come to find out the tenets of the program revolved around starvation, fasting and other problematic aspects.
This man was the literal worst.
It’s Sexy Stalker Season - The Return of Netflix’s You
Our anti-hero Joe Goldberg is barely one step ahead of the game in Season 3 of You.
It only seems fitting to binge watch all of season 3 of Netflix’s surprise “good guy or stalker” series You featuring skinny, pensive heartthrob stalker Joe Goldberg (played brilliantly by Penn Badgley) during Scorpio season. And that’s just what Persephone did! This week, Persephone is joined by special guest McKenzie Merriman as we unpack this addictive, troubling TV show and discuss victimization, obsession, love and shared trauma.
If you don’t have time to mainline seasons 1 and 2 (or if you need a reminder of what you missed) here you go. But honestly, just watch it. Also, Netflix darling Victoria Pedretti is a dream in everything she touches.
Love and Joe and baby makes three as this fucked family settles in suburban hell in Season 3 of You.
I think we can all admit that sex is better when the person is just a little “off.”
Persephone Gets Personal & Why It’s Hard to Love Madonna
It's a mixed bag this week as Persephone goes personal on why she's been vacant for so long and ways she is learning to cope during this transition from summer to fall. After this emotional purge, Persephone dives into the perplexing world of Madonna's Madame X just in time for the Paramount Network release of the concert film. I am not sure anyone was asking for this, but Madonna has never been one to care about pleasing anyone.
Madonna is Madame X. At least for this period of time.
The Reckoning of Monica Lewinsky
So, what’s the stupidest thing you did when you were 22? On this week’s PCP, Persephone is joined by 90’s-nostalgia expert and friend Anna Rose as we dive into Ryan Murphy’s latest reflection on 90’s era politics with American Crime Story: Impeachment. This mini-series promises to focus on former President Bill Clinton’s affair with 22-year old intern Monica Lewinsky, the duplicitous tactics of White House staffer Linda Tripp, and the media’s eviscerating treatment of every female connected to Clinton. Tune in for this preview episode as we reflect on all things Monica and Bill.
If you lived through the 90’s, this one might hurt a little as Ryan Murphy’s American Crime Story: Impeachment promises to shine a light on how we treated the women involved in the “Clinton Scandal.” Yeah, it ain’t pretty.
Slut shaming, bullying, misogyny and reclaiming your narrative - Check out an older, wiser Monica Lewinsky in this impressive Ted Talk.
There is no “Clinton Scandal” without talking about Slick Willy’s better half, Hillary. Strategic, intelligent and highly divisive, it might make sense to check out this documentary on Hulu as a companion piece to how we go here.
CNN broke the news about the Clinton/Lewinsky sex scandal and how it was tied to the pending Whitewater real estate case.
Whose who in Impeachment?
The waters run deep with Israel Dimri.
FBoy Island’s Israel Dimri on Sexuality, Religion and Reality TV
On this very special episode of the PCP (and a follow up to the Fboy Island episode), Persephone sits down with Fboy Island cast member Israel Dimri to spill some tea and separate the fact from fiction! We discuss Israel’s philosophy on the Fboy concept, his thoughts on sexuality, religion, honesty in relationships, and why he should be defined as a lover, not a Fboy. Not just a pretty face, Israel is bringing his truths and wisdom to the PCP this week for you!
To discover even more about Israel, visit his website HERE where you can connect with him via OnlyFans, Instagram, TikTok, Facebook or Snapchat!
Can you look like this and be a nice guy?
Welcome to FBoy Island!
In July of this year, HBO Max continued to exceed expectations with a “dating” reality show that spoke to Persephone’s heart. FBoy Island! This week, Persephone is joined by special repeat guest Sarah Hess who also consumed every delicious episode and they are here to unpack the elements of this very self-aware show! Think of FBoy Island as Bachelor in Paradise without the pesky limitations of censoring and with a bevy of the most flamboyant, peacocking men ever to grace the small screen. Part strategy, part comedy, part adventure and a maybe a little romance - this is the summer time treat you have been waiting for! This episode is hilarious and full of spoilers so be forewarned!
Who is the Fboy and who is the Nice Guy? If this trailer doesn’t compel you, I have failed.
What is an Fboy ( also referred to as fuck boy, fuckboi, and fuccboi)? There are certainly nuances to the Fboy moniker. Check out this Men’s Health article mainsplaining the meaning of Fboy-ery.
Spotted just days ago via “reputable” news source TMZ: That lowdown King FBoy Garrett hanging out with big bearded Greg and Sarah!? I honestly have no sympathy for this woman anymore.
Yes, this show is ridiculous, but it is also one of the most hilarious summer escapes you will find on HBO Max thanks greatly to host Nikki Glaser.
The Saga of Amanda Knox
In 2007, American exchange student Amanda Knox found herself - along with Rafaelle Sollecito, her Italian boyfriend of one week - embroiled in the grisly murder case of her roommate, English exchange student Meredith Kercher. After two trials, Knox and Sollecito were fully exonerated in 2015 on grounds of insufficent and shoddy evidence, but the blight of this devastating case has continued to follow them around, especially Knox. Tune in today to learn more about the Amanda Knox case, the lack of justice for the Kercher family and all the books, documentaries, podcasts and movies that have been inspired from this case.
Does the director of Stillwater owe Amanda Knox an apology for partially cribbing her harrowing tale into this movie or is Knox being unreasonable given her notoriety?
In case you want to check out the 2011 Lifetime movie on Amanda Knox, you can check it out here. While Hayden Panettiere does her quirky, charming best in the titular role, this movie doesn’t have much teeth.
The much-talked about Diane Sawyer interview with Amanda Knox.
Make up your own mind about Amanda from the 2016 Netflix documentary.
Another less affectionate documentary on Amanda Knox.
Schmigadoon!
On this very musical episode of the PCP, Persephone is joined by return guest Kate Atherton as we unpack Apple TV’s hilarious send-up to classic musical theatre in Schmigadoon! Yes, we are about to spoil this whole series for you so be forewarned!
A couple in trouble lands in a magical musical land but only one is enchanted…I feel like I’ve been on this date before. Welcome to Schmigadoon!
Among the plethora of musical theatre references from Carousel to Oklahoma, Schmigadoon! owes a lot to the magical world of Brigadoon!
If you think some of the music, scenes and characters look strangely familiar, you’re right! Schmigadoon! has musical theatre references aplenty! Check out it out HERE.
Was Ross Ulbricht a Dangerous Drug Kingpin or a Free Market Cyber Hero?
It’s a solo PCP this week as Persephone dives (sorta) deep into the Dark Web and the tale of Ross Ulbricht, the young mastermind behind Silk Road, an online illegal drug marketplace where users could anonymously purchase everything from mesculin to heroin using bitcoin as their non-traceable currency. Lauded by many as a folk hero for his Libertarian ideologies and a free and open marketplace, Ulbricht’s meteroic rise and fall lasted barely three years until his arrest and subsequent double life sentence. Persephone discusses the recent bio-pic Silk Road and Alex Winter’s Deep Web documentary and their treatment of this perplexing case. Stay tuned for the end of episode for Ask Persephone! segment all about the possibilities of love between fan and star!
I don’t love this movie, but Nick Robinson does an impressive job portraying Ross Ulbricht in moments of great ambition and anxiety while his empire crumbles.
Was Ross Ulbricht an overly ambitious entrepreneur or was he something more dangerous?
What in the hell does the Princess Bride’s Dread Pirate Roberts have to do with the Silk Road legacy and Ross Ulbricht? Read an interesting take from Wired Magazine HERE to understand this fascinating pop culture spiderweb and if this pseudonym was shared by several people - just like in the movie.
More money, more problems. The new cast of Gossip Girl looks a little different this time around but the parallels to the original cast are evident.
Wealthy, Woke, Queer and Vicious: Gossip Girl Returns
The recent premiere of Gossip Girl (2021) still found ways to surprise audiences in new and compelling ways just like its 2007 predecessor. This time, the GG puppet master is a more realistic collective of disgruntled teachers as opposed to a single entity.
We never knew how hungry we were to revisit the troubles of wealthy upper east side teens until HBO Max decided to relaunch Gossip Girl this July! This time around, the literal white-washed world of Serena, Blair and Dan are replaced with the more diverse Generation Z counterparts of Julien, Monet, Zoya, and Aki. Additionally, our Gossip Girl isn’t one person, but a collection of angry Constance Billard teachers aimed at punishing these privileged trust funders into submission. Persephone, alongside first time guests Sarah Hess and Alexa Jones, examine the legacy of Gossip Girl, the changes to the reboot, the most captivating characters, and some predictions. Yes, we might go on a bit of a tangent related to other teen shows but that’s to be expected. You know you love us! XOXO
We all need some visuals on this new fancy ass cast.
As a reminder, Dan Humphreys (played by Penn Badgley) turned out to be Gossip Girl the first time around - a fact that continues to baffle many including the original cast.
Every damn day was a party in the early days of WeWork!
Failure to Launch - The Millennial Fantasy of WeWork
Who is Adam and Rebekah Neumann and how did their collective egos and new-age capitalism drive a thriving business into near bankruptcy in 11 years? We dig into the story of WeWork, an office sharing company that really wanted to be a tech disruptor while redefining the way people work and interact. This fascinating story has inspired a Hulu documentary, several "think pieces" and a highly awaited Apple TV movie called We Crash featuring Oscar winners Jared Leto and Ann Hathaway taking on the roles of Adam and Rebekah. Did I mention that Rebekah is Gwyneth Paltrow's first cousin? Tune in for a fascinating story.
Did Adam Neumann really think he could save the world through a “We-Work” takeover or is he just a tall, good looking hustler fueled by greed?
Forbes explains the money stuff better than Persephone. Check out this video.
Look out for the upcoming WeCrashed movie on Apple TV with Jared Leto and Anne Hathaway as eye-rolling super couple Adam and Rebekah. We are still waiting on the release date.
Britney Speaks and the World is Listening
It’s been one hell of a week for Britney Jean Spears, the Free Britney movement, the state of her conservatorship and more! After the “leaked” audio of Britney’s day in court hit the internet last week, it became abundantly clear that her 13 year conservatorship has been far more restrictive than anyone could have imagined. While Britney and boyfriend Sam decompress in Hawaii, what are the next steps for our favorite pop star? Will the court grant her petition to end this conservatorship or did her passionate pleas cause more damage? Joined by return guest and Britney expert Susan Sandberg, we discuss the background of this saga and our predictions on what might be next. In addition, on this week’s Ask Persephone! it’s all about musical theatre queen and legend Rita Moreno!
It is worth listening to the entire thing.
Academy award winning actress and Latina trailblazer Rita Moreno is the subject of this week’s Ask Persephone!
Taryn Manning - from calculating inmate to racist Karen. No stone is unturned in this week’s PCP.
June PCP Purge - Unauthorized Celine, In the Heights, Rapey Scientologists and More!
Persephone is joined by guest favorite Roger Conners as we have a very unfocused discussion on all things pop culture during our June PCP Purge! This is a wild ride this week and there is really a little bit of something for everyone including discussions on Meg Ryan’s face, Taryn Manning’s next move in Karen, submarine-phobia, an unauthorized Celine Dion film along with some of our personal entertainment recommendations! Due to the length of episode, Ask Persephone! will return next week.
To learn more about the genesis of Tom Cruise’s smile and that middle front tooth in question click HERE.
Who is scarier? Crossing Leah Remini or the Church of Scientology?
The Anna Faris masterpiece you have probably never watched and one of the most hilarious stoner movies every made.
No one moves like Ann Margaret or Liza Minnelli but Kristin Wiig does a great homage.
Aline, the unauthorized Celine Dion biography I never knew I needed.
BET’s Karen is gonna be something indeed.
In my opinion, we are always teetering towards the Purge. The latest and last (?) installment to be released soon.
I haven’t been this excited about female assassins since Kill Bill. Praying that Gunpowder Milkshake delivers!
Broadway’s Daphne Rubin Vega making it 110% worth it to head back into the theatres as Daniela in John M. Chu’s In The Heights.
What came first, Kat DeLuna’s “Whine Up” or Lin-Manuel’s “Carnavale del Barrio?” I dare you not see the similarities!
If you haven’t heard of Paula Pell, you are missing out. Most recently she has been featured in Peacock’s Tina Fey created Girls 5eva, but click HERE to see some memorable roles of this actress/comedian/writer.
I didn’t know I needed to see the Pam and Tommy drama re-enacted until I saw these photos of Sebastian Stan and Lily James. Keep your eyes out for the 8-part series set to launch on Hulu sometime in 2021.
Ball Pits, Dirty RVs, Men Dressed as Cats and Why The Bachelorette Persists
After a tumultuous year for the Bachelor franchise culminating in the recent departure of perennial host and average white dude Chris Harrison, Season 17 of The Bachelorette has arrived and its business as usual. On this episode of the PCP, Persephone is joined by guest host - and romance expert - Rachel Drotar to discuss the myriad issues with this franchise, if this crop of men are here for “the right reasons”, and if gimmicks and manufactured romance might be the wrong way to begin love’s journey. Stay tuned at the end of the episode for a timely Friends-related question for the Ask Persephone! segment!
Ahhhh, created romance on a resort with a bunch of strangers. The glory and weirdness of The Bachelorette.
She REALLY dug this dude and I am just not understanding anything anymore.
Some of these entrances - per usual - are just plain painful to experience but I guess you gotta have a gimmick.
Still wondering how Chris Harrison got pushed out? Check out former Bachelorette Rachel Lindsay’s podcast and great response to this mess on her Higher Learning podcast.
A face so pretty, a cry so ugly. Kim in tears over the years.
Reflecting on the Kardashian Reality Empire
In it’s 20th season and 14th year, the juggernaut Keeping Up With The Kardashians is coming to an end. What started out as a fascinating peek into the Calabasas lifestyle of a blended family with very familiar last names, would quickly turn into a launching pad to mega-fame (not to mention multiple product lines) for each sister until the world was referring to them by first name only: Kim, Kourtney, Khloe, Kendall, Kylie and mom-ager Kris. Joined by first time guest and resident Kardashian expert Roxy Reminick, we examine the genesis of the series, the romances, marriages, fights, meltdowns, spinoffs, and family dynamics that is family Kardashian.
Persephone is not here to drag the Kardashians to filth for lying about some aggressive nicks and tucks over the year (not to mention non-stop cultural appropriation) but some of alterations are simply not a result of big salads, water and better lighting. A little honesty would be so refreshing.
Here’s the deal: We tune in for the fashion and vocal fry, but we stay for the fights.
Who knew that the “boring Kardashian” Kourtney would be the most talked about sister in 2021 due to this odd Travis Barker relationship. Persephone just can’t get herself to care.
Jordyn Woods was viciously dragged by the Kardashians’ (especially Khloe) for her involvement in one of Tristan Thompson’s many cheating incidents, but luckily Jada and crew humanized her during The Red Table Talk and gave her a much needed platform to discuss her version of the story. She’s gonna be just fine.
Nobody cares about Jonathan Cheban aka FoodGod and Professional Hanger-On of Kim K but he’s as inescapable
The height of Bennifer 1.0…that damn “Jenny from the Block” video they would both come to regret.
Bennifer 3.0 and Why History Might Be Repeating Itself
On this week’s PCP, Persephone was forced to look straight into the eyes of the hurricane that is Bennifer 3.0. Is this a hoax? Is Jennifer Lopez just trying to piss off ex-fiancee Alex Rodriguez in the midst of a broken engagement and cheating rumblings? Is Ben Affleck better the second time around? The media appears to be as salacious as ever, tripping over themselves trying to catch a glimpse of these old lovers in action, causing us to fondly reminisce about days gone by when the first iteration of this power couple emerged on the scene in the mid-2000’s. This week, Persephone is joined by first time guest Kisha Nicole to discuss the history of Bennifer, the mating habits of Jen and Ben, cringe-worthy declarations of love and much more on this very timely PCP episode. The “love-fest” continues on Ask Persephone! this week as Persephone answers a question about superfans and celebrities falling in love!
Eeessh…they did this at the height of the madness and 17 years later it’s still as bizarre as ever.
The paparazzi shot that recently got all the tongues wagging! Back in the mid-2000’s though, it was hard to beat the star power of Bennifer on a red carpet or just running to get a bite to eat! Click HERE to view some of the most dazzling looks of this duo!.
2003’s Gigli was a box-office disaster featuring the lovers followed by their second box-office bomb Jersey Girl.
JLo and then fiancee Alex Rodriguez brought in 2020 in paradise with their blended family. Notice the prominent photo of a lean Lopez front and center. In spite of the perfectly curated Instagram posts, in early April, the power couple split amidst rumors of betrayal on Rodriguez’s part, issuing a joint statement that they “are better off as friends.” Click HERE for the People article on the split.
Out with the trash! Prior to the JLo retread, Affleck had a pandemic love-fest with Deep Water (to be released) co-star and another Latina beauty Ana de Armas throughout most of 2020 and during the height of the pandemic. As reported by the Daily Mail, on January 18th, 2021, the couple splits and someone in a landscaping shirt is snapped throwing out a giant cardboard cutout of de Armas into the trash receptacles outside of Affleck’s L.A. home. Smooth. For all the details, click HERE.
Dating just sucks for everyone. Ben Affleck leaving an awkward message for some Instagram model on the dating app Raya. This made me feel bad for him, actually.
If Lopez is able to inspire Affleck to return to this level of swagger, I am on board.
NYC Club Kid King Michael Alig in a moment of drug tripping hyperbole.
Murder in Clubland - The Rise and Fall of Michael Alig
Once upon a time in a land called New York City, a gay kid from Indiana landed in Manhattan and set nightlife ablaze as one of the most creative, influential and wild party promoters the city has ever encountered. As the self-proclaimed “King of the Club Kids,” Michael Alig made it exciting to explore New York City nightlife again while creating a unique world elevating misfits, eccentrics and LGBTQ youth as his band of superstar children. With all the promise of a “new world” Warhol, how did it culminate into a grisly, drug-fueled murder? Listen to this week’s PCP as Persephone delves into the nightclub underworld and the drug-addled brain of Michael Alig.
A very young Rupaul pictured with writer Michael Musto (in glasses) who broke the story through a blind item in the Village Voice about the murder of Angel Melendez and Michael Alig’s direct involvement.
Yes, long before “Shantay, you stay”, Ms. Rupaul Charles was considered one of the many Club Kids. For a deeper perspective of this world, read the Perspex article HERE.
In 2003, Macauley Culkin made his return to the screen (after a 9 year absence) in the film Party Monster where he portrayed the over-the-top Michael Alig. The film is based on Disco Bloodbath, the memoir of James St. James, a sometimes friend of Alig and a fellow Club Kid and NYC personality. The movie details his tense friendship with Alig, the cataclysmic drug addiction and the subsequent murder of Andre "Angel" Melendez. There is also a 1998 documentary on the murder called Party Monster: The Shockumentary, used for certain elements of the film. The movie isn’t great, but it does a good job at illustrating the environment.
Andre “Angel” Melendez was only 24 when he was murdered at the hands of “friends” and customers Michael Alig and Robert “Freeze” Riggs.
The Club Kids were great in so many ways, just proudly terrifying middle America with guest appearances on talk shows like Donahue and Geraldo which brought these lovable misfits into people’s living rooms. Check out this segment of Geraldo to see some of the most hilarious reactions of the audience.
Michael Alig, 20 years after his manslaughter conviction, details his ever-changing recollection of Angel’s murder. It’s difficult to discern if Alig genuinely feels remorse for his actions or a jittery excitement to reinvent himself.
In my opinion, Glory Daze is the best documentary out there chronicling the meteoric rise of the Club Kids, NYC nightlife in the late 80’s to the mid-90’s, and the murder that ended it all.
Walt Cassidy (aka Walt Paper in his Club Kids days) pictured today.
While the horrific murder of Angel Melendez dominated the Club Kid narrative for years, some survivors of this era such as RuPaul, fashion designer Richie Rich from fashion house Heatherette, writer James St. James and photographer Walt Cassidy (aka Walt Paper) have grown artistically and introspectively over the years. In 2019, Cassidy published a beautiful book illustrating the colorful landscape the Club Kids created called, New York Club Kids. Read the Vogue interview with Walt HERE.
Rey kicking ass during her first mono a mono showdown with Ben Solo (aka Kylo Ren) in Star Wars: The Force Awakens. Those misogynistic fan boys weren’t thrilled about the female of it all.
May the 4th Be With You -
Ladies Edition
On this week’s PCP, Persephone is joined by some amazing Star Wars superfans - return guests Hannah Storch, Kate Atherton and Susan Sandberg - to honor the women of the Star Wars franchise on Star Wars Day! Not only do we look back at the impact of Carrie Fisher’s General Leia Organa, but we discuss how this paved the way for female characters who had even more agency and strength throughout the franchise. Yes, we go on a few tangents about droids and Yoda’s wife Yaddle, but overall it’s a not-miss for any Star Wars superfans!
The introduction of Rey gave a younger generation of Star Wars fans the nimble, kick-ass Jedi we longed to see on the big screen while it showed an older generation of Star Wars fans what we were missing.
Looking to learn more about Princess Leia’s life before she met up with our band of rebels? Check out this Susan Sandberg recommended YA novel by Claudia Gray. Click HERE to read up on this via the Wiki.
As if the metal bikini wasn’t rough enough. Not everything is high brow.
Just more information you didn’t know you needed to know about the female-identifying Yaddle.
A heartbreaking performance to marvel at by the late Chadwick Boseman as Levee in Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom.
First Annual Oscar Nomination Deep Dive!
On this week's PCP, special first-time guest Tim Collingwood joins Persephone to discuss the upcoming 93rd Annual Academy Awards in a very special three-part episode released days leading up to the show! It’s a PCP first! We discuss the difference between who we think should win compared to who we think will win. In part one, we discuss the Best Picture, Best Director and Best Actor nominees along with our thoughts on the ceremony in general. On part two of the multi-episode, we discuss the beloved Best Actress category and if it’s Viola's year to finally win the coveted prize as the titular Ma Rainey or will Andra Day provide an upset with her moving portrayal of Billie Holiday? Will both leading ladies be knocked out by Academy favorite Frances McDormand with her performance in Nomadland? We round out our coverage in part 3 with a discussion on the often surprising Best Supporting Actress and Actor Categories including 8-time Oscar nominee Glenn Close and if her time to win the little gold man! Tune in to hear our predictions! In addition, this week's Ask Persephone! segment (in part one) focuses on a concept album (or a few) that you should explore if going on a road trip or just checking out from this world.
While Viola Davis is the most nominated women in Oscar history, Andra Day could take it all with a somewhat meatier role as Billie Holiday in the United States vs. Billie Holiday. The Academy loves to marinate in real life tragedy.
The brilliant Be Kind, Rewind channel on YouTube (a personal favorite of this week’s guest Tim Collingwood) is a treasure trove of classic and contemporary Hollywood history, truths and lore not to mention great deep dives on topics such as the lack of inclusion of black women as nominees and winners at the Academy Awards. While Viola Dais is the most nominated actress in Oscar history and a winner of Best Supporting Actress in 2016 for Fences, Halle Berry remains the sole recipient of the Best Actress Oscar among black women for 2001’s Monster Ball. Hoping this year, Viola garners this well deserved honor.
Pitting Daniel Kaluuya up against co-star Lakeith Stanfield in the same movie - Judas and the Black Messiah - for Best Supporting Actor might knock both of them out for winning this award. I mean how do you measure the “better performance?” In my gut, Lakeith will win on Oscar night.
A year of movies focusing on marginalized people, outsiders, and true stories. Get a healthy heaping of the 2021 Best Picture Nominees and More!
Glenn Close has been nominated a total of eight times by the Academy but the little gold man has remained elusive. While Close is the only redeeming part of Ron Howard’s Hillbilly Elegy (she garnered a best supporting actress nomination) she has repeatedly been robbed of the Oscar multiple times. One of her most unforgettable performances was back in 1988 as the ruthless Marquise de Merteuil in Dangerous Liasions. While favored to win that year, Cher upset the apple cart by bringing home Oscar for the comedy Moonstruck.
South Korean actress Yuh-Jung Youn who plays the off-center grandmother Soon-ja in Minari might be the big Supporting Actress upset of the year. Sorry, Glenn. Although not well-known stateside, Youn is a very popular actress in Korea with a five decade spanning career. She has already won the BAFTA and the Screen Actor’s Guild award and if she wins the Academy Award, she would be the first Korean actor to win an Academy Award ever and only the second Asian woman to win an award for Best Supporting Actress following Miyoshi Umeki for Sayonara (1957). This is just the type of scene-stealing role the Academy loves to award.
On this week’s Ask Persephone!, Persephone makes some concept album recommendations for a lucky listener that might surprise you! The Decemberists being their most extra AF selves above!
Bikram and the Cult of Personality
On this week's PCP, special first-time guest Christina Turner joins Persephone to discuss the Netflix documentary Bikram: Yogi, Guru, Predator and the dangerous dynamic between student/teacher relationships in the cult-like world of Bikram yoga. Who is the enigmatic Bikram Choudhury and how did he wield so much power with his students and create an abusive environment? We discuss! In addition, this week's Ask Persephone! segment focuses on a scream queen who is true Hollywood royalty.
There are narcissists and megalomaniacs and predators and then there is Bikram - a unique combination of all three with a pinch of showmanship and a penchant for hyperbole. For some highlights on some of his most outrageous comments, read the article HERE chronicling his sit down interview with Andrea Kremer on HBO’s Real Sports in 2016.
On Ask Persphone! this week, it’s all Ms. Jamie Lee Curtis!
Whose Career is Taking a Tumble?
Is this the face of a dangerous man or a blowhard rich, white dude who is used to having the world (and women) at his feet? Check out the Vanity Fair article on the Hammer family legacy.
As the old saying goes, “what comes us, must go down” and in the case of celebrities, 2021 has already provided us with more falls from grace than can be contained in a simple podcast, but we are going to try! Persephone is joined again by PCP favorite Roger Conners as we discuss actors and other celebrities experiencing a downturn in their career whether it be based on scandal, poor public perception or maybe the victim of overexposure resulting in a general malaise. This is a dishy, juicy, bitchy - but accurate - episode this week so come prepared! Lastly, our Ask Persephone! segment features some Oscar-related questions you will want to want to tune in for at the end!
How can you mend, a broken heart? How many chances is Hollywood going to give Shia?
We go off on a bit of a tangent this week, talking about the quandry that is Michelle Rodriguez and some odd career choices.
Whose Career is “Glowing Up?”
I should have known she had this in her! Carey Mulligan turns the vengeance trope on its ass as fearless, messy avenger Cassie in Promising Young Woman.
Persephone is joined by PCP favorite Roger Conners this week as we discuss actors and other celebrities experiencing a “glow up” in their careers - an impressive feat given a challenging entertainment landscape. We also do a quick preview of next week’s episode (the “glow-down”) go on a few tangents, and feature another “where are they now” question during this week’s Ask Persephone! segment!
His star continues to illuminate! The ever-evolving Justice Smith making another star turn in HBO Max’s Genera+ion, which feels like Euphoria’s less dour sister series. Smith drew lots of initial praise in Baz Luhrman’s Netflix 70’s-era series The Get Down about the genesis of rap and hip hop!
The hilarious and beautiful Josie Totah, a young actress having a major career “glow up” in the very meta Saved by the Bell reboot. Josie was formerly featured in the short-lived Mindy Kalling created series Champions. No big surprise, all the good lines went to Josie!
Renee - of the perpetually changing face - is the subject on this week’s Ask Persepone!
Did You Hear the One About the Gigolo Who Murdered His Girlfriend?
Akyasha Anthony-Dixit Kubiak AKA “Ash Armand” in peak Gigolos-era (circa 2013) years before the horrendous crime that would change his life.
True crime is the focus of this week’s PCP as we focus on the horrifying murder of Herleen Kaur Dulai at the hands of Gigolo’s star Ash Armand. Persephone is joined by return guest McKenzie Merriman as we discuss the “hows” and “whys” of this startling murder, the duality between public and private persona, and more examples of how reality creators have failed in providing a safe and responsible environment. In addition, Persephone introduces the Ask Persephone! segment where “popsters” inquire about pressing pop culture-related questions that have been needling their brains!
The victim: Beautiful 29-year-old Herleen Kaur Dulai, nicknamed “40 Water” was a trainer at A.C.E. Fitness in Las Vegas and had only known Ash Armand for 6 weeks before her murder.
In an episode of Gigolo’s in Season 4, a PG-rated clip of a very “zen-like” Ash Armand and a client.
A far cry from the healer and sexual shaman persona that in-demand sex worker that Ash Armand perpetuated on the reality series. This dead-eyed mugshot was taken hours after he was booked for the murder of Herleen on July 16, 2020. Kubiak has been arraigned for murder and a jury trial is now tentatively set for October, 2021. I estimate there will be a huge media push during this time to report on this case.
Norah Jones is the subject of this week’s new Ask Persephone! segment! Wondering about this queen? Check out this NPR segment on her latest artistic offering HERE!
Queen Oprah, Megxit and Other Things You Should Be Watching
All hail Queen Oprah - for bagging this fascinating Meghan and Harry interview.
Persephone "goes solo" this week giving you a hodgepodge of must-see viewing suggestions including the captivating Oprah Winfrey and Duchess Meghan/Prince Harry interview, the Snowpiercer series (and why you might enjoy it more than the movie) a return to the original NYC Real World cast and that Apple TV Billie Eilish documentary I didn’t expect to enjoy. But I loved.
Now in it’s second season on TNT, there really isn’t anything I don’t love about this series - especially the powerhouse performances by Daveed Digs and Jennifer Connelly.
29 years ago these six complete strangers helped revolutionize reality TV on MTV’s Real World and now we get to revisit their older, middle age selves through a modern day lens in this Paramount series.
I went from intrigued passerby to full on fangirl after watching this revealing documentary on our girl Billie on Apple TV.
Woody Allen Probably Hates Women
After a lengthy hiatus, Persephone is back and thrilled to be joined by first time guest and NYC-based artist extraordinaire Anna Meyer to discuss the mythos of Woody Allen and specifically the 4-part HBO Max documentary Allen V. Farrow. On this episode, we talk specifically about the documentary - which Allen did not participate in - and the legacy of his filmmaking, his abysmal history as a husband, and the accusations of him as a child abuser. We also discuss the biggest question - can you separate the art from the artist if the artist might is a monster?
Two years ago, Soon-Yi made headlines when she broke her silence and lambasted her mother in a Vulture article claiming Mia was taking advantage of the MeToo Movement through daughter Dylan’s claims of sexual abuse at the hands of Woody. Click HERE to read the explosive article.
Binge-Watching Bridgerton
Shonda Rhimes out here making Regency-era London hot.
There are a handful of universal certainties: The sun rises in the east, Americans are more passionate about the return of the McRib sandwich than local politics, and Shonda Rhimes churns out addictive, horny melodrama regardless of the setting! In this week's PCP, we explore Netflix’s delicious regency-era drama Bridgerton based on the popular Julia Quinn book series and discuss how this saucy first season took the binge-viewing community by storm. Persephone is joined appropriately by Duchess Katarina Von Atherton (aka Kate Atherton) as we discuss this sexy and surprising series and what we envision for the other Bridgerton children in seasons to come. If you haven’t watched yet, I suggest you get to bingeing the 8 episodes as this podcast is filled with spoilers!
Watch a little about what all the fuss is about told through a trailer narrated by Lady Whistledown!
You are going to be saying, “where do I know him or her from?” when watching Bridgerton. Among the many stand out performers, Nicola Coughlin (Penelope Featherington) starred as Clare in Derry Girls on Netflix, one of the most hilarious series I have ever watched. Check it out!
The costumes are far from accurate incorporating several modern elements such as color and ornaments, but I frankly could give a damn. The end result is a fantasy and an explosion of color!
Persephone has been singing the praises of Polly Walker (Lady Portia Featherington) ever since she fell in love with her as the villainous Atia in the pre-Game of Thrones monolith Rome on HBO.
In 2018, Jonathan Bailey (Anthony Bridgerton) was cast in the second West End revival of Company, playing Jamie (originally written as a female character, Amy). For his portrayal, Bailey won the 2019 Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Supporting Role in a Musical. And he starred alongside my personal Lord and Savior, Patti Lupone. This man is ridiculously talented.
Ah, to be young, entitled and as dumb as a box of hair! The Bridgerton children are cute but not that bright.
This charming little video speaks for itself - delightful to watch some choice scenes through the eyes of the Bridgerton cast!
The Masked Dancer or How to Numb Your Brain this Winter
Who asked for this?
Persephone kicks off the new year with a “watch” and discussion of Fox’s newest addition to the “masked universe” The Masked Dancer. Virtually the same exact show as The Masked Singer but the masked celebrities are dancing (although this is subjective) and not singing. Along with host Craig Robinson, the show is anchored with judges Ken Jeong, Ashley Tisdale, Brian Austin Green and Paula Abdul - sadly, the most qualified of the lot. Persephone welcomes first time guest host, and confidante Kristy Cruz - a former Brian Austin Green superfan - to dish on this hilarious episode!
It’s even painful to watch the intro - but here you go.
While Brian Austin Green has most recently been associated with his marital woes and exchanging barbs online with estranged wife Meghan Fox (now enthusiastically entangled with Machine Gun Kelly), he did get his esteemed start as wealthy, white rapper David Silver on 90’s juggernaut 90210. It’s hard to watch, but here you go.
In 2007, Paula Abdul had a short-lived reality series called Hey, Paula and it was truly a gift that kept on giving. I need this series to stream somewhere already!
Not a day goes by that Persephone doesn’t think of Jersey’s “tan mom.” Maybe she will be a contestant!
A podcast about all the pop culture you never knew you needed to know.
Pop Culture Persephone is hosted by Theresa M Pedone, a self-appointed goddess of all things pop-culture. While frequently welcoming guests to her podcast, Theresa’s loyal companion Dexter (pictured here) serves as an inspiration and creative muse regularly.
Mining the depths of the pop culture underground and everything in between.