The Parting Shot with H Alan Scott

I love weird. I especially love weird when it incorporates my favorite moments in pop culture. So when I recently saw Linus Karp and Joseph Martin's live show "Gwyneth Goes Skiing," a sort of musical retelling of Gwyneth Paltrow's 2023 ski crash trial, I knew I needed to chat with them. Turns out Karp and Martin are a pop culture nerd's favorite duo, because they've done tons of shows that scratch that weird, nostalgic itch: shows like "Diana: The Untold and Untrue Story," about Princess Diana, and "Fit Prince," a spoof on Hallmark made-for-TV movies. I chatted with this comedy duo and couple about pop culture, where they come up with ideas for their shows, and whether Paltrow herself has ever come to see it. For more on their work, follow their production company: https://www.instagram.com/awkwardprods For their live shows, visit https://linktr.ee/awkwardprods Subscribe to my newsletter: https://for-the-culture.beehiiv.com Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jenna Lewis-Dougherty and Kyle Fraser join Newsweek's H. Alan Scott to break down their Survivor 50 exits, shocking game moves and who they're rooting for to win it all. Subscribe to my newsletter: https://for-the-culture.beehiiv.com Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Tom Ellis is ready for his next chapter. The actor talks CBS' CIA, the new Dick Wolf drama he couldn't turn down. It's a character who won't be naked like Lucifer but could still “put you on the floor with one move.” Subscribe to my newsletter: https://for-the-culture.beehiiv.com Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Gabriel Basso is back as Peter Sutherland in season three of Netflix's The Night Agent, and he's thinking big. "Relatability breeds success and success kills relatability.” It's a juxtaposition that shapes both his character and his outlook on his career. Subscribe to my newsletter: https://for-the-culture.beehiiv.com Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Caitriona Balfe reflects on the final season of the STARZ epic historical drama Outlander, bidding farewell to Claire, and to Sam Heughan's Jamie Fraser after spending a “quarter of our lives” on the show. Subscribe to my newsletter: https://for-the-culture.beehiiv.com Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Daniel Radcliffe on starring with Tracy Morgan in The Fall and Rise of Reggie Dinkins, his Broadway journey and Harry Potter: “I love that people love those movies.” Subscribe to my newsletter: https://for-the-culture.beehiiv.com Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Stephanie and Ashley from Plus Size Park Hoppers join Newsweek's H. Alan Scott to discuss how their viral Instagram and TikTok accounts help plus-size Disney fans navigate theme parks with confidence. "We've all had those experiences where we go to get on a ride and we aren't able to fit and it doesn't feel good," Stephanie shares. The duo opens up about handling online hate, the loneliness epidemic driving parasocial relationships, and defending Disney adults. "Walt did not build Disney World for children," Ashley notes. "The whole message behind it was so adults can go and feel like children again." They also discuss Universal's restrictive policies and their mission to show that "you don't have to wait until you fit a certain mold to go enjoy yourself." Subscribe to my newsletter: https://for-the-culture.beehiiv.com Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Molly Sims joins Newsweek's H. Alan Scott to talk about building YSE Beauty from the ground up. The model-turned-entrepreneur opens up about her skin struggles after having her first baby at 41, why she started formulating products in her basement, and how she refused to slap her famous name on the brand. Sims discusses the nerve-wracking pitch to get into Sephora, raising $15 million in six and a half weeks, and creating clinical skincare specifically for the 35-plus woman who felt forgotten by the beauty industry. She also shares why her eye cream became the number two bestseller at Sephora and her philosophy on product development. Subscribe to my newsletter: https://for-the-culture.beehiiv.com Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Real Housewives of Potomac's Candiace Dillard Bassett came to play when she walked into the The Traitors castle. After her shocking banishment, she quickly became a fan favorite. The reality star, who has dedicated “almost my entire third decade of life to reality television,” found herself at the center of controversy after voting for fellow traitor Robert Rausch, a move that many believe put a target on her back. However, Candiace stands firm in her decision, calling it “a very strategic move that I do not regret.” She explains that after watching Rob betray Lisa Rinna, another traitor, despite promising he wouldn't, she had no choice but to act. “If you are standing next to someone who has said to you, 'I'm sorry, I won't do this again,' and then they go do it again with glee in their heart, what else are you to think? You're coming for me next.” Despite her exit, Candiace isn't done playing the game, reminding fans, “I'm still a traitor, okay?” Subscribe to my newsletter: https://for-the-culture.beehiiv.com Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Comedian Jack Whitehall is trading punchlines for the “good type of nerves” in the new series The Burbs. In this latest role, the British comedian navigates the “uncomfortable territories” of neighborhood life, a setting he finds surprisingly familiar. “I grew up in the suburbs of London—a very suburban street with a creepy Victorian house and a ghostly figure, who was usually just my father.” In this remake of the 1989 film of the same name, Whitehall and Keke Palmer play a couple who move back to his small suburban town, only to discover it's not exactly what they were bargaining for. “I felt very familiar with that world, even if it's now transposed to an American setting.” Speaking of his father, Michael, Whitehall is so glad their reality series Travels with My Father continues to help and entertain millions. “I feel so lucky that I had that time with him.” Despite Whitehall being busy with this show and Prime Video's Malice, he still laments (jokingly) that his father has since ditched him for his own thing. “He even has his own podcast now!” Subscribe to my newsletter: https://for-the-culture.beehiiv.com Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Harry Melling is very aware his work in the new film Pillion is about as far away as he can get from his portrayal of Dudley Dursley in the Harry Potter franchise. “A lot of people, they'll go, ‘Wow, Dudley Dursley's in this kinky movie.' And I don't know what to say about that.” Fortunately for Melling, critics are praising his performance as a shy man, Colin, entering the BDSM subculture through a relationship with Ray (Alexander Skarsgård). “What I loved about the story is meeting him in this brave moment of going, ‘I'm gonna give this a go.' Watching him explore what he wants.” For Melling, this role is another example of how the actor is challenging the difficulties some child actors can have moving into more adult roles. “I always knew that I wanted to do this properly. Like I was a massive theater nerd, so I wanted to do theater, I wanted to work with the great movie directors. I took steps to bridge the gap.” With Pillion, it's clear Melling is all grown up. Subscribe to my newsletter: https://for-the-culture.beehiiv.com Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Traitors star Colton Underwood talks strategy, his battle with Lisa Rinna and why the internet has his journey all wrong.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Paul Giamatti on joining Star Trek: Starfleet Academy, fulfilling his "dream role" to play a Klingon pirate, reflecting on The Holdovers and the persistent myth that he's already won an Oscar. (He hasn't, but should.) Subscribe to my newsletter: https://for-the-culture.beehiiv.com Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Legendary composer and lyricist Marc Shaiman joins Newsweek's H. Alan Scott to discuss his highly anticipated new book, Never Mind the Happy: Showbiz Stories from a Sore Winner, and share intimate stories from his storied career in Hollywood and on Broadway. Marc dives into his deep bond with the late, great Rob Reiner, reflecting on their friendship and the creative synergy that defined so much of their work together. He also pulls back the curtain on his legendary collaborations with icons Bette Midler and Billy Crystal, offering a firsthand look at the chemistry behind some of entertainment's most memorable moments. Plus, Marc revisits the vibrant world of Hairspray, detailing the journey of bringing that modern classic to life. It is a heartfelt and hilarious conversation with a true titan of the industry about the art of collaboration and the stories behind the songs we love. Subscribe to my newsletter: https://for-the-culture.beehiiv.com Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott Subscribe to Newsweek's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/newsweek See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Parting Shot, we sit down with the "Powerhouse in Pigtails" herself, Margaret Josephs. While the future of Real Housewives of New Jersey remains a hot topic, Josephs is busy proving she is much more than a reality star. We dive into her "full circle" journey as a licensing expert—from the Macbeth Collection to her new TikTok Shop sensation, Soirée. Josephs also gets transparent about her wellness journey with LifeRX and explains why authenticity has always been her ultimate business strategy. Whether you're a Bravo superfan or a budding entrepreneur, this conversation on the art of the deal is a must-listen. Josephs discusses everything from navigating the "generational trauma" of the RHONJ cast to why she is leaning back into her creative roots to build a massive lifestyle empire. Shop Soirée: https://drinksoiree.com/ Learn more about LifeRX: https://tinyurl.com/mv8yzufs Subscribe to my newsletter: https://for-the-culture.beehiiv.com Follow H. Alan Scott: https://linktr.ee/halanscott See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Academy Award nominee Catalina Sandino Moreno joins Newsweek's H. Alan Scott to discuss her latest lead role in the Netflix thriller The Rip. Catalina reflects on the 20-year legacy of her breakout performance in Maria Full of Grace and shares what it's really like working alongside industry titans Matt Damon and Ben Affleck. Plus, she offers a rare, behind-the-curtain piece of advice for first-time Oscar nominees navigating the whirlwind of awards season. Subscribe to my newsletter: https://for-the-culture.beehiiv.com Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott Subscribe to Newsweek's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/newsweek See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What happens when the ultimate reality TV strategist decides to turn the camera on the genre itself? This week, we're joined by two-time Survivor legend Stephen Fishbach to celebrate the release of his propulsive debut novel, Escape! Stephen pulls back the curtain on reality TV production, exploring the psychological toll of being turned into a television character and the thin line between fame and humiliation. We dive deep into why he chose a jungle survival competition as the setting for his thriller and how much of his own lived experience made it onto the page. From looking back at his legacy to discussing the current state of the game ahead of Survivor 50, Stephen offers a masterclass in both strategy and storytelling. Newsweek's H. Alan Scott even put him on the spot to find out if the master strategist would ever join Alan Cumming in the castle for a season of The Traitors. Whether you're a die-hard member of the Survivor community or just a fan of sharp, bingeable fiction, this is a fascinating look at the human beings working inside the entertainment machine. Get your copy of Escape! at the link below: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/792925/escape-by-stephen-fishbach/ Subscribe to my newsletter: https://for-the-culture.beehiiv.com Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott Subscribe to Newsweek's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/newsweekSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We now live in a world where Kate Hudson is a two-time Academy Award nominee. Let that sink in. The 98th Academy Award nominations are officially out, and while we're usually the first to complain about the Academy playing it safe, this year they chose violence. From historic record-breaking hauls to the complete and utter erasure of Oz, the nominations for the Class of 2026 are nothing if not dramatic. Newsweek's H. Alan Scott is joined by colleagues Lauren Giella and Kyle McGovern to react to every snub, surprise, and "shook" moment of the season. Subscribe to my newsletter: https://for-the-culture.beehiiv.com Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jay Shetty is known for guiding millions through life's biggest questions, but what happens when the advice gets "messy"? In this episode, Jay joins Newsweek's H. Alan Scott to discuss his new Audible Original series, Messy Love, where he steps away from abstract concepts to work directly with real people navigating the complexities of modern dating and long-term commitment. Subscribe to my newsletter: https://for-the-culture.beehiiv.com Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott Subscribe to Newsweek's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/newsweek See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today we're chatting with the incomparable Mandy Mango fresh off her departure from RuPaul's Drag Race. Known for her wit and her warmth, Mandy joins us to pull back the curtain on what really happens when the cameras stop rolling and the lipstick message is written. Mandy gets real about the moment she was voted off and how she processed the judges' critiques. She also talks about how she balances the high-stakes world of being a registered nurse with the high-glamour world of professional drag. Subscribe to my newsletter: https://for-the-culture.beehiiv.com Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott Subscribe to Newsweek's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/newsweek See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After the huge success of her memoir, I'm Glad My Mom Died, Jennette McCurdy marks a bold transition to fiction with new novel Half His Age. But to McCurdy, no matter the genre, it's all about the voice, and she's confident about hers. “I feel like my voice is my voice.” Half His Age explores the “funny-sad” tightrope of Waldo, a girl with an unconventional attraction toward her teacher. “Though this is told through Waldo's perspective as a 17-year-old senior in high school, there's certainly a lot of overlap in our voices, in our point of view.” The story had an impact on McCurdy. “For this book, I had a lot of experiences where I'd feel so much rage that I'd be crying.” To hone this energy, she rids herself of outside influences. “I not only don't read, but I also don't socialize.” She's already plotting a film adaptation. “Maybe 50 percent of making a good film or TV show is writing a good film or TV show.” Fortunately, she's already halfway there as a bestselling author. Subscribe to my newsletter: https://for-the-culture.beehiiv.com Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott Subscribe to Newsweek's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/newsweek See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Vanderpump Rules has a new face, and he's already stirring the pot. This week, Shayne Davis joins Newsweek's H. Alan Scott to pull back the curtain on his debut season and the "player" label that seems to be following him. Shayne opens up about the reality of filming, the pressure of joining an iconic cast, and his deeply personal journey with sobriety while navigating the high-octane West Hollywood nightlife. Plus, we review his Hinge profile and well... things were seen. Subscribe to my newsletter: https://for-the-culture.beehiiv.com Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott Subscribe to Newsweek's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/newsweek See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The castle just got a lot quieter, but the drama is only getting louder. This week, we're joined by the two most talked-about departures from The Traitors Season 4: Michael Rapaport and Tiffany Mitchell. First, Michael Rapaport joins Newsweek's H. Alan Scott to address the firestorm surrounding his exit. He breaks down that explosive roundtable moment and the "secret-keeping" remark directed at Colton Underwood that many viewers labeled homophobic. Plus, we confront the internet's latest obsession: the way he eats and drinks on camera. Is he trolling us, or is that just the Rapaport way? Then, Big Brother legend Tiffany Mitchell stops by to get real about her banishment. She addresses the "defensive" label and opens up about the emotional moment she revealed she was playing for the prize money to support her family—a rare, vulnerable look behind the strategist's mask. Subscribe to my newsletter: https://for-the-culture.beehiiv.com Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott Subscribe to Newsweek's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/newsweekSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After five seasons playing Gregory on ABC's Abbott Elementary, Tyler James Williams is adding a new title to his job: director. “I think for a while, I have been wanting to get my hands dirty in another aspect of the process.” The actor learned that he approaches directing differently because of his acting background. “My brain thinks in act breaks and pacing, and I guess finding the funniest way to see something and show something.” This evolution for Williams is just another notch in an already impressive career that introduced characters like his breakout lead role as a child actor on Everybody Hates Chris and Lionel in the film Dear White People. “There's definitely a consistent thread that runs through all of them. That is a guy who's trying to find his way ultimately, who may be a bit more awkward and outside of the norm than most people, but who's sincerely trying.” And because his work on Abbott Elementary has resulted in multiple Emmy nominations, that's inspired impressive red-carpet moments with co-star Chris Perfetti. “We understood that we may have a little bit more hill to climb. So with that being the case, we're gonna have fun with it.” Subscribe to my newsletter: https://for-the-culture.beehiiv.com Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott Subscribe to Newsweek's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/newsweek See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The fire has been extinguished—or has it? Today I'm sitting down with the spicy DD Fuego to unpack her exit from RuPaul's Drag Race Season 18. DD doesn't hold back on why she feels she shouldn't have been in the bottom, the "unfiltered" truth about her elimination, and how she's handling it. Plus, we dive into her iconic relationship with her boyfriend James (yes, that James from the legendary episode of Real Housewives of New York). Subscribe to my newsletter: https://link.newsweek.com/join/for-the-culture Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott Subscribe to Newsweek's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/newsweek See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What happens when you put a Real Housewife legend and a Big Brother winner in a Scottish castle? Apparently, a whole lot of being misunderstood. I sat down with Porsha Williams and Ian Terry to discuss their (criminally short) time on The Traitors. It was truly a case of "wrong place, wrong time" for both of them. Ian—our resident genius—was murdered in the night because he was simply too smart to live. Meanwhile, Porsha was busy being "Porsha 4 Real," which the rest of the group naturally mistook for Traitor behavior. We talked about the paranoia, the banishments, and so much more. And I'll be chatting with all the faithfuls and traitors this season, so watch this space. Subscribe to my newsletter: https://for-the-culture.beehiiv.com Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott Subscribe to Newsweek's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/newsweekSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dacre Montgomery chats Dead Man's Wire, working with Gus Van Sant, life after Stranger Things and just how to pronounce his name. Subscribe to my newsletter: https://link.newsweek.com/join/for-the-culture Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott Subscribe to Newsweek's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/newsweek See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What happens when your own eyes and ears become a weapon against you? This week, Newsweek's H. Alan Scott is joined by Simu Liu (Shang-Chi) and Melissa Barrera (Scream, Abigail) to declassify their mind-bending new Peacock series, The Copenhagen Test. (It's seriously so good!) (And yes, Simu was asked about Oh, Mary!) Subscribe to my newsletter: https://link.newsweek.com/join/for-the-culture Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott Subscribe to Newsweek's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/newsweek See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Newsweek's H. Alan Scott sits down with the legendary Stephen Lang to discuss the next chapter of the Avatar saga. Known for his powerhouse portrayal of Colonel Miles Quaritch, Lang takes us behind the scenes of the upcoming Avatar: Fire and Ash and reveals how the shifting landscape of Pandora is changing the man we thought we knew. Subscribe to my newsletter: https://link.newsweek.com/join/for-the-culture Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott Subscribe to Newsweek's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/newsweek See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Yes, Asher Grodman is a two-time Critics Choice nominee for his performance as Trevor on CBS' Ghosts, but he knows what you (and host H. Alan Scott) really wants to talk about: his legs. Sure, the work too, but as a ghost who has to “live” for eternity with no pants on, one is bound to wonder just how Grodman keeps it all… in. We chatted about that, the incredible ensemble on Ghosts, why his performance and character are surprisingly nuanced, and where he thinks things are going for him this season. (There's romance!) He also attempts to explain sports to H. Alan. Subscribe to my newsletter: https://link.newsweek.com/join/for-the-culture Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott Subscribe to Newsweek's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/newsweek See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Director Paul Feig wants you to support local movie theaters, ideally at his new movie The Housemaid, based on the popular book series by Freida McFadden. “My last three movies have been streamers, and thank God I got to make movies, but I make movies for audiences in a room.” Adapting a popular book into a film is “intimidating,” but Feig is content with McFadden's approval. “She said she thinks it's better than the book. That was a huge thing to hear from the author.” The film follows Millie (Sydney Sweeney), a live-in maid for Nina (Amanda Seyfried), who begins to discover this perfect family is hiding dark secrets. “The marketing department's line says, ‘Spend the holidays with a family more dysfunctional than yours.' And I think that's kinda true.” Best known for directing comedies like Bridesmaids and Spy, Feig has created his own genre of thrillers with a comedic edge. Watch my interview with Paul, Amanda Seyfried and Sydney Sweeney: https://www.newsweek.com/entertainment/paul-feigs-genre-expanding-take-housemaid-11221295 Subscribe to my newsletter: https://link.newsweek.com/join/for-the-culture Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott Subscribe to Newsweek's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/newsweek See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

James L. Brooks, director of classics like Terms of Endearment, Broadcast News and As Good as it Gets, returns to form with Ella McCay, his first film in 15 years. Newsweek's H. Alan Scott chatted with Brooks about the inspiration behind the story and how the women in his life inspired so many of his iconic female characters. Later in the chat Scott chatted with Jamie Lee Curtis about what it's like to be asked to be in a Brooks film and Emma Mackey on the stress of playing the title character. Watch the video: https://youtu.be/9plwtg4aemo Read the feature in the latest issue of Newsweek: https://www.newsweek.com/entertainment/james-l-brooks-returns-to-form-with-ella-mccay-11183470 Subscribe to my newsletter: https://link.newsweek.com/join/for-the-culture Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott Subscribe to Newsweek's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/newsweek See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Wagner Moura chats with Newsweek's H. Alan Scott about The Secret Agent, the Oscars buzz surrounding it and why “carrying Brazil with us” makes the moment so special. Transcript: https://www.newsweek.com/entertainment/wagner-moura-on-the-secret-agent-oscars-and-his-return-to-brazilian-film-11182568 Subscribe to my newsletter: https://link.newsweek.com/join/for-the-culture Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott Subscribe to Newsweek's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/newsweek See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Newsweek's H. Alan Scott sits down with the iconic Susan Powter, the original wellness influencer of the 90s, to discuss her unexpected journey from the heights of fame to driving for Uber Eats. Her journey is documented in the Jamie Lee Curtis produced documentary ‘Stop the Insanity: Finding Susan Powter.' In this candid conversation, Susan opens up about her decision to step away from the spotlight, the challenges she faced, and the resilience that kept her going. Discover the untold story behind "Stop the Insanity" and how Susan's energy and authenticity continue to inspire. This is a raw and real exploration of life beyond the limelight. Video: https://youtu.be/CyMBQ6MNSPg Subscribe to my newsletter: https://link.newsweek.com/join/for-the-culture Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott Subscribe to Newsweek's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/newsweek See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Daniel Craig and Rian Johnson discuss faith in “Wake Up Dead Man,” praising Josh O'Connor's humor and Glenn Close's legendary performance in the new mystery. Newsweek's H. Alan Scott chats with Johnson and Craig about the origins of the story; O'Connor about his love of comedy; and finally Close about how her time in a cult as a child inspired her performance. Subscribe to my newsletter: https://link.newsweek.com/join/for-the-culture Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott Subscribe to Newsweek's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/newsweek See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Erika Alexander and Kim Coles join Newsweek's H. Alan Scott to chat about their podcast ReLiving Single, the "limitless creativity" of Living Single and the sitcom's enduring impact on pop culture. You can watch the first season of ReLiving Single on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ReLivingSinglePodcast Subscribe to my newsletter: https://link.newsweek.com/join/for-the-culture Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott Subscribe to Newsweek's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/newsweek See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Real Housewives of Salt Lake City star and New York Times bestselling author Heather Gay joins Newsweek's H. Alan Scott to discuss her powerful new special, Surviving Mormonism. We dive into how reality TV has become an unexpected frontier for defining Mormon culture, why women are leading that charge, and how Heather is navigating her own journey from "Bad Mormon" to cultural trailblazer. Subscribe to my newsletter: https://link.newsweek.com/join/for-the-culture Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott Subscribe to Newsweek's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/newsweek See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Initially, Kal Penn was hesitant to do a podcast because “every actor has a podcast.” Fortunately for us, he created Here We Go Again, focused on why history keeps repeating itself. “I loved the fact that you could talk about history repeating itself through pop culture, through politics. But it's not a political podcast by any means.” That said, Penn, an actor who took a break from Hollywood to work in the Obama administration, still very much has a foot in advocacy. “If you wanna go through the death spiral of social media and make yourself anxious,” go for it, he says, but he's not going to join. Instead, he's going to invite people to “come knock on doors...it's gonna move the needle on real conversations.” And one thing fans continue to discuss is their love for his Harold & Kumar franchise. Recounting a time he ran into political adviser Karl Rove and found out he was a fan, Penn realized, “as long as we stay truthful to the characters, the hope is that as polarized as this world is, we can still make a movie for everybody.” See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As Netflix's ‘Stranger Things' comes to an end, Gaten Matarazzo, 23, is focused on soaking in the final moments. “I really want to take it in and enjoy it. I don't think I'll ever be in something that makes quite as much of an impact the way ‘Stranger Things' has.” Matarazzo plays Dustin, who we see grappling with a loss. “I wanted to see a bit of a pessimism that I think [is how] a lot of children approach their grief.” He's grateful to have understood the scale of the sci-fi series. “I spent a good chunk of my time trying to really recognize how special it was. And to live very much in the present.” But that last day on set was surreal. “It was a good day, but it was a very weird next morning. One of the most eerily quiet, melancholy kind of mornings that any of us had ever experienced.” But Hollywood did what Hollywood does, it moves on. “It kind of hurts your feelings how quickly everything starts getting turned over. It's like, ‘Please don't touch anything for a while.'” Subscribe to my newsletter: https://link.newsweek.com/join/for-the-culture Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott Subscribe to Newsweek's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/newsweek See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Clear the stage and light the lights! Drag superstars Jinkx Monsoon and BenDeLaCreme return to the podcast to pull back the curtain on their brand-new tour, The Jinkx and Dela Holiday Show. We discuss their creative partnership, DeLa's growing empire as a director for drag's biggest stars, and Jinkx's show-stopping, history-making turns on Broadway in Chicago and Oh, Mary! From holiday camp to the Great White Way, this chat has it all. For more on the new holiday show, visit https://www.jinkxanddela.com/ Subscribe to my newsletter: https://link.newsweek.com/join/for-the-culture Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott Subscribe to Newsweek's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/newsweek See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Actor Ed Helms loves a deep dive into a snafu from the past. “I love the hubris, our amazing capacity for ineptitude and terrible decision-making.” He's turned that obsession into the hit podcast SNAFU, inviting guests to break down some of history's most entertaining bloopers. “The snafu is often not just the initial problem, but it's [a] sort of scurrying aftermath of people trying to cover their tracks.” Each prior season focused on one historical moment, but season four has a new one every episode—and “dramatically” more episodes. “It is proving to be a ton of work, but it's super fun.” Hit podcast host is a new turn for Helms, best known for his work in TV and film. “Office fans are just so, so sweet and delightful. Hangover fans can be a little more aggro, but that's good.” But it's that intimate relationship he creates with podcast fans that feels more earned: “Those feel like my deep peeps.” Subscribe to my newsletter: https://link.newsweek.com/join/for-the-culture Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott Subscribe to Newsweek's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/newsweek See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

For Melissa Peterman, the first season of NBC's Happy's Place was a dream come true; getting a second season is an embarrassment of riches. “Getting a pilot is the lottery. Getting that pilot picked up is another gigantic win that is getting rarer and rarer.” Peterman plays Gabby, friend and co-worker of Bobbie, played by Reba McEntire, owner of the fictional tavern Happy's Place. The sitcom reunites Peterman and McEntire, who first appeared together on Reba. “I think there is value in the second banana. There's value in the sidekick.” While fans see her as way more than just a sidekick, Peterman knows how rare it is to get a second chance with a hit sitcom. “It's almost more precious because I know how rare it is to get a second chance with your best friend.” Busier than ever, Peterman also co-hosts Hallmark's Finding Mr. Christmas. “I would be really sad if I didn't get to host a game show or go be with people. I genuinely like people.” Subscribe to my newsletter: https://link.newsweek.com/join/for-the-culture Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott Subscribe to Newsweek's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/newsweek See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Considering the number of iconic women that have worked on Ryan Murphy projects, it's shocking Glenn Close hasn't. That's changing with Hulu's All's Fair. “I was intimidated until I started to understand the tone. And once I understood the tone, then it became really fun,” Close told Newsweek's H. Alan Scott. Close plays Dina, a powerful lawyer in an all-female firm that includes actors Kim Kardashian, Sarah Paulson, Niecy Nash and Naomi Watts, among others. “To bring all that energy...and all that experience together is bound to create something really unique.” It also created a special bond. “This group of women, they'll be my friends for the rest of my life.” Part of what keeps Close working, beyond immense talent, is that she refuses to repeat herself—“I'm basically up for anything as long as it represents a new exploration.” She'll next be seen in Rian Johnson's Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, offered the same week as All's Fair. “I got two Ryans in the same week. It was like, what?” Subscribe to my newsletter: https://link.newsweek.com/join/for-the-culture Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott Subscribe to Newsweek's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/newsweek See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, I have a serious and emotional conversation with actor Michael Chernus about his challenging new role as John Wayne Gacy in Peacock's Devil in Disguise. He shares how he mentally prepared to play the serial killer and why this limited series is different by focusing on the victims of these horrific crimes. Subscribe to my newsletter: https://link.newsweek.com/join/for-the-culture Follow me: https://linktr.ee/halanscott Subscribe to Newsweek's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/newsweek See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.