The Parting Shot with H Alan Scott

Get ready to get messy. This week, we're joined by the brilliant and hilarious Brandon Kyle Goodman for a gloriously unfiltered, absolutely NSFW chat. You know them as the writer and voice on Netflix's Big Mouth, but Brandon is a multi-talented force dedicated to helping us all embrace our most authentic, chaotic, and beautiful selves. We dive headfirst into their incredible book, You Gotta Be You, discussing everything from radical self-acceptance to the messy parts of life we're often told to hide. Brandon spills the tea on the inspiration behind their podcast, Tell Me Something Messy, and gives us a peek behind the curtain of their iconic "Messy Mondays" on Instagram. Strap in for a conversation that covers it all: the highs and lows of creative life, the power of owning your story, and why being a little bit messy is a goddamn superpower. Subscribe to my newsletter: https://www.newsweek.com/newsletter/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.

Elvira firmly believes Halloween requires spooky snacks, and she's here to provide some inspiration with Elvira's Cookbook from Hell: Sexy, Spooky Soirées and Celebrations for Every Occasion. "I ate every single recipe. I was tasting every single one and they were all great," Cassandra Peterson, the actress behind Elvira, told Newsweek's H. Alan Scott. "I do love to cook, however. I don't know about Elvira. I don't think she cooks so much, but I love cooking." For the past 45 years, Elvira has been a staple of Halloween. “I've never had a Halloween off.” But that's ok, because she's proud of playing such a vital role in so many people's lives. “I get gay guys coming up to me and saying, ‘Oh, you saved me, because I had your poster in my bedroom and my parents were like, ‘Oh thank God, he's not gay.' Little did they know.” And ultimately, she knows that despite never having Halloween off, she's given something back to the dark souls of the world with Elvira and has no plans to stop. “It's fun and people get a laugh out of it. And that's what's important. Laughing is important. We need to laugh more than ever. And if I can do that for people, I hope I can do it for a long, long time.” Subscribe to my newsletter: https://www.newsweek.com/newsletter/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 Hotel Costiera, Jesse Williams was drawn to making "something that is global.” The new Prime Video series stars Williams as Daniel De Luca, a former Marine who returns home to Italy to work at a hotel, only to find himself tasked with finding the missing daughter of the hotel's owner. While he has “no complaints” filming in Positano paradise, “I tried to stay relatively disciplined, but I ate a lot of pasta and bread,” Williams told Newsweek's H. Alan Scott. Of the character, he related to his duality. "I don't really say I'm half anything," he notes. "That has to have found itself stewing in something Daniel DeLuca is dealing with." And this series represents a new phase for Williams, taking creative control as a producer. "It certainly feels good... to bet on you in the same way you're trying to bet on yourself.” After leaving his iconic role on Grey's Anatomy, his first move was a deliberate challenge, first going to Broadway and now this, raising the stakes even further by creating an original show. “It's not based on IP or something else. Like it's really trying to forge something new in a space.” But at the end of the day, it's all about the process. "I love the collaboration that exists in our business." Subscribe to my newsletter: https://www.newsweek.com/newsletter/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 millions of people, a trip to a Disney park is a special occasion, a magical escape. But what if it was your job? What if your office was Main Street, U.S.A., and your daily task was to ride attractions and eat snacks for an audience of thousands? Today we're talking to someone who lives that reality: David Vaughn, one of the most engaging Disney content creators on YouTube and social media. He joins Newsweek's H. Alan Scott to pull back the curtain to ask him what the job is really like, what drives his passion for the parks, and we get an honest answer to the ultimate question: does having to press 'record' change the way you experience the magic? For more on David Vaughn: https://thedavidvaughn.com/ Follow David's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DavidVaughn Subscribe to my newsletter: https://www.newsweek.com/newsletter/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 comes to mind when you hear the term 'Disney Adult'? Is it a stereotype, a punchline, or something much deeper? Today, we're getting the definitive take from the person who literally wrote the book on it. AJ Wolfe, the brilliant creator of the essential YouTube channel, The Disney Food Blog, and now the author of the fantastic new book, 'Disney Adults: Exploring (And Falling In Love With) A Magical Subculture,' joins Newsweek's H. Alan Scott on today's episode of the Parting Shot Podcast. We're diving into the joy, the community, and the misconceptions behind one of the most passionate fandoms in the world. From the psychology of nostalgia to the business of running a Disney media empire, get ready for a truly magical conversation. Pick up Disney Adults: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Disney-Adults/AJ-Wolfe/9781668069219 Follow AJ Wolfe's Disney Food Blog: https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/ Subscribe to my newsletter: https://www.newsweek.com/newsletter/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 Bobbi Brown, patience isn't a virtue; it's an obstacle. The makeup artist and entrepreneur operates on a timeline dictated by instinct, not corporate calendars. “I have no patience,” Brown tells Newsweek's Parting Shot Podcast in a wide-ranging conversation about her new memoir Still Bobbi. “Like I go in and I say, ‘Oh I love this new product, when are we getting it? February?' I'm like, ‘Hell no, bring it out in November. I don't care it's not in a package.'” This drive is the engine behind her entire career. Still Bobbi chronicles the story of a woman who built a billion-dollar beauty empire in her own name, Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, only to walk away from it in order to start over (again), this time on her own terms with a new makeup brand, Jones Road Beauty. “I do hope and I do think that my story is empowering to people,” Brown says. “And they're like, ‘Well, look, if she did this and she went through this, then I could do this.'” Subscribe to my newsletter: https://www.newsweek.com/newsletter/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.

She's one of the most iconic and feared players in reality TV history, and this week, the legendary Parvati Shallow joins Newsweek's H. Alan Scott for a can't-miss conversation. From the cutthroat beaches of Survivor to the paranoia-filled castle of The Traitors, Parvati has mastered the art of the game, but what about the woman behind the "Black Widow" persona? She pulls back the curtain on her most famous strategic moves and dives deep into the powerful lessons on intuition and resilience she shares in her brand new book, Nice Girls Don't Win: How I Burned It All Down to Claim My Power. Whether you know her as a master strategist, a cunning traitor, or a Survivor winner, tune in to hear the side of Parvati Shallow you haven't seen on screen. Subscribe to my newsletter: https://www.newsweek.com/newsletter/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.

Robin Wright knew that in her new Prime Video show The Girlfriend, which she developed in addition to starring in, she would have to fight the potential for melodrama, because “it could easily go there,” she told Newsweek's H. Alan Scott. “This was so much of our discussion in the writer's room. How do we keep it plausible?” Wright plays Laura, whose adult son Daniel (Laurie Davidson) starts dating a suspicious woman named Cherry (Olivia Cooke) and proceeds to spiral out of control. “She does not want to lose him to anything. She is very overprotective and ends up becoming possessive.” Despite her sharing few similarities with her character— “I'm not that possessive with my son.”— she still feels a kinship with her. “Everyone you play, as venal as they can be, they believe that they're doing the right thing. So you have to believe that within them.” Wearing many hats, Wright doubled as co-star and director for many episodes. “I could be in the scene with Olivia or Laurie and I'm watching them as a director, like split brain, you know? But I'm still feeding them the character, Laura.” And while she's directed a number of projects, she says she still has room to grow. “I'm still learning. I'm learning and trying to learn how to get my style.” Subscribe to my newsletter: https://www.newsweek.com/newsletter/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.

Picture it: September 1985. A new sitcom about four older women living together in Miami premieres, and television is changed forever. Forty years later, The Golden Girls is more beloved than ever. Newsweek's H. Alan Scott is celebrating this landmark anniversary with a very special guest, Stan Zimmerman, who was in the writers' room during the iconic first season. Stan takes us back to the beginning, sharing stories about the magic of Bea Arthur, Betty White, Rue McClanahan, and Estelle Getty, and why the show's themes of love, friendship, and chosen family resonate so deeply four decades later. Grab a slice of cheesecake and join us on the lanai for this unforgettable conversation. Subscribe to my newsletter: https://www.newsweek.com/newsletter/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.

Is there anything better than a table full of great food and great company? But for many of us, the thought of actually hosting that party can be overwhelming. Well, it's time to put that fear aside. Bestselling author, food media icon, and professional nice Jewish boy, the one and only Jake Cohen joins Newsweek's H. Alan Scott to talk about his incredible new cookbook, Dinner Party Animal: Recipes to Make Every Day a Celebration. Jake shares his philosophy that a "dinner party" isn't about perfection; it's about connection. He gives us his best tips, tricks, and confidence-boosting secrets to help you become the host you've always wanted to be, whether it's for a holiday feast or a casual Tuesday night. Order Dinner Party Animal: https://www.harpercollins.com/products/dinner-party-animal-jake-cohen?variant=43612579397666 Follow Jake Cohen: https://www.instagram.com/jakecohen Follow Michael Strassner: https://www.instagram.com/strasshola/ Subscribe to my newsletter: https://www.newsweek.com/newsletter/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 floor because we have Arconia royalty in the building! Newsweek's H. Alan Scott chats with the delightful Michael Cyril Creighton, known to all of us as the cat-loving, ever-present, and scene-stealing Howard Morris from Hulu's Only Murders in the Building. With the dust barely settled from the latest season's finale, we couldn't resist looking ahead. We talk about his personal hopes for Howard's character arc (will he finally find lasting love? Or a new cat?) and the behind-the-scenes magic of working alongside legends like Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez. Season five of Hulu's Only Murders in the Building is streaming now. Subscribe to my newsletter: https://www.newsweek.com/newsletter/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.

Michael Strassner joins Newsweek's H. Alan Scott to talk about how one little direct message to Jay Duplass is what birthed the their new film The Baltimorons. A beautiful and heartfelt film set in Baltimore tells the personal and funny story of one man's journey to sobriety on a fateful Christmas Eve. We talked about how difficult it is to get a movie made these days and what it means to Michael to have this film show his hometown, Baltimore. For more on the film, check out: https://www.ifccenter.com/films/the-baltimorons/ Follow Michael Strassner: https://www.instagram.com/strasshola/ Subscribe to my newsletter: https://www.newsweek.com/newsletter/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.

Of the new sitcom The Paper, about a struggling Midwestern newspaper and its staff, Domhnall Gleeson is quick to note that while it shares a universe with The Office (they share the same mockumentary crew and a cast member), its motivation is different. “I think the people who go into work in this workplace, their reason for going to work is very different than a lot of people in The Office,” Gleeson tells Newsweek's H. Alan Scott. And he credits that delicate balance of nostalgia and newness to creator Greg Daniels. “Part of what makes him great is that he is continually interested in the next thing.” Gleeson adds, “he's looking at the next funny idea.” At the show's center is Gleeson's Ned, the editor-in-chief who Gleeson describes as “hopeful and optimistic”—both his greatest asset and flaw. “He thinks the world is a better place than it is, and he wants the world to be an even better place.” Ultimately, Gleeson hopes The Paper has a similar impact on the fans as The Office did. “It's nice to be a part of something that hopefully will make people happy or give people a warm place to spend time.” Subscribe to my newsletter: https://www.newsweek.com/newsletter/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.

Grab your friendship bracelets and a side of country-fried steak, because we are covering the full spectrum of American culture today. John Hill (Sirius XM's Andy Cohen Live and The News With John Hill) joins Newsweek's H. Alan Scott to cover Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's engagement and the drama happening over at Cracker Barrel. It's a high-low culture clash for the ages you won't want to miss! Follow John Hill: https://www.instagram.com/johnarthurhill Subscribe to my newsletter: https://www.newsweek.com/newsletter/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.

Grace Van Patten has one word to describe having the opportunity to portray Amanda Knox in Hulu's The Twisted Tale of Amanda Knox—grateful. “I was really, really grateful to be a part of something that was giving Amanda a chance to reclaim her story,” she told Newsweek's H. Alan Scott. To capture Knox's mindset, Van Patten leaned into the confusion of the case itself. “Playing the confusion was truthful. I was so confused by what happened when I was learning about it that it was very easy to be present in those moments.” The role also showed her the impact of public perception. “I learned a lot about how easy it is for women, but all people, to be so easily scrutinized and villainized in the press.” Partly because there's money in the shock value. “It sells. It's so much about money. And we're all guilty of buying into it because it's enticing, and it's in big font. It taught me a lot to work harder on not buying into that type of thing.” Ultimately, she is eager to see if the series can shift long-held beliefs. “I'm really curious to see if it does change their opinion at the end of it.” You can watch the full chat at https://www.newsweek.com/2025/09/12/grace-van-patten-reclaiming-amanda-knoxs-true-story-hulu-2119585.html Subscribe to my newsletter: https://www.newsweek.com/newsletter/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.

Louis Vuitton dropped its new makeup line, and the prices are... INSANE! (Who is buying this stuff?!) Newsweek's H. Alan Scott brings in beauty influencer (and friend of the pod) Kackie to help decide if it's iconic or just a cash grab. (Spoiler alert: It's a cash grab.) PLUS, we're sounding off on the Muppets coming to Broadway, Kesha's omnisexual announcement, Jennifer Lopez's stunning Kiss of the Spider Woman trailer, and Chris Pratt's very political in-laws. Don't miss this week's End Credits! Follow Kackie: https://www.youtube.com/@kackie Subscribe to my newsletter: https://www.newsweek.com/newsletter/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.

He's an Emmy nominee, a Broadway star, and an absolute delight. The one and only Michael Urie stopped by the Newsweek office in New York for a live chat with H. Alan Scott to discuss it all! Hear him talk about his nomination for Shrinking, what it's like having Harrison Ford in his phone, his current stage hit Oh, Mary!, and whether he thinks we'll ever see Marc St. James again in an Ugly Betty reboot. It's a fast-paced, funny, and fan-fueled conversation! Subscribe to my newsletter: https://www.newsweek.com/newsletter/the-culture/ Follow me at @HAlanScott: https://linktr.ee/halanscott Subscribe to Newsweek's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/newsweek Visit Newsweek.com for more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Director Jay Roach (Austin Powers, Bombshell) joins Newsweek's H. Alan Scott for a can't-miss conversation about his new film, 'The Roses.' He shares what it was like directing Benedict Cumberbatch and Olivia Colman. "You could just have the cameras be in the right place and trust the great script,” Roach says about their talent. From iconic comedies to searing dramas, we touch on the full scope of his incredible career. Subscribe to my newsletter: https://www.newsweek.com/newsletter/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.

“We had wanted to work together for a long time,” Benedict Cumberbatch tells Newsweek's H. Alan Scott, reflecting on the project that finally united him with Olivia Colman. The new film adaptation of Warren Adler's 1981 novel The War of the Roses was also made into a hit 1989 film starring Michael Douglas, Kathleen Turner and Danny DeVito. “It takes nothing away from the original film,” Colman says. “Ours is with a sort of respectful nod to it and has taken it in a slightly different direction.” Cumberbatch and Colman chatted with Newsweek about the new film, their pairing, and the comedic geniuses on set they were in awe of. This chat was witty and chaotic and delightful. It's presented to you in full, unedited. You're welcome. Subscribe to my newsletter: https://www.newsweek.com/newsletter/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.

He's the friend we all wish we had as Joel on HBO's Somebody Somewhere, and now he's an Emmy nominee! The wonderful Jeff Hiller joins Newsweek's H. Alan Scott to talk about his shocking—and richly deserved—nomination. We discuss his new book, Actress of a Certain Age: My Twenty Year Trail to Overnight Success, a hilarious and honest look at his 20-year journey to this career-defining moment. Don't miss this LOL-filled giggle fest. Subscribe to my newsletter: https://www.newsweek.com/newsletter/the-culture/ Follow me at @HAlanScott: https://linktr.ee/halanscott Subscribe to Newsweek's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/newsweek Visit Newsweek.com for more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

He's stealing scenes in the new movie Weapons and his hot dog moment is already legendary, but there's more to Clayton Farris than meets the eye. The actor and social media star joins Newsweek's H. Alan Scott to talk about his viral fame on and off the big screen. Most importantly, Clayton opens up about a major misconception. While audiences are watching him and thinking he's a straight guy playing a gay character, he's here to correct a few things, and talk more broadly about what it's like to be a working queer actor. Follow Clayton Farris: https://www.instagram.com/claytonfarris See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From Mar-a-Lago to the Hollywood Hills, things are getting weird, so we called in the great Gianmarco Soresi to help us process. On the docket: Why is Trump coming for the beloved Gayle King? What's behind the GOP's newfound obsession with Sydney Sweeney? And in the most shocking career pivot of the year, why did Dean Cain announce he's joining ICE? We try to figure it all out, and also wonder if the new White House ballroom will have a disco ball. You don't want to miss this one. Follow Gianmarco Soresi: https://www.instagram.com/gianmarcosoresi See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We're winding the clock with Ben Ahlers, who plays fan-favorite Jack Treacher on The Gilded Age! In our chat, we dive into the incredible social media response to the series and Ben's reaction to being affectionately dubbed the "clock twink." Ben also breaks down Jack's massive Season 3 arc, which saw his character finally find success and wealth with his invention. So, what's next for a character with newfound status? Ben reveals what he's hoping for in the next season, and it's not what you think—he's ready for Jack to "get into some trouble."See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Manny Jacinto knows just how special Freakier Friday (August 8) is. “This Freaky Friday story means a lot to so many people.” In the new film, Jacinto plays Eric, a single dad engaged to Lindsay Lohan's Anna. Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis both reprise their roles from the 2003 original about a mother-daughter switching identities. “I had the benefit of not having to come in with a character that was already established. I can kind of do my own thing, kind of bring a different flavor to the screen.” While Jacinto adds something new to the movie, he's more than aware of the power Curtis and Lohan bring to the project. “I obviously didn't know [Lohan] back in the day, but she was an icon for a lot of us, and she's still an icon.” And he compliments Curtis as, “still hungry.... She just brings it every single time. I would love to have half the energy that she has because she's a fireball.” While he calls the fanfare around the film “wild,” it's worth it in the end. “It's such a lovely, lovely story, a fun story, and it's something I think that the world really needs right now.”See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Get ready for a trip back to Arlen, Texas! We chatted with an all-star lineup from the past and future of King of the Hill: showrunner Saladin Patterson, and iconic voice actors Stephen Root (Bill), Toby Huss (Kahn), and Lauren Tom (Minh). We get the inside scoop on reviving the series for a modern audience while preserving its unique heart and soul. We explore why King of the Hill succeeds in representing the voice of middle America in a way no other show on television does, offering a nuanced, funny, and deeply personal perspective. Don't miss this exclusive chat about the return of a true TV classic. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Marc Maron joins Newsweek's H. Alan Scott to break down his incredible new HBO comedy special, Panicked. Holding nothing back, he argues that a comic doesn't have a responsibility to be political in the age of Trump. "I do not think it's that comics' responsibility to do anything but be funny." To that, Maron roasts the left for its infighting, joking that progressives may have “annoyed the average American into fascism.” But we go deeper than politics. Maron reflects on how processing tragedy has allowed him to take greater comedic risks, revealing there's “a part of me that's a little softer and a little more vulnerable and fragile underneath all the noise.” From the anxiety of modern life to the simple truth that “democracy doesn't work without tolerance,” this is an essential chat from a comedy master. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, comedian Zach Noe Towers joins Newsweek's H. Alan Scott for a whirlwind ride through the pop culture circus you didn't know you needed. We're talking the totally random (and kind of perfect?) romance rumors between Pamela Anderson and Liam Neeson, the alleged Katy Perry–Justin Trudeau connection that has the internet ina. tizzy, and why Sydney Sweeney can't even pose for American Eagle without sparking a controversy. Plus, we're giving our unfiltered thoughts on the Luigi Mangione musical (yes, it's a thing) and the shocking sight of Jason Momoa without a beard—spoiler alert: not a good look. If you love gossip with a wink, celebrity absurdity, and a dash of “did that really happen?”—this one's for you. Follow Zach Noe Towers: https://www.instagram.com/zachnoetowers See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What do rising beauty prices and a full beat have in common? Trump's tariffs. In this episode, we break down how the beauty industry could be the next casualty in the ongoing trade war — from skyrocketing costs on imported cosmetics to the impact on your go-to lipstick shades. Joining us to unpack the glam and the gloom are the fabulous Lipstick Lesbians themselves: Alexis Androulakis and Christina Basias Androulakis. Industry leaders and content creators, the Lipstick Lesbians have become not only the internet's go-to beauty experts, but also disruptors in the beauty space, bridging the gap between brands and consumers in a revolutionary way. (They're also just really fun.) You can listen to the full chat with the Lipstick Lesbians on the Parting Shot Podcast with H. Alan Scott: https://www.newsweek.com/podcasts/the-parting-shot. You can watch the full chat with the Lipstick Lesbians by subscribing to Newsweek's For the Culture newsletter: https://www.newsweek.com/newsletter/the-culture/ For more on the Lipstick Lesbians: https://www.thelipsticklesbians.com/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week Franchesca Ramsey joins Newsweek's H. Alan Scott to sift through the pop culture chaos that was this week. We're talking Trisha Paytas' reincarnation theory following the death of Ozzy Osbourne (yes, really). Also, after the deaths of Osbourne, Cosby Show star Malcolm-Jamal Warner, and Hulk Hugan, could people just stop dying this week?! We also pondered what late night might look like after Stephen Colbert. Finally, influencers got cozy at Elon Musk's new Hollywood café, do they deserve to be called out—or called in? Spoiler: We have thoughts. Follow Franchesca Ramsey: https://www.instagram.com/chescaleigh See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The hilarious Mamrie Hart joins Newsweek's H. Alan Scott to dish on her new vegetarian cookbook, 'All I Think About Is Food'! She sticks around to break down the week's chaos: Beyoncé's stolen music (DON'T LEAVE LUGGAGE UNATTENDED), Trump's bizarre Coke announcement (doesn't the president have better things to do?), remembering Connie Francis, and the latest ahead of the finale of 'RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars.' Follow Mamrie Hart: https://www.instagram.com/mametown Buy ‘All I Think About Is Food: A Vegetarian Cookbook That'll Keep the Party Going': https://wwnorton.com/books/9781682689530 See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

For Sterling K. Brown, part of the appeal of producing and starring in Hulu's Washington Black (July 23) was mentoring Ernest Kingsley Jr., the young actor playing the title character. “If I'm in a position where I can help somebody get an opportunity to do it, that means a lot to me, because your legacy isn't just the work that you do, it's the opportunities that you create for other people,” Brown said. Based on the bestselling novel, Kingsley plays George Washington “Wash” Black, a young boy who escapes slavery and, through his scientific mind, sets off an unexpected adventure. Brown plays Medwin, whose life intersects with Wash. “It seems most Black stories that are for mainstream consumption have to do with Black pain, have to do with Black trauma,” Brown said. “So I thought, how awesome would it be to take this historical context but to still illuminate, [and] highlight, joy, hope, faith, love, etc.” And for Kingsley, the story has broad appeal—“that universal story of us going through that harrowing narrative and pain in our past and triumphing over it.”See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As a writer and a fan of the original I Know What You Did Last Summer, Sam Lansky knew he wanted to do right by everyone who loved the original before co-writing (with Jennifer Kaytin Robinson) the script for the new reboot of the franchise. “I hope fans will have a really good time, because you will recognize things and be like, ‘Oh sh**, I see what they did there,' in a way that will feel really fun.” One of the things fans will recognize is the return of some of the original stars. “Both Jennifer [Love Hewitt] and Freddie [Prinze Jr.] really, really cared about who these people would be all these years later, and how to bring that to the screen with so much integrity and authenticity and depth,” but also “make this really, really fun for the fans.” But ultimately, Lansky wants people to put their phones down and go see the new iteration of the franchise in theaters. “Everything is capital F, capital U, for you. When you go to a movie theater, you get to have a rare communal experience of entertainment.... This is a fun summer popcorn movie, it is meant to be a blast.”See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When Jean Smart first read the play ‘Call Me Izzy,' she had one response. “I just had to do it.” Smart is taking a break from winning multiple Emmys for her portrayal of Deborah Vance on ‘Hacks' to tackle the one-person Broadway show about Isabelle Scutley, a Southern woman trapped in an abusive marriage who, despite it all, finds her voice through writing and humor. Smart spoke with Newsweek's H. Alan Scott exclusively about what inspired her to take on this endeavor, her inspiration for the character, and how she keeps up the stamina.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

You're not going to want to miss this one. Sam Sanders, the brilliant host of KCRW's pop culture podcast The Sam Sanders Show, joins Newsweek's H. Alan Scott to help make sense of a truly chaotic week in news and entertainment. They unpack the complicated and stunning verdict in the Sean 'Diddy' Combs trial and what it means. Then, it's time for some news that has us buzzing: The Devil Wears Prada 2 is a go with the original cast! From one iconic diva to another, we break down the reviews and viral moments from Rachel Zegler's debut in Evita in London. Finally, we discussed the latest head-scratching political move: Donald Trump's "Alligator Alcatraz" merchandise. Follow Sam Sanders on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samsanders See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Comedian and professional multi-hyphenate Anna Roisman joins Newsweek's H. Alan for a chaotic-good deep dive into the things that really matter: Zohran Mamdani's political hotness, Barbra Streisand's eternal reign, the unhinged world of FYC Emmy campaigning, Anna Wintour stepping down from VOGUE, and—yes—And Just Like That. (Oh, an H. Alan opens a LABUBU, because why not?) It's a wild ride through pop culture, politics, and prestige TV with one of H. Alan's funniest friends. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After the success of M3GAN, Allison Williams didn't quite fear the stress of doing a sequel. “How lucky are we that we get to do this again? Because it's a dream job.” In M3GAN 2.0 (June 27), we meet Gemma (Williams) and Cady (Violet McGraw) two years after M3GAN, a lifelike robot doll, turned on the humans she was meant to obey. This time she's back, but she's not the only robot doll out for revenge. “One of the great honors of doing a sequel is that the tone is established. People know her vibe. They know who she is and what to expect from her.” And what they can expect this go-around is that it will be unhinged in the best of ways. “They will always be ridiculous in a way: The titular character of the franchise is a robot with a blowout and a gorgeous smoky eye and a wardrobe full of new costumes.” One thing this franchise did ultimately do for Williams is change how she approaches technology. “A Waymo that I get out of, or like our robot vacuum, I'm always like, ‘Thank you so much. Don't kill me someday. Thank you for your work. I'm grateful.'” [laughs] See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Call the palace guards and cancel your brunch plans—Tenderoni is in the house! The mustachioed monarch of drag kings joins Newsweek's H. Alan Scott to dish on King of Drag, Revry new reality competition series that's finally giving drag kings the royal treatment. We talk rhinestones, representation, and how Tenderoni went from serving hot looks in Chicago to ruling the Revry runway. It's glitter, greasepaint, and gender-bending greatness—and yes, there will be LOLz. You're welcome. Follow Tenderoni at https://www.instagram.com/tenderoni88 Watch ‘King of Drag' for free on Revry at https://www.revry.tv See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

British diver Tom Daley was thrust onto the world stage at his first Olympic Games in 2008, age 14. What remained hidden from the public was the strain success at a young age put on him. "It was a very lonely period because no one really understood." Daley reflects on his diving career and life in the new documentary Tom Daley: 1.6 Seconds (Olympics.com). "Growing up, you think you know everything.... It's only when you look back, you realize you knew absolutely nothing." Daley also had to contend with losing his father and coming out as gay. "It was quite scary to finally, actually, come out. Because I knew that it wasn't just going to be telling my family. There was going to be public opinion." And he recounts being bullied while growing up. "I almost felt guilty for being bullied at school. I'm really grateful and really lucky to be in the position that I'm in, yet I'm having this really rough time." Though revisiting the past was hard, the keen knitter is proud of his documentary. "It would be really cool for my kids to have something to look back on and see what happened in my diving career." Watch this episode with Tom Daley: https://www.newsweek.com/2025/06/27/tom-daley-lonely-times-behind-olympic-successes-2082914.html See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Fortune Feimster is one of the funniest comics working today. (She co-hosts Handsome, one of the most popular podcasts out there.) And if you know her, you know that she loves her doggy. Which is why it makes perfect sense she's partnering with Greenies to ‘double dog dare you' to smell your dog's breath. Why smell your dog's breath? Because 80 percent of dogs develop dental issues by the age of 3, according to the Journal of Veterinary Medical Science. That's wild! Feimster and I chatted about why she wants people to tag her in pics and videos of you smelling your dog's breath, why she thinks her podcast Handsome is so popular, and how I, H. Alan Scott, can get more handsome, if you will. (I don't think it's possible.) You can watch our full chat by subscribing to my newsletter, For the Culture: https://www.newsweek.com/newsletter/the-culture/ Learn more about Feimster's partnership with Greenies: https://www.greenies.com/pages/canine-dental-check See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It's a drag diva summit on the Parting Shot podcast as Kerri Colby, Mistress Isabelle Brooks, Nicole Paige Brooks, and Tina Burner join forces (sort of)—and trade a few (playful?) jabs about their time on RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars. From the tea to unfiltered opinions, nothing is off-limits with this chat. Expect bold takes and a few reads, as these queens do not hold back. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Asher Grodman joins the Parting Shot podcast to talk about life (and afterlife) on CBS's hit comedy Ghosts. From his fan-favorite role as Trevor to the show's growing awards recognition this season, Grodman shares how it feels to be part of a series that's truly come alive. He also dishes on his strategic—and hilarious—use of the ghost

Jersey Shore, a reality television show that sparked backlash from politicians when it first aired, is celebrating its 15th anniversary with a new season of Jersey Shore Family Vacation. And while Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino is a fan favorite, after a six year hiatus being off reality television, he wasn't sure people would like the new person he became. Newsweek's Jenni Fink joins H. Alan Scott for this chat with Mike ‘The Situation' Sorrentino. Read Jenni's feature on Mike here: https://www.newsweek.com/jersey-shore-family-vacation-mike-sorrentino-situation-2078136 See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Four tech CEOs, drunk on power, reunite at a mountaintop home amid a global economic crisis they might be partially responsible for. "There is a power that is purchased by money, where they don't have to apologize for their behavior," Cory Michael Smith says about playing Venis in Jesse Armstrong's HBO film Mountainhead (May 31). "A lot of these guys probably grew up not being the coolest kids in class." Part of the struggle for Smith was finding the space between drama and comedy. "Figuring out the balance was a little nerve-racking." Plus, Smith was excited to work with Armstrong. "I watched Succession, like most actors, with awe and envy, thinking, 'Wow, that's the luckiest cast.' Being invited into his [Armstrong's] feature directorial debut is so dreamy." Smith was also eager to work alongside Steve Carell, Jason Schwartzman and Ramy Youssef. "I'm really grateful that I feel like I didn't f*** it up...this felt like a monstrous opportunity, and a monstrous opportunity to fail and have to really consider going back to school if I just humiliated myself." Watch the full chat with Cory Michael Smith: https://www.newsweek.com/2025/05/30/cory-michael-smith-embraces-chaos-jesse-armstrongs-mountainhead-2074986.html See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Darren Criss is an Emmy-winning actor, but deep down he's a musical theater nerd. Which is why he's so proud to be part of this year's Tony-nominated musical Maybe Happy Ending. "Everybody involved in [Broadway], we all work within a 10-some-odd block radius, and it is really like a campus celebration." For Criss, who plays Oliver, a robot in futuristic Seoul in love with another robot, Claire (played by Helen J. Shen), it's "nothing short of a miracle." "You kind of hope for this your whole life." After picking up 10 Tony nominations, including Criss' for Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical, it's clear countless others did too. "I hope it runs for many moons in other countries and in other dimensions." Part of what makes the show unique is its path to Broadway. "Every step along the way, it has been an exponential groundswell of positive response, because everything is just earnest ideas believed in by earnest people." And it's been a benchmark for diversity and Asian stories on Broadway. "I always like to say that the victory is in the conversation." Watch the full chat with Darren Criss: https://www.newsweek.com/2025/06/13/tony-nominee-darren-criss-miracle-that-maybe-happy-ending-2077612.html See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.