Variety Awards Circuit

“Train Dreams" writer-director Clint Bentley discusses the themes and challenges of making the period drama, working with Joel Edgerton, William H. Macy and the rest of the cast in developing their characters, and the music, cinematography and visual style. Also, casting director Francine Maisler talks about her prolific career (including recent work on “Sinners,” “Springsteen Deliver Me From Nowhere,” “The Lost Bus” and “Ella McCay) and also the fact that the Oscars is this year introducing a new competitive category for best casting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Blue Moon” star Ethan Hawke discusses his transformative performance in the film, as well as his legacy, loss, and why Denzel Washington once told him that losing was the best thing that could happen at the Oscars. Later, Oscar Isaac talks about taking on “Frankenstein,” one of the most prolific characters in all of literature, finding family in Guillermo del Toro, and why that has formed the way he thinks about who to say 'yes' to in Hollywood. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Ballad of a Small Player” star Colin Farrell talks about his new movie, where things stand now in his career, what's next with entries like “The Batman 2” (slated to begin production in 2026) and more. Later, “Star Wars” icon Mark Hamill talks about his career, the joy of working on his new film “The Life of Chuck,” and the stories that continue to make him one of Hollywood's most treasured performers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Sinners” star Hailee Steinfeld discusses working on the Ryan Coogler film, and reflects on her “True Grit” Oscar nomination, plus what's next for her in the Marvel universe. Also, “Kiss of the Spider Woman” star Tonatiuh talks about his breakout role in the musical remake from Bill Condon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oscar season of Variety's Awards Circuit Podcast kicks off with Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson discussing his lead role in Benny Safdie's “The Smashing Machine,” including the emotional toll of going to dark places and the physical transformation that nearly broke him. Also: “One Battle After Another” newcomer Chase Infiniti talks about working alongside superstars in the new Paul Thomas Anderson film. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Will it be ‘The Pitt' or ‘Severance,' ‘The Studio' or ‘Hacks'? The Awards Circuit Roundtable gives its final Emmy picks in all of this Sunday's major categories. Also: Emmys host Nate Bargatze discusses what to expect on Sunday's show, including his expensive plan to keep acceptance speeches short. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Emmy contenders were everywhere last weekend, as the teams behind shows like “Severance” tubthumped everywhere in hopes for Emmy gold. Also on this episode: “Shrinking” star and executive producer Jason Segel previews Season 3 (including working with Michael J. Fox and Jeff Daniels) and talks about how his take on his career has changed as he's grown. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Emmy voting kicks off on Monday, and there are several races that are still super competitive — which ones should we be keeping an eye on? Meanwhile, “Only Murders in the Building” star Martin Short on how much longer the comedy might continue, plus what convinced him to try out his new game show host gig on “Match Game”? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Emmy drama race remains too close to call, as “Severance” and “The Pitt” are two frontrunners campaigning hard for the Emmy gold. Speaking of which, “Severance” stars Adam Scott and Britt Lower drop by to talk about that stunning Season 2 ending, and whether those innie lovebirds Mark S. and Helly can make it work. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Comic-Con was huge, but the news coming out of it wasn't — except for that “South Park” panel. Meanwhile, the Roundtable discusses whether which episode a nominee submits for consideration makes a difference. And dual nominee Julianne Nicholson (“Paradise,” “Hacks”) talks about her two very different roles as Sinatra and Dance Mom. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The news that “The Late Show With Stephen Colbert” has been canceled is still stunning, and the reasons still murky. Also, “The Last of Us” star Bella Ramsey on making Emmy history, and what they know about Season 3. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Variety's Awards Circuit Podcast Roundtable discusses the 2025 Emmy nominations: The snubs, the surprises, the odds and much more. “Severance” was the most-nominated series this year, with 27 noms, followed by “The Penguin” with 24 and “The White Lotus” and “The Studio,” with 23 each. Who's the front runner? Are more surprises to come? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the latest Variety Awards Circuit video presented by Paramount+, Variety Executive Editor Michael Schneider and Variety Senior TV Features Editor Emily Longeretta discuss the Emmy contenders for television movie and limited series performances. Variety Awards Circuit presented by Paramount+ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With Emmy nomination voting ending on Monday, we look one more time at the major categories, how the number of submissions has changed some of the competition and who didn't bother to join in. Also, “The Residence” stars Uzo Aduba and Randall Park talk about their series, their theories, their chemistry and their thoughts on a Season 2. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the latest Variety Awards Circuit podcast presented by Paramount+, Variety Executive Editor Michael Schneider and Variety Senior TV Features Editor Emily Longeretta discuss the Emmy contenders for best drama performances. Variety Awards Circuit presented by Paramount+ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As production on Season 3 of “Shrinking” wraps, Brett Goldstein is pinching himself for getting to work with icons like Michael J. Fox and Harrison Ford. Goldstein talks about his comedy special “The Second Best Night of Your Life,” and his recurring role on Season 2 of “Shrinking,” which he also co-created. Also on this episode, David Oyelowo talks about how his Apple TV+ series “Government Cheese” is unlike anything else he has ever done. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the latest Variety Awards Circuit video presented by Paramount+, Variety Executive Editor Michael Schneider and Variety Senior TV Features Editor Emily Longeretta discuss the Emmy contenders for Best Comedy Performance. Variety Awards Circuit presented by Paramount+ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Now that Warner Bros. Discovery is breaking into two companies: One with HBO, the studio and the good stuff, and one the zombie channels and all that debt, what happened? Also, “Abbott Elementary” star Janelle James on staying fiercely protective of her character. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the latest Variety Awards Circuit video presented by Paramount+, Variety Executive Editor Michael Schneider and Variety Senior TV Features Editor Emily Longeretta discuss the Emmy contenders for best limited series and reality competitions. Variety Awards Circuit presented by Paramount+ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Producers and showrunners from “ “The Last of Us,” “Severance,” “Paradise,” “The Pitt,” “Nobody Wants This,” “Abbott Elementary,” “Hacks,” “Monsters: The Lyle & Erik Menendez Story,” “The Penguin” and more swap stories at Variety's A Night in the Writers Room event. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ramy Youssef has outdone himself with four projects to promote simultaneously: his animated Amazon Prime Video series “#1 Happy Family USA”; the second and final season of Netflix's “Mo,” which he co-created with Mo Amer; his role in Jesse Armstrong's HBO movie “Mountainhead”; and his guest appearance in “The Studio” on Apple TV+. Also on this episode, “Godfather of Harlem” star Forest Whitaker. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the latest Variety Awards Circuit video presented by Paramount+, Variety Executive Editor Michael Schneider and Variety Senior TV Features Editor Emily Longeretta discuss the Emmy contenders for Best Comedy Series. Variety Awards Circuit presented by Paramount+  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Inside the ‘King of the Hill' panel that Jonathan Joss crashed — two days before his killing. Also, “The White Lotus” stars Carrie Coon, Michelle Monaghan and Leslie Bibb on how six months in Thailand created their permanent bond. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the latest Variety Awards Circuit video presented by Paramount+, Variety Executive Editor Michael Schneider and Variety Senior TV Features Editor Emily Longeretta discuss the Emmy contenders for Best Drama Series.  Variety Awards Circuit presented by Paramount+ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Somebody Somewhere” star Bridget Everett on what she might do next, how the folks in her hometown reacted to being put in the spotlight, and how her show really resonated with audiences as something truly special. Also on this episode, we talk to Paul Giamatti about his standout episode of this season's “Black Mirror.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As “Hacks” completes its Season 4 and preps for a newly renewed Season 5, Paul W. Downs and Megan Stalter talk about the show, the unique relationship between their characters and more. Also on this episode, the Awards Circuit Roundtable looks at the new “Harry Potter” series castings, the latest from the FYC events around town and the comedy series Emmys race. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ike Barinholtz talks about his turn as Sal Saperstein on Apple TV+'s “The Studio,” as well as loosely turning the story of Jeanie Buss and the Lakers into Netflix's “Running Point.” On the Roundtable, we look at ten changes that the TV Academy should consider making with its Emmy categories. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“The Day of the Jackal” star Eddie Redmayne on what drew him to that Peacock series. Also, the Roundtable is coming from New York, as Mike and Clayton recount the week's worth of TV upfront presentations – including Warner Bros. Discovery's decision to reinstate the “HBO Max” name to Max, and also what was Lady Gaga doing at the YouTube upfront event? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“The Daily Show” exec producer/star Ronny Chieng on what it's like on the set in this current administration. Also, how he's working on a live follow-up to his “Love to Hate It” special, plus what it means to become a citizen in 2025. Meanwhile, the Roundtable dissects Trump's new Hollywood tariffs plan, and looks at the confusing Emmy variety talk and sketch categories. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Roots member Questlove, who has become a prolific documentarian in his spare time, talks about co-directing “Ladies & Gentlemen… 50 Years of SNL Music,” among his other projects. Also: The Roundtable discusses Oscar rules changes, and the Emmy category for outstanding drama actress. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Conan O'Brien on his new season of Max's “Conan O'Brien Must Go,” as well as his decision to return to host the Oscars again next year, and what to expect in his upcoming dramatic role in the film “If I Had Legs I'd Kick You.” Also, the Roundtable looks at the Emmy lead actor categories. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bruce Springsteen and director Thom Zimny on their Hulu/Disney+ doc “Road Diary: Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band.” Also, the Roundtable sets the stage for a unpredictable Emmy season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Variety Podcasting Brunch at SXSW featured Sean Evans, host of “Hot Ones”; Rhett McLaughlin and Link Neal, the hosts of “Good Mythical Morning“; and Marques Brownlee, host of “Waveform Podcast” in a panel discussion about how they are trailblazing storytelling and fan engagement across popular talk shows and podcasts. Sponsored by YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Variety's Awards Circuit Podcast Roundtable looks at all the surprises, streaks and snubs from the 97th Oscars — including that major “Anora” sweep and Conan O'Brien's successful hosting turn. Let's look back one more time at what the Academy got right and how it was so tough to predict this year's outcomes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Variety's Awards Circuit Podcast Roundtable gives its final predictions for the 2025 Oscars. Is it “Anora” or “Conclave” in a battle for best picture, or will there be more surprises? Listen and then fill out your office pool ballot! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“A Complete Unknown” director James Mangold reflects on his creative process, the deep collaboration with Timothée Chalamet and co-star Monica Barbaro, his early struggles within his Hollywood career, and why he had no interest in commissioning an original Bob Dylan song for the film Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“I'm Still Here” star Fernanda Torres talks about her Oscar nomination, Golden Globe win and being the pride of Brazil. Also, “The Substance” director Coralie Fargeat on her unique film. But first, the Roundtable looks at last weekend's awards shows — and how “Anora” has become the Oscar frontrunner. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“The Substance” star Demi Moore on finally getting her first Oscar nomination, while “Emilia Pérez” star Zoe Saldaña addresses the controversy currently surrounding her film and its star. Meanwhile, the Roundtable discusses what has happened with “Emilia Pérez” and the actions of star Karla Sofia Gascón. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oscar nominee Mikey Madison discusses her film “Anora,” while Oscar nominated composer Kris Bowers talks about “The Wild Robot.” Also, the Roundtable looks at the wide-open best picture and director race – with the DGA and PGA awards ahead. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Variety's Awards Circuit Podcast Roundtable discusses the 2025 Oscars nominations: The snubs, the surprises, the odds and much more. “Emilia Perez” was the most-nominated film this year, with 13 noms, followed by “The Brutalist” and “Wicked,” with 10 each. Who's the front runner? Are more surprises to come? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Variety's Awards Circuit Podcast Roundtable discusses the week in Los Angeles as fires hit Pacific Palisades and Altadena, among other areas, We look at how this has impacted the city and the workers who make up the entertainment industry. And we look at what this means for awards season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Golden Globes winner Sebastian Stan (“A Different Man,” “The Apprentice”) talks about his two awards-contending films. Also in this episode, the Awards Circuit Roundtable recounts the wins and surprises at this year's Golden Globes awards. THIS EPISODE OF THE AWARDS CIRCUIT PODCAST WAS TAPED PRIOR TO THE DEVASTATING FIRES IN THE LOS ANGELES AREA. OUR HEART GOES OUT TO THOSE WHO HAVE BEEN IMPACTED BY THE DISASTER. FOR INFORMATION ON HOW TO HELP, GO TO CALFUND.ORG. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Wicked” star Ariana Grande talks about that film, the deeply personal journey of becoming Glinda, the emotional toll of “Wicked,” her plans for a deluxe version of her album, and her thoughts on what the future of movie musicals should look like. THIS EPISODE OF THE AWARDS CIRCUIT PODCAST WAS TAPED PRIOR TO THE DEVASTATING FIRES IN THE LOS ANGELES AREA. OUR HEART GOES OUT TO THOSE WHO HAVE BEEN IMPACTED BY THE DISASTER. FOR INFORMATION ON HOW TO HELP, GO TO CALFUND.ORG. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Nickel Boys” director RaMell Ross about cutting through in Hollywood with a unique, daring story; and Jesse Eisenberg talks about directing and starring in “A Real Pain.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Wicked” star Cynthia Erivo on the strong reaction to the musical film, and what to expect in Part 2. Also, Monica Barbaro on playing Joan Baez in “A Complete Unknown.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Blitz” director Steve McQueen on casting Saoirse Ronan in his film and why he believes cinema is the best medium in the world. Also, Robbie Williams on being portrayed as a monkey in “Better Man.” And the Roundtable looks at this year's Oscars shortlists. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Gladiator II” star Denzel Washington on reuniting with director Ridley Scott, his next Spike Lee film and more. Also, Jharrel Jerome on working with Jennifer Lopez in “Unstoppable,” and the Roundtable looks at the Golden Globe Awards nominations.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“The Brutalist” star Guy Pearce on his recent renaissance, and why there hasn't been a sequel to “LA Confidential.” Also: “The Piano Lesson” star Ray Fisher on the industry and his place in it. Plus, the Roundtable looks at the Independent Spirit Awards nominations and National Board of Review's 2024 honorees. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Unstoppable” star Jennifer Lopez talks about her new film and reflects on her decades-long career — including the challenges of being a Latina actress in Hollywood, and her belief in the power of art to inspire and unite. Also on this episode, the Roundtable makes some Thanksgiving TV and movie suggestions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Sing Sing” co-writer and star Clarence Maclin discusses the film and working with Colman Domingo, and Pharrell Williams on how his biopic turned into an animated Lego movie. Also, the Roundtable dissects the news that Conan O'Brien will host the next Oscars. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“The Last Showgirl” star Pamela Anderson on her role in the film, and how she's still a pop culture icon; and “Dune: Part Two” composer Hans Zimmer on why his score should still be eligible for an Oscar. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices