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The “Late Show with Stephen Colbert” ends this week. When CBS announced the show's cancellation last summer, the network said in a statement that it was “purely a financial decision against a challenging backdrop in late night.” There's still some debate around what happened and why, but for Wesley Morris, the demise of the long-running franchise brought up feelings about another late-night show: “Saturday Night Live.” Maybe, after 51 years, “S.N.L.” should end too. So Wesley invited Jason Zinoman, a Times critic at large, to discuss “S.N.L.” and the beleaguered state of late-night television. What is worth saving? Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts or on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. You can also subscribe via your favorite podcast app here https://www.nytimes.com/activate-access/audio?source=podcatcher. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Today on The Press Box, Bryan and David react to a wild Game 1 of the Western Conference finals between the Spurs and Thunder, and they talk about how to revamp postgame interviews. Then they talk about another Bari Weiss story at CBS (15:28), the decline in “dad books” (22:01), a breakfast taco controversy (36:16), and much more. Then Bryan is joined by New York Times critic Jason Zinoman to discuss the end of Stephen Colbert's late-night show (59:31). Plus, the Overworked Twitter Joke of the Week, and David Shoemaker Guesses the Strained-Pun Headline! Hosts: Bryan Curtis and David ShoemakerGuest: Jason ZinomanProducers: Isaiah Blakely, Jaime Yukich, and Jon Roemer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Johnny Mac covers Jason Zinoman's New York Times piece asking what is lost as CBS cancels The Late Show, arguing it ends not just Stephen Colbert's run but an institution with a tradition of emotional late-night farewells, noting The Late Show will outlast the Carson era of The Tonight Show and recalling the Letterman–Leno rivalry and Colbert's current-events counterprogramming versus Jimmy Fallon's lighter approach. Other items include Nikki Glaser announced as headliner for the University of Florida's Gator Growl on Friday, October 9, and Chelsea Handler on Howie Mandel's podcast criticizing modern dating while saying she prefers not being tethered to one person. Mac also reacts to a GQ profile of SNL's Marcelo Hernandez, cites Late Nighter odds on SNL Season 52 cast changes, and shares John McGinley's ideas and comments about the Scrubs revival, including a proposed Hugh Jackman gag and Dr. Cox's storyline.00:00 Colbert Show Ending00:45 Late Show Legacy02:06 Letterman Leno Rivalry03:17 Colbert Counterprogramming04:07 Nikki Glaser Gator Growl04:29 Chelsea Handler Dating05:17 Marcelo Hernandez in GQ06:51 SNL Season 52 Odds07:19 Scrubs Revival Pitch Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/daily-comedy-news-with-johnny-mac-a-daily-briefing-on-comedians-and-the-comedy-industry--4522158/support.Daily Comedy News is the number one comedy news podcast, delivering daily coverage of standup comedy, late night television, comedy specials, tours, and the business of comedy.COMEDY SURVIVOR in the facebook group.Contact John at John@thesharkdeck dot com For Uninterrupted Listening, use the Apple Podcast App and click the banner that says Uninterrupted Listening. $4.99/month John's Substack about media is free.This is the animal sanctuary mentioned in the February 10 episode.
Johnny Mac recaps Variety's interview with Jeff Ross about the Kevin Hart roast, including Ross's view that well-crafted jokes don't hurt, a surreal moment when he missed Hart's jab while stuck in a locked-bathroom scramble, and the only real tension arising when Katt Williams surprised Hart before Hart quickly turned it celebratory. Ross says nothing was off-limits, credits producer Casey Patterson for secrecy that preserves surprise, and notes live edits and the teleprompter operators' difficulty. Vulture argues Sheryl Underwood “won” by resetting the room's energy. Mac dismisses a Radar Online claim that ABC is reconsidering Jimmy Kimmel, then runs through Kimmel's and Seth Meyers' upfronts material and late-night industry jokes. He notes James Corden's Fox World Cup aftershow, Jason Zinoman's praise of John Mulaney and rising comics, and Heather Shaw's YouTube special release. 00:19 Jeff Ross Roast Chaos02:30 Crossing Lines and Sequencing03:55 Roast Production Secrets04:55 Who Should Get Roasted Next05:17 Sheryl Underwood Steals Show06:10 Kimmel Gossip and Upfronts09:34 Seth Meyers NBC Jabs11:10 James Corden World Cup Show12:45 NYT on Mulaney and Newcomers14:37 Heather Shaw Special and WrapBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/daily-comedy-news-with-johnny-mac-a-daily-briefing-on-comedians-and-the-comedy-industry--4522158/support.Daily Comedy News is the number one comedy news podcast, delivering daily coverage of standup comedy, late night television, comedy specials, tours, and the business of comedy.COMEDY SURVIVOR in the facebook group.Contact John at John@thesharkdeck dot com For Uninterrupted Listening, use the Apple Podcast App and click the banner that says Uninterrupted Listening. $4.99/month John's Substack about media is free.This is the animal sanctuary mentioned in the February 10 episode.
John welcomes five-time Emmy-winning writer Ali Barthwell (Last Week Tonight) to ask, can writers learn to be funny? Drawing from her time as a teacher at The Second City, they look at what writers can learn from sketch and improv, and how to reliably find ways to make an audience laugh. We also celebrate the WGA membership's ratification of the 2026 MBA, the educational future of the Scriptnotes book, and answer listener questions on the first scene of a comedy and when to stop taking assistant gigs and bet on yourself. In our bonus segment for premium members, Ali shares how she built a thriving writing career without ever having to live in New York or LA. Links: Ali Barthwell Preorder Ali's new book, Reality TV for Snobs The Second City Pre-inked star stamps The Padilla Pause: How the Breakout Star of SNL Nails Comic Timing by Jason Zinoman for NYTimes Funnier by Anne Libera Get your copy of the Scriptnotes book! Get a Scriptnotes T-shirt! Check out the Inneresting Newsletter Become a Scriptnotes Premium member, or gift a subscription Subscribe to Scriptnotes on YouTube Follow Scriptnotes on Instagram and TikTok John August on Bluesky and Instagram Outro by Matt Gillespie (send us yours!) Scriptnotes is produced by Drew Marquardt and edited by Matthew Chilelli. Email us at ask@johnaugust.com You can download the episode here.
Guest host Bianca Bova interviews Jasons Zinoman, critic-at-large for the Culture section of The New York Times. Bianca Bova is a Chicago-based curator and art critic. Her work has appeared in the Chicago Reader, Whitehot Magazine, Outside Berlin, LateNighter, and the New York Times, among others. She is a member of the United States section of the Association Internationale des Critiques d'Art, and a 2025 recipient of the Dorothea and Leo Rabkin Foundation Travel Grant for Visual Arts Journalism.Jason Zinoman is a critic at large for The New York Times where he has written the On Comedy column since 2011. He has authored Shock Value: How a Few Eccentric Outsiders Gave Us Nightmares, Conquered Hollywood and Invented Modern Horror, the Kindle Single Searching for Dave Chappelle and the NYT bestseller, Letterman: The Last Giant of Late Night. He was a theater critic for many years and still occasionally reviews plays. He has written for magazines and newspapers since the first Internet boom. He lives in Brooklyn with his wife and two daughters.
Johnny Mac discusses a provoking article by Jason Zinoman from the New York Times, questioning whether the worst Netflix special of the year, Ricky Gervais's 'Mortality,' deserved its Golden Globe win. Other highlights include Trevor Noah returning as the host of the Grammy Awards, Netflix's deal with Shane Gillis for more specials, and Jerry Seinfeld's rigorous workout routine at 71. Additionally, there is news about CBS News revamping with new hires including one named Seinfeld and Amy Schumer's humorous Instagram post. The episode concludes with jokes from late-night shows and news that Dilbert creator Scott Adams has died.01:23 Ricky Gervias Controversy04:55 Trevor Noah to Host the Grammys05:39 Netflix's New Deal with Shane Gillis07:12 Jerry Seinfeld's Fitness Regimen08:19 Late Night Jokes and Comedy Survivor09:01 Craig Ferguson's New Special09:12 Amy Schumer and Chelsea Handler Updates09:50 Bill Maher's Emmy Frustrations10:06 Scott Adams' Passing Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/daily-comedy-news-with-johnny-mac--4522158/support.Daily Comedy News is the number one comedy news podcast, delivering daily coverage of standup comedy, late night television, comedy specials, tours, and the business of comedy.COMEDY SURVIVOR in the facebook group.Contact John at John@thesharkdeck dot com Thanks to our sponsors!Underdog Fantasy Promo Code DCNFor Uninterrupted Listening, use the Apple Podcast App and click the banner that says Uninterrupted Listening. $4.99/month John's Substack about media is free.
A look back at CBS's decision to end The Late Show with Stephen Colbert in 2026. Janae talks with New York Times comedy critic Jason Zinoman about what led to the cancellation, what it says about the state of late-night TV, and how changing audiences and media habits are reshaping comedy.
It's the end of 2025, which means it's time once more for my annual December to remember the year in comedy with my friend and …
MAGA comedian Shane Gillis (lol wtf) discusses Trump and Biden on Matt and Shane's Secret Podcast. Louis CK's new meditative set, explored by Jason Zinoman, focuses heavily on aging and faith. Sebastian Maniscalco reveals scheduling conflicts with an SNL sketch. Kevin Hart shares his thoughts on failure and success in a podcast. John Mulaney-directed Robbie Hoffman's Netflix special gets a December release. Patton Oswalt talks about the role of comedy in politics. Daryl Hammond recounts his experience portraying Dick Cheney. Jay Leno opens up about his wife's battle with dementia, sharing his dedication and love through humor and cherished memories.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/daily-comedy-news-with-johnny-mac--4522158/support.Contact John at John@thesharkdeck dot com Thanks to our sponsors!Raycon EarbudsUnderdog Fantasy Promo Code DCNBlue Chew Promo Code DCNTalkspace promo code Space 80For Uninterrupted Listening, use the Apple Podcast App and click the banner that says Uninterrupted Listening. $4.99/month John's Substack about media is free.
The only thing Gilbert Cruz loves more than celebrating Halloween is watching scary movies. And between the classic horror franchises that span decades and the prestige original films of the current moment, he has seen hundreds of them. On today's episode, Gilbert puts his knowledge to use in conversation with his fellow horror aficionados Jason Zinoman and Erik Piepenburg. They comb through a century of spooks, frights and screams to crown the Top 10 franchises in cinema history. Horror franchises discussed on this episode:“A Nightmare on Elm Street”“A Quiet Place”“Alien”“The Amityville Horror”“Candyman”“Child's Play”“The Conjuring”“The Exorcist”“The Evil Dead”“Final Destination”“Friday the 13th”“Halloween”The Hannibal Lecter films“Hellraiser”“The Hills Have Eyes”“Insidious”“Jaws”“Night of the Living Dead”“The Omen”“Paranormal Activity”“Phantasm”“Poltergeist”“Psycho”“The Purge”“The Ring”“Saw”“Scream”“Terrifier”“The Texas Chainsaw Massacre”The Universal monster films“V/H/S” On Today's Episode:Jason Zinoman is a critic at large for The Times and the author of “Shock Value: How a Few Eccentric Outsiders Gave Us Nightmares, Conquered Hollywood, and Invented Modern Horror.”Erik Piepenburg covers culture for The Times, and writes a monthly column about horror movies.Additional Reading:25 Jump Scares That Still Make Us JumpFive Horror Movies to Stream Now‘Good Boy' Review: Sit. Stay. Scream. Photo: Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts or on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. You can also subscribe via your favorite podcast app here https://www.nytimes.com/activate-access/audio?source=podcatcher. For more podcasts and narrated articles, download The New York Times app at nytimes.com/app.
In an 18-minute monologue, Jimmy Kimmel addressed his recent suspension, expressing gratitude to those who supported him and defending his right to free speech. He thanked his late-night peers, conservative figures, and international hosts for their support.Kimmel clarified that his previous controversial comments were not intended to make light of a serious incident. He criticized the FCC's stance on regulating media content, citing concerns over potential government overreach.Kimmel concluded with a humorous bit featuring Robert De Niro, playing a fictional FCC chairman, highlighting the absurdity of media regulation.Also reactions from Stephen Colbert, Jimmy Fallon, and Joe Rogan, all supporting free speech in comedy. This is a bonus episode. The normal episode went out earlier this morning. There will be another bonus at noon today with Jason Zinoman from the New York Times.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/daily-comedy-news-with-johnny-mac--4522158/support.Become a premium subscriber! (no ads). For Apple users, hit the banner on your Apple podcasts app which says UNINTERRUPTED LISTENING and the bonus “DCN8” show.You also get 25+ other series (it's only $4.99 a month with a free-trial month)Contact John at john@thesharkdeck dot com Media Thoughts is mcdpod.substack.com dailycomedynews.substack.com DCN on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@dailycomedynews https://linktr.ee/dailycomedynews www.buymeacoffee.com/dailycomedynews
Friend of the Show Jason Zinoman returns to discuss Jimmy Kimmel, Late Night, and the upcoming Riyadh Comedy Festival which includes performers Dave Chappelle, Louis CK, Bill Burr and many other famous names.Jason is a critic at large for the New York Times where he writes about comedy.This was recorded on Tuesday before Kimmel aired. There will be a Kimmel bonus in the feed today (not sure when) and the normal Wednesday episode went out this morning.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/daily-comedy-news-with-johnny-mac--4522158/support.Become a premium subscriber! (no ads). For Apple users, hit the banner on your Apple podcasts app which says UNINTERRUPTED LISTENING and the bonus “DCN8” show.You also get 25+ other series (it's only $4.99 a month with a free-trial month)Contact John at john@thesharkdeck dot com Media Thoughts is mcdpod.substack.com dailycomedynews.substack.com DCN on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@dailycomedynews https://linktr.ee/dailycomedynews www.buymeacoffee.com/dailycomedynews
Jimmy Kimmel's return to late-night television tonigh. A look at the intense negotiations with top Disney executives, leading to a last-minute agreement. Hollywood's reactions were mixed, with some calling it a 'pseudo suspension.' The podcast quotes other late-night hosts like John Stewart and Stephen Colbert, who commented on the situation. The episode also references historical late-night TV controversies and previews Jimmy Kimmel's anticipated monologue. Feed update:Today - there was the normal episode, then a binus episode with Mark Malkoff host of Inside Late Night and The Carson Podcast, and author of Love Johnny Carson.Wednesdau - normal epsiode at 3am, a fantastic bonus with Jason Zinoman from the New York Times at noon, and a Kimmel bonus at 3pm or so.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/daily-comedy-news-with-johnny-mac--4522158/support.Become a premium subscriber! (no ads). For Apple users, hit the banner on your Apple podcasts app which says UNINTERRUPTED LISTENING and the bonus “DCN8” show.You also get 25+ other series (it's only $4.99 a month with a free-trial month)Contact John at john@thesharkdeck dot com Media Thoughts is mcdpod.substack.com dailycomedynews.substack.com DCN on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@dailycomedynews https://linktr.ee/dailycomedynews www.buymeacoffee.com/dailycomedynews
The 77th Primetime Emmy Awards ceremony is tonight, honoring the best television shows released between June 2024 and May 2025. But before the festivities begin, Gilbert Cruz, the editor of The New York Times Book Review, would like to have a TV celebration of his own.On today's episode, he gathers Jason Zinoman, a critic at large for The Times, and Alexis Soloski, a culture reporter for The Times, to “channel surf” through some of their favorite shows of the past year.On Today's Episode:Jason Zinoman, a critic at large for The New York Times who writes a column about comedy.Alexis Soloski, a culture reporter for The New York Times. Additional Reading:The 9 People Who Check In to Every ‘White Lotus'Sympathy for the Devil, er Boss: In ‘The Studio,' the Powerful Are on Defense Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everything from politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts or on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
A chill summer Sunday of comedy news..00:19 Jason Zinoman's Insights on Comedy01:23 Marc Maron's Podcast and Interviewing Style03:37 Bill Burr's Podcast Appearance05:07 TJ Miller's Beer Pong Challenge05:56 Nish Kumar on Social Media and Comedy06:55 Sebastian Maniscalco's Tour Insights07:27 Jimmy Fallon and Greg Gutfeld's Night Out09:36 Gossip Corner: Tiffany Haddish and More10:41 Comedy Festivals and Fringe HighlightsBecome a premium subscriber! (no ads and no feed drops). For Apple users, hit the banner on your Apple podcasts app which says UNINTERRUPTED LISTENING. You also get 25+ other series from comedy to paranormal, royals, romance, trivia, politics, movies, music, murder, sports, travel, religion, spirituality, celebrity gossip and feuds, consisting of THOUSANDS OF SHOWS AD-FREE! (it's only $4.99 a month with a free-trial month) PLUS, subscribers get offers like early show releases and subscriber-only shows. Go to Caloroga.com for all our shows! Contact John at john@thesharkdeck dot com Pl John's free substack about the media: Media Thoughts is mcdpod.substack.com Also follow the companion piece dailycomedynews.substack.com DCN on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@dailycomedynews https://linktr.ee/dailycomedynews You can also support the show at www.buymeacoffee.com/dailycomedynews Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/daily-comedy-news-with-johnny-mac--4522158/support.
Since 2015, Stephen Colbert has been one of the most familiar faces in political comedy, broadcasting from Manhattan's Ed Sullivan Theater. But now, CBS says The Late Show will end in 2026. WNYC's Janae Pierre speaks with New York Times comedy critic Jason Zinoman about what's behind the decision and what it signals for the future of satire, late-night television, and Colbert himself.
In his long career, magazine writer and biographer Bill Zehme had one white whale: the enigmatic TV giant Johnny Carson, whom Zehme called "The Great American Sphinx." In 2002, Zehme landed one of the most coveted assignments for a magazine writer: an interview with Johnny Carson-the only one he'd granted since retiring from hosting "The Tonight Show" a decade earlier. Zehme, who had been a diehard Carson fan since childhood, was tapped for the Esquire feature story thanks to his years of legendary celebrity profiles that included several high-profile show hosts-the resulting piece portrayed Carson as more human being than showbiz legend. Shortly after Carson's death in 2005 and urged on by many of those closest to Carson, Zehme signed a contract to do an expansive biography. He toiled on the book for nearly a decade-interviewing dozens of Carson's colleagues and friends and filling up a storage locker with his voluminous research-before a cancer diagnosis and ongoing treatments halted his progress. When he died in 2023 his obituaries mentioned the Carson book, with New York Times comedy critic Jason Zinoman calling it "one of the great unfinished biographies." Yet the hundreds of pages Zehme managed to complete are astounding both for the caliber of their writing and how they illuminate one of the most inscrutable figures in entertainment history: A man who brought so much joy and laughter to so many millions but was himself exceedingly shy and private. In CARSON THE MAGNIFICENT (Simon & Schuster; hardcover; on sale 11/05/2024), Zehme traces Carson's rise from a magic-obsessed Nebraska boy to a Navy ensign in World War II to a burgeoning radio and TV personality to, eventually, host of "The Tonight Show"-which he transformed, along with the entirety of American popular culture, over the next three decades. On a much more intimate level, Zehme also chronicles the turmoil and anguish that accompanied the success: four marriages plagued by infidelity and turmoil, troubles with alcohol that spurred physical and psychological cruelties, an emotional guardedness that was rooted in the criticisms of his hard-to-please mother, the struggles to connect with his children, and the devastation he felt at the loss of his middle son, Ricky, who died at age 39 when his car plunged off an embankment along the California coast. In one passage, Zehme notes that when asked by an interviewer in the mid-80s for the secret to his success, Carson replied simply, "Be yourself and tell the truth." Completed with help from journalist and Zehme's former research assistant Mike Thomas, CARSON THE MAGNIFICENT offers just that: an honest assessment of who Johnny Carson really was, told in parts with Zehme's trademark stylistic flourishes and astute insights. Zehme had an uncanny ability to capture his subject's essence, no matter how elusive or famous they were. This book, arguably the apex of his esteemed career, is the shining example of what Zehme did best, and readers will come away with a richer understanding of an American icon.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/arroe-collins-unplugged-totally-uncut--994165/support.
John is joined by New York Times critic Jason Zinoman. They discuss Hedberg's unique comedy style, his legacy within the industry, and comparisons to other influential comedians such as Steven Wright and Andy Kaufman. The conversation also touches on the potential use of AI in preserving Hedberg's work.While Jason is here, they discuss John Mulaney, Bill Burr, and Conan O'Brien. Unlock an ad-free podcast experience with Caloroga Shark Media! Get all our shows on any player you love, hassle free! For Apple users, hit the banner on your Apple podcasts app which says UNITERRUPTED LISTENING. For Spotify or other players, visit caloroga.com/plus. No plug-ins needed! You also get 20+ other shows on the network ad-free! This podcast supports Podcasting 2.0 if you'd like to support the show via value for value and stream some sats! https://linktr.ee/dailycomedynews Contact John at john@thesharkdeck dot com John's free substack about the media: Media Thoughts is mcdpod.substack.com DCN on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@dailycomedynews You can also support the show at www.buymeacoffee.com/dailycomedynews Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/daily-comedy-news--4522158/support.
In his long career, magazine writer and biographer Bill Zehme had one white whale: the enigmatic TV giant Johnny Carson, whom Zehme called "The Great American Sphinx." In 2002, Zehme landed one of the most coveted assignments for a magazine writer: an interview with Johnny Carson-the only one he'd granted since retiring from hosting "The Tonight Show" a decade earlier. Zehme, who had been a diehard Carson fan since childhood, was tapped for the Esquire feature story thanks to his years of legendary celebrity profiles that included several high-profile show hosts-the resulting piece portrayed Carson as more human being than showbiz legend. Shortly after Carson's death in 2005 and urged on by many of those closest to Carson, Zehme signed a contract to do an expansive biography. He toiled on the book for nearly a decade-interviewing dozens of Carson's colleagues and friends and filling up a storage locker with his voluminous research-before a cancer diagnosis and ongoing treatments halted his progress. When he died in 2023 his obituaries mentioned the Carson book, with New York Times comedy critic Jason Zinoman calling it "one of the great unfinished biographies." Yet the hundreds of pages Zehme managed to complete are astounding both for the caliber of their writing and how they illuminate one of the most inscrutable figures in entertainment history: A man who brought so much joy and laughter to so many millions but was himself exceedingly shy and private. In CARSON THE MAGNIFICENT (Simon & Schuster; hardcover; on sale 11/05/2024), Zehme traces Carson's rise from a magic-obsessed Nebraska boy to a Navy ensign in World War II to a burgeoning radio and TV personality to, eventually, host of "The Tonight Show"-which he transformed, along with the entirety of American popular culture, over the next three decades. On a much more intimate level, Zehme also chronicles the turmoil and anguish that accompanied the success: four marriages plagued by infidelity and turmoil, troubles with alcohol that spurred physical and psychological cruelties, an emotional guardedness that was rooted in the criticisms of his hard-to-please mother, the struggles to connect with his children, and the devastation he felt at the loss of his middle son, Ricky, who died at age 39 when his car plunged off an embankment along the California coast. In one passage, Zehme notes that when asked by an interviewer in the mid-80s for the secret to his success, Carson replied simply, "Be yourself and tell the truth." Completed with help from journalist and Zehme's former research assistant Mike Thomas, CARSON THE MAGNIFICENT offers just that: an honest assessment of who Johnny Carson really was, told in parts with Zehme's trademark stylistic flourishes and astute insights. Zehme had an uncanny ability to capture his subject's essence, no matter how elusive or famous they were. This book, arguably the apex of his esteemed career, is the shining example of what Zehme did best, and readers will come away with a richer understanding of an American icon.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/arroe-collins-like-it-s-live--4113802/support.
Johnny Mac discusses a chaotic encounter between comedian Andrew Schulzz and Logan Paul at a wrestling event, saved by AJ Styles. The episode also covers Hulu's new 'Hularious' campaign featuring comedians Jim Gaffigan, Bill Burr, and Sebastian Maniscalco, and their innovative marketing strategy. Other topics include New York Times' profile of Jason Zinnaman, iHeart Podcast Awards, Conan O'Brien's series renewal, and Rami Youssef's new project. 00:00 Andrew Schulz's Wrestling Encounter01:28 Hulu's New Comedy Campaign06:07 Trae Crowder's New Special06:24 Jason Zinoman's Comedy Insights09:31 iHeart Podcast Awards Recap10:54 Conan O'Brien's Show Renewal12:07 Rami Youssef's New SeriesUnlock an ad-free podcast experience with Caloroga Shark Media! Get all our shows on any player you love, hassle free! For Apple users, hit the banner on your Apple podcasts app which says UNITERRUPTED LISTENING. For Spotify or other players, visit caloroga.com/plus. No plug-ins needed! You also get 20+ other shows on the network ad-free! This podcast supports Podcasting 2.0 if you'd like to support the show via value for value and stream some sats! https://linktr.ee/dailycomedynews Contact John at john@thesharkdeck dot com John's free substack about the media: Media Thoughts is mcdpod.substack.com DCN on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@dailycomedynews You can also support the show at www.buymeacoffee.com/dailycomedynewsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/daily-comedy-news--4522158/support.
On this week's show, the hosts reflect on 50 years of music, culture, and comedy with the 50th anniversary of SNL and QuestLove's new documentary Ladies & Gentlemen…50 Years of SNL Music. For that, the team is joined by Jason Zinoman, critic at large for culture at The New York Times. Then they discuss the Oscar-nominated animated film Flow – where we follow the adventures of an unlikely group of animals led by a curious black cat. Finally, Slate culture writer Nadira Goffe joins to talk about Kendrick Lamar's “double whammy” of a Super Bowl halftime show. Read her article reflecting on the performance here. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, the panel invites Jason Zinoman back to discuss his article on standup comedy's move to soften the punchline in exchange for a long, humor-infused setup. Email us at culturefest@slate.com. Endorsements: Dana: Henry IV playing at the Theatre for a New Audience in New York and K.D. Lang's SNL performance of Johnny Get Angry in 1989 (audio only, as the video performance has been removed) or this other performance of the song (with visuals) on UK's Channel Four from 1991 Julia: Vulture critic Craig Jenkins' halftime show review – Kendrick Lamar Is Not Your Savior and Pom Pom maker Steve: Pope Francis' letter to Vice President J.D. Vance Podcast production and research by Vic Whitley-Berry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On this week's show, the hosts reflect on 50 years of music, culture, and comedy with the 50th anniversary of SNL and QuestLove's new documentary Ladies & Gentlemen…50 Years of SNL Music. For that, the team is joined by Jason Zinoman, critic at large for culture at The New York Times. Then they discuss the Oscar-nominated animated film Flow – where we follow the adventures of an unlikely group of animals led by a curious black cat. Finally, Slate culture writer Nadira Goffe joins to talk about Kendrick Lamar's “double whammy” of a Super Bowl halftime show. Read her article reflecting on the performance here. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, the panel invites Jason Zinoman back to discuss his article on standup comedy's move to soften the punchline in exchange for a long, humor-infused setup. Email us at culturefest@slate.com. Endorsements: Dana: Henry IV playing at the Theatre for a New Audience in New York and K.D. Lang's SNL performance of Johnny Get Angry in 1989 (audio only, as the video performance has been removed) or this other performance of the song (with visuals) on UK's Channel Four from 1991 Julia: Vulture critic Craig Jenkins' halftime show review – Kendrick Lamar Is Not Your Savior and Pom Pom maker Steve: Pope Francis' letter to Vice President J.D. Vance Podcast production and research by Vic Whitley-Berry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On this week's show, the hosts reflect on 50 years of music, culture, and comedy with the 50th anniversary of SNL and QuestLove's new documentary Ladies & Gentlemen…50 Years of SNL Music. For that, the team is joined by Jason Zinoman, critic at large for culture at The New York Times. Then they discuss the Oscar-nominated animated film Flow – where we follow the adventures of an unlikely group of animals led by a curious black cat. Finally, Slate culture writer Nadira Goffe joins to talk about Kendrick Lamar's “double whammy” of a Super Bowl halftime show. Read her article reflecting on the performance here. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, the panel invites Jason Zinoman back to discuss his article on standup comedy's move to soften the punchline in exchange for a long, humor-infused setup. Email us at culturefest@slate.com. Endorsements: Dana: Henry IV playing at the Theatre for a New Audience in New York and K.D. Lang's SNL performance of Johnny Get Angry in 1989 (audio only, as the video performance has been removed) or this other performance of the song (with visuals) on UK's Channel Four from 1991 Julia: Vulture critic Craig Jenkins' halftime show review – Kendrick Lamar Is Not Your Savior and Pom Pom maker Steve: Pope Francis' letter to Vice President J.D. Vance Podcast production and research by Vic Whitley-Berry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On this week's show, the hosts reflect on 50 years of music, culture, and comedy with the 50th anniversary of SNL and QuestLove's new documentary Ladies & Gentlemen…50 Years of SNL Music. For that, the team is joined by Jason Zinoman, critic at large for culture at The New York Times. Then they discuss the Oscar-nominated animated film Flow – where we follow the adventures of an unlikely group of animals led by a curious black cat. Finally, Slate culture writer Nadira Goffe joins to talk about Kendrick Lamar's “double whammy” of a Super Bowl halftime show. Read her article reflecting on the performance here. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, the panel invites Jason Zinoman back to discuss his article on standup comedy's move to soften the punchline in exchange for a long, humor-infused setup. Email us at culturefest@slate.com. Endorsements: Dana: Henry IV playing at the Theatre for a New Audience in New York and K.D. Lang's SNL performance of Johnny Get Angry in 1989 (audio only, as the video performance has been removed) or this other performance of the song (with visuals) on UK's Channel Four from 1991 Julia: Vulture critic Craig Jenkins' halftime show review – Kendrick Lamar Is Not Your Savior and Pom Pom maker Steve: Pope Francis' letter to Vice President J.D. Vance Podcast production and research by Vic Whitley-Berry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On this week's show, the hosts reflect on 50 years of music, culture, and comedy with the 50th anniversary of SNL and QuestLove's new documentary Ladies & Gentlemen…50 Years of SNL Music. For that, the team is joined by Jason Zinoman, critic at large for culture at The New York Times. Then they discuss the Oscar-nominated animated film Flow – where we follow the adventures of an unlikely group of animals led by a curious black cat. Finally, Slate culture writer Nadira Goffe joins to talk about Kendrick Lamar's “double whammy” of a Super Bowl halftime show. Read her article reflecting on the performance here. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, the panel invites Jason Zinoman back to discuss his article on standup comedy's move to soften the punchline in exchange for a long, humor-infused setup. Email us at culturefest@slate.com. Endorsements: Dana: Henry IV playing at the Theatre for a New Audience in New York and K.D. Lang's SNL performance of Johnny Get Angry in 1989 (audio only, as the video performance has been removed) or this other performance of the song (with visuals) on UK's Channel Four from 1991 Julia: Vulture critic Craig Jenkins' halftime show review – Kendrick Lamar Is Not Your Savior and Pom Pom maker Steve: Pope Francis' letter to Vice President J.D. Vance Podcast production and research by Vic Whitley-Berry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Hello Interactors,The weight of winter up north can have its cozy comforts, but cold, damp, and dark can take a toll. We also continue to face a convergence of daunting global challenges — climate change, inequality, political instability, and health crises — each amplifying the other straining our ability to find meaningful and sustainable solutions. So much for ‘Happy Holidays'.A recent article on avoiding despair turned to the concept of “tragic optimism.” This can sometimes be offered as a way to avoid our human tendency to seek “doom and gloom” while also not succumbing to “toxic positivity.” These topics struck me as a decent lens to kick off this winter's focus: human behavior. Let's unpack the emotional geographies that shape us. How do spaces and norms influence how we feel, process, and express emotions? SPACES, SMILES, AND SOCIAL SCRIPTSWhen I was in seventh grade, I was the lead in our middle school musical, Bye Bye Birdy. It featured the song, Put on a Happy Face that employed this cheery, but pushy, line: “Spread sunshine, all over the place…just put on a happy face.”Dick van Dyke played the starring role on Broadway from 1960-61 earning him an Tony award. He then appeared in the movie in 1963, launching him to stardom. In that role, many other roles, and in real life, he is a man who appears perpetually happy. Even now at age 98!But under that smile, lurks a darker side. Soon after his early success, Van Dyke became an alcoholic. The alcohol may have helped him put on a happy face society expected, but it came at a price. This insistence on relentless optimism regardless of circumstances is called “toxic positivity” — and it's more than a personal behavior. It reflects societal norms that prioritize surface-level harmony over emotional complexity. These norms shape how we navigate feelings and influence our individual well-being. But shared spaces, like our workplaces or homes also influence these emotional dynamics. Have you ever walked into a place knowing how you were expected to act? At work, you might slap on a smile and say “I'm fine” even when you're not. At home, you might feel the pressure to play the part of the cheerful parent, partner, or roommate. These emotional scripts don't come out of nowhere — they're baked into our cultural expectations about what different spaces are “for”.Geographer Yi-Fu Tuan explains that spaces acquire “moral properties” through societal norms, values, and cultural narratives. Workplaces, seen as sites of productivity, often suppress emotions like frustration, while homes, idealized as places of comfort, pressure individuals to adopt roles like nurturing parent or cheerful partner. These norms shape how people are expected to behave and feel within these spaces.America itself, as a cultural and geographic entity, carries its own "moral properties." These are reinforced by media narratives that frame the nation as a land of optimism, resilience, and emotional stability, projecting these expectations onto its citizens and then exported to the world to consume.Take one of the most-watched television programs in America from 1962 to 1992, Johnny Carson's The Tonight Show. His late-night TV persona was examined in a recent New York Times piece by Jason Zinoman. He described Carson as America's calm, neutral host, soothing the nation with his polite humor. He wasn't just a TV personality; he was part of a larger cultural push for emotional stability, especially during times of uncertainty. His show became a space where people could escape the messiness of real emotions.But these expectations aren't just about comfort — they're about control. By promoting harmony and cheer, society nudges us toward emotional conformity, discouraging anything that might feel too “messy” or unpredictable.This pressure doesn't fall on everyone equally. Women often bear the brunt of emotional labor, expected to keep things “pleasant” for others. Cultural geographer Linda McDowell highlights how professional women are frequently required to maintain an upbeat attitude at work, regardless of personal circumstances. This expectation extends beyond the workplace, shaping how women are perceived and allowed to express themselves.On The Tonight Show, Joan Rivers, a trailblazing comedian, faced this constraint. Despite her sharp, satirical wit, Rivers was often limited to lighthearted banter and self-deprecating humor to align with Johnny Carson's carefully neutral persona. Similarly, Carol Wayne, as the flirtatious “Matinee Lady,” reinforced the idea that women on the show were there to amuse or adorn, not disrupt. These portrayals reflected societal norms that confined women to roles as caretakers or decorative figures, both publicly and privately.SUPPRESSING SORROW WITH A SMILE SUCKSPutting on a happy face might seem harmless, but it can take a toll. When we suppress feelings like sadness, frustration, or anger, they don't just disappear — they build up, creating stress. They can even impact our physical health. Neuroscientists have shown that suppressing emotions can increase activity in the brain's fear center (the amygdala) while dampening the rational, problem-solving parts (like the prefrontal cortex). Basically, pretending you're okay when you're not can mess with your head and your body.James J. Gross, a psychologist and leading researcher in emotion regulation, has shown that suppressing emotions can heighten stress levels, activate the brain's fear center (the amygdala), and disrupt cognitive processes critical for resilience and problem-solving. Recent brain imaging studies by Wang and Zhang (2023) support this, demonstrating that expressive suppression, where feelings are actively withheld, triggers heightened amygdala activity and diminished prefrontal regulation. These findings highlight the significant physiological toll of emotional suppression, further validating Gross's work.Viktor Frankl, a Holocaust survivor and existential psychologist, offers a valuable framework for regulating these emotions with his concept of “tragic optimism.” Frankl introduced tragic heroism in his 1978 book, The Unheard Cry for Meaning, drawing on the existential and Greek tragic tradition of resilience in the face of suffering. He later expanded this with tragic optimism in a 1984 essay, emphasizing hope and meaning-making even amidst life's inevitable hardships. Drawing on his experiences from the Holocaust, he explores the human ability to confront inevitable suffering while maintaining hope and finding meaning. For Frankl, this approach was not about denying pain but about embracing life's full spectrum — its joys and its tragedies — as integral to human existence.But his view of suffering has been criticized as overly universal and idealistic, assuming that all individuals can derive purpose from adversity. His emphasis on personal responsibility may inadvertently shift blame onto individuals for not overcoming circumstances beyond their control. Constant pressure by systemic oppression can exist even in a society that claims to be free. Migrant women in caregiving roles, as McDowell highlights, often lack the freedom to balance suffering and hope on their own terms. Instead, they are required to project resilience and positivity, even under exploitative conditions, effectively masking systemic inequities. Similarly, Joan Rivers and Carol Wayne were cast into narrow roles that demanded cheerfulness, ensuring they complemented rather than challenged societal norms. These portrayals reflected the broader expectation that women embody emotional steadiness, regardless of personal circumstances.Frankl's insights remind us that the ability to engage with hardship meaningfully is a privilege that societal expectations often deny to those at the margins. Understanding the toll of suppression and the uneven distribution of emotional freedom is crucial in challenging the norms that perpetuate these dynamics.COMBATING CONFORMITY WITH COMMUNITYThankfully, norms aren't set in stone — they can be, and have been, resisted and redefined. Sara Ahmed, a feminist scholar, critiques what she calls the “happiness duty.” She shows how this duty pressures marginalized groups to appear cheerful, suppressing feelings like anger or pain to uphold the status quo. Movements like Black Lives Matter reject this demand, openly expressing grief and frustration to confront systemic injustice. Through “collective effervescence”, as sociologist Émile Durkheim describes, collective emotions in protests turn individual pain into powerful demands for change. Ahmed and Durkheim offer examples of how breaking free from the pressure to "stay positive" transforms emotions into tools for meaningful resistance.But even this kind of resistance can make those in power uncomfortable, so they demand order, calm, and happiness. When collective effervescence calls people to, as Public Enemy's song decries, ‘fight the powers that be', another collective encourages everyone to spread ‘sunshine all over the place, and just put on a happy face.' But in the face of this “toxic positivity” that Public Enemy mocks as, “'People, people we are the same'”, they respond ‘No, we're not the same / 'Cause we don't know the game'. They can't justify putting on a happy face when most of America refuses to wrestle with poverty and race. Summoning an inner Johnny Carson can be seen by some as not a neutral, but as just another way to paternally placate — to pat down incivility. It can be seen more like Jack Nicholson's infamous “Here's Johnny!” in The Shining — a menacing veneer of cheer masking a deep, dark, and discomforting societal reality.Ananya Roy, a geographer and urban theorist, takes a hard look at this in her work on the “rescue industry.” In Poverty Capital, she critiques how even well-intentioned aid organizations often portray marginalized communities as helpless and in need of saving, while ignoring the structural problems that keep them oppressed. These narratives don't just undermine real change — they also place emotional expectations on those being "rescued." They demand gratitude and resilience while leaving the bigger systems of inequality intact.Roy's work shows how this approach reflects a long history of paternalism and American exceptionalism, where those in power maintain control by shaping how others should act and feel.Geography plays a big part in how these expectations are enforced. Relief camps, aid programs, and even microfinance initiatives often create spaces where people are expected to behave a certain way — thankful, hopeful, and compliant. In the U.S., similar patterns show up in low-income neighborhoods, where anger or frustration is often punished, reinforcing norms that demand harmony and silence over real emotional expression.If we want to resist these dynamics, we need to rethink the spaces where care and support happen. Instead of controlling emotions or enforcing positivity, these spaces should allow for shared agency and the full range of human feelings. By rejecting savior narratives and making room for emotions like grief and anger, communities can start to challenge the systems that hold them back and move toward real change.From Johnny Carson's seemingly cheerful neutrality to the "happiness duty" imposed on marginalized groups, societal norms can slowly prioritize control over connection, faux harmony over brutal honesty. But resistance is possible. Movements like Black Lives Matter, the Women's March, Chile's protests for constitutional reform, and Hong Kong's pro-democracy demonstrations highlight how group effervescence can channel collective emotions into impactful resistance. However, these movements also reveal the limits of protest alone in achieving enduring change. Systemic barriers to change require sustained efforts beyond the initial wave of mobilization.As Ananya Roy reminds us, breaking free from narratives of saviorism and exceptionalism requires not just challenging these norms but rethinking the spaces where they take root. How can we build geographies of care that empower, rather than constrain? Perhaps the answer lies in acknowledging that resistance begins with feeling — and making space for emotions, no matter how “messy” they might seem. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit interplace.io
We did it, comedy fans. We withstood another year of craziness, hundreds upon hundreds of comedy specials, and have gotten my friend and colleague in …
Maybe late-night TV shouldn't be called “late-night TV” anymore, with so many viewers consuming it in clips the morning after, on their phones. Yet the genre's hallmarks — the avuncular host, the sidekick, the band, the monologue, the desk, the guests — linger. Most were stamped on America's consciousness by Johnny Carson.A new biography about an old reliable, Bill Zehme's “Carson the Magnificent” harks back to an era when doom and scroll were biblical nouns and Carson's “Tonight Show” was a clear punctuation mark to every 24-hour chunk of the workweek — less an exclamation point, maybe, than a drawn-out ellipsis. “They want to lie back and be amused and laugh and have a nice, pleasant and slightly … I hate the word risqué … let's say adult end to the day,” is how a producer in 1971 described the millions tuning in from home, to Esquire.Carson went off the air in 1992, after three decades on “Tonight,” and left this Earth in 2005. Zehme, a journalist known for his chummy celebrity profiles, struck a book deal almost immediately but struggled to get purchase on his subject— “the ultimate Interior Man,” he despaired to a source, “large and lively only when on camera” — and then was diagnosed with late-stage cancer. He died himself last year at 64, and a former “legman” and friend, Mike Thomas, has finished the project, giving it a doubly valedictory feel.There were plenty of earlier books to consult, like “King of the Night,” by Laurence Leamer (who wrote about Joanne Carson in “Capote's Women”), “And Now … Here's Johnny,” by a young Nora Ephron, and the memoirs of Carson's eternal second banana, Ed McMahon. His lawyer's tell-all, published in 2013, is tellingly unmentioned. Zehme and Thomas have taken, if not the high road, the yellow brick one, with Carson's Midwestern background left in dusty black and white while the nitty-gritty of show business is buffed to a high Emerald City sheen.Give the authors points for changing up the standard chronological format. We don't get to Carson's birth date of Oct. 23, 1925, in Corning, Iowa, until the 107th page; his rebirth on Oct. 1, 1962, in NBC's Studio 6B, midwifed by Groucho Marx, being the main event.On air, Carson would take on various goofy guises, including the turbaned Carnac the Magnificent. The book's title, and its light glide over his womanizing and sometimes violent alcoholism, suggest that in real life, too, he was a master of disguise and escape. After an unpleasant first date with Jody, he gives her a cactus in a bedpan with a note reading: “Sit on this. It will remind you.” After they married, she would sometimes wake with bruises. “Did he hurt you, Mom?” Joanna's son asks after blowups. Zehme attributes such behavior to a booze-poisoned “doppelgänger”; he credits Carson with destigmatizing divorce without considering how swiftly, today, his whole operation would be canceled.Visiting a proto-couples counselor, Carson “would taste shrinkage for the first time,” but he was far more comfortable overseeing Carson's Couch. He might have been his own best analyst. “My job is to give them that feeling,” he told the “Tonight Show” regular Tony Randall of his drowsing masses, “that there will be a tomorrow.” How very yesterday.
In this episode, we delve into Jason Zinoman's column from the New York Times on the best comedy of 2024. The conversation touches on his picks like Nikki Glaser's new HBO special, Ronnie Chieng's Netflix special, and other notable works including Tom Papa's clean comedy and Josh Johnson's prolific TikTok content. We also discuss Vulture's top comedy specials, which range from Ali Wong to Anthony Jeselnik, and the host shares his own opinions and plans for compiling his year-end list. Join us for an in-depth look at the year's standout comedy performances and specials. 00:22 Reacting to Jason Zinnman's Best Comedy of 202405:35 Vulture's Best Comedy Specials of 202409:26 Final Thoughts and Upcoming PlansUnlock an ad-free podcast experience with Caloroga Shark Media! Get all our shows on any player you love, hassle free! For Apple users, hit the banner on your Apple podcasts app. For Spotify or other players, visit caloroga.com/plus. No plug-ins needed! You also get 20+ other shows on the network ad-free! This podcast supports Podcasting 2.0 if you'd like to support the show via value for value and stream some sats! https://linktr.ee/dailycomedynews Contact John at john@thesharkdeck dot com John's free substack about the media: Media Thoughts is mcdpod.substack.com DCN on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@dailycomedynews You can also support the show at www.buymeacoffee.com/dailycomedynewsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/daily-comedy-news--4522158/support.
Jason Zinoman, critic-at-large for the Culture section of the New York Times, comedy columnist and author Topic(s): Johnny Carson and the fantasy of America; Can Disney cut into Netflix's comedy dominance Articles: https://www.nytimes.com/by/jason-zinoman#latest Bio: https://www.nytimes.com/by/jason-zinoman Social Media: X: @zinoman Instagram: @zinomanj Threads: @zinomanj Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
A Tribute to the Legendary Bob NewhartIn this episode, we honor the life and career of comedian Bob Newhart, who passed away at the age of 94. Friend of the show, Jason Zinoman, highlights Newhart's enduring influence on comedy in the New York Times. The episode includes clips from Newhart's performances, tributes from fellow comedians including Jay Leno, Carol Burnett, and Judd Apatow, and insights into his unique style. Additionally, details on where to catch Newhart's TV shows during this weekend's binge marathon on the Catchy Comedy Network.For an ad-free version of the podcast become a premium subscriber. Details at caloroga.com/plus or on Apple Podcasts click on the banner that says Uninterrupted Listening.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/daily-comedy-news--4522158/support.
In this episode, Johnny Mac interviews Jason Zinoman, a distinguished comedy critic for the New York Times. The discussion spans a variety of topics, including Zinoman's approach to covering comedy, his observations on Dave Chappelle's recent work, the changing nature of comic fame, and the intricacies of the current comedy scene impacted by streaming and digital platforms. Timestamps drift depending how many ccommercials you get dynamicallys erved but here's the order01:59 Interview with Jason Zinnaman Begins03:16 Discussing the Comedy Scene07:28 Dave Chappelle's Controversial Legacy12:20 Jerry Seinfeld's Potential Political Turn15:31 The Fragmented Fame of Modern Comedians18:20 David Letterman's Late Night Legacy24:42 John Mulaney's Show and Its Potential25:42 Critics vs. Public Reaction27:01 The Challenge of Sustaining a Show27:27 The Art of Call-In Shows28:41 Saturday Night Live's Future31:08 The Comedy Special Landscape40:03 Comedy Criticism and Snobbery48:44 Regional Comedy and Internet Influence Timestamps may vary depending on how long the commercials are. Unlock an ad-free podcast experience with Caloroga Shark Media! Get all our shows on any player you love, hassle free! For Apple users, hit the banner on your Apple podcasts app. For Spotify or other players, visit caloroga.com/plus. No plug-ins needed! Subscribe now for exclusive shows like 'Palace Intrigue,' and get bonus content from Deep Crown (our exclusive Palace Insider!) Or get 'Daily Comedy News,' and '5 Good News Stories' with no commercials! Plans start at $4.99 per month, or save 20% with a yearly plan at $49.99. Join today and help support the show! We now have Merch! FREE SHIPPING! Check out all the products like T-shirts, mugs, bags, jackets and more with logos and slogans from your favorite shows! Did we mention there's free shipping? Get more info from Caloroga Shark Media and sign up for our newsletter here. See the full list of shows and sign up for our newsletter for more great news from Caloroga Shark Media. www.buymeacoffee.com/dailycomedynews Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/dcnpod - join us to to discuss comedy and your favorite comedians. YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/@dailycomedynews?sub_confirmation=1 Twitter is @dcnpod because the person with what I want tweeted once Email: john at thesharkdeck dot com Daily Comedy News commentary includes satire and parody. Daily Comedy News is a production of Caloroga Shark Media, the leading company in short form daily podcastsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/daily-comedy-news-the-daily-show-about-comedians-and-comedy--4522158/support.
Join Harry, Daniel, and their guest Jason Zinoman, critic at large for The New York Times, as they share a plate of ginger prawns (Kosher of course) at their favorite Chinese Restaurant and unpack the Jewishness of Barbet Schroeder's “Reversal of Fortune,” starring Glenn Close, Ron Silver, and Jeremy Irons in an Oscar winning performance.Tune in to hear them discuss the way protagonist Alan Dershowitz is faced with positive and negative stereotypes of his Jewishness, debate Judaism's perspective on upholding the law when things get morally ambiguous, and answer the question of whether or not Claus Von Bulow has a good sense of humor.Finally, they end the episode by selecting their most Jewish scenes, “stretches of the pod,” debating if the movie is “good for the Jews” and ranking the film's overall Jewishness.IMDB - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0100486/Movie Trailer - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qU7cBiiYcUgJason's LinksThe Martin Chronicles Podcast - https://martinchronicles.buzzsprout.com/Jason on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/zinomanj/Jason on Twitter - https://x.com/zinomanConnect with Jews on Film online:Jews on Film Merch - https://jews-on-film.printify.me/productsInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/jewsonfilm/Twitter - https://twitter.com/jewsonfilmpodYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@jewsonfilmTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jewsonfilmpod
New York Times columnist and David Letterman biographer Jason Zinoman is the guest. There's pizza news, and the pizza topic is: "Pizza Jokes" (or, at least, that's what Arthur's trying to call them).In 2011, Jason Zinoman became the first comedy critic for The New York Times, writing the On Comedy column. Before that, he wrote theater criticism for The New York Times and Time Out New York. He is the author of 2017's “Letterman: The Last Giant of Late Night,” and also 2011's “Shock Value: How a Few Eccentric Outsiders Gave Us Nightmares, Conquered Hollywood, and Invented Modern Horror.” Jason also co-hosts the podcast The Martin Chronicles.Jason discusses the benefits and problems with the comedy boom (AND pizza boom). He and the gang go over the problems with certain folks potentially ruining debates about pizza, and why Jason changed his mind (mid-podcast) on white slices. This podcast is brought to you by Ooni Pizza Ovens. Go to Ooni.com for more information.Follow us for more information!Instagram: @pizzapodparty @NYCBestPizza @AlfredSchulz4Twitter: @PizzaPodParty @ArthurBovino @AlfredSchulzTikTok: @thepizzapodpartyThreads: @pizzapodparty @NYCBestPizza @AlfredSchulz4
New York Times comedy critic Jason Zinoman has joined me every year since 2015 for our own traditional December To Remember the year in comedy. On …
Jesse David Fox covers comedy for Vulture, where he hosts the podcast Good One. His new book is Comedy Book: How Comedy Conquered Culture—and the Magic That Makes It Work. “There's a complete lack of anyone who's ever written about comedy seriously compared to any other art form. There's just nothing. … So the challenge was, how do you start a conversation that no one has been participating in?” Show notes: @JesseDavidFox Fox's Vulture archive 3:00 Jason Zinoman's New York Times archive 5:00 “What Is the Best Adam Sandler Movie?” (Vulture • April 2023) 6:00 Kathryn VanArendonk's Vulture archive 8:00 “A Note About Splitsider” (Megh Wright• Vulture • Mar 2018) 11:00 “Jerry Seinfeld at Vulture Festival 2015” (Vulture • June 2015) 12:00 WTF with Marc Maron Podcast (Marc Maron • WTF • 2009) 14:00 “Jen Kirkman Turned Catcalling Into One of the Best Street Harassment Jokes Ever” (Vulture • April 2017) 23:00 “An Appreciation of the Button-Down Mind of Bob Newhart” (Ramsey Ess • Vulture • Mar 2018) 23:00 “Maria Bamford Wants to Tell You How Much Money She Makes” (Vulture • Oct 2017) 23:00 “How Funny Does Comedy Need to Be?” (Vulture • Sep 2018) 23:00 “Michelle Wolf on Correspondents Dinner, Social Media” (Vulture • Mar 2020) 23:00 “Disgust is Tom Segura's Love Language” (Vulture • Sept 2022) 23:00 “The Story Behind Bert Kreischer's ‘Machine' Joke” (Vulture • May 2023) 23:00 “Katt Williams Explains Jacksonville Florida” (Katt Williams • Netflix • Jan 2020) 36:00 “How the Internet and a New Generation of Superfans Helped Create the Second Comedy Boom” (Vulture • Mar 2015) 37:00 Las Culturistas (Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang • iHeartRadio • 2016) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
The writer Martin Amis, who died last week at the age of 73, was a towering figure of English literature who for half a century produced a body of work distinguished by its raucous wit, cutting intelligence and virtuosic prose.On this week's podcast, Gilbert Cruz talks with The Times's critics Dwight Garner (who wrote Amis's obituary for the paper) and Jason Zinoman (who co-hosts a podcast devoted to Amis's career, “The Martin Chronicles”) about the life and death of a remarkable figure who was, as Garner puts it, “arguably the most slashing, articulate, devastatingly clear, pungent writer of the last 25 years of the past century and the first almost 25 of this century.”We would love to hear your thoughts about this episode, and about the Book Review's podcast in general. You can send them to books@nytimes.com.
Jason Zinoman works for the New York Times, currently serving as their comedy critic, and is the author of 'Letterman, The Last Giant of Late Night,' one of the most encompassing books ever written about David Letterman & Company. Jason took some time out of his insane schedule to talk all things Letterman, and brings a unique perspective on a variety of topics. He and Mike discuss the levels of The Show's evolution over the years, how certain figures, like Merrill Markoe and Chris Elliott shaped the show, and what it was like to meet and interview Dave himself for his book. Jason is an expert on the behind the scenes of Letterman and his productions, and an invaluable resource for insight and anecdotes. He also is a podcast host as well, co-hosting 'The Martin Chronicles' which dissects and celebrates the work of British Novelist Martin Amis. As always, The Letterman Podcast is brought to you by Rupert Jee and 'The Hello Deli.' If you find yourself in Midtown Manhattan and want good food served by one of the kindest people on the planet, head to the Hello Deli. Also, if you would like official 'Late Show with David Letterman' merchandise, including mugs, t-shirts, hats and more, head to hello-deli.com and shop to your heart's content. If you ask really nicely, Rupert may even add onions to your order. Please show the love to our show by liking, subscribing, sharing, and leaving positive comments, here and all over the internet. We are growing a community and are excited about the future plans we have. Feel free to join and contribute to our group on The Facebook; especially if you are contributing something odd. We love odd.
It's the end of 2022, which means it's time once again for my annual year-end check-in with Jason Zinoman, critic at-large for The New York …
For the next few months, we're sharing some of our favorite conversations from the podcast's archives. This week's segments first appeared in 2017 and 2018, respectively.The longtime New York Times comedy critic Jason Zinoman is the first person ever to hold that position at the paper, and he's a natural fit for it: In 2017, when his biography of the late-night host David Letterman was published, he explained on the podcast that his early love of Letterman had shaped not only his love of comedy but to some extent his outlook on the world: “I worshiped David Letterman as a kid,” Zinoman told the host Pamela Paul. “He is one of these people who I loved before I thought like a critic. And I do believe that you love things as a kid in a deep way that you don't love things as an adult. And to a large degree I think my sense of humor was defined by David Letterman. When I was a kid I talked like him. I smiled like him. My sense of sarcasm came from him. Even as an adult I can sort of see traces of it.”Also this week, we revisit our 2018 conversation with the New York Times Magazine writer Sam Anderson, who talked about basketball, Oklahoma City and his book “Boom Town.”We would love to hear your thoughts about this episode, and about the Book Review's podcast in general. You can send them to books@nytimes.com.
Gabe Mollica! Comedian! Delight! Friend! "Birbiglian" story-teller, according to Jason Zinoman (who covers comedy for the NY Times). He's got a solo show called "Solo: a Show About Friendship" and we talk about it and friendship and a lot of other things! It's great and he's great and you're great and if you're in NYC, go see the show in November 2022 if you can, like I'm going to! Thanks for reading, thanks for listening, thanks for doing all that you're doing. PS Our bonus chat is available here!
In our first episode of WAIT FRIGHT MINUTES, we discuss 1963's splatter classic, BLOOD FEAST, and how Miami influenced the filmmakers into changing the horror genre forever. Go to the Wait Five Minutes website for more! Episode art by River Aparicio - check out more of their work here! Watch the trailer for BLOOD FEAST right here! - Audio from this trailer is used in this episode Pick up a copy of SHOCK VALUE by Jason Zinoman right here! Unless otherwise stated, all the music used in this episode was originally composed.
Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day for July 30, 2022 is: ineffable in-EFF-uh-bul adjective Ineffable is used to describe something that is indescribable or unspeakable and that cannot be expressed in words. It is also used for things which are taboo and are not to be uttered. // Ed felt an ineffable joy at the sight of his daughter walking toward him from the plane. See the entry > Examples: "But onstage alone, talking to a crowd, he's smooth as can be. A seductive presence, he has that ineffable quality of stardom: a preternatural ability to connect." — Jason Zinoman, The New York Times, 28 May 2022 Did you know? "Every tone was a testimony against slavery, and a prayer to God for deliverance from chains. The hearing of those wild notes always depressed my spirit, and filled me with ineffable sadness," wrote Frederick Douglass in his autobiography. Reading Douglass's words, it's clear that ineffable means "indescribable" or "unspeakable." And when we break the word down to its Latin roots, we see how those meanings came about. Ineffable comes from ineffābilis, which joins the prefix in-, meaning "not," with the adjective effābilis, meaning "capable of being expressed." Effābilis comes from effārī, "to speak out," which in turn comes from ex- and fārī, meaning “to speak.”
This week on Good One, host Jesse David Fox is doing something a little different. Instead of interviewing a successful comedian about one of their bits and how it fits into their comedy, Jesse sat down with fellow comedy journalist Jason Zinoman of the New York Times! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
"Culturally Determined" is back! Aryeh speaks with New York Times comedy critic Jason Zinoman, author of the recent essay "Is It Funny for the Jews?". They discuss Jewish comedy in a time of rising anti-Semitism, whether Jewish characters should be played by Jewish actors, Dara Horn's recent book "People Love Dead Jews," "The Merchant of Venice," Philip Roth, how younger Jewish comedians understand their heritage, and more! Recorded February 21, 2022LINKS:Jason's NYT piece, "Is It Funny for the Jews?"https://www.nytimes.com/2022/02/17/arts/television/comedy-jewish-identity.htmlFollow Jason on Twitter: @zinomanFollow Aryeh on Twitter: @AryehCW See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.
This week, Steve and Dana are joined by author and co-host of Slate's Working podcast, Isaac Butler. First, the panel discusses the social implications of Netflix's biggest hit to date, Squid Game. Next, the panel reviews the incredibly divisive (and gory) Cannes Palme d'Or winning Titane. Finally, the panel is joined by writer, researcher, and host of the Talking Scared podcast, Neil McRobert, to dissect the horror genre trope of the Final Girl.In Slate Plus, the panel discusses representations of parenthood in art.Email us at culturefest@slate.com.EndorsementsThe panel revisits their previous discussion on eBooks and endorses more media.Dana: Scottish actor Alan Cumming's harrowing, yet deeply moving book—particularly the audiobook version—Not My Father's Son: A Family Memoir.Isaac: Two books consumed in eBook format! The first, a tome composed of every novella from author Ursula K. Le Guin titled, The Found and the Lost. The second, in this episode's shadow theme of Halloween, Jason Zinoman's book Shock Value: How a Few Eccentric Outsiders Gave Us Nightmares, Conquered Hollywood, and Invented Modern Horror. Which is, not clearly, a history steeped in love of 1970s horror cinema auteurs.Steve: Keeping it simple this week with three songs. First, the indie rock band from Leeds, The Wedding Present and their 1992 song “Blue Eyes.” Second (friend of a friend of the podcast) Courtney Barnett's cover of The Velvet Underground's “I'll Be Your Mirror” from the recent Velvet Underground & Nico tribute album. Finally, Willow Smith's (yes, as in Jada Pinkett and Will Smith) song with artist Tyler Cole “Meet Me At Our Spot,” which was released under their alias THE ANXIETY. (The live version has been blowing up on TikTok.)Podcast production by Cameron Drews. Production assistance by Nadira Goffe.Outro music is "Meet Me At Our Spot" by THE ANXIETY, WILLOW, and Tyler ColeSlate Plus members get ad-free podcasts, a bonus segment in each episode of the Culture Gabfest, full access to Slate's journalism on Slate.com, and more. Sign up now at slate.com/cultureplus. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Steve and Dana are joined by author and co-host of Slate's Working podcast, Isaac Butler. First, the panel discusses the social implications of Netflix's biggest hit to date, Squid Game. Next, the panel reviews the incredibly divisive (and gory) Cannes Palme d'Or winning Titane. Finally, the panel is joined by writer, researcher, and host of the Talking Scared podcast, Neil McRobert, to dissect the horror genre trope of the Final Girl.In Slate Plus, the panel discusses representations of parenthood in art.Email us at culturefest@slate.com.EndorsementsThe panel revisits their previous discussion on eBooks and endorses more media.Dana: Scottish actor Alan Cumming's harrowing, yet deeply moving book—particularly the audiobook version—Not My Father's Son: A Family Memoir.Isaac: Two books consumed in eBook format! The first, a tome composed of every novella from author Ursula K. Le Guin titled, The Found and the Lost. The second, in this episode's shadow theme of Halloween, Jason Zinoman's book Shock Value: How a Few Eccentric Outsiders Gave Us Nightmares, Conquered Hollywood, and Invented Modern Horror. Which is, not clearly, a history steeped in love of 1970s horror cinema auteurs.Steve: Keeping it simple this week with three songs. First, the indie rock band from Leeds, The Wedding Present and their 1992 song “Blue Eyes.” Second (friend of a friend of the podcast) Courtney Barnett's cover of The Velvet Underground's “I'll Be Your Mirror” from the recent Velvet Underground & Nico tribute album. Finally, Willow Smith's (yes, as in Jada Pinkett and Will Smith) song with artist Tyler Cole “Meet Me At Our Spot,” which was released under their alias THE ANXIETY. (The live version has been blowing up on TikTok.)Podcast production by Cameron Drews. Production assistance by Nadira Goffe.Outro music is "Meet Me At Our Spot" by THE ANXIETY, WILLOW, and Tyler ColeSlate Plus members get ad-free podcasts, a bonus segment in each episode of the Culture Gabfest, full access to Slate's journalism on Slate.com, and more. Sign up now at slate.com/cultureplus. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
New York Times Comedy Critic Jason Zinoman shares the downsides of being called a bitch by Dave Chappelle on Broadway, giving someone a bad review then finding out they live in your apartment, only having three columns a month to cover comedy in the New York Times, reviewing Pete Davidson, Louis CK, and The Fringe Festival, tv shows about rich people that aren't really critiquing them, and I somehow got him to call my podcast "necessary", a pull quote I will be using for the rest of my life. You can watch the full video of this episode HERE Join The Downside Patreon for early ad-free episodes the Friday before they're released on Tuesday, TWO bonus episodes a month (AUDIO & VIDEO), + the good feeling inside that you're helping keep my delusions alive. Follow JASON ZINOMAN on twitter Read JASON ZINOMAN's NYT articles here Follow GIANMARCO SORESI on twitter, instagram, tiktok, & youtube Check out GIANMARCO SORESI's special 'Shelf Life' on amazon & on spotify Subscribe to GIANMARCO SORESI's mailchimp Follow RUSSELL DANIELS on twitter & instagram E-mail the show at TheDownsideWGS@gmail.com Produced by Fawn Sullivan, Paige Asachika, & Gianmarco Soresi Part of the Authentic Podcast Network Original music by Douglas Goodhart Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
New York Times comedy critic Jason Zinoman is the one person analyzing comedy from the most prominent journalistic platform in the world. So naturally Jason and Marc would want to talk about the nuts and bolts of creating comedy and, very specifically, the origin of David Letterman's influential brand of comedy, which is the subject of Jason's new book. Plus, Hank Azaria is back in the garage to talk about bringing a gleefully drunk sportscaster to your televisions. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Sign up here for WTF+ to get the full show archives and weekly bonus material! https://plus.acast.com/s/wtf-with-marc-maron-podcast.