The Prestige TV Podcast

Justin Sayles and Jodi Walker create a monkey island to recap ‘Chimp Crazy,’ a four-part HBO docuseries. They start by discussing the complicated nature of its virality, Alan Cumming’s major role in the search for Tonka the missing chimp, and PETA’s heavy involvement in the case (3:12). Along the way, they talk about the eccentricity of Tonia Haddix and her story (17:14). Later, they unpack series director Eric Goode’s use of a proxy director and the blurry ethics around that tactic in documentary filmmaking (34:52).

Hosts: Justin Sayles and Jodi Walker

Producer: Kai Grady

Additional Production Support: Justin Sayles

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Jo and Rob go on the run to recap the Season 4 premiere of ‘Slow Horses.’ They discuss whether the show has a house style when it comes to how it’s shot, the rapid pace at which the Apple TV+ series releases, and the wittiness of the writing (2:50). Along the way, they walk through some of the new characters introduced so far (22:01). Later, they unpack the fake-out at the center of the episode and whether the twist worked (36:07).

Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney

Producer: Kai Grady

Additional Production Support: Justin Sayles

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Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney return to Slough House to recap the first three seasons of ‘Slow Horses’ ahead of its Season 4 premiere on September 4. They briefly make the case for why it’s one of the best shows on television, then provide snapshots of each of the past three seasons (4:08). Next, they walk through a character-by-character breakdown to revisit where the Apple TV+ spy-thriller's protagonists left off (14:41). Later, they bid farewell to a few of the side characters lost along the way (47:30).

Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney

Producer: Kai Grady

Additional Production Support: Justin Sayles

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Charles and Jodi step into the void to recap the second and third episodes of ‘Industry’ Season 3. They discuss how far Harper and Yas are willing to go to win, why Henry Muck has taken such a liking to Yas, and what’s behind the disappearance of Charles Hanani (3:44). Along the way, they talk about the psychosexual connections among four of the show’s main characters and how they each vie for validation and power with one another (21:17). Later, they unpack the ripple effect of the big twist in the middle of Episode 3, “It” (37:38).

Hosts: Charles Holmes and Jodi Walker

Producer: Kai Grady

Additional Production Support: Justin Sayles

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Joanna Robinson is joined by author and podcaster Kristin Russo to revisit the cult classic ‘My So-Called Life’ and celebrate the 30th anniversary of its premiere. They discuss why the 1994 teen drama still means so much to them all these years later, its impact on the television landscape during its initial run, and how it inspired (and was inspired by) fashion trends of the era (1:43). Along the way, they talk through how the ABC show broke ground with some of its character archetypes and casted future pop culture stars (19:26). Later, they unpack its influence on today’s array of teen shows (44:16).

Hosts: Joanna Robinson

Guest: Kristin Russo

Producer: Kai Grady

Additional Production Support: Justin Sayles

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Charles Holmes and Jodi Walker hide from the paparazzi to recap the Season 3 premiere of ‘Industry.’ They discuss their relationship with the intense HBO drama dating back to its first season, how the role reversal of Yasmin and Harper makes for an intriguing twist, and why Kit Harington is an excellent addition to the cast (2:31). Along the way, they talk about Ken Leung’s electric performance as Eric and how he serves as the North Star character for the series (22:29). Later, they debate whether the visceral portrayal of sex on ‘Industry’ is invigorating, repulsive, or both (29:24).

Hosts: Charles Holmes and Jodi Walker

Producer: Kai Grady

Additional Production Support: Justin Sayles

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Jo and Rob demonstrate their faith to revisit a ‘The Leftovers’ episode “It’s a Matt, Matt, Matt, Matt World.” They discuss what it was like rewatching this episode vs. seeing it for the first time, how it serves as a character send-off for Matt Jamison, and the show’s continued exploration of faith and religion throughout its three seasons (4:01). Along the way, they talk about how the series tethers itself to reality through its various ties to popular culture (23:27). Later, they unpack Damon Lindelof’s unique relationship with his critics and how that inspired the events of the episode (36:31).

Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney

Producer: Kai Grady

Additional Production Support: Justin Sayles

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Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney adorn themselves accordingly to revisit an unforgettable ‘The Leftovers’ episode, “International Assassin.” They open by discussing why this episode is so essential to the makeup of the show, how it felt like a moment of critical redemption for series creator Damon Lindelof, and their connection to the HBO drama (6:58). Next, they break down the episode scene by scene and talk through how it expertly balances grounded emotional stakes with the absurd premise (16:15). Later, they highlight how the show’s world-building is utilized to its advantage throughout the episode (45:59).

Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney

Producer: Kai Grady

Additional Production Support: Justin Sayles

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Jo and Rob await the jury’s decision to recap the Season 1 finale of ‘Presumed Innocent.’ They open by discussing why the episode felt unsatisfying, the shocking revelation that [redacted] is the killer, and how the ending affects the season as a whole (8:39). Along the way, they talk about what they want out of Season 2 (16:45). Later, they compare the show’s conclusion to that of its cinematic and literary counterparts (24:19).

Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney

Producer: Kai Grady

Additional Production Support: Justin Sayles

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Bill Simmons joins Jo and Rob as they take the stand to recap the seventh episode of ‘Presumed Innocent.’ They open by discussing whether the show will ultimately change the ending from the book-turned-film, the surprising news that Apple renewed it for a second season, and some of Bill’s hottest takes on the legal drama (1:57). Along the way, they rave about Peter Sarsgaard’s performance as Tommy Molto in the penultimate episode, and reveal their predictions heading into the finale (20:33). Later, they’re joined by multi-episode director and executive producer Greg Yaitanes to talk about directing Jake Gyllenhaal, which character he thinks is the show’s secret weapon, bringing the stylized dream sequences to life, and much more (40:25).

Hosts: Bill Simmons, Joanna Robinson, and Rob Mahoney

Guest: Greg Yaitanes

Producer: Kai Grady

Additional Production Support: Justin Sayles

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Jo and Rob prepare for the trial to recap the fifth and sixth episodes of ‘Presumed Innocent.’ They open by discussing whether the series is suffering from the David E. Kelley red herring problem, their leading whodunnit theories, and whether Rusty is too unlikable as the story’s protagonist (2:07). Along the way, they talk about the various dream sequences throughout the series and how they’re being utilized (23:22). Later, they read through a couple of listener emails (and sneak in a few takes on ‘The Bear’ Season 3!) (33:36).

Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney

Producer: Kai Grady

Additional Production Support: Justin Sayles

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Charles and Van dress in all black to recap the ninth and 10th episodes of ‘The Bear’ Season 3. They start by discussing how Carmy might be becoming the very thing he despises and the potential fallout from the Chicago Tribune review heading into Season 4 (4:15). Later, they talk about whether the series sidelines its side characters this season (27:51).

Hosts: Charles Holmes and Van Lathan

Producer: Kai Grady

Additional Production Support: Justin Sayles

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Charles and Van enter Valhalla to recap the seventh and eighth episodes of ‘The Bear’ Season 3. They start by discussing how Carmy’s legacy is intertwined with toxicity, why Syd is so attached to the restaurant, and the show’s unique relationship with the real-world fine dining industry (2:51). Later, they break down why “Ice Chips” ultimately fell flat and how this season feels like it’s doing a little too much with some of its creative swings (22:19).

Hosts: Charles Holmes and Van Lathan

Producer: Kai Grady

Additional Production Support: Justin Sayles

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Rob Mahoney and Wosny Lambre are back to recap the final two episodes of ‘Clipped.’ They start by discussing how they enjoyed their experience with the series as a whole (2:13). Then, they get into Episodes 5 and 6 by talking about how the show recreated some iconic television moments (16:46). Later, they talk about how Adam Silver was portrayed, as well as some other NBA-related odds and ends from the series (31:46).

Hosts: Rob Mahoney and Wosny Lambre

Producer: Carlos Chiriboga

Additional Production Support: Justin Sayles

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Charles and Van stumble back into The Beef to recap the fifth and sixth episodes of ‘The Bear’ Season 3. They discuss why Season 3 isn’t as compelling as past seasons, how Carmy has devolved into an increasingly unlikable character, and whether the show is suffering from a cameo problem (3:04). Later, they unpack why “Napkins” is one of the strongest episodes of the series to date (24:03).

Hosts: Charles Holmes and Van Lathan

Producer: Kai Grady

Additional Production Support: Justin Sayles

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Charles and Van follow a set of non-negotiables to recap the third and fourth episodes of ‘The Bear’ Season 3. They start by discussing Lionel Boyce’s growth as an actor, whether Carmy is just too talented to be a good leader, and why Carmy and Richie’s relationship has to be fraught for the show to work (3:56). Later, they unpack what’s behind the more muted critical reception to this season and whether they’re feeling any trepidation heading into the rest of the episodes (30:06).

Hosts: Charles Holmes and Van Lathan

Producer: Kai Grady

Additional Production Support: Justin Sayles

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Charles Holmes and Van Lathan step back into the kitchen to recap the first two episodes of ‘The Bear’ Season 3. They start by discussing why the opening moments of the season felt like a visual poem, how long Carmy and Syd can coexist in the restaurant’s new world order, and the competing ideologies that pit the characters against one another (2:59). Along the way, they debate whether Carmy is too demanding of everyone (31:27). And later, they parse if the FX series can still be funny as it expands its storytelling approach (39:55).

Hosts: Charles Holmes and Van Lathan

Producer: Kai Grady

Additional Production Support: Justin Sayles

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Jo and Rob build their case to recap the third and fourth episodes of ‘Presumed Innocent.’ They open by reading through a handful of listener emails before checking in on where the main characters are at halfway through the series (4:00). Along the way, they talk about their primary suspects, how race is changing the previously adapted story, and the shocking plot twist at the end of Episode 4 (18:35). Later, they discuss the complicated relationship between Ray Horgan and Rusty Sabich and what their bond says about the mystery at hand (39:52).

Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney

Producer: Kai Grady

Additional Production Support: Justin Sayles

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Rob Mahoney and Wosny Lambre lace up and hit the hardwood to recap the third and fourth episodes of ‘Clipped.’ They start by unpacking Episode 3, “Let the Games Began” and the contrast between the show’s heavy themes of race and power and its absurd moment-to-moment character depictions (2:01). Next, they break down the series of flashback sequences in Episode 4, “Winning Ugly,” and discuss whether or not going back in time worked at this point in the series (17:28). Later, they hand out their award for Most Uncanny Valley Moment (41:06).

Hosts: Rob Mahoney and Wosny Lambre

Producer: Kai Grady

Additional Production Support: Justin Sayles

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Nora Princiotti and Kate Halliwell spread the ton gossip and recap the last four episodes of ‘Bridgerton’ Season 3. They start by discussing how the Lady Whistledown story line felt high stakes, Polin’s romantic development, and Penelope’s powerful monologue (1:22). Next, they talk about side plot highlights and the season’s pacing issues (16:59). Later, they look ahead and make predictions on what the future of the show could have in store (0:00).

Hosts: Nora Princiotti and Kate Halliwell

Producer: Kai Grady

Additional Production Support: Justin Sayles

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Joanna Robinson and Van Lathan travel to Europe to recap the first six episodes of ‘Interview With the Vampire’ Season 2. They start by discussing whether or not it’s the best show on television right now, how it effectively depicts the cultural complexities of its settings, and why Jacob Anderson’s nuanced performance as Louis de Pointe du Lac anchors the show (1:43). Along the way, they talk about how the AMC drama embraces the queer nature of the story and how Sam Reid’s take on Lestat de Lioncourt is in stark contrast to Tom Cruise’s in the 1994 film adaptation (13:04). Later, they consider the future of the series and what they want out of it moving forward (40:30).

Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Van Lathan

Producer: Kai Grady

Additional Production Support: Justin Sayles

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Justin Sayles and Jodi Walker struggle for power to recap ‘Ren Faire,’ a three-part HBO docuseries. They start by discussing their personal experiences with renaissance fairs, the complicated trio of main characters at the heart of this absurd Texas Renaissance Festival conflict, and what makes the Safdie brothers–produced documentary so refreshing (1:23). Along the way, they talk about how ‘Ren Faire’ illustrates themes indicative of our time regarding older people in positions of power (17:55). Later, they debate who ended up being the most tragic figure in the story and whether the blend of traditional documentary filmmaking with highly stylized techniques fully landed (29:13).

Hosts: Justin Sayles and Jodi Walker

Producer: Kai Grady

Additional Production Support: Justin Sayles

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Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney reunite in the courtroom to recap the two-episode premiere of ‘Presumed Innocent,’ the Apple TV+ limited series starring Jake Gyllenhaal. They start by discussing the benefits of translating this well-known courtroom drama into a serialized iteration, the strong ensemble of actors led by a showstopping Ruth Negga performance, and the violent nature of the story (1:05). Along the way, they unpack how swapping out Harrison Ford for Gyllenhaal significantly alters the chemistry of the Rusty Sabich character (28:00). Later, they talk through David E. Kelley’s lasting imprint on legal television and whether a single case is enough to sustain an eight-episode arc (37:31).

Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney

Producer: Kai Grady

Additional Production Support: Justin Sayles

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Charles Holmes and Jodi Walker fight with the monster under the bed to recap ‘Eric,’ the six-episode limited Netflix series starring Benedict Cumberbatch. They start by discussing their complicated reactions to the pilot, why the subplots are much more interesting than the main story line, and how the narrative becomes increasingly convoluted as the show progresses (2:06). Along the way, they unpack its attempts to tackle an overwhelming number of heavy themes throughout the bizarre crime drama (18:01). Later, they talk through the tonal whiplash and surprising twists in the finale (23:49).

Hosts: Charles Holmes and Jodi Walker

Producer: Kai Grady

Additional Production Support: Justin Sayles

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Rob Mahoney and Wosny Lambre lace up and hit the hardwood to recap the ‘Clipped’ two-episode series premiere. They start by sharing their initial feelings on the first two episodes, what makes the essence of V. Stiviano so difficult to capture on-screen, and the over-the-top nature of the performances (Laurence Fishburne’s Doc voice is certainly a choice) (1:38). Along the way, they discuss how the actual basketball sequences take away from the show (23:27). Later, they point out some of their favorite NBA superstar portrayals from the FX sports drama before handing out their own awards for Player of the Game and Most Uncanny Valley Moment (26:01).

Hosts: Rob Mahoney and Wosny Lambre

Producer: Kai Grady

Additional Production Support: Justin Sayles

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Joanna Robinson and Mallory Rubin face off head-to-head and recap the ‘Hacks’ Season 3 finale. They start by discussing their favorite episodes from the back half of the season, the stacked guest appearances throughout, and the intoxicating dynamic between Deborah and Ava (1:28). Next, they unpack the final moments of “Bulletproof” and the major twist at the end of the episode (12:07). Later, Joanna is joined by ‘Hacks’ cocreator Jen Statsky to talk about the rhythm of Deborah and Ava’s relationship, why it was important to heighten the stakes for this season, toying with romantic tropes with various characters, and much more (28:27).

Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Mallory Rubin

Guest: Jen Statsky

Producer: Kai Grady

Additional Production Support: Justin Sayles

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Justin Sayles and Jodi Walker go back to the courtroom and recap ‘The Jinx: Part Two’ finale. They start by discussing how Season 1 concluded with one of the most shocking endings ever, how true crime has progressed as a genre and since exploded into mainstream popularity between seasons, and why the opening scene is the most powerful moment in ‘Part Two’ (1:43). Next, they unpack how the return of the HBO docuseries differs from the initial run of episodes and what worked (and didn’t) across this unexpected follow-up season nearly 10 years after the fact (9:01). Later, they break down why some of the stuff left on the cutting-room floor had the potential to improve the final product of the second season (44:41).

Hosts: Justin Sayles and Jodi Walker

Producer: Kai Grady

Additional Production Support: Justin Sayles

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Bill and Juliet get together to analyze and celebrate the two-part conclusion to Season 4 of ‘Beverly Hills, 90210’ on its 30th anniversary. They begin by sharing their insights into the most pivotal episodes throughout Brenda and Brandon’s season-long MVP run before breaking down the tumultuous Mardi Gras finale in full.

Hosts: Bill Simmons and Juliet Litman

Producer: Chris Sutton

Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles

Video: Stefano Sanchez

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Charles Holmes and Logan Murdock go back to school and recap ‘Abbott Elementary’ Season 3. They start by debating whether or not the ABC sitcom should be considered “prestige,” before outlining a broad overview of Season 3 as a whole and its familiar—yet effective—storytelling structure (1:47). Along the way, they discuss the impact of a condensed season and why the love triangle between Janine, Gregory, and Manny suffered because of it (10:05). Later, they break down why the finale was such a satisfying conclusion, MVPs of the season, and potential concerns about Season 4 and beyond (15:53).

Hosts: Charles Holmes and Logan Murdock

Producer: Kai Grady

Additional Production Support: Justin Sayles

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Nora Princiotti and Kate Halliwell put on their best ballgowns and recap the first four episodes of ‘Bridgerton’ Season 3. They start by unpacking what is (and isn’t) working with the Netflix show’s new central couple, why Colin is a bit lacking as a leading man, and the complicated friends-turned-lovers dynamic between him and Penelope (4:02). Along the way, they discuss how the side plots are much more fleshed out this time around and highlight a few of the fun needle drops (Pitbull?!) so far (17:32). Later, they break down that spicy carriage scene before sharing some predictions and hopes for Part 2 (34:20).

Hosts: Nora Princiotti and Kate Halliwell

Producer: Kai Grady

Additional Production Support: Justin Sayles

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Van and Wos come together to revisit the iconic ‘Sopranos’ episode, “Long Term Parking.” They discuss the legacy of the episode, the impact ‘The Sopranos’ had on TV, and the most shocking character deaths in the series.

Hosts: Wosny Lambre and Van Lathan

Associate Producer: Carlos Chiriboga

Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles

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Joanna Robinson and Craig Horlbeck take center stage to roast each other and recap the first four episodes of ‘Hacks’ Season 3. They open by sharing their personal relationships with the Max comedy and discussing why it’s such a smart concept, before likening it to another iconic HBO show (4:18). Along the way, they reveal their favorite episode of the entire series (so far), and talk about what makes stand-up so difficult to capture on screen (11:14). Later, they compare and contrast “The Roast of Deborah Vance” to Netflix’s Tom Brady roast and look ahead at the remaining episodes of the season (30:36).

Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Craig Horlbeck

Producer: Kai Grady

Additional Production Support: Justin Sayles

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Charles Holmes and Jodi Walker debate the merits of Netflix’s newest hit, 'Baby Reindeer,' in which a struggling comedian is made to deal with both a female stalker and his own dark past. They examine just how the show subverted viewer expectations, the way it leaned into (and away from) the true crime angle, and its brave portrayal of trauma.

Hosts: Charles Holmes and Jodi Walker

Producer: Devon Baroldi

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Joanna is first joined by ‘Shogun’ cocreator Rachel Kondo and writer Caillin Puente to discuss writing the penultimate episode, Mariko’s fate, making Ochiba a more layered character than her book counterpart, why they decided to cut out the heir’s parentage as a plot point for the story, how Nagakado’s death came to fruition, and much more. Next, ‘Shogun’ writers Emily Yoshida and Maegan Houang talk to Jo about penning the script for the finale, the elderly Blackthorne sequences, what the final interaction between Toranaga and Yabushige says about the former, why the book’s ending was one of the toughest parts to adapt, and much more.

Host: Joanna Robinson

Guests: Rachel Kondo, Caillin Puente, Emily Yoshida, and Maegan Houang

Producer: Kai Grady

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Jo and Rob return to break down the ‘Shogun’ finale. They discuss the surprising restraint throughout the final episode, their feelings about the show as a whole, and the revelation behind Toranaga’s true intentions. Along the way, they talk about the placement of Blackthorne’s seppuku moment and the beautiful subtlety of Ochiba’s poetry. Later, they unpack the ways in which the television adaptation surpassed the original work.

Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney

Producer: Kai Grady

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Jo and Rob return to break down the ninth episode of ‘Shogun.’ They discuss Anna Sawai’s impressive performance, Mariko’s intense standoff at the castle gates, and how the show has been gradually building up to “Crimson Sky.” Along the way, they talk about Ochiba pulling the strings behind the scenes and her emotional interaction with Mariko. Later, they unpack the outcome of various main characters in the penultimate episode’s shocking final scene. 

Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney

Producers: Kai Grady and Isaiah Blakely

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Jo and Rob return to break down the eighth episode of ‘Shogun.’ They discuss the grand introduction of Edo, the emotionally crushing tea room exchange between Mariko and Buntaro, and Blackthorne’s unexpected revulsion toward his men. Along the way, they talk about the thematic significance of loyalty throughout the episode. Later, they unpack Hiromatsu’s devastating sacrifice and the substantial consequences of his decision.

Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney

Producer: Kai Grady

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Jo and Rob return to break down the seventh episode of ‘Shogun.’ They discuss the aftermath of Saeki’s betrayal, how Nagakado’s fate is a major departure from the book, and the many question marks surrounding Toranaga’s plan (or lack thereof). Along the way, they talk about the increasingly complicated dynamic between Mariko and Buntaro. Later, they consider whether or not “Crimson Sky” is just one big misdirection.

Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney

Producer: Kai Grady

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Jo and Rob return to break down the sixth episode of ‘Shogun.’ They discuss the effective use of flashbacks in this episode, the theatrics behind Toranaga’s political maneuvering, and how the show deftly deploys violence. Along the way, they talk about the growing jealousy that revolves around Blackthorne. Later, they’re joined by ‘Shogun’ series cocreators Justin Marks and Rachel Kondo to talk about making sure the humor from the novel translated from the page to the screen, the power of Fuji’s reaction shots, why Toranaga was the perfect role for Hiroyuki Sanada to play, and much more.

Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney

Guests: Justin Marks and Rachel Kondo

Producer: Kai Grady

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Andy Greenwald is joined by Tim Simons and Matt Walsh to discuss a handful of series finales from shows that represent the weird era of ’80s television including ‘St. Elsewhere,’ ‘Newhart,’ ‘ALF,’ ‘Sledge Hammer!,’ ‘Dallas,’ and ‘Dinosaurs.’ They start by talking about their first experiences with finales, how the final episodes of this decade’s shows seemed to both be in conversation and in competition with one another, and the reasons why TV was much more playful during this time (5:07). Along the way, they go through each ending and unpack everything, from the shocking reveal at the end of ‘St. Elsewhere’ to the monolithic nature of ‘Dallas’ to the surprisingly dark messaging in the last scene of ‘Dinosaurs,’ and so much more (13:32). Finally, they answer the titular question: Did it stick the landing? (99:55).

Host: Andy Greenwald

Guest: Tim Simons and Matt Walsh

Producers: Kaya McMullen and Kai Grady

Theme Song and Other Music Credits: Giancarlo Vulcano

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Jo and Rob return to break down the fifth episode of ‘Shogun.’ They discuss the multiple meanings behind the episode’s title, “Broken to the Fist,” the implications of Buntaro’s return, and Toranaga’s schemes within schemes. Along the way, they talk about Moeka Hoshi’s nuanced performance as Fuji and how Yabushige got played. Later, they briefly look ahead at what Lady Ochiba’s menacing arrival could mean for the back half of the season.

Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney

Producer: Kai Grady

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Andy Greenwald is joined by Chris Ryan to discuss “Chapter 29,” the series finale of ‘Eastbound & Down.’ They open by talking about Danny McBride’s uncut style of comedy, why the HBO series warrants an extended conversation including but not limited to its comic hijinks, and how the creative team behind the show has since evolved (2:26). Along the way, they discuss its never-ending list of perfect guest stars, and the gradual character development of Kenny Powers (18:53). Later, they explain how the finale is an example of both a satisfying conclusion and radical experimentation (40:17). Finally, they answer the titular question: “Did it stick the landing?” (64:50)

Host: Andy Greenwald

Guest: Chris Ryan

Producers: Kaya McMullen and Kai Grady

Theme Song and Other Music Credits: Giancarlo Vulcano

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Jo and Rob return to break down the fourth episode of ‘Shogun.’ They discuss the quiet brilliance of the moments between the action and conversations, the concept of the Eightfold Fence, and Fuji's much more prominent role in the story. Along the way, they talk about how Omi manipulated Toranaga’s failson, Nagakado, to make a significant mistake. Later, they highlight why the gory visuals from the end of the episode were compelling.

Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney

Producer: Kai Grady

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Andy Greenwald is joined by Joanna Robinson to discuss “Beyond Life and Death,” the series finale of ‘Twin Peaks.’ Andy starts by talking about how the theorizing around the show made him fall in love with television, before they discuss the unlikely pairing between David Lynch and ABC, and how the mystery crime drama benefited from being helmed by two very different co-creators (4:34). Along the way, they unpack Lynch’s staunch refusal to reveal any meaning behind the story, the finale itself, and making peace with ambiguity (31:49). Later, they share their complicated feelings on ‘Twin Peaks: The Return' (72:52). Finally, they answer the titular question: “Did it stick the landing?” (99:30).

Host: Andy Greenwald

Guest: Joanna Robinson

Producers: Kaya McMullen and Kai Grady

Theme Song and Other Music Credits: Giancarlo Vulcano

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Jo and Rob return to break down the third episode of ‘Shogun.’ They discuss the contrast between the show’s use of digital effects and its production design, what Toranaga’s clever getaway plan reveals about his character, and the bubbling connection between Mariko and Blackthorne. Along the way, they talk about the action-heavy escape in the Osaka sequence and how it differs from the book. Later, they close by unpacking the stalemate between the Council of Regents upon Toranaga’s sudden departure.

Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney

Producer: Kai Grady

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Andy Greenwald is joined by Bill Simmons to discuss “Flip,” the series finale of ‘The Larry Sanders Show.’ They start by talking about why it’s one of HBO’s most underrated shows, why Garry Shandling was the perfect fit for the lead role, and how the ’90s comedy blurred the lines between fiction and reality (2:00). Along the way, they discuss the ways in which it was a tortured production behind the scenes and how it influenced the next wave of workplace sitcoms (25:25). Later, they break down the final season’s heightened stakes leading up to the finale (39:40). Finally, they answer the titular question: “Did it stick the landing?” (87:27).

Host: Andy Greenwald

Guest: Bill Simmons

Producers: Kaya McMullen and Kai Grady

Theme Song and Other Music Credits: Giancarlo Vulcano

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Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney reunite to break down the two-episode premiere of FX’s new series ‘Shogun.’ They open by unpacking the premise of the historical epic, its early adaptation choices, and its ties to the James Clavell novel of the same name. Next, they discuss the introduction of the show’s trio of main characters (John Blackthorne, Yoshii Toranaga, and Toda Mariko), their respective positions in the story so far, and the ensuing power struggle among the Council of Regents. Later, they close by highlighting their favorite production aspects, including the intricate set design and the immaculate costuming.

Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney

Producer: Kai Grady

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Andy Greenwald is joined by Mina Kimes to discuss “The Book of Nora,” the series finale of ‘The Leftovers.’ They explain what attracted them to the HBO drama in the first place and their subsequent desire to convince others to watch it (2:32). Next, they unpack the central theme of the series, how it’s deftly revealed over the course of just 28 episodes, and the show's unique ability to reinvent itself for the better season after season (23:07). Later, they talk about the final episode’s tone, which was dramatically different from the rest of the show; Justin Theroux's and Carrie Coon’s Hall of Fame performances; and why in the end ‘The Leftovers’ is a story about love (40:36). Finally, they answer the titular question: “Did it stick the landing?” (79:40).

Host: Andy Greenwald

Guest: Mina Kimes

Producers: Kaya McMullen and Kai Grady

Theme Song and Other Music Credits: Giancarlo Vulcano

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Jo and Rob return to break down the season finale of ‘True Detective: Night Country.’ They discuss their thoughts on both the final episode and the season as a whole, why Pete’s story feels unfinished, and how the big reveals land. Along the way, they talk through some of the show’s lingering questions and debate the various meanings (or lack thereof) behind the season’s recurring iconography. Later, in anticipation of the two-episode series premiere of Shōgun, they take a brief look ahead at the upcoming FX historical drama including their first impressions, why they’re excited for its run, and what audiences can expect from the new series.

Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney

Producer: Kai Grady

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Andy Greenwald is joined by Joanna Robinson to discuss “Discos and Dragons,” the series finale of ‘Freaks and Geeks.’ They open by talking about the show’s cultlike following, all of its famous alumni, and how NBC didn’t understand how to treat it (3:10). Next, they break down the reasons for its premature ending and why its short life span contributed to its prolonged impact (56:36). Later, they share their feelings on a potential ‘Freaks and Geeks’ reunion down the line (74:08). Finally, they answer the titular question: “Did it stick the landing?” (71:25).

Host: Andy Greenwald

Guest: Joanna Robinson

Producers: Kaya McMullen and Kai Grady

Theme Song and Other Music Credits: Giancarlo Vulcano

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