Topic: Variety

The difficulty of finding accurate, up-to-date television ratings for Jimmy Kimmel's return is discussed, with claims that the industry is suppressing data. While Kimmel saw an initial surge to 6.2 million viewers, subsequent numbers are harder to verify. The shift toward measuring YouTube views and delayed recordings has complicated traditional overnight rating reporting.

The hosts discuss the mental toll and "out-of-sync" nature of producing a twice-weekly podcast for 17 years. They comment on CNN's reported shift toward a digital subscription "bundle" model as cable carriage fees diminish. The segment highlights the perceived incompetence of mainstream media talking heads compared to independent producers.

Actor Michael Keaton discussed his return to the role of Batman in an interview with Variety. Keaton noted that he originally left the franchise because he found the work boring, but is now intrigued by how the superhero genre and society have changed over thirty years. The hosts view this as part of a broader cultural trend of "going back" to previous eras.

Singer Van Morrison is facing media backlash for his new 28-track album, which includes songs critical of lockdowns and media ownership. Critics have labeled the 75-year-old musician a "conspiracy theorist" for lyrics that challenge mainstream narratives on social media and public health.

The Jerusalem Post and Variety have criticized Van Morrison's song "They Own the Media," suggesting it contains anti-Semitic tropes. The hosts defend the artist, arguing that his lyrics are likely directed at the pharmaceutical and media conglomerates rather than any specific ethnic group.

In an interview at the Sundance Film Festival, Hillary Clinton expresses a lingering "urge" to run in the 2020 election but maintains she will support the eventual Democratic nominee. She emphasizes the primary goal of the party is to defeat Donald Trump.

Former NBC anchor Linda Vester has accused Tom Brokaw of sexual harassment, including an incident where he allegedly tickled her in a "predatory" manner. Vester claims the culture at NBC was "misogynistic and over-sexualized," and that she was silenced by Brokaw's immense power. Brokaw has denied the allegations, citing his long career and awards as a defense.

The fallout from Matt Lauer's firing continues as Variety and The New York Times report on multiple allegations of sexual misconduct. NBC News Chairman Andy Lack maintains that the recent complaint was the first filed against Lauer in 20 years, a claim the hosts find dubious. The discussion explores the "cultural change" in journalism as more women come forward with accusations against powerful media figures.

NBC News management, including Andy Lack, claimed they had no prior knowledge of complaints against Matt Lauer before his firing. However, Variety magazine reported that dozens of staffers and executives were aware of Lauer's behavior for years. The segment also covers sexual assault allegations against music mogul Russell Simmons and a classic Norm Macdonald joke about Lauer's journalistic integrity.

Taylor Swift appears to be falling out of favor with the music industry, with Billboard ranking her latest single as her worst lead track to date. There are observations that she is no longer a staple at major award shows like the CMAs, suggesting a shift in her "empire." Some listeners have noted that her new music bears a striking structural resemblance to older famous songs, leading to accusations of a lack of originality.

Anita Sarkeesian speaks at the United Nations about "egregious online harassment" related to the Gamergate controversy. The hosts discuss the nature of fame and how public figures often seek "anti-bullying" laws when faced with criticism. Adam Curry shares his own experience with the Dutch press regarding his relationship with the director of a Ronald McDonald House charity.

Dame Kathy is thanked as the primary executive producer for the episode, contributing to the "Climategate" and "Science" themes. The hosts compare their independent funding model to mainstream figures like Jon Stewart, noting that Stewart's ratings often fluctuate significantly outside of election cycles despite his high salary.

Reality competition shows like "America's Got Talent" are described as modern versions of the Ed Sullivan Show that exploit performers by paying them little to nothing. The segment critiques the hyperbolic reactions of judges like Mary Murphy and the "scam" of using amateur talent to fill variety show slots.

During the London tuition protests, the car carrying Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, was intercepted and attacked by rioters in the West End. The hosts analyze the police tactic of "kettling"—corralling protesters for hours—and suggest it may have backfired by causing groups to spread out and target the royal vehicle. They question the security lapse that allowed an unprotected car into a riot zone.

Adam Curry recounts a social gathering where he discussed Monsanto and Mel Gibson with media professionals. He posits that Mel Gibson's recent public outbursts might be a side effect of the smoking-cessation drug Chantix and notes a growing "awakening" among even liberal residents of Southern California regarding corporate shills.

The AMC show "Shootout," hosted by Peter Guber and Peter Bart, is cited for its analysis of the film industry's current mess. An anecdote involving Francis Ford Coppola and Robert Evans reveals past conflicts during the production of The Godfather sequels, including a rejected suggestion to hire Martin Scorsese. Industry experts argue that Hollywood is currently overproducing low-quality films.