The Prestige TV Podcast podcast

The Prestige TV Podcast

The Prestige TV Podcast covers the best shows on television with unparalleled passion and expertise. The feed features must-listen commentary from The Ringer’s own Bill Simmons, Joanna Robinson, Sean Fennessey, Mallory Rubin, Van Lathan, and many more. Subscribe to The Prestige TV Podcast for weekly recaps, comprehensive breakdowns, and exclusive creator & cast interviews.

The Prestige TV Podcast covers the best shows on television with unparalleled passion and expertise. The feed features must-listen commentary from The Ringer’s own Bill Simmons, Joanna Robinson, Sean Fennessey, Mallory Rubin, Van Lathan, and many more. Subscribe to The Prestige TV Podcast for weekly recaps, comprehensive breakdowns, and exclusive creator & cast interviews.

 

#444

‘Presumed Innocent’ Season 1 Finale: Closing Arguments

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

24 Jul 2024

1 HR 00 MINS

1:00:59

24 Jul 2024


#443

‘Presumed Innocent’ Episode 7 With Bill Simmons. Plus, an Interview With Director Greg Yaitanes.

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

17 Jul 2024

1 HR 14 MINS

1:14:56

17 Jul 2024


#442

‘Presumed Innocent’ Episodes 5-6: Whodunnit Theories, Red Herrings, and Dream Sequences

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

10 Jul 2024

56 MINS

56:37

10 Jul 2024


#441

‘The Bear’ Season 3, Episodes 9-10: Controlled Chaos

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

06 Jul 2024

44 MINS

44:06

06 Jul 2024


#440

‘The Bear’ Season 3, Episodes 7-8: Chasing Ghosts

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

04 Jul 2024

46 MINS

46:10

04 Jul 2024


#439

‘Clipped’ Episodes 5-6: Right-Hand Arm Man

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

03 Jul 2024

55 MINS

55:14

03 Jul 2024


#438

‘The Bear’ Season 3, Episodes 5-6: Too Many Cooks

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

02 Jul 2024

55 MINS

55:17

02 Jul 2024


#437

‘The Bear’ Season 3, Episodes 3-4: Moving Too Fast

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

30 Jun 2024

46 MINS

46:11

30 Jun 2024


#436

‘The Bear’ Season 3, Episodes 1-2: Yes, Chef!

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

28 Jun 2024

46 MINS

46:21

28 Jun 2024


#435

‘Presumed Innocent’ Episodes 3-4: The (Murder) Plot Thickens

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

26 Jun 2024

58 MINS

58:25

26 Jun 2024


#434

‘Clipped’ Episodes 3-4: The Tales of the Tape

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

19 Jun 2024

53 MINS

53:16

19 Jun 2024


#433

‘Bridgerton’ Season 3, Part 2: Penelope’s Big Secret, Spicy Polin Moments, and Throuples!?

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

18 Jun 2024

59 MINS

59:41

18 Jun 2024


#432

‘Interview With the Vampire’ Season 2: The Sneaky Best Show on TV Right Now

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

17 Jun 2024

51 MINS

51:16

17 Jun 2024


#431

‘Ren Faire’ Review: Medieval Times Meets ‘Succession’

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

13 Jun 2024

58 MINS

58:32

13 Jun 2024


#430

‘Presumed Innocent’ Series Premiere: Does the Famous Courtroom Drama Deserve Another Adaptation?

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

12 Jun 2024

56 MINS

56:50

12 Jun 2024


#429

‘Eric’ Review: Benedict Cumberbatch, Imaginary Puppets, and a WTF Ending

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

06 Jun 2024

59 MINS

59:26

06 Jun 2024


#428

‘Clipped’ Series Premiere: Welcome to the Donald Sterling Soap Opera

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

05 Jun 2024

46 MINS

46:19

05 Jun 2024


#427

‘Hacks’ Season 3 Finale and the Vicious Deborah-Ava Cycle With Cocreator Jen Statsky

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

03 Jun 2024

56 MINS

56:16

03 Jun 2024


#426

‘The Jinx: Part Two’ Finale and the Life and Deaths of Prestige True Crime

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

28 May 2024

59 MINS

59:28

28 May 2024


#425

Prestige TV Hall of Fame: The ‘Beverly Hills, 90210’ Season 4 Finale, “Mr. Walsh Goes to Washington,...

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

24 May 2024

1 HR 14 MINS

1:14:57

24 May 2024


#424

‘Abbott Elementary’ Season 3 Finale: It Finally Happened!

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

23 May 2024

55 MINS

55:17

23 May 2024


#423

‘Bridgerton’ Season 3, Part 1 and What’s Next After THAT Cliff-Hanger Ending

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

21 May 2024

57 MINS

57:39

21 May 2024


#422

‘The Sopranos’ Hall of Fame: “Long Term Parking” and the Most Shocking Character Deaths

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

17 May 2024

46 MINS

46:59

17 May 2024


#421

‘Hacks’ Season 3 and Why It’s the Best Comedy on TV

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [podcastchoices.com/adchoices] (https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices) ... Read more

14 May 2024

46 MINS

46:07

14 May 2024