Quillette Podcast When Entertainment Reporting Gets Political
Jul 17, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Ben Mulroney, a veteran entertainment journalist, shares insights from his impressive career spanning nearly two decades on E-Talk. He reflects on how ideological shifts have reshaped the entertainment industry and discusses the challenges of balancing personal identity in a politically charged environment. Mulroney also delves into the evolution of storytelling from television to radio, navigates the complexities of crime and empathy, and emphasizes the importance of transparency in media narratives.
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Early Media Career Anecdote
- Ben Mulroney began his media career while in law school through a political event involving his father.
- His early TV job was low-level and barely watched, but important for gaining experience.
Distinct Identity From Father
- Ben Mulroney sees entertainment reporting as lighthearted yet serious in its craft.
- He distances himself from political comparison to his father, focusing on his own path and personality.
Kelly Ripa Show Experience
- Hosting Kelly Ripa's show was described by Ben as the best TV job due to its easiness and generous schedule.
- The show's format requires minimal preparation and offers lots of free time compared to other TV roles.