Andrea Long Chu

Andrea is a critic at New York magazine and the author of Females. Her searing critiques of writers like Ottessa Moshefegh and Bret Easton Ellis are as hilarious as they are insightful. Her essay “On Liking Women” has been credited as launching the “second wave” of transgender studies. I first met Andrea when she profiled me around the publication of my book and we have since become friends. We talk about writing, flirting via text, gender politics and so much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Andrea Long Chu, a writer for Vulture, dives into the cultural legacy of the Phantom of the Opera as it closes after 35 years. She explores the intricate love triangle of the iconic musical, revealing themes of obsession and longing. Chu discusses the show's groundbreaking impact in the 1980s and its unique blend of gothic romance and family-friendly appeal. Reflecting on the emotional responses to its finale, she ponders what this shift means for Broadway's future and the evolution of musical theater.