Glen Weldon

Join Glen Weldon, author of 'Superman: An Unauthorized Biography' and host of NPR's Pop Culture Happy Hour, as he delves into Superman's political legacy and cultural significance. Glen discusses how the Man of Steel has mirrored America’s values and societal changes for over 85 years. He analyzes reactions to the latest movie, addressing audience fatigue with superhero narratives and the ongoing debates surrounding the character's immigrant identity. Additionally, he explores the complex relationship between Superman's creators and corporate ownership, shedding light on the evolution of the superhero genre.

Join pop culture commentator Glen Weldon and TV critic Michelle Ghanem as they dive into HBO Max's beloved series, Heated Rivalry. They explore the significance of its bold portrayals of gay romance and the unexpected fanbase among straight women and gay men. The duo discusses how explicit sex scenes become instrumental for character development, while also tackling issues of fetishization and representation in queer storytelling. With insights on audience demand for authentic intimacy and the influence of female authorship, this conversation is both playful and poignant.

Glen Weldon, NPR's Pop Culture Happy Hour host and pop-culture critic, teams up with author Garth Greenwell, who shares how Giovanni's Room has influenced his writing. They explore Baldwin's powerful prose, the complexity of love and identity in 1950s Paris, and the book's cultural impact on queer narratives. The discussion dives into Baldwin's unique storytelling, challenges of adaptation, and the ways Giovanni's Room resonates with modern readers. Greenwell highlights the dignity Baldwin offers to queer lives, making this classic relevant today.

Glenn Weldon, host of NPR's Pop Culture Happy Hour, and Ingu Kang, TV critic at The Washington Post, dive into the HBO Max miniseries Station Eleven, adapted from Emily St. John Mandel's novel. They explore its haunting themes of pandemics and resilience, drawing eerie parallels to modern life. The discussion highlights character transformations, the interplay of community and trauma, and the balance of humor and depth in storytelling. They also examine how art and theater serve as vital elements in shaping the narrative.

Join Glenn Weldon, NPR's Culture Desk contributor, as he shares a reflective take on the past year in pop culture. Discover memorable TV moments from 'Succession' and 'Ted Lasso' that blend humor with deep themes. Explore the comedic tension in 'Shiva Baby' and the heartfelt storytelling in 'CODA.' Glenn also highlights the emotional weight of music, like Cassandra Jenkins' 'Hard Drive,' inviting listeners to connect through their own favorite moments. Celebrate the art that brings us joy during challenging times!