Madison Malone Kircher

Join Madison Malone Kircher, an Internet reporter at The New York Times, and Jon Caramanica, its pop music critic, as they dive into summer's cultural highs and lows. Discover their take on a high-profile engagement and its celebrity implications. They hilariously discuss the quirks of a fictional award show and the summer hit 'Golden' from the Netflix film 'K-pop Demon Hunter.' Also, explore the fallout from the 'Coldplay Gate' incident, and learn about the viral charm of Crumbl's unique cookies and TikTok advertising.

Kyle Buchanan is a pop culture reporter for The New York Times and an expert on awards season, while Madison Malone Kircher reports on internet culture and is a longtime Wicked fan. They explore the impact of the new film, Wicked: For Good, discussing the challenges of adapting its second act and how audience expectations shape the narrative. The duo debates the film's political messages, the chemistry between stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, and the overall reaction from fans who have followed the franchise. They also reflect on the marketing strategies and fandom that fuel its ongoing success.

Cultural critic Vinson Cunningham and internet culture reporter Madison Malone Kircher delve into the wave of nostalgia for 2016, exploring generational differences in this longing and how it reflects our current societal feelings. They discuss how Instagram’s algorithm shift has transformed social interactions. Meanwhile, freelance music journalist Emilie Hanskamp dissects Hilary Duff's comeback, highlighting how nostalgia informs her new music and connects with fans from her Disney days, while examining her appeal in today's pop landscape.

Joined by Madison Malone Kircher, a reporter from The New York Times specializing in internet culture, the discussion dives into the complex world of MrBeast. They explore his meteoric rise as a YouTube sensation and the tension between philanthropy and controversy. Kircher highlights the chaotic nature of MrBeast's reality show, the serious ethical questions surrounding his production practices, and the impact of his extravagant content on societal issues like healthcare. It's a fascinating examination of fame, morality, and the price of success in the digital age.

Madison Malone Kircher, a reporter for The New York Times focusing on internet culture, dives deep into the world of MrBeast. She discusses his meteoric rise on YouTube, blending stunts with philanthropy, and the growing controversies surrounding his production methods. Kircher critiques how his viral philanthropy may obscure serious issues like healthcare accessibility. She also reveals behind-the-scenes chaos in his reality shows, raising ethical questions about competition and the impact of internet fame on participants.