

The Prestige TV Podcast
The Ringer
The Prestige TV Podcast is your home for instant reactions, deep dives, creator interviews, and Hall of Fame retrospectives on the best television around. Join a rotating cast of Ringer personalities including Bill Simmons, Joanna Robinson, Rob Mahoney, Mallory Rubin, Van Lathan, and more as they break down the shows you're binging and the ones you're waiting to drop every week. Subscribe to The Prestige TV Podcast, check back weekly for our breakdowns, and most importantly, keep watching.
Episodes
Mentioned books

11 snips
Dec 13, 2025 • 57min
‘Pluribus’ Episode 7: The Parallel Journeys of ‘The Gap’
In the latest discussion, hosts dive into the visually stunning direction of the show and the emotional journey of the characters. They explore the parallel paths of Carol and Manusos, highlighting themes of isolation and connection. The significance of silence in scenes is examined, along with the eerie presence of a hive mind. Fun listener questions range from cannibalism science to pigeons, while Carol's coping mechanisms and artistic moments add depth. Analyzing Carol’s patriotic sentiments against a backdrop of loneliness, they weave humor and insight throughout.

15 snips
Dec 9, 2025 • 56min
‘Lost’ Hall of Fame: “The Constant”
Dive into a captivating analysis of the ‘Lost’ episode "The Constant." Discover why it topped The Ringer’s list, with discussions on Desmond’s emotional journey and time-travel intricacies. The hosts highlight memorable performances, iconic visuals like the red phone scene, and underrecognized details that enhance the narrative. They also debate characters' standings and reflect on the broader impact of the series, all while pondering if this classic episode qualifies as a Christmas tale. Emotional stakes over plot, indeed!

12 snips
Dec 8, 2025 • 55min
Heated Rivalry Midseason Check-In
In this engaging discussion, film and TV critic Richard Lawson shares his insights on the internet's latest obsession, 'Heated Rivalry.' He highlights the show's refreshing frankness about sexuality and contrasts it with other queer narratives. Richard and Joanna dive into the emotional journeys of the characters, especially the subplot involving Kip and Scott, praising its depth. They also tackle the significance of representation and how the series captures the pressures athletes face while navigating their identities, all while delivering standout performances.

40 snips
Dec 5, 2025 • 54min
‘Pluribus’ Episode 6: The Tricky Balance of Koumba
The hosts dive into the intriguing dynamics of consent and ethics surrounding the show's hive mind concept. They discuss Koumba's fantasy world and its implications on real emotions, while praising the surprising cameo by John Cena. The visual storytelling is dissected, highlighting Vegas production tricks alongside meaningful color symbolism. A heartfelt moment between Koumba and Carol starkly contrasts with the otherwise cold efficiency of the hive mind, bringing a tender human touch to the narrative.

Dec 4, 2025 • 55min
‘The West Wing’ Hall of Fame: “Two Cathedrals”
Dive into the iconic 'Two Cathedrals,' where key moments like Mrs. Landingham's poignant exit and Jed Bartlett's powerful journey take center stage. The hosts explore the brilliance of Sorkin's distinct style and how it shapes the narrative. They dissect standout performances, noting John Spencer's Leo and Martin Sheen's impressive portrayal. Iconic scenes and the impactful use of 'Brothers in Arms' further amplify the episode's emotional depth. Ultimately, they reflect on why this series remains a comforting favorite, even years later.

Dec 3, 2025 • 1h 5min
'The Chair Company’ Season 1 Recap: A Season to Cherish
Rob and Jodi dive into the love/hate dynamic of a whimsical yet dark show, exploring its finale's wild twists. They dissect Tim Robinson's unique comedic style and celebrate beloved side characters that enrich the narrative. The discussion touches on themes of consumer culture and workplace absurdity, alongside family moments that bring emotional weight. With speculation about season two, they highlight the show's internal logic that keeps everything coherent despite its strangeness, making it a season to cherish.

34 snips
Nov 26, 2025 • 55min
‘Pluribus’ Episode 5: The Specificity of Grief (and Milk Slurping) | Prestige TV | The Ringer
In this discussion, the hosts dive into the emotional depths of grief as portrayed in the show, using Carol's character as a focal point. They explore the contrasting themes of individual mourning versus collective hive behavior. Humorous moments arise from Carol's antics at Sprouts and a playful debate on quirky food ethics. The hosts also tackle listener questions about societal norms and the nuances of audience relationships with creators. A nod to classic mystery tropes adds a clever layer to their banter.

33 snips
Nov 21, 2025 • 56min
‘Pluribus’ Episode 4: Carol’s Truth Serum
Jo and Rob dive into the complex dynamics of individuality versus collectivism in the latest plot twists. They explore Carol's disdain for the hive mind through her bold experiments, including a risky truth serum test with Larry. The discussion also touches on Carol's past with drugs and how her artistic integrity clashes with societal pressures. Engaging listener emails and fascinating comparisons to iconic shows like The Matrix add depth to their analysis. Prepare for a thought-provoking look at character motivations and emotional truths!

Nov 19, 2025 • 1h 3min
Netflix’s ‘The Beast in Me' Review
Dive into Netflix’s gripping miniseries with a spoiler-filled discussion. Discover Matthew Rhys’s captivating villainy and the emotional weight Claire Danes brings to her role. The hosts fiercely debate the ambiguous evidence surrounding the murders. They explore themes of ambition and betrayal, while analyzing the FBI subplot's effectiveness. Join them as they compare dark mirrors in storytelling, and highlight pivotal moments that challenge characters' morals. A thrilling conversation packed with insights awaits!

Nov 18, 2025 • 40min
'Death by Lightning': Netflix's Hit Garfield Assassination Show, With Mike Makowsky | Prestige TV
Screenwriter and producer Mike Makowsky, known for his work on Netflix's limited series, dives into the riveting adaptation of Candace Millard's book about Garfield's assassination. He discusses the intriguing choice to keep the series at four episodes and how he modernized historical dialogue to engage contemporary audiences. The conversation touches on the actors' deep portrayals and the complexity of Garfield’s character, as well as the fascinating decision to feature Guiteau's brain in a jar as a thematic element. This blend of history and drama captivates throughout!


