Decoding Westworld

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the latest episode of The Pitt.Why would Apple buy the rights to Severance? Will Paramount’s latest gambit to buy WBD succeed? And what the heck is going on with Stephen Colbert over at Late Night and his interview with James Talarico? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.Homework for next week:The Pitt Season 2 Episode 8 (HBO Max)Shownotes (All timestamps are approximate):02:30 - TV NewsApple Buys Severance for $70MMNetflix reopens Paramount talksStephen Colbert’s FCC FiascoCBS Denies blocking interviewSpider-Noir gets May 27 Release DateBW Corner:Anderson Cooper leaves 60 MinutesPeter Attia not being firedHOTD Season 3 Teaser Trailer50:00 - The Pitt Season 2Episode 7 - 2:00 P.M.Links:Listen to Patrick’s videogame podcast, Remap RadioSubscribe to Patrick’s newsletter, CrossplaySubscribe to this podcast on YouTubeFollow this podcast on InstagramFollow this podcast on Tikto

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the latest episode of The Pitt.What were our thoughts on this year’s Super Bowl ads and halftime show? How desperate is Paramount Skydance getting in its bid to take over Warner Bros? Are we looking forward to a Baldur’s Gate series? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.Homework for next week:The Pitt Season 2 Episode 7 (HBO Max)Shownotes (All timestamps are approximate):02:00 - TV NewsJames Van Der Beek Has Passed AwayBad Bunny Super Bowl show breaks recordsBaldur’s Gate series in the works from Craig MaizinParamount says it will pay Paramount $650mm per quarter if takeover not completed by end of 2026YouTube TV reveals pricing for lower-cost packagesThey’re making an Eragon series for some reason‘Heated Rivalry’ Reaches 10.6 Million Viewers in The U.S. With Audience Increasing by Over 100% Since Finale‘A Knight Of The Seven Kingdoms’ Episode 4 Sets An IMDB Scor

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the season finale of Fallout and the latest episode of The Pitt.What do we think about The Last of Us ending with season 3? Was questioning Ted Sarandos a good use of our tax dollars? When can we expect to see another season of Pluribus? And what did we think of how Fallout season 2 wrapped up? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.Homework for next week:The Pitt Season 2 Episode 6 (HBO Max)Shownotes (All timestamps are approximate):02:00 - TV NewsCatherine O’Hara Has Passed AwayThe Last of Us Will Probably End With Season 3Vince Gilligan offers update on PluribusMan on the Inside renewedMST3K Revival is crushing it on Kickstarter‘Stranger Things: Tales From ’85’ TrailerSarandos testifies before CongressBW Corner:CBS News Pulls ’60 Minutes’ Segment With Peter AttiaBattle royale between Paramount corporate and CBS News38:49 - 

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the season premiere of Wonder Man and the latest episode of The Pitt.What makes Wonder Man so extremely good? Should Alex Honnold have gotten paid more for his ascension of Taipei 101? Is CBS News going to get better by hiring more podcasters and bloggers? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.Homework for next week:The Pitt Season 2 Episode 5 (HBO Max)Fallout Season 2 Episode 8 (Prime Video)Shownotes:03:00 - TV NewsBluey was number one in streaming minutes for the yearAlex Honnold’s ‘Skyscraper Live’ Hits 6.2 Million Views on NetflixAlex Honnold was paid less than $1MMRatings‘Shrinking’ Renewed for Season 4 at Apple TVTed Lasso Season 4Stephen Colbert Reveals Date of Final ‘Late Show’ EpisodeBari Weiss Unveils Sweeping Vision: “I Am Here to Make CBS News Fit for Purpose in the 21st Century”46:00 - Wonder Man series premiere1:09:

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the latest episodes of The Pitt and Fallout.What are our initial thoughts on Wonder Man and A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms? What’s going on with the FCC’s efforts to enforce equal time provisions? Will Netflix be the only entertainment company left standing? And how long will it take for CBS Evening News to get run into the ground? Listen to hear us discuss all these topics and more.Homework for next week:The Pitt Season 2 Episode 4 (HBO Max)Fallout Season 2 Episode 7 (Prime Video)Wonder Man (however many episodes you want to, Disney+)Shownotes:03:45 - Initial thoughts on Wonder Man and Knight of the Seven Kingdoms15:30 - TV NewsA Knight of the Seven Kingdoms pulls in 6.7mm viewers in first 3 daysThe Abandons and Vince Staple Show both canceledNetflix crosses 325 million subscribersFCC Takes Aim at Political Interviews on Late-Nigh

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the latest episodes of The Pitt and Fallout.Are Tony Dokoupil’s CBS News ratings disastrous or merely bad? What’s the latest with Netflix’s attempted takeover of American culture? And what our big takeaways from George R. R. Martin’s recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter? Listen to hear us discuss all these topics and more.Homework for next week:The Pitt Season 2 Episode 3 (HBO Max)Fallout Season 2 Episode 6 (Prime Video)Shownotes:03:45 - TV NewsTony Dokoupil’s ratings are badNetflix switches to all-cash bid amid trump accusations of Cultural Takeover (and Ted’s response)First Look: Sophie Turner as Lara Croft and Ryan Hurst cast as KratosEuphoria Season 3 Trailer and Release Date (April 12)Prime Video’s new Fallout shelter reality seriesMr. and Mrs. Smith Season 2 is back on trackGeorge RR Martin’s interview with THR1:00:33

In this Decoding TV bonus episode, David is joined by filmmaker and cinematographer Valentina Vee to discuss the first season of Heated Rivalry on HBO Max.Why has this show become a phenomenon? Why are women “feral” for the show? And why is it significant to the LGBTQ+ community in Russia and around the world? Listen to hear us discuss these questions and more.Check out some of Valentina’s videos on Tiktok and Instagram. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the season 2 premiere of The Pitt and season 2 episode 4 of Fallout.Was there a secret final episode of Stranger Things all along? How’s the new CBS Evening News broadcast going these days? And who do we think will win the very first Legacy Award Emmy? Listen to hear us discuss all these topics and more.Homework for next week:The Pitt Season 2 Episode 2 (HBO Max)Fallout Season 2 Episode 5 (Prime Video)Shownotes:03:04 - TV News‘Stranger Things 5’ Becomes Netflix’s No. 9 Most Popular English-Language Series of All Time With 105.7 Million Views So FarThe Pitt renewed for Season 3‘The Lowdown’ Renewed for Season 2 at FX and HuluEmmys announce Legacy AwardTony Dokoupil’s ‘CBS Evening News’ Debut Included a Big Flub, but You Won’t See It on Streaming — Here’s Why29:38 - Stranger Things season 5 finale discussionConformity Gate46:15 The Pitt Season 2Episode 1 - 7:00 A.M.1:53:40 - Fallout Season 2E

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss your reactions to season 1 of Pluribus. Then, it’s time to catch up with Fallout Season 2.What would we ask the Hive if we had the chance? What are our predictions for season 2 of Pluribus? And how is Fallout handling major lore like the Brotherhood of Steel? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.Homework for next week:The Pitt Season 2 premiere (HBO Max)Fallout Season 2 Episode 4 (Prime Video)Shownotes:15:45 - PluribusUnpacking your theories and reactions to season 11:13:23 - Fallout Season 2Episode 3 - The ProfligateLinks:Listen to Patrick’s videogame podcast, Remap RadioSubscribe to Patrick’s newsletter, CrossplaySubscribe to this podcast on YouTubeFollow this podcast on InstagramFollow this podcast on TiktokSubscribe to David’s free newsletter, Decoding EverythingFollow David on InstagramFollow David on Tiktok Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more informat

In this bonus episode of Decoding TV, Patrick Klepek and David Chen discuss the Pluribus season 1 finale. Was this a satisfying conclusion to this season of television? What are the biggest payoffs from the episode? And what are we looking forward to in season 2?We’ll be back next week with more thoughta on Fallout season 2, plus your reactions/theories/comments on the Pluribus finale!Links:Listen to Patrick’s videogame podcast, Remap RadioSubscribe to Patrick’s newsletter, CrossplaySubscribe to this podcast on YouTubeFollow this podcast on InstagramFollow this podcast on TiktokSubscribe to David’s free newsletter, Decoding EverythingFollow David on InstagramFollow David on Tiktok Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the eighth episode of Vince Gilligan’s Pluribus and the season 2 premiere of Fallout.The Oscars are moving to YouTube! What does this mean, exactly? Why did our respect for David Zaslav go up this week? And Pluribus is the most-watched show on Apple TV, but please do not ask any follow up questions. Listen to hear us discuss all these topics and more.Homework for next week:Pluribus Episode 9 (Apple TV)Fallout Season 2 Episode 2 (Prime Video)Shownotes:03:04 - TV NewsOscars Bolts from ABC to YouTube Starting in 2029Warner Bros. Discovery Rejects Paramount $30/Share OfferPluribus is most watched show on Apple TV ever30:40 - PluribusEpisode 8 - Charm Offensive1:17:23 - Fallout Season 2Episode 1 - The InnovatorLinks:Listen to Patrick’s videogame podcast, Remap RadioSubscribe to Patrick’s newsletter, CrossplaySubscribe to this podcast on YouTubeFollow this podcast on InstagramFollow this podcast

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the seventh episode of Vince Gilligan’s Pluribus.What is our reaction to the big news that Netflix might acquire Warner Bros? Do we think Paramount can release 30 movies per year? Is David Ellison really just Kendall Roy? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.Homework for next week:Pluribus Episode 8 (Apple TV)Fallout Season 2 Premiere (Prime Video)Shownotes:06:00 - TV NewsNetflix to Acquire Warner Bros for $72 billion of equity value.Hostile takeover bid from ParamountNetflix says it will shorten theatrical windowsParamount commits to 30 films per yearDavid Ellison’s embarrassing textThe Verge did a feature on the guy operating the vomit machineDid a Pluribus ad trigger someone’s psychotic episode54:00 - PluribusEpisode 7 - The GapLinks:Listen to Patrick’s videogame podcast, Remap RadioSubscribe to Patrick’s newsletter, CrossplaySubscribe to this podcas

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the sixth episode of Vince Gilligan’s Pluribus.Are we going to try to see the Stranger Things finale in theaters? What does the HBO Max/Mad Men debacle say about the world of streaming entertainment? Will Apple TV ever be able to stop pulling shows from its lineup? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.Homework for next week:Pluribus Episode 7 (Apple TV)Shownotes:04:30 - TV NewsStranger Things 5 Scores Netflix’s Second Biggest Premiere Ever for a Series‘Stranger Things’ FinaleHBO Max’s Mad Men 4K release is the opposite of a remasterTodd Vaziri’s analysis The Hunt pulled from Apple TV for plagiarism allegationsFar Cry series is a go at FX with Rob Mac and Noah Hawley43:30 - PluribusEpisode 6 - HDPLinks:Listen to Patrick’s videogame podcast, Remap RadioSubscribe to Patrick’s newsletter, CrossplaySubscribe to this podcast on YouTubeFollow this podcast on InstagramFollow this

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss the fifth episode of Pluribus on Apple TV, ‘Got Milk.’We hope everyone has a happy Thanksgiving this week! This year, we are grateful for all your support and listenership.Homework for next week:Pluribus Episode 6 (Apple TV)Links:Listen to Patrick’s videogame podcast, Remap RadioSubscribe to Patrick’s newsletter, CrossplaySubscribe to this podcast on YouTubeFollow this podcast on InstagramFollow this podcast on TiktokSubscribe to David’s free newsletter, Decoding EverythingFollow David on InstagramFollow David on Tiktok Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the fourth episode of Vince Gilligan’s Pluribus.Will HBO save Poker Face? Are we excited about a new season of The Chair Company? How many seasons will House of the Dragon end up getting? Who’s the least terrible option to buy Warner Bros? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.Homework for next week:Pluribus Episode 5 (Apple TV)Shownotes:0:00 - David’s viewing of The Beast in Me on Netflix09:33 - TV NewsCould HBO rescue Poker Face?Tim Robinson’s ‘The Chair Company’ RenewedI Love LA renewed for season 2‘House Of The Dragon’ Renewed For Season 4 At HBODC Studios’ ‘Lanterns’ Pushed‘Twisted Metal’ Renewed for Season 3Warner Acquisition News47:15 - PluribusEpisode 4 - Please, CarolLinks:Listen to Patrick’s videogame podcast, Remap RadioSubscribe to Patrick’s newsletter, CrossplaySubscribe to this podcast on YouTubeFollow this podcast

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the third episode of Vince Gilligan’s Pluribus.How do we feel about the imminent return of Alien: Earth, not to mention Shogun? Can Poker Face survive with a new Charlie Cale? And why are we so excited about a new show based off Jimmy Olsen? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.Homework for next week:Pluribus Episode 4 (Apple TV)Shownotes:07:54 - TV NewsYouTube TV Blackout Is Costing Disney an Estimated $4.3 Million per Day in Lost RevenueBob Iger defends deal‘Alien: Earth’ Renewed for Season 2Shogun Season 2 Sets Filming/Directors/WritersRian Johnson Wants 2-Season Deal With Peter Dinklage As Lie Detector Sleuth Charlie CaleJimmy Olsen ‘DC Crime’ Series in the Works at HBO Max From ‘American Vandal’ Duo, First Season Focused on Gorilla Grodd48:08 - PluribusEpisode 3 - GrenadeLinks:Listen to Patrick’s videogame podcast, Remap RadioSubscribe to Patrick’s newsletter, Crosspl

In this episode of the Decoding TV podcast, David and Patrick discuss what’s going on in the world of TV, then dive into the season premiere of Vince Gilligan’s Pluribus.How do we feel about Apple TV’s vibrant new brand identity? How do we feel about the brewing war between YouTube TV and Disney? And why will people be remembering the Pluribus season premiere for a long time to come? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.Homework for next week:Pluribus Episode 2 (Apple TV)Shownotes:05:02 - TV NewsApple TV temporarily melts downFinneas made the new music for Apple TVThe new logo was done in-cameraYouTube TV pulls Disney channelsIT: Welcome to Derry ratingsLate Night NewsJon Stewart renewed for another year (through 2026)Colbert weights in on his cancellation43% of Gen Z prefer YouTube and Tiktok to traditional TV48:08 - PluribusEpisode 1 - We Is UsEpisode 2 - Pirate LadyLinks:Listen to Patrick’s videogame podcast, Remap RadioSubscribe to Patrick’s newsletter, Crossplay

Dave and @joyonapping are back for another season of Slow Horses! In season 5, the focus is on Roddy Ho as he becomes ensnared in a vast terrorist conspiracy.What were the biggest differences between the books and the show? Is the format of the show inherently in tension with its plotlines? Who were our MVPs this season? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more!Links:Follow Joy on ThreadsEmail us at Decodingtv(AT)gmail(DOT)comFollow us on Tiktok at tiktok.com/@decodingrealitySubscribe to David’s free newsletter, Decoding Everything Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Decoding TV bonus episode, David and Patrick discuss the season premiere of It: Welcome to Derry. What are the ways in which this show expands on the lore of the book? What did we make of the bold decisions at the end of the first episode? If this show starts at a 12, does it have anywhere to go? Listen to hear us discuss all these questions and more.Homework:Slow Horses season 5 (Apple TV+)Links:Alex Zalben’s article about this show’s cheap scaresJack Hamilton’s review of ItListen to Patrick’s videogame podcast, Remap RadioSubscribe to Patrick’s newsletter, CrossplaySubscribe to this podcast on YouTubeFollow this podcast on InstagramFollow this podcast on TiktokSubscribe to David’s free newsletter, Decoding EverythingFollow David on InstagramFollow David on Tiktok Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Decoding TV bonus episode, David and Patrick are joined by Jessie Earl to discuss the second season of Gen V. Was this show able to overcome some of the clunkiness of the earlier episodes? What did we make of the show’s biggest twists this season? And can this show really survive and thrive in a future without The Boys? Listen to hear us discuss these questions and more.Links:Check out Jessie Earl’s YouTube channelCheck out Patrick Klepek’s Crossplay newsletterSubscribe to this podcast on YouTubeFollow this podcast on InstagramFollow this podcast on TiktokSubscribe to David’s free newsletter, Decoding EverythingFollow David on InstagramFollow David on Tiktok Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.