Can it still be called the “Golden Age of Television” if great series have become the status quo? These days, watching TV is no longer a mere distraction from the rigours of working life. On the contrary, it has become more like reading a good book, with not only detailed plots, but also complex characters and deep themes. It’s no wonder that fans of most shows want to continue discussing the episode after it has aired.
For this reason, a number of podcasts have popped up, either about current television in general or about specific shows. If you’re thinking of creating your own podcast about TV, find out about the best podcast hosting sites to get you on your way.
The following podcasts provide the best TV analysis available.
- Wisecrack: Rick and Morty, Southpark, and more
You may be familiar with the Wisecrack YouTube channel which breaks down the philosophy behind popular movies and TV shows, as well as commenting on everything else pop culture. But Wisecrack’s work goes beyond these videos. They also host multiple podcasts.
The Squanch is for all Rick and Morty fans. They take a deep dive into each episode, discussing its themes and poignant moments. You’ll learn a lot about the influences behind each episode. Chances are, you haven’t consumed all the media referenced in the show, but the folks at Wisecrack have!
Respect our Authoritah! goes into the themes brought up in TV’s biggest satirical show – Southpark. Currently on season 23, the animated comedy is still as relevant as ever, recently taking on everything from China to deportations to legalised marijuana. Wisecrack breaks down the current events leading to each episode, trying to figure out the ideas Stone and Parker are riffing off.
Wisecrack also has a general pop culture podcast, a Westworld podcast, and even more.
- Extra Hot Great
If you want something that is less about making you think and more about having fun with your favourite series, Extra Hot Great is for you. As the name implies, this podcast does not take itself too seriously. Rather, the hosts focus on fan questions, trivia, and thought experiments – such as which characters would be fun to hang out with, which characters are the worst, and more.
They talk about a range of shows on each episode, and take their sweet time about it. So, if you love just having something fun to listen to for an hour or two (and sometimes longer), you will love this. On the other hand, if you lose interest in a podcast fairly quickly, you might want to skip Extra Hot Great.
- Pop Life
Pop Life is released by NPR, and is, of course, well-developed and deeply thought out. It is run by folks over at Syracuse University, and they provide smart analysis of a range of TV shows. One of the best things about this podcast is that it is sometimes very short and always succinct. Don’t expect the hosts to waste time with unnecessary banter or filler.
If you were put off by the length of Extra Hot Great and have no interest in the shows covered by Wisecrack’s podcasts, Pop Life may be just what you wanted. They don’t release new episodes all that often (twice a month at most), but they provide pure quality when they do.