We're getting down into the down and dirty story Dirty John, the new Bravo show based on the LA Times and Wondery podcast of the same name. Joining us in the discussion this week is media scholar and TV critic Sarah Kessler who happens to also be married to our very own Karen Tongson. Dirty John is the true crime story about Debra Newell, a successful Orange County businesswoman who seemed to have everything going for her except when it came to love. In her middle age, she began online dating and met this guy who her two daughters found extremely shady. Obviously, throughout the course of the limited series starring Connie Britton and Eric Bana, she and we find out why.
We take a deep dive into what it is that titillates and draws us into the dark and disturbing world of true crime. The panel takes a look at podcasts like Teacher's Pet, Serial and Bear Brook, among others, as well as shows such as Making a Murderer, Lifetime’s A Woman Scorned and the sensational, made-for-tv accounts of the most notorious serial killers. What does true crime tell us about women and what does it tell women to watch out for? Find out!
List of All the True Crimes Stories Referenced in the Episode
Serial Bear Brook Teacher's Pet Atlanta Monster Star 80 Fall of a Titan: The Steve McNair Story In the Dark Crime & Scandal: Chris Watts
All Abouts
Wynter Mitchell-Rohrbaugh is all about the interpersonal dynamics at play at H.W. Bush’s funeral.
Sarah Kessler is all about My Brilliant Friend on HBO based on the bestselling series by Elena Ferrante.
Karen Tongson is all about a recent stand-up set she saw of Aparna Nancherla.
That's My Jam
Sarah Kessler - Stereolab - Outer Accelerator
Wynter - Grace Jones - Slave to the Rhythm
Karen Tongson - Juliana Hatfield - A Little More Love
With Karen Tongson, Wynter Mitchell-Rohrbaugh, and Sarah Rebecca Kessler.
Did you know that you can now call and leave voicemails for the show? You can! If you want to comment on an episode, give us any feedback or just call to get advice from a panel member, the number is: (530) 237-4108
You can let us know what you think of Pop Rocket and suggest topics in our Facebook group or via @PopRocket on Twitter.
If you haven't already, follow us on Instagram.
Produced by Laura Swisher for MaximumFun.org. Edited by Shana Daloria.