Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias

Birva Pandya joins Pop Culture Unplugged to talk about her role as Miriam in The Testaments, the highly anticipated sequel set in the world of The Handmaid’s Tale.
In this episode, Birva shares what drew her to the character, how Miriam navigates life in Gilead, and the emotional journey fans can expect. She also discusses the themes of identity, control, and sisterhood, along with how this new series brings a fresh perspective through a younger generation.
We also dive into her audition process, her approach to building Miriam’s backstory, and why certain moments in the season stand out.
If you’re a fan of The Handmaid’s Tale universe or character-driven storytelling, this is one you won’t want to miss.
Episode Highlights
• Birva Pandya on playing Miriam in The Testaments• Miriam’s emotional journey and inner conflict• Life in Gilead from a new generation’s perspective• Themes of identity, control, and sisterhood• Behind-the-scenes insights and audition story
Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Lel5E5fE56k
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Chloe Fox joins Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias to talk about her role as Celeste in the psychological thriller The Highest Stakes. In this episode, Chloe shares how she landed the role, what drew her to the script, and what it was like filming overseas.
She also dives into Celeste’s emotional journey, the film’s twists and suspenseful storytelling, and why psychological thrillers are one of her favorite genres. Chloe opens up about working alongside a talented cast, including Seth Green, and how the experience helped shape her performance.
If you’re a fan of thrillers packed with mystery, tension, and unexpected turns, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
 
Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/FZB516POuWQ
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Harold Perrineau joins Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias to discuss FROM Season 4 and Boyd’s emotional journey as the stakes continue to rise.
In this interview, Perrineau shares insight into Boyd’s mindset, how the character has evolved since Season 1, and why Season 4 pushes him to his breaking point. With the weight of leadership growing heavier, Boyd must navigate trust, survival, and the unknown as the town faces new challenges.
Perrineau also teases the major theme of the season — “trust no one” — and what fans should be paying attention to as the story unfolds.
 
Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/FvuHE2G_ftk
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Ken Kirby joins Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias to talk about his role as Dr. John Shen in The Pitt Season 2.
Ken breaks down how he built Shen’s calm, confident personality in the middle of ER chaos, the fan-favorite coffee running gag, and why the character has connected with audiences — including real-life ER doctors.
We also dive into Shen’s humor, working alongside the cast, and what Ken hopes to explore in Season 3, including more of Shen’s personal life and the growing buzz around a potential Nightshift storyline.
 EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
Playing Dr. John Shen in The Pitt Season 2
The story behind Shen’s iconic coffee moments
Balancing humor with high-pressure ER drama
Fan reactions and real ER doctor feedback
Season 3 teases and character future
Nightshift spinoff buzz
 
Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/glE605o1qTY
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Cindy Busby joins Elias on Pop Culture Unplugged to discuss her role as Nora in When Hope Calls: Brookfield. During the conversation, Cindy shares insight into Nora’s emotional journey, portraying a strong female lawyer in the 1920s, and how the sense of community in Brookfield plays a major role in shaping the character.
Cindy talks about Nora’s personal growth, her relationships, and why the story continues to resonate with audiences who enjoy heartfelt, character-driven drama. She also reflects on what makes Brookfield such a meaningful setting and how Nora continues to evolve as the series progresses.
Fans of When Hope Calls will enjoy hearing about the depth behind Nora’s journey and what makes the character so compelling.
 
Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/YvxaLfp2sQM
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Ava Bunn joins Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias to discuss her role as Dr. Sam Tosh in the highly anticipated Scrubs revival.
In this interview, Ava talks about stepping into the world of Scrubs, working alongside original cast members, and developing a new generation doctor that blends confidence, vulnerability, and modern perspective. She also shares insight into the audition process, how the character evolved, and what fans can expect as Dr. Sam Tosh finds her place in the hospital.
The conversation also explores the balance between honoring the legacy of the original series while introducing fresh energy and storytelling for longtime fans and new audiences alike.
If you're a fan of Scrubs, medical comedies, or character-driven storytelling, this is an interview you won't want to miss.
 
Episode Highlights
• Ava Bunn discusses joining the Scrubs revival• Building the character of Dr. Sam Tosh• Working with the original Scrubs cast• The evolution of Sam’s personality• Bringing a new generation into the Scrubs universe• Behind the scenes insights from the set
 
Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/dkmpN5TWaSU
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Wendy Braun joins Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias to discuss her role as Elizabeth in Jury Duty Presents Company Retreat. Wendy shares insight into the show’s unique improv-style filming process, developing a compelling antagonist, and balancing humor with emotional depth.
During the conversation, Wendy talks about stepping into a high-pressure environment where actors must remain in character while reacting to unpredictable moments. She also explains how Elizabeth’s confidence, ambition, and strategic mindset shape the season’s central conflicts and comedic tension.
Fans of the hit Prime Video series will enjoy this behind-the-scenes look at how the cast collaborates to create authentic reactions and memorable storytelling moments.
Highlights
• Wendy Braun explains Elizabeth’s role as the season’s antagonist• Behind the scenes of the improv-driven filming process• How the character’s confidence and ambition shape the story• Working collaboratively with writers and cast to build Elizabeth• Why the series balances humor with meaningful emotional moments
 
Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/mYf-_kjHTZ0
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Brandon Mendez Homer joins Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias to discuss Donnie’s evolution in The Pitt Season 2. In this interview, Brandon shares insight into how Donnie has grown both personally and professionally, stepping into a larger role at Pittsburgh Trauma Medical Center while balancing new responsibilities outside of the hospital.
We discuss Donnie’s emotional development, the importance of authentically portraying medical professionals, and how Season 2 expands the spotlight on nurses. Brandon also talks about the challenges of preparing for the role and what makes Donnie such a grounded and compelling character in the series.
Fans of The Pitt will enjoy this deeper look at one of the show’s most evolving characters and what may be ahead in future seasons.
Episode Highlights
Donnie’s major character evolution in Season 2
Preparing for the responsibility of playing a nurse practitioner
The emotional depth behind Donnie’s decisions
How the series highlights the role of nurses
What Brandon hopes to explore next with the character
Behind-the-scenes insight into building Donnie’s arc
Why Season 2 pushes the character forward
Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/_Q96jRtbykU
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Maximo Salas joins Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias to discuss his role as Tommy in the series Rooster. In this interview, Maximo shares insight into developing the character, working alongside Steve Carell, and collaborating with acclaimed creator Bill Lawrence.
Tommy starts off as a laid-back college student, but as the story unfolds, viewers see the deeper emotional layers that make the character relatable. Maximo explains how he approached balancing comedy and heartfelt moments while bringing authenticity to the role.
The conversation also explores what makes Rooster feel like a comfort-style comedy, why the show resonates with audiences, and what Maximo hopes fans take away from Tommy’s journey.
 
Highlights - 
• Maximo Salas discusses how he approached playing Tommy in Rooster• Working with Steve Carell and learning from experienced actors• Collaborating with creator Bill Lawrence• Why Rooster blends humor with emotional storytelling• Tommy’s character arc and growth throughout the series• What makes the show feel relatable and engaging
 
Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/NMVgEbCx40o
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Joel Kim Booster joins Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias to discuss stepping into the world of Scrubs as Dr. Park in the highly anticipated revival of the beloved medical comedy.
In this episode, Joel shares his reaction to joining such an iconic series, what it was like auditioning alongside Zach Braff, and how Dr. Park’s dynamic with JD creates one of the most compelling rivalries in the new season.
Joel also talks about balancing nostalgia with modern storytelling, working with creator Bill Lawrence, and why this revival feels true to the heart and humor that made Scrubs a fan favorite.
Fans of the original series will enjoy hearing how Dr. Park fits into Sacred Heart Hospital, how the character challenges JD’s leadership, and what could be ahead for the future of the series.
Joel also discusses bringing his comedy background into the role, improvising scenes, and why joining a show with such a passionate fanbase comes with both pressure and excitement.
If you’re a longtime Scrubs fan or love behind-the-scenes conversations with today’s top actors, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
 Key Highlights
• Joel Kim Booster on joining the Scrubs revival• Dr. Park vs JD rivalry explained• Working with Zach Braff and Bill Lawrence• How the reboot balances nostalgia and modern storytelling• Behind-the-scenes improv moments• Fan reactions to the new season• What Joel hopes to explore in Season 2
 
Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/W69q5BeGBVE
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In this episode of Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias, we are joined by Kandyse McClure, who plays Kaia in Netflix’s hit drama Virgin River.
Kandyse talks about joining the beloved series, developing Kaia as a strong and independent character, and the evolving relationship between Kaia and Preacher in Virgin River Season 7. She also shares insight into what makes the show resonate with audiences around the world and why fans continue to connect with the emotional storytelling of the series.
Kaia has quickly become a fan favorite thanks to her confidence, compassion, and natural chemistry with the established characters of Virgin River. Kandyse discusses stepping into the world of the show and bringing authenticity to the role.
Topics Covered
Playing Kaia in Virgin River Season 7
Kaia and Preacher’s relationship
Joining a fan-favorite Netflix series
Character development and emotional storytelling
Behind-the-scenes insights
Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/wcIUPsHNJPA
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Amanda Righetti joins Pop Culture Unplugged with Elias to discuss her role as Young Dorothy in the highly anticipated crime drama Scarpetta.
In this episode, Amanda shares how she landed the role, why auditioning in person made a difference, and how she studied Jamie Lee Curtis’ performance to bring continuity to the character. She also dives into Dorothy’s wild personality, the complicated family dynamics with Kay, and why the show’s dual timeline storytelling sets it apart from traditional procedurals.
Based on the bestselling novels by Patricia Cornwell, Scarpetta blends crime, suspense, and emotional drama — and Amanda explains what makes the series so cinematic and engaging.
We also talk about:• Dorothy’s misunderstood nature and emotional layers• The intense tension between Dorothy and Kay• Behind-the-scenes preparation for the role• Amanda’s early career comparisons to The O.C.• What’s next, including Season 2 of Scarpetta
 
Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/wqk3xQM_KR4
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Irene Choi joined Elias on Pop Culture Unplugged to discuss her role as Joy on the hit Max medical drama The Pitt.
In this episode, Irene talks about the evolution of Joy’s character, how fans initially reacted to the blunt and guarded ER intern, and why the audience’s perception of Joy has started to shift as the season unfolds.
Irene also dives into the memorable episode where Joy’s incredible memory becomes a key moment for the hospital staff when the system goes down. She shares what it was like filming that intense scene and the pressure of memorizing all the details involved.
The conversation also explores how the incredibly realistic hospital set helped shape her performance, why Joy often observes before speaking, and how cultural influences helped inform the character’s communication style.
As the series continues to build momentum, Irene reflects on what she hopes viewers take away from Joy’s journey and what she would love to explore with the character in future seasons.
Episode Highlights
• Irene Choi on the early fan reaction to Joy• Breaking down Joy’s character arc on The Pitt• The episode where Joy’s memory becomes crucial to the team• How the immersive hospital set helped shape the performance• What Irene hopes to explore next with Joy in future seasons
 
Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/xy1RKP6NQwU
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In this episode of Pop Culture Unplugged, Elias sits down with David Gridley, who plays the intense new intern Blake Lewis in the highly anticipated Scrubs revival.
David shares what it was like stepping into the legendary world of Sacred Heart Hospital, working alongside Zach Braff, and joining one of the most beloved medical comedy franchises ever created.
From the nerves of joining a show with such a massive fan base to the emotional scenes that define Blake Lewis, David takes listeners behind the scenes of the revival and reveals what fans can expect as the new generation of interns finds their footing.
David also talks about how he first discovered his passion for acting while watching Will Smith film Hitch, the experience of filming the series in Canada, and the advice Zach Braff gave the new cast when they first stepped onto the recreated Sacred Heart set.
If you're a longtime Scrubs fan or excited about the revival, this conversation offers a great look into the next chapter of the iconic series.
Episode Highlights
• David Gridley on joining the Scrubs revival and honoring the legacy of the original series• What makes his character Blake Lewis different from past Sacred Heart interns• Behind-the-scenes stories working with Zach Braff• The emotional moment where Blake faces a major professional failure• How the new interns support each other during difficult moments• The pressure of stepping into a beloved TV franchise• David’s journey into acting after seeing Will Smith filming Hitch• A mysterious tease about an upcoming episode: “Boy band.”
 
Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/iYvvGf0mPgk
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Daniel Radcliffe joins Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias to discuss his new comedy series The Fall & Rise of Reggie Dinkins. In the show, Radcliffe plays Arthur Tobin Dinkins, an award-winning documentary filmmaker hired by disgraced football star Reggie Dinkins (played by Tracy Morgan) to create a redemption documentary.
During the conversation, Daniel shares what drew him to the project, reuniting with comedy legends Tina Fey, Robert Carlock, and Sam Means, and building comedic chemistry with Tracy Morgan. He also talks about Arthur’s personal journey, playing the “straight man” in a chaotic world, and how the series explores redemption, vulnerability, and second chances.
This episode dives into the humor, heart, and behind-the-scenes stories of The Fall & Rise of Reggie Dinkins.
 
Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/dfeigMmkF-Y
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