The Watch - podcast cover

The Watch

The Ringerwww.theringer.com
Every week, The Ringer's Andy Greenwald and Chris Ryan -- longtime friends and pop culture addicts -- break down the latest in TV, movies, and music.
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Episodes

End-of-Year Mailbag. Plus, ‘Industry’ S4 and ‘The Odyssey’ Trailers.

Chris and Andy talk about the final trailer for ‘Industry’ Season 4 (4:05) and the first trailer for Christopher Nolan’s ‘The Odyssey,’ (6:35) before remembering ‘The Wire’ star James Ransone (14:14). Then they open up the mailbag to answer listener questions on identifying the Peak TV era, the best shows of the century, what the television landscape is going to look like in 2026, their favorite book recs of the year, and much more (16:21). Subscribe to the Ringer TV YouTube channel here for ful...

Dec 23, 20251 hr 13 min

‘Pluribus’ Penultimate Episode and ‘Landman’ Episode 5

Chris and Andy talk about all of the shows that are coming up in January, including ‘The Pitt’ Season 2 and the long-awaited second season of ‘The Night Manager’ (3:44). Then they talk about the penultimate episode of ‘Pluribus’ Season 1 and Carol's arc throughout this season (25:27) before recapping the latest episode of ‘Landman’ (38:36). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producers: Kaya McMullen and Kai Grady Video Production: Jon Jones Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoice...

Dec 19, 202555 min

The Top 10 TV Shows of 2025

Chris and Andy talk about the tragic passing of legendary filmmaker Rob Reiner and his indelible impact on Hollywood over the years (3:30). Then they look back at this year in TV (14:14), run through a handful of honorable mentions (28:49), and reveal their top 10 shows of 2025 (55:41). Subscribe to the Ringer TV YouTube channel here for full episodes of The Watch and so much more! Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producers: Kaya McMullen and Kai Grady Additional Production Supervision: Jon ...

Dec 16, 20251 hr 31 min

Why the Warner Bros. Bidding War Is Catastrophic. Plus, ‘Pluribus’ Episode 7 and the ‘Hijack,’ ‘Paradise,’ and ‘Supergirl’ Trailers.

Chris and Andy talk about the second-season trailers for ‘Hijack’ (1:49) and ‘Paradise’ (8:17), as well as the first teaser for ‘Supergirl’ (11:07). Then they break down the ongoing Netflix–Paramount–Warner Bros. saga and the potential ripple effects of each outcome (13:18). Later, they discuss ‘Pluribus’ Episode 7 (42:24), Andy’s thoughts on the most recent episode of ‘Landman,’ (01:04:04) and the breakout success of ‘Heated Rivalry’ (01:07:46). Subscribe to the Ringer TV YouTube channel here f...

Dec 12, 20251 hr 16 min

Golden Globes Nominations, Rewatching ‘Succession,’ and a ‘Landman’ Crash Course With Timothy Simons. Plus, Paramount’s Hostile Takeover.

Chris opens the show by reacting to the news that Paramount is mounting a hostile takeover in the wake of Netflix’s Warner Bros. Discovery acquisition (1:00). He is then joined by Timothy Simons to talk about the Golden Globes nominations and why the awards show can still platform lesser-known titles (4:15). Along the way, Tim runs through everything he’s been watching, including recent ‘Succession’ and ‘Girls’ rewatches (14:55). Later, they discuss the degree of difficulty required to pull off ...

Dec 09, 20251 hr 7 min

‘Pluribus’ Episode 6 and ‘The Chair Company’ Season 1 Finale

Chris and Andy talk about the news that Charlie Hunnam and Daniel Brühl are joining Matthew Macfadyen in ‘Legacy of Spies,’ an upcoming MGM+ series based on John Le Carré’s George Smiley spy novels (2:18). Along the way, they check in on the Warner Bros. Discovery bidding war (11:02). Later, they discuss ‘The Chair Company’ Season 1 finale (20:17) and ‘Pluribus’ Episode 6 (28:15). Subscribe to the Ringer TV YouTube channel here for full episodes of The Watch and so much more! Hosts: Chris Ryan a...

Dec 05, 202557 min

‘Stranger Things’ Season 5 Is Finally Here. Was It Worth the Wait? Plus, ‘Landman’ S2E3.

Chris is joined by Mallory Rubin to talk about the premiere of the first four episodes of ‘Stranger Things’ Season 5 and how the trajectory of the show has changed so drastically over the years (2:00). Later, they discuss ‘Landman’ S2E3 and whether it’s the most entertaining show on television (59:26). Subscribe to the Ringer TV YouTube channel here for full episodes of The Watch and so much more! Host: Chris Ryan Guest: Mallory Rubin Producers: Kaya McMullen and Kai Grady Additional Video Super...

Dec 01, 20251 hr 13 min

‘The American Revolution,’ ‘Industry’ S4 Trailer, ‘Pluribus’ E4, and ‘Landman’ S2E2

Chris and Andy talk about the new Ken Burns six-part documentary ‘The American Revolution’ and his illustrious career (9:08), before reacting to trailers for ‘Industry’ S4 and ‘Y: Marshals’ (21:14). Later, they discuss ‘Pluribus’ Episode 4 (27:53) and ‘Landman’ Season 2, Episode 2 (40:01). Subscribe to the Ringer TV YouTube channel here for full episodes of The Watch and so much more! Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producers: Kaya McMullen and Kai Grady Additional Video Supervision: John R...

Nov 24, 20251 hr

HBO’s Wave of Renewals. Plus, ‘The Beast in Me,’ ‘The Chair Company’ E6, and ‘I Love LA’ E3.

Chris and Andy talk about the ongoing bidding war for Warner Bros. Discovery and the news that Netflix’s offer would include theatrical releases (5:31), before reacting to the various renewal announcements from HBO including ‘Task’ and both ‘Game of Thrones’ spinoffs (12:23). Then they discuss the Netflix miniseries ‘The Beast in Me,’ starring Claire Danes and Matthew Rhys (30:51). Later, they check in on ‘The Chair Company’ (51:45) and ‘I Love LA’ (53:53). Subscribe to the Ringer TV YouTube cha...

Nov 20, 20251 hr 10 min

‘Landman’ is Back! Plus, ‘Pluribus’ Episode 3 and ‘Poker Face’ Searches for a New Home

Chris and Andy talk about the news that Rian Johnson is shopping around ‘Poker Face’ with Peter Dinklage replacing Natasha Lyonne in the wake of its Peacock cancellation (7:21). Then they react to the set photos from the upcoming ‘The Legend of Zelda’ movie (18:43), before discussing the premiere of ‘Landman’ Season 2 (25:31) and ‘Pluribus’ Episode 3 (44:56). Subscribe to the Ringer TV YouTube channel here for full episodes of The Watch and so much more! Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Prod...

Nov 17, 202557 min

Is ‘Stranger Things’ the Last Gasp of Blockbuster TV? Plus, Why Netflix’s ‘Death by Lightning’ Is Worth Your Time.

Chris and Andy explore the significant evolution of "Stranger Things" through its upcoming final season, pondering if it represents the last of its kind in blockbuster television. They then highly recommend "Death by Lightning," a new Netflix historical drama, praising its engaging tone, historical insights, and stellar cast performances by Michael Shannon and Matthew Macfadyen. The hosts also provide updates and humorous critiques on "The Morning Show," "I Love LA," and the uniquely bizarre "Chair Company" before wrapping up their London broadcast.

Nov 11, 202555 min

Vince Gilligan On The Premiere of ‘Pluribus’

Chris and Andy talk about the two-episode premiere of ‘Pluribus,’ Vince Gilligan’s new sci-fi drama on Apple TV, and how despite its unique concept, it still contains the hallmark style that the ‘Breaking Bad’ creator is known for (1:02). Later, Chris is joined by Gilligan to discuss what inspired the series, going back to Albuquerque, Rhea Seehorn’s unparalleled talent, why he wanted to write a hero protagonist, and much more (26:04). Subscribe to the Ringer TV YouTube channel here for full epi...

Nov 07, 20251 hr 7 min

‘I Love LA’ Feels Like a Textbook HBO Comedy. Plus, ‘The Lowdown’ Finale.

Chris and Andy talk about the premiere of Rachel Sennott’s HBO series, ‘I Love LA,’ and what the comedy gets right about living in Los Angeles (8:02). Then they discuss the finale of ‘The Lowdown,’ the satisfying conclusion of its central mystery, and their desire for more seasons (25:13). Subscribe to the Ringer TV YouTube channel here for full episodes of The Watch and so much more! Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producers: Kaya McMullen and Kai Grady Video Producer: Jon Jones Learn more...

Nov 05, 202540 min

‘Slow Horses’ S5 Finale, ‘Down Cemetery Road’ Premiere, and ‘The Lowdown’ E7

Chris and Andy talk about the latest news on the future Taylor Sheridan–NBCUniversal partnership, including the reported amount of his deal and how many shows the studio wants from him (8:50). Then they break down the ‘Slow Horses’ Season 5 finale (18:36), the two-episode premiere of ‘Down Cemetery Road’ (30:19), and the penultimate episode of ‘The Lowdown’ (43:09). Subscribe to the Ringer TV YouTube channel here for full episodes of The Watch and so much more! Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwa...

Oct 30, 202556 min

Taylor Sheridan Is Leaving Paramount. What’s Next? Plus, ‘Nobody Wants This’ Season 2 and ‘The Chair Company’ Episode 3.

Chris and Andy talk about the news that Taylor Sheridan is leaving Paramount for NBCUniversal and how this might affect the TV industry at large (2:39). Then they talk about the first three episodes of ‘Nobody Wants This’ Season 2 and the changes the show has made between its first and second seasons (42:20), before breaking down the third episode of ‘The Chair Company’ (52:12). Subscribe to the Ringer TV YouTube channel here for full episodes of ‘The Watch’ and so much more! Hosts: Chris Ryan a...

Oct 27, 20251 hr

Catching Up on ‘Slow Horses,’ ‘The Lowdown,’ and ‘The Chair Company.’ Plus, the ‘Black Rabbit’ Creators!

Chris and Andy talk about the news that Adam Driver and Steven Soderbergh pitched a Kylo Ren ‘Star Wars’ standalone movie that Disney passed on (5:17), before checking in on ‘Slow Horses,’ (9:21) ‘The Lowdown,’ (26:38) and ‘The Chair Company’ (40:22). Later, Chris is joined by ‘Black Rabbit’ series creators Zach Baylin and Kate Susman to discuss how they balanced the dueling tones of the show, working with Jason Bateman and Jude Law, why it was important to make it feel so authentic to New York ...

Oct 23, 20251 hr 35 min

Creator Brad Ingelsby on the ‘Task’ Finale

Chris and Andy talk about the season finale of ‘Task,’ discussing why the ending was so satisfying, the constantly evolving nature of the show, and whether they want more of the HBO crime drama (1:00). Later, they’re joined by series creator Brad Ingelsby to discuss what inspired him to make the show, its significant religious through line, Mark Ruffalo’s finale monologue, the chances of a second season, and much more (27:42). Subscribe to the Ringer TV YouTube channel here for full episodes of ...

Oct 20, 20251 hr 21 min

‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Hype With Mallory Rubin. Plus, Doug Dulgarian of They Are Gutting a Body of Water.

Chris is joined by Mallory Rubin to talk about the trailer for the upcoming 'Game of Thrones' series ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ and why she’s so excited for the ‘Task’ finale (3:04). Later, he’s joined by frontman Doug Dulgarian of indie rock band They Are Gutting a Body of Water to talk about their brand-new album, ‘LOTTO’; what makes it so distinctively Philly; the stories behind some of Chris’s favorite tracks; and more (39:15). Subscribe to the Ringer TV YouTube channel here for full e...

Oct 17, 20251 hr 6 min

‘Task’ Episode 6 Recap

Chris and Andy dive into the penultimate episode of 'Task,' praising its relentless action sequence and Brad Inglesby's masterful plotting of tragic character fates, particularly Robbie and Lizzie. They discuss the show's profound meditation on life, loss, and the consequences of violence, emphasizing its unique use of natural settings and deep thematic symbolism. The hosts also explore Tom's powerful redemptive arc, Grasso's villainous turn, and commend standout performances, anticipating a powerful finale focused on moral reckoning and lingering questions.

Oct 13, 202543 min

‘The Lowdown’ Is That Show. Plus, ‘Heat 2’ Hype Meter and ‘House of Guinness.’

Chris and Andy talk about the modern-day hype cycles around film releases and why it feels like television drops don’t get that same level of attention in the wake of more ‘Heat 2’ news (5:38). Then, they make the case for why ‘The Lowdown’ is one of the best shows of the year and what they've been asking for from this era of auteur-driven television (27:51). Finally, they talk about Netflix’s ‘House of Guinness,’ from creator Steven Knight, and why, even though Knight is aiming high, the show m...

Oct 09, 202557 min

‘Task’ Is Barreling Toward the End

Chris and Andy talk about the fifth episode of ‘Task,’ discussing Tom and Robbie finally crossing paths, the impressive performances from actors on the periphery, and the loose threads the show still has to tie up in these final two episodes (1:05). Subscribe to the Ringer TV YouTube channel here for full episodes of ‘The Watch’ and so much more! Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producers: Kaya McMullen and Kai Grady Video Producer: Jon Jones Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastch...

Oct 06, 202546 min

How Much Higher Can ‘Slow Horses’ Climb? Plus, ‘Landman’ S2 and ‘Jay Kelly’ Trailers.

Chris and Andy talk about the second episode of ‘Slow Horses’ Season 5 and whether or not Jackson Lamb’s lack of character progression is holding back the show (4:14). Then, they react to the most recent trailers for ‘Landman’ S2 and ‘Jay Kelly’ (15:35). Along the way, they discuss TV executive Peter Friedlander’s arrival at Amazon MGM Studios, what it means for Prime Video’s future offerings, and the overall state of streaming programming (24:14). Later, they check in on what books they’ve been...

Oct 02, 202559 min

‘Task’ Episode 4 With Mark Ruffalo, Tom Pelphrey, Brad Ingelsby, and Salli Richardson-Whitfield! Plus, ‘One Battle After Another’ Is Timely and Timeless.

Chris and Andy talk about seeing Paul Thomas Anderson’s ‘One Battle After Another’ and the surprisingly prophetic nature of its story (3:25). Then, they break down the fourth episode of ‘Task’ (17:39), before they’re joined by stars Mark Ruffalo and Tom Pelphrey, creator Brad Ingelsby, and director Salli Richardson-Whitfield for a live event at Vidiots to discuss how they went about portraying Philly culture, the inevitable collision of Robbie's and Tom’s story lines, creating the visual palette...

Sep 29, 20251 hr 18 min

‘Alien: Earth’ Failed Itself. Plus, Ethan Hawke and Sterlin Harjo on ‘The Lowdown,’ and ‘Slow Horses’ Is Back!

Chris and Andy talk about why the season finale of ‘Alien: Earth’ missed the mark and their interest level in potential future seasons (2:47). Then they break down the premiere of ‘Slow Horses’ Season 5 (38:57), before Chris is joined by ‘The Lowdown’ star Ethan Hawke and creator Sterlin Harjo for a live event at Brain Dead Studios to discuss the series premiere, why the project means so much to them, the inception of the Tulsa-based crime drama, and much more (49:24). Subscribe to the Ringer TV...

Sep 25, 20251 hr 32 min

The Best TV Week of the Year, ‘Task’ Episode 3, and ‘The Mandalorian and Grogu’ Trailer Underwhelms

Chris and Andy talk about why this might be the best TV week of the year with the upcoming ‘Alien: Earth’ season finale, the premiere of Sterlin Harjo’s ‘The Lowdown,’ and the return of ‘Slow Horses’ for Season 5 (5:00). Along the way, they react to the trailer for ‘The Mandalorian and Grogu’ (12:00) and the rumored casting of Leonardo DiCaprio in Michael Mann’s highly anticipated follow-up to ‘Heat’ (20:44). Later, they break down the third episode of ‘Task’ (29:05). Subscribe to the Ringer TV ...

Sep 22, 202557 min

ABC Suspends Jimmy Kimmel, Why You Should Check Out Netflix’s ‘Black Rabbit’, and ‘Alien: Earth’ Episode 7

Chris and Andy talk about ABC’s decision to indefinitely suspend Jimmy Kimmel and what it means for the media space (1:18). Then, they take a moment to remember Robert Redford and his outsized impact on film in the wake of his passing (11:58). Later, they break down the penultimate episode of ‘Alien: Earth’ and the premiere of the new Netflix miniseries, ‘Black Rabbit,’ starring Jason Bateman and Jude Law (30:50). Subscribe to the Ringer TV YouTube channel here for full episodes of ‘The Watch’ a...

Sep 18, 20251 hr 19 min

The Emmys Mostly Got It Right and ‘Task’ Episode 2

Chris and Andy talk about the Emmys, what 'The Pitt' winning over 'Severance' says about the state of the industry, and the night’s biggest winners and losers (1:21). Later, they discuss the second episode of ‘Task’ and break down why it’s even better than the pilot (32:15). Subscribe to the Ringer TV YouTube channel here for full episodes of ‘The Watch’ and so much more! Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Producers: Kaya McMullen and Kai Grady Video Producer: Jon Jones Learn more about your a...

Sep 15, 20251 hr 6 min

Is ‘Alien: Earth’ Stuck in Place? Plus, Emmy Predictions and ‘Big Little Lies’ Season 3 News.

Chris and Andy talk about the news that 'Mr. & Mrs. Smith' Season 2 will be delayed indefinitely now that cocreator Francesca Sloane has been tapped to write on 'Big Little Lies' Season 3 (1:46). Then, they preview the Emmys by predicting which shows (and actors) could win, will win, and should win the major categories (18:52). Later, they break down the sixth episode of ‘Alien: Earth’ and discuss their complicated feelings about the FX series (36:40). Subscribe to the Ringer TV YouTube chan...

Sep 11, 20251 hr 1 min

‘Task’ Is Everything We Want It to Be. Plus, the Creative Arts Emmy Awards.

Chris and Andy talk about some of the winners from the Creative Arts Emmy Awards on Saturday and what they predict for the main awards show coming up on Sunday (8:56). Then they go deep on the premiere of the new HBO crime show ‘Task.’ They talk about the similarities to and differences from Brad Ingelsby’s first Philly-set crime show, ‘Mare of Easttown’ (16:44), and the outstanding performances from Mark Ruffalo, Tom Pelphrey, and Emilia Jones (41:43). Hosts: Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald Produ...

Sep 08, 20251 hr 6 min

‘The Paper’ Restores the (Sitcom) Feeling. Plus, ‘Alien: Earth’ Episode 5 and a Busy September for TV.

Chris and Andy talk about the premiere of ‘The Paper,’ the original Peacock series from the world of ‘The Office,’ and why the spinoff sitcom made them immediately feel at home (4:23). Then, they preview a busy month in television, including the upcoming premiere of HBO’s ‘Task’ and ‘Slow Horses’ Season 5 (31:53), before breaking down the fifth episode of ‘Alien: Earth’ (36:51). Later, they briefly discuss Darren Aronofsky’s new film, ‘Caught Stealing,’ and why they recommend it (01:02:08). Subs...

Sep 04, 20251 hr 16 min
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