Sarah Cortez on Playing Dulce in 'Long Shadows' — Love, Loss & a Powerful Twist

Emily Hall joins Pop Culture Unplugged for a festive, feel-good conversation about her breakout role as Sienna in Netflix’s holiday hit A Merry Little Ex-Mas. From landing the role through auditions to becoming the emotional core of the film, Emily shares what it really takes to bring heart to a modern Christmas movie. Emily opens up about working alongside Alicia Silverstone, Oliver Hudson, and Melissa Joan Hart, filming in real snow, and learning to trust her instincts while balancing comedy with real, emotional family moments. She also reacts to Alicia Silverstone calling her “the heartbeat of the movie” — a moment you won’t want to miss. This episode is packed with behind-the-scenes stories, holiday warmth, and an honest conversation about love, family, and embracing what makes people different — especially during the holidays. Episode Highlights: How Emily Hall landed the role of Sienna Behind the scenes with Alicia Silverstone & Oliver Hudson Filming in real snow (no fake Christmas magic here) Why Sienna’s story resonates with families and kids Balancing humor, heart, and holiday emotion Emily’s next creative chapter and writing projects 🎄 A Merry Little Ex-Mas is now streaming on Netflix — and this episode is the perfect holiday listen. Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/BLzTL2gMvuk For more exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes content, subscribe to Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias on YouTube: Subscribe here Got a burning question or a topic suggestion? Reach out to us at [email protected] Stay connected with us on social media for the latest show updates X: https://x.com/PopCultureUnplg Instagram: instagram.com/popcultureunplugged Facebook: facebook.com/popcultureunplugged TikTok: tiktok.com/@popcultureunplugged Visit our official website for more: www.popcultureunplugged.com Subscribe to our YouTube channel for exciting content: Subscribe here Don't miss out on the latest updates and exclusive content—join us in Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias!    

Sarah Drew sits down with Elias on Pop Culture Unplugged — and this debut conversation delivers everything fans could hope for.  In her FIRST interview with the show, Sarah opens up like never before about returning as Emily Lane in Mistletoe Murders Season 2, navigating the biggest emotional stakes yet, and why this series is the most meaningful job of her entire career. From brand-new flashbacks revealing Emily’s past, to the fiery chemistry between Emily & Sam, to the creative pressure of acting and producing — Sarah shares exclusive insight you can’t get anywhere else. This episode is heartfelt, funny, vulnerable, and packed with inside stories that Hallmark fans will replay again and again. Why This Episode Is a Must-Listen Sarah Drew’s first-ever conversation with Pop Culture Unplugged  Deep dive into Emily Lane’s evolution in Mistletoe Murders Season 2  Why this job means more to Sarah than any project she’s done The truth behind Emily & Sam’s tension, romance, and emotional hurdles  How the show blends cozy holiday magic with gripping murder mystery  Sarah’s producing process and creative collaboration with Ken Cooper  Why vulnerability is the heartbeat of Emily’s journey this season Sarah’s hopes for Season 3 — and why fans have more power than they think If you love Sarah Drew, Hallmark Mysteries, and storytelling that mixes suspense, heart, and holiday charm, this episode is your new obsession. 🎧 Tap play and experience Sarah Drew like you’ve never heard her before.   Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/GFVw9EeANT4 For more exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes content, subscribe to Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias on YouTube: Subscribe here Got a burning question or a topic suggestion? Reach out to us at [email protected] Stay connected with us on social media for the latest show updates X: https://x.com/PopCultureUnplg Instagram: instagram.com/popcultureunplugged Facebook: facebook.com/popcultureunplugged TikTok: tiktok.com/@popcultureunplugged Visit our official website for more: www.popcultureunplugged.com Subscribe to our YouTube channel for exciting content: Subscribe here Don't miss out on the latest updates and exclusive content—join us in Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias! #SarahDrew #MistletoeMurders #EmilyLane #HallmarkChannel #HallmarkMysteries #PodcastInterview #PopCultureUnplugged #HolidayMystery #TVInterview #ActressInterview #ViralPodcast #NewEpisode

Mikkal Karim Fidler joins Elias to break down his role as Teddy in IT: Welcome to Derry. Mikkal talks about joining the Stephen King universe, the emotional weight behind Teddy’s guilt, and how real friendships off-camera helped shape the on-screen chemistry fans are loving. Hear Mikkal open up about the audition process, building Teddy’s layered mindset, and the intense stunt work that challenged him in surprising ways. ⭐ Episode Highlights – Mikkal reveals he originally auditioned for Phil before Teddy became the perfect fit – How he prepared emotionally for Teddy’s guilt, grief, and unraveling logic – The real off-screen friendship that made Teddy & Phil’s dynamic feel so authentic – A hilarious (and terrifying) jump-scare moment from director Andy Muschietti on set Stream now to get an inside look at one of IT: Welcome to Derry’s most compelling characters.   Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/qbev9ykIyns For more exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes content, subscribe to Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias on YouTube: Subscribe here Got a burning question or a topic suggestion? Reach out to us at [email protected] Stay connected with us on social media for the latest show updates X: https://x.com/PopCultureUnplg Instagram: instagram.com/popcultureunplugged Facebook: facebook.com/popcultureunplugged TikTok: tiktok.com/@popcultureunplugged Visit our official website for more: www.popcultureunplugged.com Subscribe to our YouTube channel for exciting content: Subscribe here Don't miss out on the latest updates and exclusive content—join us in Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias! #ITWelcomeToDerry #MikkalKarimFidler #Teddy #StephenKing #PopCultureUnplugged #HorrorSeries #PodcastInterview #BehindTheScenes    

Marisa Coughlan joins Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias to talk about her deeply personal new film Blue Eyed Girl, where she serves as writer, producer, and star. Marisa opens up about returning home to Minnesota, the emotional inspiration behind the story, filming heartfelt scenes with Beau Bridges, and why she felt compelled to play the role of Jane herself. We dive into how Blue Eyed Girl became a “coming-of-age story for 40-somethings,” the creative process behind transforming a Minnesota mansion into multiple sets, and the challenges of balancing acting, producing, motherhood, and grief — all while making an indie film fueled by heart. Whether you’re a fan of Marisa’s work, love indie filmmaking, or appreciate honest conversations about reinvention and storytelling, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Topics Covered: • Marisa Coughlan on writing and starring as Jane • The emotional inspiration behind Blue Eyed Girl • Working with Beau Bridges • Finding identity and purpose at 40+ • Making an indie film with limited resources • Audience reactions and screenings • What she hopes viewers take away Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/uOb1blRYBHc For more exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes content, subscribe to Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias on YouTube: Subscribe here Got a burning question or a topic suggestion? Reach out to us at [email protected] Stay connected with us on social media for the latest show updates X: https://x.com/PopCultureUnplg Instagram: instagram.com/popcultureunplugged Facebook: facebook.com/popcultureunplugged TikTok: tiktok.com/@popcultureunplugged Visit our official website for more: www.popcultureunplugged.com Subscribe to our YouTube channel for exciting content: Subscribe here Don't miss out on the latest updates and exclusive content—join us in Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias! #MarisaCoughlan #BlueEyedGirl #IndieFilm #popcultureunplugged 

Kahyun Kim joins Pop Culture Unplugged to dive into her fan-favorite role as Serena on NBC’s St. Denis Medical. She shares why the show is her “dream job,” how Serena mixes chaos with confidence, and what fans can expect from her romance and character growth in Season 2. Kahyun also opens up about learning English through sitcoms, bonding with the cast, and why mockumentary comedy feels like home. Highlights: – Kahyun calls St. Denis Medical her dream role – Inside Serena’s comedic chaos and emotional depth – Teasing her Season 2 journey, friendships, and romance – Lessons from legends David Alan Grier and Allison Tolman   Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/OohUOq9yutc For more exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes content, subscribe to Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias on YouTube: Subscribe here Got a burning question or a topic suggestion? Reach out to us at [email protected] Stay connected with us on social media for the latest show updates X: https://x.com/PopCultureUnplg Instagram: instagram.com/popcultureunplugged Facebook: facebook.com/popcultureunplugged TikTok: tiktok.com/@popcultureunplugged Visit our official website for more: www.popcultureunplugged.com Subscribe to our YouTube channel for exciting content: Subscribe here Don't miss out on the latest updates and exclusive content—join us in Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias! #KahyunKim #StDenisMedical #NBC #PopCultureUnplugged #Podcast #TVInterview #ComedySeries #Mockumentary #BehindTheScenes

Actor Pierson Fodé joins Pop Culture Unplugged to talk all things A Merry Little Ex-Mas and his scene-stealing role as Chet in Netflix’s latest holiday hit. From wild improv to heartfelt moments, Pierson delivers one of his most candid and entertaining conversations yet. Episode Highlights: – Pierson shares why “My break is hanging out with you — and I love it.” – The hilarious behind-the-scenes story of the improvised firefighter scene 🔥🎄 – Working with Alicia Silverstone and building instant chemistry – Teasing his upcoming collaboration with legendary director Robert Zemeckis Stream the full interview now and get into the holiday spirit with one of the season’s standout stars!   Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/uA1Zaq5ZdTo For more exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes content, subscribe to Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias on YouTube: Subscribe here Got a burning question or a topic suggestion? Reach out to us at [email protected] Stay connected with us on social media for the latest show updates X: https://x.com/PopCultureUnplg Instagram: instagram.com/popcultureunplugged Facebook: facebook.com/popcultureunplugged TikTok: tiktok.com/@popcultureunplugged Visit our official website for more: www.popcultureunplugged.com Subscribe to our YouTube channel for exciting content: Subscribe here Don't miss out on the latest updates and exclusive content—join us in Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias! #PiersonFode #AMerryLittleExMas #Netflix #PopCultureUnplugged #PodcastInterview #ActorSpotlight #HolidayMovies

Jack Molloy Legault joins Elias on Pop Culture Unplugged to talk about his breakout role as Phil in HBO’s IT: Welcome to Derry! Jack opens up about the surreal journey from self-tape audition to becoming part of the IT universe, working alongside his real-life sister Matilda, and how he brought humor and heart to the horror-filled streets of Derry. 🎙️ Highlights include: – How Jack discovered his audition was secretly for IT: Welcome to Derry – Playing Phil, the fast-talking, conspiracy-loving teen – Working with his sister Matilda and their real sibling chemistry – Balancing humor and fear in the IT prequel – Filming in the 1960s setting and keeping his “60s haircut” A fun and candid chat about scares, laughs, and dreams of joining the DC Universe!   Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/hdAx4es0ooQ For more exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes content, subscribe to Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias on YouTube: Subscribe here Got a burning question or a topic suggestion? Reach out to us at [email protected] Stay connected with us on social media for the latest show updates X: https://x.com/PopCultureUnplg Instagram: instagram.com/popcultureunplugged Facebook: facebook.com/popcultureunplugged TikTok: tiktok.com/@popcultureunplugged Visit our official website for more: www.popcultureunplugged.com Subscribe to our YouTube channel for exciting content: Subscribe here Don't miss out on the latest updates and exclusive content—join us in Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias!   #jackmollloylegault #ITWelcomeToDerry #PopCultureUnplugged #StephenKing #HorrorSeries #ScreamQueen #BillSkarsgard #HBO #FYP #PodcastInterview

Sarah Cortez joins Elias on Pop Culture Unplugged to talk about her role as Dulce in the Western drama Long Shadows, premiering November 7. Sarah shares how she instantly connected with the character’s strength and vulnerability, the emotional challenges of filming, and the surprising twist that made her “throw her laptop.” 🎧 Interview Highlights: Why Long Shadows is a different kind of Western with heart and hope. The emotional journey of Dulce and how Sarah prepared for it. Working with director William Shockley and co-star Blaine to build authentic chemistry. A fun behind-the-scenes story involving Converse shoes under a 19th-century gown! Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/MWyX-BuOuWA For more exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes content, subscribe to Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias on YouTube: Subscribe here Got a burning question or a topic suggestion? Reach out to us at [email protected] Stay connected with us on social media for the latest show updates X: https://x.com/PopCultureUnplg Instagram: instagram.com/popcultureunplugged Facebook: facebook.com/popcultureunplugged TikTok: tiktok.com/@popcultureunplugged Visit our official website for more: www.popcultureunplugged.com Subscribe to our YouTube channel for exciting content: Subscribe here Don't miss out on the latest updates and exclusive content—join us in Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias! #SarahCortez #LongShadows #PopCultureUnplugged #ActressInterview #WesternMovies #Podcast #FilmInterview

Clara Stack joins Elias on Pop Culture Unplugged to talk about her breakout role as Lilly in HBO’s IT: Welcome to Derry. Clara opens up about landing the role through a self-tape audition, exploring Lilly’s emotional depth, and stepping into the Stephen King universe. She also discusses balancing real-world trauma with supernatural fear, meeting Bill Skarsgård as Pennywise, and the friendships formed behind the scenes. Clara even reacts to being called the next Scream Queen and teases what fans can expect from Lilly’s darker transformation later in the season. 🎙️ Interview Highlights: How Clara landed the role of Lilly through a self-tape audition Preparing emotionally for grief, trauma, and the 1960s setting Behind the scenes of the intense grocery store sequence Meeting Bill Skarsgård as Pennywise for the first time 😱 Why fans are calling her the next Scream Queen 👑 🎈 IT: Welcome to Derry now streaming on HBO. Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Go-P73HQfxM For more exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes content, subscribe to Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias on YouTube: Subscribe here Got a burning question or a topic suggestion? Reach out to us at [email protected] Stay connected with us on social media for the latest show updates X: https://x.com/PopCultureUnplg Instagram: instagram.com/popcultureunplugged Facebook: facebook.com/popcultureunplugged TikTok: tiktok.com/@popcultureunplugged Visit our official website for more: www.popcultureunplugged.com Subscribe to our YouTube channel for exciting content: Subscribe here Don't miss out on the latest updates and exclusive content—join us in Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias!   #ClaraStack #ITWelcomeToDerry #PopCultureUnplugged #StephenKing #HorrorSeries #ScreamQueen #BillSkarsgard #HBO #FYP #PodcastInterview

Maggie Lawson joins Elias on Pop Culture Unplugged to talk about her new role as Sarah Silver in Boston Blue! 💙 In this episode, Maggie dives into what it’s like stepping into the shoes of the youngest superintendent in Boston PD history, how Boston Blue honors the Blue Bloods legacy while creating its own identity, and her excitement about working alongside Donnie Wahlberg and Sonequa Martin-Green. She also opens up about her earlier sitcoms Back in the Game and Outmatched (which Elias made sure to bring up!), shares memories of working with James Caan, and gives fans a hopeful update on Psych 4. 🎧 Episode Highlights: Maggie on her new role as Sarah Silver in Boston Blue How Boston Blue connects to Blue Bloods Working with Donnie Wahlberg and Sonequa Martin-Green Revisiting her past projects Back in the Game & Outmatched A tease about what’s next for Psych 4 Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/crWQYQAsxxs For more exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes content, subscribe to Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias on YouTube: Subscribe here Got a burning question or a topic suggestion? Reach out to us at [email protected] Stay connected with us on social media for the latest show updates X: https://x.com/PopCultureUnplg Instagram: instagram.com/popcultureunplugged Facebook: facebook.com/popcultureunplugged TikTok: tiktok.com/@popcultureunplugged Visit our official website for more: www.popcultureunplugged.com Subscribe to our YouTube channel for exciting content: Subscribe here Don't miss out on the latest updates and exclusive content—join us in Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias!   #MaggieLawson #BostonBlue #PopCultureUnplugged  #CBS #ParamountPlus #Psych #Psych4 #BackInTheGame #Outmatched #TVPodcast #BlueBloods #Boston