Avsnitt

  • Synopsis: Each month, The Straits Times examines the ins and outs of pop culture in the Asian entertainment and Hollywood scene.

    PopVultures host Jan Lee explains her transition from the previous year-long Can I Tell You Something Crazy series about pop culture zeitgeist moments to a new scripted series in 2024 along the lines of Where Are They Now.

    For once-famous Asian or global celebrities you might like to know more of but just don’t know where to start, DM Jan Lee your suggestions on Instagram: https://str.sg/Jbxc or reach her at [email protected]

    Meantime, you can catch up on back episodes of the Can I Tell You Something Crazy series at our show links below.

    Produced by: Jan Lee ([email protected]) & Amirul Karim

    Edited by: Amirul Karim

    Follow #PopVultures Podcast episodes here every month:

    Channel: https://str.sg/JWad

    Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaA

    Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaP

    SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

    Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    Feedback to: [email protected]

    Follow Jan Lee on Instagram: https://str.sg/Jbxc

    Read Jan Lee's articles: https://str.sg/Jbxp

    ---

    Discover more ST podcast channels:

    The Usual Place: https://str.sg/5nfm

    COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

    In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

    Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

    Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

    Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

    Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

    ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

    #PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

    Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

    Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    ---

    Special edition series:

    True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

    The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

    Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

    Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

    Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

    ---

    Follow our shows then, if you like short, practical podcasts!

    #PV

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  • One of our guests also shows us the brilliance of her lyrics by reading them out to us. What are your faves?

    Synopsis: Each month, The Straits Times examines the ins and outs of pop culture in the Asian entertainment and Hollywood scene.

    American superstar Taylor Swift has dominated pop culture with her mega-successful Eras Tour, her historic fourth Grammy win for Album of the Year in 2024 and her fairytale-like romance with American football star Travis Kelce.

    And she will soon be bringing her tour for a sold-out six-night show at National Stadium in Singapore from March 2-9. Ahead of her concert, #PopVultures host Jan Lee sits down for a throwback to her English-literature-student days.

    Joining her in this episode to explore Swift's multi-generational appeal, are Life correspondent and "Swiftie" Yamini Chinnuswamy, 15-year-old Gen-Z "Swiftie" Yvonne Inglin as well as Ravi Agarwal, a 51-year-old connoisseur of Swift's lyrics.

    Together, they discuss the literary value of her songs while Ravi also reads out the best of her lyrics. They analyse the appeal of her songs and how different songs reflect different periods in Swift's life.

    They spotlight three of Swift's most famous songs from different eras of her career - Blank Space, Anti-Hero and All Too Well (10 Minute Version) - and talk about Swift's use of metaphors, rhymes and sentence structure. They also talk about their own impressions of these songs and why it fascinates and appeals to them.

    They also ponder the very important question: Is a Nobel Literature Prize in Swift's future?

    Highlights (click/tap above):

    3:30 Introduction and everyone's favourite Swift kitty - is it Olivia Benson, Meredith Grey or Benjamin Button?

    7:00 Favourite songs

    9:30 Dissecting Blank Space

    16:40 Examining/Exploring Anti-Hero

    26:20 Debating All Too Well (10 Minute Version)

    35:30 Rapid-fire Swiftie questions for Yvonne & Ravi

    Watch the special video version of this episode on the new Straits Times’ Podcast YouTube channel, where Yamini has set up a mini-Taylor Swift shrine: https://str.sg/itdC

    Download ST's Taylor Swift 9-era infographic series in high-res PDF: https://str.sg/qQQU

    More of ST's Taylor Swift coverage here: https://str.sg/CJDx

    Produced by: Jan Lee ([email protected]), Yamini Chinnuswamy ([email protected]), Amirul Karim and Eden Soh

    Video Producers: Joel Chng, T Kumar, Zeke Tan and Marc de Souza

    Edited by: Amirul Karim and Eden Soh

    Follow #PopVultures here every month:

    Channel: https://str.sg/JWad

    Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaA

    Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaP

    SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

    Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    Feedback to: [email protected]

    Follow Jan Lee on Instagram: https://str.sg/Jbxc

    Read Jan Lee's articles: https://str.sg/Jbxp

    Read Yamini Chinnuswamy's articles: https://str.sg/h4rH

    Follow Yamini Chinnuswamy on Instagram: https://str.sg/sVdB

    ---

    Discover more ST podcast channels:

    COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

    In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

    Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

    Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

    Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

    Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

    ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

    #PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

    Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

    Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    ---

    Special edition series:

    True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

    The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

    Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

    Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

    Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

    ---

    Follow our shows then, if you like short, practical podcasts!

    #PV

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  • Saknas det avsnitt?

    Klicka här för att uppdatera flödet manuellt.

  • The actor was found dead in an apparent suicide after a two-months long high-profile investigation into his alleged misuse of drugs.

    Synopsis: Each month, The Straits Times examines the ins and outs of pop culture in the Asian entertainment and Hollywood scene.

    The year of 2023 ended on a shocking and tragic note for the South Korean entertainment industry when actor Lee Sun-kyun, best known for playing a wealthy patriarch in the Oscar-winning film Parasite (2019), died of an apparent suicide at the age of 48 on Dec 27, 2023.

    Lee was a well-respected and prolific star, both known for his versatile acting and clean, upstanding image. He was married to actress Jeon Hye-jin and shared two sons with her.

    But in the two months leading up to his death, Lee suffered a dramatic fall from grace. News broke in October that he was being investigated for allegations of illegal drug use - something heavily stigmatised in South Korea. The scandal, which arose after a bar hostess reportedly claimed that Lee took drugs at her residence, heavily affected Lee's career. Even though investigations were ongoing, Lee was dropped from projects and several of his works which were slated for release were halted.

    After several rounds of investigation, including a 19-hour long questioning the weekend before his death, Lee was found dead in his car next to charcoal briquettes.

    In this episode of #PopVultures, host Jan Lee recaps Lee's case and discusses the reported blackmail and extortion involved. She also examines why the scandal hit Lee so particularly hard and shares why some believe the police mishandled the case.

    She also talks about other cases of drug investigation in South Korea involving celebrities like K-pop star G-Dragon and actor Yoo Ah-in and shares her own thoughts on the South Korean government's push for a "war on drugs".

    Produced by: Jan Lee ([email protected]) and Amirul Karim

    Edited by: Amirul Karim

    Follow #PopVultures Podcast episodes here every month:

    Channel: https://str.sg/JWad

    Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaA

    Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaP

    SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

    Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    Feedback to: [email protected]

    Follow Jan Lee on Instagram: https://str.sg/Jbxc

    Read Jan Lee's articles: https://str.sg/Jbxp

    ---

    Discover more ST podcast channels:

    COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

    In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

    Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

    Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

    Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

    Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

    ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

    #PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

    Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

    Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    ---

    Special edition series:

    True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

    The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

    Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

    Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

    Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

    ---

    Follow our shows then, if you like short, practical podcasts!

    ---

    Helplines

    Mental well-being

    Institute of Mental Health’s Mental Health Helpline: 6389-2222 (24 hours)
    Samaritans of Singapore: 1-767 (24 hours) / 9151 1767 (24 hours CareText via WhatsApp)
    Singapore Association for Mental Health: 1800-283-7019
    Silver Ribbon Singapore: 6386-1928
    Tinkle Friend: 1800-274-4788
    Chat, Centre of Excellence for Youth Mental Health: 6493-6500/1
    Women’s Helpline (Aware): 1800-777-5555 (weekdays, 10am to 6pm)
    Aware’s Sexual Assault Care Centre: 6779-0282 (weekdays, 10am to 6pm)
    National Anti-Violence and Sexual Harassment Helpline: 1800-777-0000

    Counselling

    TOUCHline (Counselling): 1800-377-2252
    TOUCH Care Line (for seniors, caregivers): 6804-6555
    Care Corner Counselling Centre: 6353-1180
    Counselling and Care Centre: 6536-6366

    Online resources

    mindline.sg
    eC2.sg
    www.tinklefriend.sg
    www.chat.mentalhealth.sg
    carey.carecorner.org.sg (for those aged 13 to 25)
    limitless.sg/talk (for those aged 12 to 25)

    #PV

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  • Revisiting the legacy of a 1990s Singaporean icon

    Synopsis: Can I Tell You Something Crazy is a new scripted series under the #PopVultures banner, which examines with fresh eyes, events that shook Asian media and entertainment.

    In 1990, Singaporean model Bonny Hicks, just 22 at the time, published her first book Excuse Me, Are You A Model?

    The book was meant to be a tell-all about the modelling industry. How does one become a model, what are the perks of the job and are there any secrets to success? But instead of writing about modelling, Hicks ended up writing about her own life. She shared about her childhood, her various love affairs with different men, alluded to a romantic relationship with a woman and even opened up about her one-time desire to have an illegitimate child.

    The book, an unprecedented local bestseller, scandalised and divided Singaporeans. While there were schoolgirls who rushed out to purchase the book, which sold 12,000 copies in just three days, there were also angry members of the public who scolded Bonny for being irresponsible, promiscuous and scoffed at her lack of a university education. One even called Hicks the demise of the Singaporean novelist.

    She was judged, not just for her writing, but for her life and her moral values. Two years after the book's publication, Hicks took off to Indonesia, going into a self-exile to shield herself from the social shunning she received in her home country.

    But just as her work was slowly being reconsidered as an important piece in Singapore's publishing and literary history, Hicks boarded the ill-fated Silkair MI185 flight.The plane tragically crashed on Dec 19, 1997, killing all 104 people onboard - leaving Singapore with only the memories of a life cut short.

    In this episode of Can I Tell You Something Crazy, #PopVultures host Jan Lee travels back in time to 1990s Singapore to revisit the legacy of Bonny Hicks, a model who became more known for her prose than her photos. Through Hicks' story, this episode examines what has changed about Singapore, its social mores and celebrity culture at large.

    Produced by: Jan Lee ([email protected]) and Amirul Karim

    Edited by: Amirul Karim

    Follow #PopVultures Podcast episodes here every month:

    Channel: https://str.sg/JWad

    Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaA

    Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaP

    SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

    Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    Feedback to: [email protected]

    Follow Jan Lee on Instagram: https://str.sg/Jbxc

    Read Jan Lee's articles: https://str.sg/Jbxp

    ---

    Discover more ST podcast channels:

    COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

    In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

    Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

    Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

    Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

    Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

    ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

    #PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

    Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

    Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    ---

    Special edition series:

    True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

    The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

    Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

    Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

    Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

    ---

    Follow our shows then, if you like short, practical podcasts!

    #PV

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  • Host Jan Lee recaps everything from Barbieheimer to K-pop boyband BTS entering the military

    Synopsis: Each month, The Straits Times examines the ins and outs of pop culture in the Asian entertainment and Hollywood scene.

    As 2023 comes to an end, #PopVultures host recap and give updates on some of the biggest happenings in entertainment across the world, from the revenge concert-going and ticket-buying mania that gripped Singapore to the writers and actors strike in Hollywood and the fall of idol management agency Johnny & Associates in Japan.

    She also runs down her list of favourite television shows and films of the year.

    Here is what she covers:

    2:07 Concert mania - Taylor Swift, Coldplay and J-pop acts like Yoasobi

    6:23 Summer of Barbieheimer - blockbusters Barbie and Oppenheimer - bringing audiences back to the movie theatres

    11:13 The Hollywood writers and actors strike, which gained both unions historic gains and protections

    15:29 Updates on the sex abuse scandal that brought down Japanese idol agency Johnny & Associates

    26:15 Taiwan's #MeToo wave and why it was disappointing to observe

    31:13 The case of K-pop girl group Fifty Fifty takes a turn

    33:22 Drug allegations against BigBang leader G-Dragon and South Korean actor Lee Sun-kyun

    34:51 BTS enlists into the military

    36:50 Jan's favourite television shows and movies of the year

    TV: The Last Of Us, Succession, The Glory and Oh No! Here Comes Trouble
    Films: Past Lives and Marry My Dead Body

    Produced by: Jan Lee ([email protected]) and Amirul Karim

    Edited by: Amirul Karim

    Follow #PopVultures Podcast episodes here every month:

    Channel: https://str.sg/JWad

    Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaA

    Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaP

    SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

    Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    Feedback to: [email protected]

    Follow Jan Lee on Instagram: https://str.sg/Jbxc

    Read Jan Lee's articles: https://str.sg/Jbxp

    ---

    Discover more ST podcast channels:

    COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

    In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

    Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

    Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

    Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

    Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

    ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

    #PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

    Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

    Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    ---

    Special edition series:

    True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

    The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

    Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

    Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

    Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

    ---

    Follow our shows then, if you like short, practical podcasts!

    #PV

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  • Part Two: The horror of how Britney Spears came to be placed under a 13-year-long involuntary conservatorship.

    Synopsis: Each month, The Straits Times examines the ins and outs of pop culture in the Asian entertainment and Hollywood scene.

    Pop diva Britney Spears' memoir has been a smash hit, selling over 2.4 million copies worldwide in the first week of its release. In our previous episode (Pt 1), host Jan Lee discussed the bombshells the now 41-year-old singer dropped in the first part of her book, including the revelation that former beau, pop star Justin Timberlake, talked her into having an abortion.

    Continuing the discussion of the book, part two of the podcast delves into the horrifying story of Britney’s mental breakdown and her eventual entry into an involuntary conservatorship.

    It looks at the misogyny and media scrutiny she had to endure and details how her family conspired against her and lured her into a conservatorship that stripped her of the right to make personal and financial decisions for herself.

    Produced by: Jan Lee ([email protected]) and Amirul Karim

    Edited by: Amirul Karim

    Follow #PopVultures Podcast episodes here every month:

    Channel: https://str.sg/JWad

    Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaA

    Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaP

    SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

    Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    Feedback to: [email protected]

    Follow Jan Lee on Instagram: https://str.sg/Jbxc

    Read Jan Lee's articles: https://str.sg/Jbxp

    ---

    Discover more ST podcast channels:

    COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

    In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

    Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

    Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

    Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

    Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

    ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

    #PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

    Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

    Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    ---

    Special edition series:

    True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

    The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

    Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

    Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

    Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

    ---

    Follow our shows then, if you like short, practical podcasts!

    #PV

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  • Part One of the bombshells the pop star dropped in her best-selling book.

    Synopsis: Each month, The Straits Times examines the ins and outs of pop culture in the Asian entertainment and Hollywood scene.

    After being freed from a 13-year long conservatorship, pop diva Britney Spears released her highly anticipated memoir The Woman In Me on Oct 24. The book is a smash hit and a New York Times best-seller, with 2.4 million copies sold worldwide in just a week. Previously unknown bombshells - like how Spears aborted her child with former flame and pop star Justin Timberlake - dominated headlines.

    The book charts the now 41-year-old Spears' journey to superstardom during her childhood and adolescent years and later details of how fame, failed relationships with stars like Justin Timberlake and Kevin Federline and abuse derailed her life and cornered her into an exploitative conservatorship.

    She was involuntarily placed under the conservatorship in 2008, during which she lost the ability to make basic decisions about her finances, career, life and medical care. Spears was freed from the conservatorship only in 2021.

    In the first of two parts, #PopVultures host Jan Lee, who read the book from cover to cover, shares her most memorable takeaways from the book. Here is what she talks about in Part One.

    3:52 Is The Woman In Me well-written or trustworthy? Does Spears show self-reflection and introspection in the book?

    9:28 The Justin Timberlake-era of Britney's life

    23:33 Why Britney's love story with Kevin Federline is tragic from the get-go

    Produced by: Jan Lee ([email protected]) and Amirul Karim

    Edited by: Amirul Karim

    Follow #PopVultures Podcast episodes here every month:

    Channel: https://str.sg/JWad

    Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaA

    Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaP

    SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

    Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    Feedback to: [email protected]

    Follow Jan Lee on Instagram: https://str.sg/Jbxc

    Read Jan Lee's articles: https://str.sg/Jbxp

    ---

    Discover more ST podcast channels:

    COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

    In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

    Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

    Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

    Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

    Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

    ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

    #PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

    Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

    Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    ---

    Special edition series:

    True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

    The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

    Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

    Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

    Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

    ---

    Follow our shows then, if you like short, practical podcasts!

    #PV

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  • Three Swifties discuss the pop star’s romance, music and how she has changed and matured

    Synopsis: Each month, The Straits Times examines the ins and outs of pop culture in the Asian entertainment and Hollywood scene.

    #PopVultures host and recent Swiftie convert Jan Lee invites The Straits Times lifestyle journalists Yamini Chinnuswamy and Charmaine Lim, both fellow Swifties, to talk about superstar Taylor Swift’s new relationship with American football player Travis Kelce.

    They discuss the masterful rollout of the Taylor-Travis romance and how well Swift uses the media and pop culture zeitgeist to her advantage. From being seen with British actress Sophie Turner amid her acrimonious divorce with Swift’s ex-boyfriend Joe Jonas to posing with Beyonce at the premiere of her Eras concert film - the singer knows how to generate headlines.

    Here is what they talked about.

    Highlights (tap/click above):

    1:51 Our relationship with Swift - how did we become Swifties?

    6:36 The Taylor-Travis romance - how it began, the reveal of their relationship and whether it is a PR stunt

    12:59 Sophie Turner, Joe Jonas and how Swift took Turner’s side

    18:43 How Swift handled her previous relationships and her image to the public

    32:26 The turning point in Swift’s career - The Snake Incident

    39:12 How petty Swift can be and why we love it

    44:13 Swift’s business and management acumen

    51:39: Our Taylor Swift awards - favourite boyfriend, worst boyfriend, favourite songs and more

    Produced by: Jan Lee ([email protected]) Amirul Karim and Eden Soh

    Edited by: Amirul Karim

    Follow #PopVultures Podcast episodes here every month:

    Channel: https://str.sg/JWad

    Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaA

    Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaP

    SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

    Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    Feedback to: [email protected]

    Follow Jan Lee on Instagram: https://str.sg/Jbxc

    Read Jan Lee's articles: https://str.sg/Jbxp

    ---

    Discover more ST podcast channels:

    COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

    In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

    Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

    Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

    Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

    Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

    ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

    #PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

    Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

    Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    ---

    Special edition series:

    True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

    The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

    Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

    Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

    Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

    ---

    Follow our shows then, if you like short, practical podcasts!

    #PV

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  • How they "mass-reported" to Chinese authorities, a fan fiction about him and fellow actor Wang Yibo.

    Synopsis: Can I Tell You Something Crazy is a new scripted series under the #PopVultures banner, which examines with fresh eyes, events that shook Asian media and entertainment.

    In 2019, Chinese actor Xiao Zhan was easily one of the hottest stars in China. The previously little-known star had broken out that year in China and across the world with the mega-hit Chinese fantasy period series The Untamed, where he acted opposite fellow Chinese star Wang Yibo.

    Adapted from a hugely popular boys' love novel named Grandmaster Of Demonic Cultivation, The Untamed attracted a large, ardent fan base that shot both its leads to A-list status. But less than a year after Xiao found fame, his loyal fan base became his undoing.

    In a controversy termed the 227 (Feb 27, 2020) incident, Xiao’s fans following reported a piece of fan fiction that they felt portrayed their idol in an unflattering light and it caused one of the world's largest fan fiction sites - Archive Of Our Own - to be banned in China.

    In response, fan fiction readers, writers and more, targeted Xiao Zhan, calling for the boycott of brands he works with and review-bombing projects he had previously been in. The boycott was so widespread and overwhelming that Xiao eventually apologised for his fans' actions.

    In this episode of Can I Tell You Something Crazy, #PopVultures host Jan Lee takes another look at the 227 incident - a fight between two factions of fandom that blew up beyond anyone's imagination.

    It is a story of para-social relationships, toxic fandoms, the murky politics of boys’ love in China, censorship, reporting culture and also, a story about stories - the value, power and refuge that fan fiction often provides.

    Produced by: Jan Lee ([email protected])

    Edited by: Amirul Karim

    Follow #PopVultures Podcast episodes here every month:

    Channel: https://str.sg/JWad

    Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaA

    Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaP

    SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

    Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    Feedback to: [email protected]

    Follow Jan Lee on Instagram: https://str.sg/Jbxc

    Read Jan Lee's articles: https://str.sg/Jbxp

    ---

    Discover more ST podcast channels:

    COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

    In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

    Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

    Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

    Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

    Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

    ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

    #PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

    Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

    Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    ---

    Special edition series:

    True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

    The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

    Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

    Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

    Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

    ---

    Follow our shows then, if you like short, practical podcasts!

    #PV

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  • Each follow on the audio apps below and a rating really helps us! Happy listening!

    Synopsis: A brand new feature is within The Straits Times app, which you can download from the Apple app store or the Google Play store. For those of you who already have it, the latest version update now has a dedicated Podcast Section, where you can listen to our latest incoming show episodes and check out back episodes too.

    You can also choose to follow our podcast RSS feeds, or the shows on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

    If you have a smart home speaker like the Google Home or Nest device, or your Android phone, just say: “Hey Google, play me (name of any of the shows below) or The Straits Times Podcasts.”

    Get The Straits Times app from

    The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

    Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

    Produced & edited by: Ernest Luis ([email protected]) & Teo Tong Kai

    Follow ST Podcasts:

    Channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

    Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wukK

    Spotify: https://str.sg/wukH

    SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

    Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    Feedback to: [email protected]

    ---

    Discover more ST podcast channels:

    All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

    The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u

    In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

    COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

    Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

    Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

    Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

    Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

    Hard Tackle: https://str.sg/JWRE

    #PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

    Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

    ---

    ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

    ---

    Special edition series:

    True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T

    The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

    Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

    Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

    Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

    ---

    Get The Straits Times' app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

    The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

    Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

    #stpodcasttr

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  • Find out why netizens back their agency instead in an ongoing dispute.

    Synopsis: Each month, The Straits Times examines the ins and outs of pop culture in the Asian entertainment and Hollywood scene.

    If you are on TikTok, you might have a heard a viral song that goes like this: "I'm feelin' lonely/Oh, I wish I'd find a lover that could hold me." Those are the lyrics to Cupid, one of 2023's biggest songs, sung by rookie K-pop girl group Fifty Fifty.

    Cupid is a record-breaking hit. Not only did it make the group the fastest K-pop act to debut on the Billboard Hot 100, it is also the longest-charting K-pop girl group song in history, on the Hot 100. They are even on the soundtrack of 2023's biggest movie Barbie, with their number Barbie Dreams.

    Unfortunately, all promotions and new activities of the group have been suspended.

    In June, Fifty Fifty's agency Attrakt accused Warner Music Korea of attempting to poach the group. Shortly after, Fifty Fifty announced that they had filed a lawsuit to suspend their exclusive contract with Attrakt, alleging a lack of transparency in finances and failure to fulfil contractual obligations.

    The shocking departure of Fifty Fifty from their agency just as their careers were set to take off, has made headlines in South Korea.

    While idols mired in legal disputes with their agencies would usually enjoy the support of their fans, public opinion for Fifty Fifty in this case has firmly soured. #PopVultures host Jan Lee examines why, in this episode.

    Produced by: Jan Lee ([email protected]) and Paxton Pang

    Edited by: Paxton Pang

    Follow #PopVultures Podcast episodes here every month:

    Channel: https://str.sg/JWad

    Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaA

    Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaP

    Google Podcasts: https://str.sg/Ju47

    SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

    Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    Feedback to: [email protected]

    Follow Jan Lee on Instagram: https://str.sg/Jbxc

    Read Jan Lee's articles: https://str.sg/Jbxp

    ---

    Discover more ST podcast channels:

    COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

    In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

    Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

    Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

    Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

    Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

    ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

    #PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

    Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

    Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    ---

    Special edition series:

    True Crimes Of Asia (new): https://str.sg/i44T

    The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

    Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

    Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

    Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

    ---

    Follow our shows then, if you like short, practical podcasts!

    #PV

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  • It can be traced back to his daughter's lifelong fixation with the Hong Kong movie star.

    Synopsis: Can I Tell You Something Crazy is a new scripted series under the #PopVultures banner, which examines with fresh eyes, events that shook Asian media and entertainment.

    In March 2007, Hong Kong movie star Andy Lau attended a joyous event organised by Andy World Club, his official fan club. There, he played games, chatted with fans and took photos - including one with Yang Lijuan, a Chinese fan who had travelled from her hometown of Gansu province in China to meet her lifelong idol.

    Everything seemed fine. But just a day later, Yang Lijuan's father - a retired schoolteacher named Yang Qinji - threw himself into the sea and left behind a 3,000-word suicide note addressed to Lau. In it he wrote: “Andy Lau, your heart is black, you have no conscience. You are worse than a dog.”

    What had world-famous film star Lau done to incur such wrath from a humble schoolteacher in China?

    In this episode of Can I Tell You Something Crazy, #PopVultures host Jan Lee revisits the most infamous "fan" in China - Yang Lijuan. Her father burnt through his savings, sold their family's house and eventually took his own life, all to support his daughter's lifelong, unhealthy fixation with Lau.

    This is not just a story of one of the most extreme and tragic examples of what celebrity obsession can lead to, it is also a cautionary tale - about the incredible power the media wields and the incredible damage it can inflict.

    Produced by: Jan Lee ([email protected]), Paxton Pang and Eden Soh

    Edited by: Paxton Pang

    Follow #PopVultures Podcast episodes here every month:

    Channel: https://str.sg/JWad

    Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaA

    Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaP

    Google Podcasts: https://str.sg/Ju47

    SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

    Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    Feedback to: [email protected]

    Follow Jan Lee on Instagram: https://str.sg/Jbxc

    Read Jan Lee's articles: https://str.sg/Jbxp

    ---

    Discover more ST podcast channels:

    COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE

    In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

    Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

    Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

    Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

    Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

    ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

    #PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

    Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

    Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    ---

    Special edition series:

    True Crimes Of Asia (new): https://str.sg/i44T

    The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

    Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

    Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

    Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

    ---

    Follow our shows then, if you like short, practical podcasts!

    #PV

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  • This marks the first time since 1960, that both labour unions representing writers and actors, are on strike together.

    Synopsis: Each month, The Straits Times examines the ins and outs of pop culture in the Asian entertainment and Hollywood scene.

    Despite the double summer blockbuster of Barbieheimer - which brought in the fourth largest weekend box office of all time - Hollywood is currently at a standstill. Amid deteriorating working conditions and salaries that have failed to keep pace with rising inflation, the writers and actors of America are on strike.

    The Writers Guild of America (WGA), who write for television, went on strike in May against the major studios, networks and streamers that form the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP). The Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) followed in July, going on strike having failed to reach a fair deal with the AMPTP.

    This marks the first time since 1960 that both labour unions have been on strike together. In this episode of #PopVultures, host Jan Lee runs down the reasons why both unions are on strike, why it is unlikely to end anytime soon and how this double strike will affect audiences around the world.

    Highlights (tap/click above):

    1:19 What is the WGA, SAG-AFTRA and AMPTP?

    3:34 How is Hollywood affected when the unions go on strike?

    7:19 Why are the unions on strike? Their demands and how long might the strike last

    23:10 How are viewers affected?

    28:20 Some exceptions to the strike and the meaning of “scab”

    Produced by: Jan Lee ([email protected]), Paxton Pang and Eden Soh

    Edited by: Paxton Pang

    Follow #PopVultures Podcast episodes here every month:

    Channel: https://str.sg/JWad

    Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaA

    Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaP

    Google Podcasts: https://str.sg/Ju47

    SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

    Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    Feedback to: [email protected]

    Follow Jan Lee on Instagram: https://str.sg/Jbxc

    Read Jan Lee's stories: https://str.sg/Jbxp

    ---

    Discover more ST podcast channels:

    In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

    Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

    Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

    Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

    Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

    ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

    #PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

    Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

    Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    ---

    Special edition series:

    True Crimes Of Asia (new): https://str.sg/i44T

    The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

    Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

    Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

    Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

    ---

    Follow our shows then, if you like short, practical podcasts!

    #PV

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  • Explore the emergence of an unprecedented #MeToo movement in the Taiwanese entertainment industry.

    Synopsis: Each month, The Straits Times examines the ins and outs of pop culture in the Asian entertainment and Hollywood scene.

    The Taiwanese entertainment industry has been rocked by an unprecedented #MeToo wave, where sexual assault and harassment allegations have been levelled at several prominent celebrities, including hosts Mickey Huang and Blackie Chen as well as boy band Fahrenheit member Aaron Yan.

    In this episode, #PopVultures host Jan Lee discusses how and why this reckoning on sexual assault unfolded in Taiwan, recapping some of the major names who have been accused with particular focus on Huang, Yan and Chen.

    Highlights (tap/click above):

    2:35 The Taiwanese drama Wave Makers that kickstarted its #MeToo wave

    8:00 The downfall of Taiwanese host and comedian Jeffrey Hsu Chieh-hui

    10:30 Mickey Huang admits to sexual harassment and the 23-minute video tirade he went on

    20:00 Aaron Yan accused of filming sex videos of his 16-year-old ex-boyfriend without consent

    30:27 Blackie Chen being accused of workplace sexual harassment in two instances

    46:02 Final thoughts

    Produced by: Jan Lee ([email protected]), Paxton Pang and Penelope Lee

    Edited by: Penelope Lee

    Follow #PopVultures Podcast episodes here every month:

    Channel: https://str.sg/JWad

    Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaA

    Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaP

    Google Podcasts: https://str.sg/Ju47

    SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

    Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    Feedback to: [email protected]

    Follow Jan Lee on Instagram: https://str.sg/Jbxc

    Read Jan Lee's stories: https://str.sg/Jbxp

    ---

    Discover more ST podcast channels:

    In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

    Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

    Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

    Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

    Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

    ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

    #PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

    Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

    Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    ---

    Special edition series:

    True Crimes Of Asia (new): https://str.sg/i44T

    The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

    Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

    Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

    Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

    ---

    Follow our shows then, if you like short, practical podcasts!

    #PV

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  • Revisit the watershed 40-month legal dispute between SM Entertainment and former TVXQ members, that has seen a repeat attempt by three EXO members recently.

    Synopsis: Can I Tell You Something Crazy is a new scripted series every month under the #PopVultures banner, which examines with fresh eyes, events that shook Asian media and entertainment.

    In 2009, the five-man K-pop boy band TVXQ were on top of the world. Their fourth album Mirotic was the best-selling album of 2008 in South Korea, with over half a million copies sold, while the hit title track Mirotic swept wins at awards shows and gained fans around the world.

    With 800,000 fans in their Korean fan club - the most of any K-pop group at the time - and 200,000 fans in their Japanese fan club, TVXQ were superstars. As one of the earliest breakout K-pop groups of the Hallyu wave in the early 2000s, they were the first Korean act to headline a concert in Malaysia and the first Korean group invited to perform at the Japanese New Year's Eve music programme Kohaku Uta Gassen.

    But everything came to a halt in July 2009.

    At the peak of their popularity, three members of the group - Hero Jaejoong, Micky Yoochun and Xiah Junsu, who would later come to be known as JYJ - sued their management agency SM Entertainment and asked to be let go from their contracts. But fellow members U-Know Yunho and Max Changmin, insisted on staying with the company, splitting the group's considerable fandom in two.

    Hot on the heels of the recent attempt by three members of another SM Entertainment group - Chen, Baekhyun and Xiumin of EXO - to terminate their contracts with the company, #PopVultures host Jan Lee revisits the watershed 40-month legal dispute between SM Entertainment and former TVXQ members.

    With the help of K-pop scholar and senior lecturer at Macquarie University Dr Thomas Baudinette, she examines the aftershocks the case left on the industry, which can still be felt even today.

    Produced by: Jan Lee ([email protected]), Paxton Pang, Eden Soh and Penelope Lee

    Edited by: Penelope Lee & Paxton Pang

    Follow #PopVultures Podcast episodes here every month:

    Channel: https://str.sg/JWad

    Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaA

    Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaP

    Google Podcasts: https://str.sg/Ju47

    SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

    Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    Feedback to: [email protected]

    Follow Jan Lee on Instagram: https://str.sg/Jbxc

    Read Jan Lee's articles: https://str.sg/Jbxp

    ---

    Discover more ST podcast channels:

    In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

    Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

    Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

    Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

    Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

    ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

    #PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

    Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

    Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    ---

    Special edition series:

    True Crimes Of Asia (new): https://str.sg/i44T

    The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

    Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

    Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

    Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

    ---

    Follow our shows then, if you like short, practical podcasts!

    #PV

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  • Allegations about the prominent Japanese talent agency first date back to the 1980s.

    Synopsis: Each month, The Straits Times examines the ins and outs of pop culture in the Asian entertainment and Hollywood scene.

    #PopVultures host Jan Lee examines the major sexual abuse scandal surrounding J-pop boy band agency Johnny & Associates, known for producing groups such as Arashi and Smap as well as the younger, million-seller groups like Snow Man and SixTones. Former idol trainees at the 60-year-old company have come out to accuse the agency's late founder Johnny Kitagawa, who died in 2019, of a consistent pattern of sexual assault.

    Kitagawa's niece - Julie Keiko Fuijishima, the current president of the agency - has apologised in light of the snowballing allegations, which first date back to the 1980s, though she did not acknowledge the veracity of these claims.

    In this episode, Jan - a long-time Arashi fan, gives a background on Johnny & Associates, who Kitagawa is, and recaps the events that have happened in the current news cycle about the allegations.

    She shares why these allegations, which first surfaced some 40 years ago, went ignored by mainstream Japanese media for as long as it did. She also discusses her own feelings as a long-time fan of the talents produced by Johnny & Associates.

    Highlights (tap/click above):

    4:05 What Johnny & Associates is, how the agency works and who Johnny Kitagawa is

    9:56 A recap of key events that have happened in the current news cycle about Kitagawa's sexual abuse, from a BBC documentary to a public statement from the company's most veteran talent Noriyuki Higashiyama

    31:53 Thoughts from a long-time fan

    Produced by: Jan Lee ([email protected]), Eden Soh and Penelope Lee

    Edited by: Penelope Lee

    Follow #PopVultures Podcast episodes here every month:

    Channel: https://str.sg/JWad

    Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaA

    Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaP

    Google Podcasts: https://str.sg/Ju47

    SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

    Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    Feedback to: [email protected]

    Follow Jan Lee on Instagram: https://str.sg/Jbxc

    Read Jan Lee's stories: https://str.sg/Jbxp

    ---

    Discover more ST podcast channels:

    In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

    Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

    Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

    Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

    Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

    ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

    #PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

    Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

    Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    Discover BT Podcasts: https://bt.sg/pcPL

    ---

    Special edition series:

    True Crimes Of Asia (new): https://str.sg/i44T

    The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

    Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

    Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

    Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

    ---

    Follow our shows then, if you like short, practical podcasts!

    #PV

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  • The series of events unfolded after the late Hong Kong superstar retired from the music scene in 1992.

    Synopsis: Can I Tell You Something Crazy is a new scripted series under the #PopVultures banner, which examines with fresh eyes, events that shook Asian media and entertainment.

    In 1992, Anita Mui was only 29, but she had made up her mind to retire from music. The late Hong Kong superstar, known for songs like Bad Girl (1985) and The Song Of Sunset (1989), bid farewell to her singing career with a series of 30 concerts at the Hong Kong Coliseum that wrapped in January 1992.

    Mui, who was also known for her acting performances in movies like Rouge (1987), wanted to shed her pop diva persona to focus on acting and charity. She was ready for a career pivot and a new beginning. Unfortunately, things went sideways quickly.

    On May 4, 1992, Mui was at a celebration with friends at Take One karaoke, having fun and drinks. But at the same venue was a film producer named Wong Long-wai, who reportedly asked her to do the thing she had retired from - to sing for him. She refused. Wong slapped her across the face. Three days later, he was shot dead.

    In this episode of Can I Tell You Something Crazy, #PopVultures host Jan Lee looks at the infamous Anita Mui slapping incident that forced the pop diva to flee her beloved city, and looks back at how Hong Kong's golden era of cinema came to be overrun by guns, triads and thugs.

    Produced by: Jan Lee ([email protected]) & Paxton Pang

    Edited by: Paxton Pang & Eden Soh

    Follow #PopVultures every month:

    Channel: https://str.sg/JWad

    Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaA

    Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaP

    Google Podcasts: https://str.sg/Ju47

    SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

    Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    Feedback to: [email protected]

    Follow Jan Lee on Instagram: https://str.sg/Jbxc

    Read Jan Lee's stories: https://str.sg/Jbxp

    ---

    Discover more ST podcast channels:

    In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

    Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

    Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

    Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

    Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

    ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

    #PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

    Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

    Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    Discover BT Podcasts: https://bt.sg/pcPL

    ---

    Special edition series:

    True Crimes Of Asia (new): https://str.sg/i44T

    The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

    Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

    Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

    Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

    ---

    Follow our shows then, if you like short, practical podcasts!

    #PV

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  • Why is an awards show reimagined to be a 'concert' this year?

    Synopsis: Each month, The Straits Times examines the ins and outs of pop culture in the Asian entertainment and Hollywood scene.

    The annual Star Awards event in Singapore has come and gone yet again. Mediacorp's annual glitzy awards show for its Chinese language content and performers wrapped up on April 9.

    #PopVultures host Jan Lee covered the show and gives her opinions on what went down.

    From the show's K-pop inspired opening to a baffling 'hand dance' that Felica Chin and Rebecca Lim performed; from Xiang Yun's repeat wins to the lack of trophies for veterans like Richard Low - Jan breaks down what went right, what went wrong and what she hopes to see in the coming years.

    Highlights (tap/click above):

    0:48 Richie Koh awarded Best Actor

    4:20 Weird opening of the Star Awards

    7:40 Evergreen artistes performance

    9:29 Baffling "hand dance" by All-Time Favourite Artistes

    17:54 Repetitiveness of Star Awards

    20:36 More recognition for young stars

    22:05 Things that can be improved on

    Produced by: Jan Lee ([email protected]) & Penelope Lee

    Edited by: Penelope Lee

    Follow #PopVultures Podcast episodes here every month:

    Channel: https://str.sg/JWad

    Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaA

    Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaP

    Google Podcasts: https://str.sg/Ju47

    SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

    Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    Feedback to: [email protected]

    Follow Jan Lee on Instagram: https://str.sg/Jbxc

    Read Jan Lee's stories: https://str.sg/Jbxp

    ---

    Discover more ST podcast channels:

    In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

    Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

    Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

    Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

    Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

    ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

    #PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

    Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

    Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    Discover BT Podcasts: https://bt.sg/pcPL

    ---

    Special edition series:

    True Crimes Of Asia (new): https://str.sg/i44T

    The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

    Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

    Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

    Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

    ---

    Follow our shows then, if you like short, practical podcasts!

    #PV

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  • April 1, 2023 is the 20th anniversary of the Asian pop icon's death.

    Synopsis: Can I Tell You Something Crazy is a new scripted series under the #PopVultures banner, which examines with fresh eyes, events that shook Asian media and entertainment.

    On April 1, 2003, the world was shocked by the loss of one of the most beloved, enduring and seductive stars to ever grace screens. Singer and actor Leslie Cheung died by suicide at the age of 46, leaping to his death from the 24th floor of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Hong Kong, after succumbing to a battle with severe depression.

    2003 was a dark year for Hong Kong. The Sars epidemic ravaged the city. Yet, Cheung's death ignited a wave of public grieving, with people lining the streets outside his memorial to mourn him.

    The singer-actor was beloved and known for his androgynous style onstage and his acclaimed performances in films like Days Of Being Wild (1990), Farewell My Concubine (1993) and Happy Together (1997) onscreen. Off screen, his personal life, especially his sexuality, was highly scrutinised.

    Host Jan Lee celebrates Cheung’s life on the 20th anniversary of his death. She looks at the star’s legacy as a queer icon - both in his pop music and his film roles - and how his tragic end highlighted the stigma around mental health and his own sexual orientation.

    Helplines:• Institute of Mental Health’s Mental Health Helpline: 6389-2222 (24 hours)
    • Samaritans of Singapore: 1800-221-4444 (24 hours) /1-767 (24 hours)
    • Singapore Association for Mental Health: 1800-283-7019
    • Silver Ribbon Singapore: 6386-1928
    • Tinkle Friend: 1800-274-4788
    • Community Health Assessment Team 6493-6500/1

    Find Part 1 of the Edison sex photogate saga here: https://str.sg/wv4r

    Find Part 2 here: https://str.sg/wv4H

    Produced by: Jan Lee ([email protected]), Penelope Lee & Paxton Pang

    Edited by: Penelope Lee & Eden Soh

    Follow #PopVultures every month:

    Channel: https://str.sg/JWad

    Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaA

    Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaP

    Google Podcasts: https://str.sg/Ju47

    SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

    Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    Feedback to: [email protected]

    Follow Jan Lee on Instagram: https://str.sg/Jbxc

    Read Jan Lee's stories: https://str.sg/Jbxp

    ---

    Discover more ST podcast channels:

    In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

    Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

    Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

    Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

    Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

    ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

    #PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

    Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

    Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    Discover BT Podcasts: https://bt.sg/pcPL

    ---

    Special edition series:

    True Crimes Of Asia (new): https://str.sg/i44T

    The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

    Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

    Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

    Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

    ---

    Follow our shows then, if you like short, practical podcasts!

    #PV

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  • How celebrities in this genre are marketed and their relationship with LGBTQ audiences.

    Synopsis: Each month, The Straits Times examines the ins and outs of pop culture in the Asian entertainment and Hollywood scene.

    PopVultures host Jan Lee examines the unique pop culture genre of Thai boys' love dramas in this region and how they are marketed. She also looks at the term 'queer baiting' - what it actually means and how the term has been mistranslated and misused.

    Thai actor Mew Suppasit Jongcheveevat got fans into a bit of a frenzy after he posted several tweets explaining his relationship with his onscreen partner Gulf Kanawut Traipipattanapong.

    The two were stars of a popular Thai boys' love drama TharnType: The Series (2019- 2020) and attracted many fans with their "couple pairing" both on and off screen. After Mew explained that he shares a purely platonic relationship with Gulf, he was accused of 'queer baiting'. Jan examines why Mew's words triggered so much unhappiness among fans.

    Highlights (tap/click above):

    1:28 Who is Mew?

    3:15 Thailand's specialty in producing 'BL' dramas; and the difference in treatment with other Asian countries

    7:25 How does 'fan service' play into its marketing? How celebs in this genre are marketed?

    8:59 What did Mew say and why are fans upset?

    14:11 What queer baiting actually means and why real people cannot 'queer bait'

    22:40 How British pop star Harry Styles is also accused of 'queer baiting', final thoughts about 'fan service' and engaging with Thai BL culture

    Produced by: Jan Lee ([email protected]) & Penelope Lee

    Edited by: Penelope Lee & Teo Tong Kai

    Follow #PopVultures Podcast episodes here every month:

    Channel: https://str.sg/JWad

    Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaA

    Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaP

    Google Podcasts: https://str.sg/Ju47

    SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/

    Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    Feedback to: [email protected]

    Follow Jan Lee on Instagram: https://str.sg/Jbxc

    Read Jan Lee's stories: https://str.sg/Jbxp

    ---

    Discover more ST podcast channels:

    In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt

    Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7

    Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN

    Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf

    Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m

    ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE

    #PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad

    Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX

    Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

    Discover BT Podcasts: https://bt.sg/pcPL

    ---

    Special edition series:

    The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2

    Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn

    Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB

    Singapore's War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa

    ---

    Follow our shows then, if you like short, practical podcasts!

    #PV

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.