Lovett or Leave It

Lovett or Leave It

Summary

Lovett or Leave It is the ultimate weekly audit of the absurdity that defines modern American life. Hosted by Jon Lovett, this show masterfully blends sharp-witted political satire with a genuine, human curiosity about the world around us. Each episode serves as a cathartic space where the week’s most exhausting news cycles—from national administrative scandals and election maneuvering to the bizarre quirks of local governance—are broken down with biting humor and critical insight. The magic of the show lies in its rhythm; it seamlessly pivots from high-stakes political analysis to deep, candid conversations with an eclectic roster of guests. Whether he is dissecting the intricacies of Democratic party strategy with veteran journalists or exploring the nuances of creative partnerships and identity with actors and comedians, Lovett keeps the energy electric. You will hear everything from thoughtful reflections on Hollywood history and the evolution of LGBTQ+ culture to hilarious, game-based segments that manage to turn even the most niche pop-culture topics into compelling debates. If you are looking for a show that respects your intelligence while refusing to take itself too seriously, this is it. By balancing heavy-hitting commentary with a refreshing, often irreverent perspective on the daily news, Lovett or Leave It provides a necessary dose of levity, community, and clarity. It is a smart, lively, and often laugh-out-loud guide to staying informed without losing your mind.

Updated Jul 2, 2026

Episodes

Wet Hot American Bummer

Jul 1, 20261h 9m

Mark Duplass joins to discuss the quirks of interdependent relationships, liminal spaces, and the art of ghosting.

New York Sees Red

Jun 27, 20261h 1m

NYC socialist candidates sweep local races while establishment Democrats face a reckoning over their political strategy.

The Pool is Always Greener

Jun 24, 20261h 5m

Corruption allegations, runaway wildfires, and broken infrastructure reveal the absurdity of Los Angeles local government.

The Pride Will Continue Until Morale Improves

Jun 19, 202650 min

The show highlights LGBTQ news, champions Pride, and celebrates the best celebrity allies in a festive stage show.

Scum Like It Hot

Jun 18, 202658 min

Bruce Vilanch joins the show to rank the gayest moments in early Hollywood cinema history.

A Worm Welcome

Jun 13, 20261h 8m

Texas faces a creepy resurgence of flesh-eating screwworms as the Trump administration blames the border for the pests.

Boo York City

Jun 11, 202653 min

Donald Trump gets booed at the NBA finals as LA election conspiracies and weird political paranoia take center stage.

Gone in 60 Minutes

Jun 6, 202655 min

Trump names an unqualified donor as intelligence chief while chaotic leadership changes rock the halls of 60 Minutes.

Maine Character Syndrome

Jun 4, 202652 min

Candidates grappling with scandalous sexts and internal vetting prove that Democrats need to prioritize winning.

An In-Studio Spectacular

May 22, 202655 min

Tim Miller joins to unpack the unprecedented corruption of a presidential slush fund and the decline of the GOP.

AI Monks? What's next, a Bot Mitzvah? Oh Brother

May 21, 202650 min

The reckless race to build massive AI data centers and creepy robot companions is turning our future into a nightmare.

Strait Privilege

Apr 11, 202655 min

In this episode of Lovett or Leave It, host Jon Lovett navigates the latest wave of political absurdity and global tension. The discussion covers the precarious nature of recent executive decision-making, rising diplomatic friction in the Strait of Hormuz, and the persistent, unprompted denials regarding past associations with Jeffrey Epstein. Joining the conversation are guests Joel Kim Booster and Symone, who bring a sharp, comedic perspective to the week’s news cycle. Listeners can expect a blend of biting social commentary, candid anecdotes, and a shared sense of apocalyptic dread as the panel dissects the current administration’s moves. The episode concludes with a classic segment of Second Thoughts, offering a final round of irreverent reflections on the state of the world. It is a fast-paced, humorous look at the headlines that keep us all up at night.

Bye Bye Bondi

Apr 4, 202656 min

In this episode of Lovett or Leave It, the show tackles the latest absurdities in the political landscape, from Pam Bondi’s transition to the private sector to the peculiar antics of Lindsey Graham and Kristi Noem’s household. The hosts break down the week’s news with their signature mix of sharp wit and irreverent commentary. Beyond the political round-up, the episode features special guests Ben Platt and Jimmy Tatro. Platt joins the conversation to address theater-related dilemmas and navigate a game of fools, while Tatro participates in a spirited test of his cultural and holiday fluency. Balancing heavy news cycles with lighthearted games and comedic segments, the show invites listeners to digest current events through a lens of humor and skepticism. It is a quintessential installment that blends political frustration with much-needed levity and entertainment.

Airport Security on ICE

Mar 28, 20261h 14m

In this episode of Lovett or Leave It, the show tackles the latest developments in national policy, specifically focusing on ICE activity at airports and the ongoing political gridlock surrounding DHS funding. The discussion also ventures into the complexities of the current administration’s stance on Iran. Balancing the heavy political discourse, comedian and filmmaker Jorma Taccone joins the conversation to discuss his creative journey with The Lonely Island, his deep passion for cinema, and his experience taking on the iconic role of Pee-wee Herman. Additionally, guest Dylan Adler offers a humorous perspective on the intrusive nature of Big Tech data collection. The episode rounds out with another installment of Second Thoughts, providing listeners with a mix of sharp political analysis, cultural commentary, and engaging interviews that keep the conversation lively and unpredictable.

MAGA’s Uncivil War

Mar 21, 20261h 3m

In this episode of Lovett or Leave It, the show dives deep into the intensifying fractures within the Republican party. Jon Lovett explores the recent political fallout, including the departure of Joe Kent from the Trump counterterrorism team and the awkward congressional appearances of Tulsi Gabbard and Markwayne Mullin. The discussion examines how these internal conflicts and shifting loyalties are steering the national conversation toward chaos. The episode shifts gears to include a hilarious conversation with comedian Maria Bamford, who shares insights on mental health, stand-up comedy, and navigating complex family dynamics. Actors Utkarsh Ambudkar and Nico Santos join the fray to turn the tables on Lovett with some spooky, ghost-themed antics. Finally, the show rounds out the week with a lively and insightful edition of Second Thoughts, revisiting the most compelling stories that defined the news cycle.

Iran: Oops! All Ayatollahs

Mar 14, 20261h 15m

In this episode of Lovett or Leave It titled Iran: Oops! All Ayatollahs, the show tackles the ongoing geopolitical tensions with a mix of sharp political analysis and lighthearted conversation. The episode features director Paul Feig, who joins the discussion to explore the nuances of modern erotic thrillers, current political affairs, and the cultural impact of stars like Sydney Sweeney. Later, the legendary Monét X Change brings her signature energy to the table, sharing candid insights on popular reality television hits including The Traitors, Drag Race, and Survivor. To wrap up the show, the guests dive into a spirited and honest round of Second Thoughts, providing listeners with a fast-paced look at the headlines that have everyone talking. Expect a blend of thoughtful commentary, humorous banter, and thoughtful takes on both the global landscape and the world of entertainment.

Noem Wrecker

Mar 7, 20261h 23m

In this episode of Lovett or Leave It, the show dives into the latest political headlines, starting with the fallout surrounding Kristi Noem and the growing anxieties over potential tensions with Iran. The conversation balances sharp political analysis with the show's signature irreverent humor. Listeners can look forward to a mix of special guests, including actor Nick Offerman, who discusses his craft, and Milana Vayntrub, who explores futuristic technology and night-vision advancements. To round out the hour, Jon Lovett offers a candid and humorous look at his own life, including a surprisingly detailed reveal of his personal, unconventional urinal design. It is a fast-paced episode that captures the chaotic energy of the week's news cycle while providing plenty of laughs and unexpected insights from the panel.

Skate of the Union

Feb 28, 20261h 3m

In this episode of Lovett or Leave It, the show navigates a chaotic news cycle with its signature blend of sharp political commentary and humor. Jon Lovett breaks down the latest headlines, starting with the ongoing disbelief surrounding Donald Trump and the Department of Justice’s recent attempts to address lingering questions regarding the Epstein files. The conversation also touches on the shifting landscape within the FBI as Kash Patel makes headlines, alongside a lighthearted look at the struggles facing the U.S. men’s hockey team. To round out the hour, comedy legends George Wallace and Neal Brennan stop by for a candid discussion about the creative blocks and personal hurdles that shape life from Los Angeles to Ibiza. Listeners can expect an engaging mix of investigative curiosity and comedic relief as the panel deconstructs the week’s most pressing and peculiar stories.

Happy Valentine's Bidet

Feb 14, 202658 min

In this Valentine’s Day special of Lovett or Leave It, host Jon Lovett celebrates the holiday with a mix of hilarity and sharp cultural commentary. Joined by guests Sarah Lazarus and Halle Kiefer, the panel dives into a collection of bizarre and overlooked news stories from the week. The conversation takes a turn into the realm of listener interaction as the group tackles a series of romantic and personal inquiries submitted by the audience on Discord. The episode also features a memorable segment centered on the Trump administration’s peculiar new coal industry mascot, Coalie. Listeners can expect a spirited and satirical discussion as the team navigates the absurdity of modern politics and relationships, balancing biting wit with the festive spirit of the season. It is an engaging hour for anyone looking to laugh at the strange state of current events.

The Kennedy Center Will Not Hold

Feb 7, 20261h 14m

In this episode of Lovett or Leave It, the show tackles the week’s most chaotic political headlines, specifically focusing on Donald Trump’s latest attempts to shift the narrative away from the Epstein files. The conversation quickly pivots to a lively, high-energy discussion as reality television icon Lisa Rinna joins the stage. Rinna provides an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at her experience on The Traitors and reveals what occurs when she channels her inner Housewife under pressure. The episode also features a welcome return from actor and comedian Rachel Bloom, adding her signature wit to the mix. To round out the hour, the host delivers a sharp final segment of second thoughts, offering unique takes on the pressing stories that defined the week. Listeners can expect a perfect blend of biting political satire and entertaining pop culture commentary.

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