Ramy Youssef is just trying to do the thing that entertains him
A note from Wild Card host Rachel Martin: I’m not really sure if Ramy Youssef sleeps. I mean, he must obviously, at some point, close his eyes and stop working. But when you look at everything he’s doing, it’s clear that sleep is probably an afterthought — because this actor, writer, comedian, producer, director is creatively on fire.
He created the show Ramy about a spiritually anxious Egyptian American kid and his Muslim family, which was nominated for several Emmys. He is also one of the co-creators of the much-acclaimed show Mo. Ramy co-starred in the Oscar winning film Poor Things in 2023. His latest comedy special dropped last fall. His newest TV creation, #1 Happy Family USA, came out in April, and right now he shares the screen with Steve Carell in the new HBO movie Mountainhead.
That is SO MANY THINGS. And Ramy’s audience keeps growing because his comedy and point of view are highly specific and personal, while his observations about human nature reflect all of us.
Aparna Nancherla is tapping into ancestral rage
Anxiety has always played a major role in Aparna Nancherla's comedy. She spoke with Rachel about growing into her rage and feeling godlike when she's alone.
Scientists are developing artificial blood that could save lives in emergencies
A research team has successfully tested a blood substitute in animals, and human trials may not be far off. The powdered blood could help medics respond faster in a crisis.
I didn’t know I needed the new Billy Joel documentary
NPR critic Linda Holmes has been a Billy Joel fan since the '80s. HBO's new two-part documentary still taught her something new about his life — and provided a chance to consider the role of his music in her own.
Trump’s EPA now says greenhouse gases don’t endanger people
The Trump administration wants to reverse a 2009 EPA finding that greenhouse gases endanger people. The finding is the basis for much of the United States' climate change regulations.
What borrowers should know about student loan changes in the One Big Beautiful Bill
Now that President Trump has signed Republicans' massive overhaul of the federal student loan program, we explain what's set to change.
State Dept. cuts China experts as administration says countering Beijing top priority
The State Department has shuttered the team involved in South China Sea security, getting rid of top experts on the subject at a time when the administration says security in the region is a priority.
