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Olivia Rodrigo Tried Writing Love Songs. Then Life Got Messy.

May 31, 2026

Summary

The New York Times’ PopCast hosts John Caramanica and Joe Coscarelli interview Olivia Rodrigo about her new album, *Vampire*. They discuss the record’s chronological narrative, its shift toward 80s new wave sounds, and Rodrigo’s songwriting process. The conversation also covers her recent SNL hosting experience, where the hosts helped correct a script error, and her evolving perspective on love and fame.

Topics discussed

Intro, Popcast news, and breathwork warm-up Welcome Olivia Rodrigo and SNL hosting stories The narrative structure and themes of GUTS Songwriting process and sonic influences Vulnerability, anxiety, and writing about love Looking back at SOUR and the sophomore slump Political views, Disney, and internet detectives Favorite songs and connecting with young fans Ambition, child acting, and handling criticism Emotional development and Sex and the City game Card game questions: Jealousy and friendships Card game questions: DMs, heroes, and fangirling Tasting Hershey's chips and outro
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