Press Play with Madeleine Brand: Recent Episodes
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South Carolina Republican Bob Inglis is dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. But for years, he’s been trying to change his party’s stance on climate change.
Wall Street Journal technology columnist Joanna Stern and her colleagues built a chatbot for iPhone recommendations. Then came the movie reviews, recipes, and Nazis.
Journalists Hanna Rosin and Lauren Ober discovered their new neighbors had ties to key figures in the January 6 insurrection. Their new podcast and companion piece in The Atlantic chronicles how they connected with people they fundamentally disagree with.
Iran’s second missile barrage against Israel this year escalates a regional conflict that could increase tensions among the U.S., China, and Russia.
Tonight’s debate between J.D. Vance and Tim Walz might be the last chance for voters to see both campaigns on the same stage. What can viewers expect?
Hurricane Helene dumped up to 30 inches of rain in some areas of Western North Carolina. The death toll is rising as many are still without power and cell service.
Kim Gordon is out with a second solo record, which combines her signature noisy sound with distorted trap beats and stream-of-consciousness rapping.
Breast reduction surgeries have surged 64% since 2019, driven by younger women seeking health benefits and challenging beauty standards.
With immigration a top issue in the presidential election, KCRW looks at plans from Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, plus the reality for migrants on the ground.
Gov. Gavin Newsom recently signed a bill to protect tech consumers. The same privacy law that regulates DNA and fingerprints now covers the info that neurotech companies gather about their users.
Kris Kristofferson, an acclaimed singer-songwriter in Nashville and a movie star in Hollywood, died on Saturday at his home in Maui. He was 88 years old.
California may be deep blue in this fall’s presidential contest, but further down the ticket, a handful of House races in Southern California could determine whether the GOP or Democrats control the House.
Prop 33 would expand rent control. Prop 34 focuses on health care reform. These seemingly unrelated measures are masking a fight between CA’s landlord lobby and the AIDS Healthcare Foundation.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Wolfs,” “Megalopolis,” “The Wild Robot,” and “Saturday Night.”
The benefit of making your own chocolate chip cookies is customization. Crispy or chewy? Nuts or not? Can you wait 24-36 hours for the dough to “age,” thus ensuring a more flavorful result, or do you need them now?
CA Governor Gavin Newsom recently signed a law banning plastic grocery bags. Attorney General Rob Bonta is suing ExxonMobil. This is a big week in the state’s fight against plastic.
LA District Attorney George Gascón talks about the impact of his progressive policies on Angelenos, Prop 36, and his standing among members of his own office.
Michigan is beating California in legal weed sales, despite having only a quarter of the population. Many of its customers are out of state.
The fall TV season includes new series like “The Penguin” and “Disclaimer,” alongside a fresh take on “Matlock.”
As UCLA begins its fall quarter, new rules are in place to prevent future violent confrontations about the Israel-Hamas war. The UC Board of Regents approved extra non-lethal weapons for campus police.
On Friday, the Georgia State Election Board voted 3-2 along partisan lines to require counties to hand-count every ballot cast on Election Day.
Shohei Ohtani became the first MLB player to hit 50 homers and steal 50 bases in one season. Plus UCLA and USC struggle in Big Ten, and the WNBA announces its MVPs.
A new documentary series examines the world of 1980s hair metal. KCRW talks to director Jeff Tremaine and founding Guns N’ Roses member Tracii Guns.
The Federal Reserve announced a half-a-percentage point cut in interest rates on Wednesday. Mortgage rates had already been falling, but the median home price in LA is $1 million.
The attack on Hezbollah, using tampered pagers and walkie-talkies, reveals vulnerabilities in our globalized electronics supply chain.
“Colored Television” follows a broke novelist who struggles to write about the mixed race perspective for Hollywood.
Critics review the latest film releases: “The Substance,” “A Different Man,” “In the Summers,” and “The Falling Star.”
The U.S. says Israel was behind this week’s remote detonations of Hezbollah’s communication devices. How was the operation pulled off?
Gov. Newsom signed several AI bills on Tuesday that protect Hollywood actors, and try to prevent voters from being duped by deepfakes ahead of the November election.
San Francisco’s political landscape is shifting as the mayoral race approaches. A once-liberal city is leaning centrist on crime and homelessness.
Best-selling author Rumaan Alam’s new novel follows a young Black woman who starts working for an elderly billionaire at his philanthropic foundation, then starts to covet his lifestyle.
The moistness of zucchini adds a lot to bakes, creating a more tender crumb. The veggie also boosts longevity and nutrition. And its neutral flavor makes it easy to pair with ingredients.
Under President Obrador’s new constitutional amendment, thousands of appointed judges will lose their jobs and face election. Opponents fear a threat to democracy.
Chief Justice John Roberts penned three Supreme Court rulings related to January 6 that benefit former President Trump. His role is the focus of a New York Times investigation.
“Art and science collide” is the theme of this year’s PST ART, a Getty-sponsored event featuring more than 800 artists and at least 70 art institutions around SoCal.
The Soweto Gospel Choir of South Africa’s latest album reimagines popular dance tracks of the last 50 years. Some of the lyrics are in Zulu, and traditional house beats are subbed for African rhythms.
The Bridge Fire is now the largest wildfire in Southern California. How are residents and small businesses in the path of the flames faring?
This morning’s earthquake is a reminder of the importance of retrofitting buildings. The LA Times discovered the city has had trouble reporting accurate data on this.
Alimento’s owner, Zack Pollack, explains why he closed his 10-year-old Italian bistro, and what it takes for today’s neighborhood restaurants to survive.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Speak No Evil,” “My Old Ass,” “The Killer's Game,” and “Look Into My Eyes.”
On this 9/11 anniversary, KCRW looks at what has happened in Afghanistan since U.S. forces withdrew, particularly the ongoing erosion of rights for women under the Taliban.
In 2020, many prominent Black women became executives for major book publishers. But four years later, some of the most notable hires no longer have those jobs.
In "Question Everything," Brian Reed looks at questions around journalistic standards following criticism he received for his approach to "S-Town."
Learn how to make a traditional sheet pan dinner, a savory tray bake from a Cypriot-Turkish tradition, and an upside down baking technique.
SoCal is facing three big wildfires amid a historic heat wave, including the Line Fire, which has burned more than 26,000 acres. How are firefighters coping?
A UC Davis scientist is trying to bioengineer cow microbes so they produce less methane. Changing how the animals process their diet — through gene editing — could help delay global warming.
With the launch of its new, artificial intelligence-powered iPhone 16, Apple is hoping to boost smartphone sales, which have been sluggish lately.
With the rising popularity of medical content on streamers like HBO and Netflix, New York’s Northwell Health has launched its own film and TV production studio.
Actor James Earl Jones died Monday at age 93. He’s best known as the voice of Darth Vader and Mufasa. But his best work, and maybe least well-known, came on stage.
Kamala Harris will take on Donald Trump this Tuesday in what could be their one and only debate. They’re currently tied in the polls
A blistering decision by a federal judge on Friday could lead to housing for thousands of homeless veterans in Los Angeles.
The Academy Museum is hosting a film series in honor of James Baldwin. KCRW reairs an interview with the filmmakers of the ground-breaking "I Am Not Your Negro."
Before streaming music, full albums were released on Tuesdays and required great preparation. KCRW examines the impact of a Sept. 11, 2001, release date on a few high-profile LPs.
The Department of Justice is making a big push to curb Russia’s interference in U.S. elections, something we’re also seeing from Iran and China.
Hope Solo is one of the greatest soccer players of all time — and one of the most controversial. She tells her story in a new Netflix film.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice,” “The Front Room,” “The Thicket,” “His Three Daughters,” and “Seeking Mavis Beacon.”
Tonight’s dinner could be partly saved and repurposed for your kid’s school lunch the next day. Here are ideas to put in bento-style boxes and thermoses.
SoCal is bracing for a blistering heat wave over the next few days. What can cities like LA and Phoenix do to adapt to extreme temperatures amid climate change?
Parts of Rancho Palos Verdes are sliding closer to the ocean, and residents are facing power cuts and property damage. KCRW hears from a homeowner and a geologist.
California's oldest family rice farm is shutting down after nearly a century in business. Koda Farms is known for a special heirloom grain of rice cherished by chefs.
Charles Duhigg outlines the qualities of "supercommunicators" and the science behind their ability to connect deeply with others. This is an excerpt from "Life Examined."
Israelis took to the streets to protest the deaths of six hostages kidnapped by Hamas. How does this growing pressure change the calculus for Netanyahu and the U.S.?
Election lawsuits in Georgia, Michigan, North Carolina, and other battleground states could complicate the aftermath of a close presidential election in November.
ABC’s “Abbott Elementary” is a mockumentary that portrays the chaos within an inner-city school. Janelle James talks about playing the brash, self-centered principal.
USC and UCLA won their openers as new members of the Big 10 Conference. NFL season begins Thursday. And LA Dodgers’ Shohei Otani returns to his old stomping grounds in Anaheim tonight.
Both COVID and mosquito-borne diseases are spreading this summer. A Pasadena-based doctor talks about the latest coronavirus vaccine and other protective measures.
Over the last quarter, Hollywood’s reality TV production is down nearly 60% compared to last year. Is this a temporary contraction or a permanent shift in the industry?
Critics review the latest film releases: “1992,” “Reagan,” “You Gotta Believe,” and “The Deliverance.”
Picnicking during Labor Day weekend? Consider the niçoise pan bagnat, a portable sandwich. Another good choice is ratatouille, a stew celebrating summer ingredients.
Imagine looking at a friend’s face — and their eyes, cheeks, and lips begin to distort, instantly or gradually. It’s the result of prosopometamorphopsia (PMO).
In December, a distinguished scholar of genocide told KCRW there wasn’t proof of Israel committing genocide in Gaza. He’s since changed his mind.
AI could make human college counselors obsolete. But it may help students and families who can’t afford a higher education coach.
Along the California-Oregon border, the largest dam removal project in U.S. history finished today. Native tribes spent years pushing for it.
The Democratic Convention kept the good times rolling for Kamala Harris and a rejuvenated Democratic Party. But with 10 weeks until Election Day, the race is tied.
Thanks to a little-known provision in the law that compensates whistleblowers for the fraud they expose, one man has turned it into a lucrative business.
The groundbreaking TV show “My So-Called Life” made waves 30 years ago, especially because of Wilson Cruz’s portrayal of biracial, queer teenager Rickie Vasquez.
After a 15-year hiatus, Liam and Noel Gallagher are reuniting Oasis. The brothers are known for their decades-long feud that has troubled the band’s reputation.
Jimi Hendrix built the Electric Lady recording studio in New York, but died a few weeks after it opened. A new documentary shows how later generations of artists made it a sanctuary.
In deposition tapes obtained by NPR, former LA Mayor Eric Garcetti says he didn’t know about his aide Rick Jacobs’ alleged sexual misconduct. Former city staffers say Garcetti is lying.
An Ohio judge ruled that several abortion laws now violate the state constitution — after voters approved an amendment last year guaranteeing the right to an abortion.
From Vice President Harris’ bespoke suits to Senator Vance sporting the first beard in decades, KCRW looks at the messages politicians are sending through their fashion choices.
While most voters know Kamala Harris is the vice president, polling suggests few know much more about her. The presidential candidate’s nomination speech gives her an opportunity to change that.
Democrats worry that sexism will prevent Kamala Harris from beating Donald Trump. But research shows that Americans vote for women at the same rates they vote for men.
Critics review the latest film releases: “The Crow,” “Blink Twice,” “Between the Temples,” and “The Killer.”
Tennis star Jannik Sinner tested positive earlier this year for a banned substance. Authorities said it wasn’t intentional, but it does cast a shadow over this year’s U.S. Open.
A hotdish must be a main dish that includes protein, starch, veggies, and a creamy element. Evan Kleiman takes on the recipe for Tim’s Turkey Taco Tot Hotdish.
The Harris-Walz ticket gives Democrats a chance to coalesce in a way they’ve struggled to since losing to Donald Trump in 2016. Franklin Foer makes the case in his latest “The Atlantic” piece.
USC Professor Geoff Cowan played a pivotal role in the reforms that came out of the 1968 Democratic Convention in Chicago. Now he’s back in the Windy City for 2024’s DNC.
The far-right majority of Georgia’s election board is passing new rules that could let counties refuse to certify election results if Kamala Harris wins.
Earlier this year, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. polled higher than any third-party candidate in decades. Now his running mate says they're considering dropping out.
Protests against the war in Gaza may look different this school year. The UC system is banning encampments, protests that block campus pathways, and masks that hide demonstrators’ faces.
Kamala Harris’ economic plan focuses on alleged price gouging by food manufacturers, distributors, and retailers. She’s also taking on prescription drug prices and housing costs.
Kamala Harris’ campaign has momentum, and some credit her late entrance into the presidential race. Could this mean long campaigns will be a thing of the past?
Netflix’s “Daughters” focuses on a program in a Washington, D.C. jail that connects families through a daddy-daughter dance inside the jail’s walls.
Riverside native Ivan Cornejo fuses folk and rock with regional Mexican music. The 20-year-old’s first arena tour starts on August 23.
Protests and violence marred the 1968 Democratic National Convention. Could this year’s convention, also in Chicago, see similar alienation and division?
Former Republican Congressman George Santos pleaded guilty to wire fraud, money laundering, and identity theft today. It ends a long saga that began before he took office.
Phil Donahue died on Sunday at age 88. For decades, he hosted TV shows that let audiences interact with interesting, controversial, and famous people.
Cucumbers are a perfect foil for condiments of all kinds, so it’s not surprising that TikTok’s cucumber king, Logan Moffitt, is going viral with every cucumber salad recipe he posts.
Vice President Kamala Harris hasn’t offered many details on her policy positions yet. Some Democrats have been urging her to keep it vague.
Music is a key component in the 2024 election. Harris has been playing Beyonce’s “Freedom.” Meanwhile, many artists have asked former President Donald Trump to stop playing their music.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Alien: Romulus,” “Rob Peace,” “Skincare,” and “Close to You.”
A Los Angeles mom shares how receiving $1000 per month for a year — from the BIG: LEAP program — allowed her to take better care of her son and her own mental and physical health.
Vice presidential candidate Tim Walz doesn’t own stocks or property. Whether that’s a good thing depends on whom you ask.
Sde Teiman has become Israel’s most infamous military prison. Former prisoners and whistleblowers allege rampant human rights abuses, including gang rape.
One in 10 Americans over age 65 has dementia, an umbrella term for symptoms of diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinsons. One journalist is documenting how patients continue to live with dignity and joy.
Mayor Karen Bass returned from Paris to LA on Monday, bringing the official Olympic flag with her. She talks about preparing LA for the 2028 Games and what it will mean for homelessness.
The epicenter of Monday’s 4.4 magnitude earthquake was in El Sereno on the Puente Hills fault system. While it's not as famous as the San Andreas fault, it could be more dangerous.
The documentary “Sugarcane” reveals the painful history of Catholic-run boarding schools in the U.S. and Canada, where thousands of Native children suffered horrific abuse.
Many psychedelic mushroom edibles don't contain the active ingredient psilocybin, and have potentially harmful or illegal compounds, a recent LA Times investigation found.
In 1994, new records from bands such as The Cranberries, Massive Attack, Beck, and Portishead made their way into the American mainstream, thanks partly to KCRW.
LA’s 1984 Olympics were the pinnacle of organization, profitability, and viewership. Can LA’s 2028 Games build on that and the momentum from 2024’s successful Paris Games?
Both Kamala Harris and Donald Trump are hoping to mobilize youth support online through fan videos, candid clips, memes, and the language of TikTok.
Every state in the country allows no-fault divorce, meaning you don’t need a reason to get one. But some on the far-right are now trying to change that.
In Utah, just a handful of school districts can get books pulled from school libraries. Literature by Margaret Atwood and Judy Blume are now censored for being “pornographic.”
After countless Olympic fans flew to Paris and American athletes insisted on A/C, France had a bigger-than-intended carbon footprint for the Summer Games. How can LA 2028 be sustainable?
Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams piloted the maiden voyage of Boeing’s Starliner spaceship. Now they're stuck at the ISS and might have to hitch a ride home with SpaceX.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Borderlands,” “Cuckoo,” “Good One,” and “It Ends with Us.”
Don’t want to bother working the kitchen amid summer heat? Consider Mediterranean takeout from Papa Cristos, The Great Greek, Jerusalem Chicken, and Mini-Kabob.
Hamas’ new political leader is the architect of the October 7 attacks on Israel. New Yorker Editor David Remnick recently profiled Yahya Sinwar.
Progressive legislator Cori Bush lost her Congressional primary in Missouri on Tuesday. KCRW looks at the Democratic Party’s progressive wing and whether The Squad still operates as a bloc.
Mitrice Richardson, a young Black woman, went missing and died in Malibu nearly 15 years ago. A podcast sheds new light on the events, uncovering details that law enforcement missed.
Canadian singer Celine Dion’s vulnerable and resilient moments of navigating her life with stiff person syndrome are in a new Amazon Prime Video documentary.
Kamala Harris has tapped Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz to be her running mate. He has a strong progressive record and a proven ability to speak to everyday Americans. Can he help her beat Trump and Vance?
Gender testing in sports is more complex than it sounds. Rose Eveleth of the podcast “Tested” explains why some elite female athletes face challenges to their ability to compete.
Environmentalists are urging the Dodgers to drop a main sponsor, oil company Phillips 66, which owns the 76 chain of gas stations. As climate change worsens, some fans want an end to the “sport washing.”
LA native Ryan Bancroft leads several orchestras, including the Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra. He shares his journey from Lakewood to Europe.
Anti-immigrant riots recently broke out in the U.K. after young girls were fatally stabbed in a grisly incident falsely attributed to a Muslim refugee.
The Department of Justice sued TikTok, claiming the popular app allowed children under 13 to create and use accounts, illegally gathered data from them, and ignored parents’ requests to stop.
In a federal lawsuit, veterans are demanding the construction of 4000 units of permanent housing and the nullification of outside leases at the West LA VA.
San Francisco Mayor London Breed is clearing the city’s largest encampments. People who refuse shelter could be arrested for living in public.
The Academy Museum’s exhibit on Hollywood's Jewish founders was modified to remove language that some people deemed overly critical. Others argued that it painted an accurate picture of complicated men.
The Wall Street Journal’s Evan Gershkovich was among 16 prisoners released from Russia, including three other Americans. Putin got spies, fraudsters, and a hitman in return.
Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro is reportedly on the Democratic vice presidential shortlist. KCRW discusses his record, what he brings to the ticket, and criticism he’s received from pro-Palestinian activists.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Harold and the Purple Crayon,” “The Instigators,” “Kneecap,” and “Doctor Jekyll.”
“The Other Olympians” traces the history of queer athletes at the games, and how sex testing began with track before other sports adopted it.
A Hamas leader was assassinated in Iran after an Israeli strike in Lebanon killed a top Hezbollah military commander there. The deaths threaten to spark a wider regional war.
The head of Project 2025 has stepped down, but the Heritage Foundation will continue pushing the conservative plan. Trump’s campaign is frustrated by the association.
Veggie fritters are an easy treat to make for yourself and friends. They require few ingredients, the mixture can be made in advance, and cooking takes minutes.
A new documentary features 40 hours of newly discovered interviews and archival footage of Elizabeth Taylor, revealing her thoughts on work, love, and feelings of inadequacy.
The Secret Service’s new acting director testified before Congress today that he was "ashamed" of the organization's failure to protect former President Trump from an assassination attempt.
Kamala Harris is half Indian American. What does her heritage mean to her — and Indian communities in the United States?
Lt. William L. Calley Jr. led Charlie Company in killing as many as 500 unarmed Vietnamese civilians in March 1968. He only served three years of mainly house arrest, and no one else was held responsible.
Over the last decade, Airbnb renters submitted some 35,000 complaints over surveillance devices, CNN found. Airbnb banned indoor cameras in spring, but enforcement is weak.
President Biden unveiled his plan for Supreme Court reform today. It includes term limits for justices and a binding code of conduct.
Media mogul Rupert Murdoch wants his most conservative heir to control Fox News and the rest of his media empire. The other siblings have allied and sued.
The Olympic surf competition is underway in Teahupo'o, Tahiti, where athletes are riding 40-foot waves and risking crashing into razor-sharp coral.
KCRW DJ Anne Litt shares her new favorite tunes, plus talks about the legacy of The Chills’ Martin Phillips.
Want to grab food in Santa Ana before heading to KCRW’s Summer Nights at the Bowers Museum on Aug. 10? Consider Chapter One, Alebrijes, Heritage BBQ, and more.
Gov. Gavin Newsom announced new efforts to clear homeless encampments on state land, and issued guidelines to California cities to do the same. Critics say the policy is unlikely to fix the problem.
Friday is the opening of The Paris Olympics, which includes a new competitive sport inspired by break dancing. It may be the last Olympics for some of the most dominant American athletes in recent history.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Deadpool & Wolverine,” “Didi,” “The Fabulous Four,” and “Made In England: The Films of Powell and Pressburger.”
Vice President Harris, the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee, is searching for her running mate. At the top of the list: Josh Shapiro, Mark Kelly, and Andy Beshear.
Actor Griffin Dunne grew up in Hollywood with a celebrity-obsessed dad. In his new memoir, he reveals what happened to his family after his sister died at the hands of her ex-boyfriend.
“The Button-Down Mind of Bob Newhart” topped the Billboard charts for 14 weeks, won the Grammy for Album of the Year, and transformed standup comedy. Newhart died last week at age 94.
Kamala Harris is framing her presidential race against Donald Trump as prosecutor versus felon. What kind of a prosecutor was she in California?
The Israeli prime minister will address Congress on Wednesday, and meet with Joe Biden, Kamala Harris, and Donald Trump. But support for Israel among Americans has decreased.
Critics have praised “The Bear” for its realistic portrayal of the high-stress restaurant world. But it’s also about what alcohol addiction does to families.
Kamala Harris has embraced Gen Z internet memes and pop star Charli XCX’s viral summer album “brat” to energize young voters.
PJ Morton wrote his latest album during a 30-day trip across Africa, where he collaborated with local artists Mádé Kuti, Asa, the Soweto Spiritual Singers, and others.
President Joe Biden’s decision not to seek another term means his delegates are no longer pledged to a candidate. Many have already said they will back Kamala Harris.
Now that Vice President Kamala Harris is the Democratic frontrunner in November's race against Donald Trump, Republicans have floated legal challenges to her candidacy and access to President Biden’s campaign war chest.
Kamala Harris’ campaign says she raised more than $50 million since Sunday, when President Joe Biden withdrew his reelection bid. But Donald Trump has some major Silicon Valley money behind him too.
Mexican tomatillo salsa, Indian green chutney, and Italian salsa verde — use them as condiments for grilled meat, fish, or tofu.
KCRW looks at the Republican Party platform and The Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025, which outlines deportations, massive cuts in government oversight, and strict limits on access to reproductive care.
LA county's health director says COVID cases, hospitalizations, and viral levels in wastewater have all doubled in the past month. Researchers warn that the new FLiRT variant is fueling the surge.
Critics review the latest film releases Twisters, Oddity, Crossing, and Skywalkers: A Love Story.
The second day of the Republican National Convention featured tough talk against immigration. Latino voters are increasingly less concerned with that, compared to issues like the economy.
Celebrated Canadian author Alice Munro died in May. But her daughter recently went public about being sexually abused by her stepfather and getting no support from her mom.
In Taffy Brodesser-Akner’s new novel, the patriarch of the Fletcher family establishes a lucrative business after escaping the Holocaust, then gets kidnapped. The focus is on inherited money and trauma.
JD Vance is the Republican vice presidential nominee. An Ohio political science professor discusses who he is, and what this pick means.
After the assassination attempt on Donald Trump, many Democrats continue to have questions about Biden’s ability to win. But the incumbent isn’t stepping aside.
At the height of #MeToo, Louis C.K. admitted that sexual misconduct allegations against him were true, then resumed his career nine months later. A new documentary looks at what his comeback says about how we view celebrities who’ve done wrong.
Ahead of the Olympics, Parisian officials are trying to convince people that it's safe for triathletes to swim in the Seine River. But recent water tests showed signs of E. coli bacteria linked to fecal matter.
America is experiencing the worst spate of domestic violence since the 1960s and 1970s. July 13's assassination attempt against former President Trump should be a wakeup call.
Judge Aileen Cannon dismissed the case against former President Trump over his handling of classified documents, saying the special counsel's appointment violated the Constitution. What’s next?
Long Beach-based video artist Bill Viola died this past Friday at age 73 after being diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease in 2012.
Musician Reggie Andrews mentored hundreds of students at LA’s Locke High School, some of whom became stars, like Thundercat and Kamasi Washington. Andrews is the focus of the latest “Lost Notes” episode.
One approach to a stone fruit salad: Be inspired by savory hot dishes that combine the peaches, nectarines, etc. with meat and spices.
The possibility of a second Trump term loomed over this week’s NATO summit in Washington. KCRW looks at what’s on his foreign policy agenda if he wins in November.
Historian William Gow has written a history of LA’s Chinatowns (plural) – and how they were influenced by Hollywood and the people who lived there.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Fly Me to the Moon,” “Longlegs,” “Sing Sing,” and “Sorry/Not Sorry.”
Even though President Biden says he’s committed to staying in the race, a recent poll puts Vice President Kamala Harris slightly ahead of Donald Trump, Biden, and other prominent Democrats.
The last time a sitting president chose not to run for reelection, the country was deeply mired in an unpopular war. Presidential historian Tim Naftali explains how Lyndon Johnson’s 1968 decision resonates today.
San Jose is allowing the sale of accessory dwelling units, which it hopes will provide more options for buyers and lower housing costs. KCRW looks at the potential impact and what other cities could follow.
Las Vegas’ Mirage hotel and casino, built in 1989, is set to close next week. It hosted Siegfried and Roy and their white tigers, plus a 40-foot-high erupting volcano and a dolphin habitat.
Screenwriter Meg LeFauve explains why Anxiety, Embarrassment, Envy, and Ennui were added as new characters in “Inside Out 2,” plus why she personally thanks Anxiety.
Phoenix, Arizona is a microcosm of America’s rising challenges: hyper-partisanship, conspiracy theories, and culture wars exacerbated by drought and extreme heat.
Jury selection starts today in the trial of Alec Baldwin, who’s facing involuntary manslaughter charges related to the fatal shooting on the set of his film “Rust.”
Americans eat about $9 billion worth of berries each year, mostly the bland supermarket kind. California-based Driscoll’s is betting people will pay more for a super-sweet variety.
Compton native Channel Tres, known for mixing West Coast rap and classic house, is out with a new album titled “Head Rush.”
In a letter to House Democrats today, President Biden said he is “firmly committed” to running against Donald Trump. But more Democrats are privately calling for him to step aside.
What if President Biden doesn’t voluntarily end his reelection campaign? The 25th Amendment lays out what to do if a president is “unable to discharge the powers and duties” of the office.
As temperatures rise this season, the city is creating more bus shelters and cooling centers, and mapping all public hydration stations on an app.
Hwachae is a quenching drink that includes fruit (often watermelon), sugar, and ice. Some mixes include a tart-sweet fizzy soda or milk.
President Joe Biden met with Democratic governors today as voters are increasingly worried about his age and job performance. In the polls, Trump is widening his lead against Biden, nationally and in key swing states.
A few startups are (or will be) offering women of child-bearing age the chance to test period blood — to help them better detect diabetes, fertility issues, and HPV.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Despicable Me 4,” “MaXXXine,” “Space Cadet,” and “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F.”
Robert Towne died on Monday at age 89. He won an Oscar for the screenplay of “Chinatown,” and worked on one of the first mainstream Hollywood flicks about a lesbian relationship.
MoviePass allowed customers to see one film per day in theaters — for $10/month. But its Black founders were ousted. And the new leaders — who ran it into the ground — now face fraud charges.
Nationalist parties are controlling governments in Italy, Finland, and The Netherlands. France’s far-right party could also take power after Sunday’s elections.
The Supreme Court ruled that courts no longer have to defer to experts when considering challenges to federal regulations. This could affect financial, health, and environmental regulations.
Legal cannabis in California often contains banned pesticides, according to an LA Times investigation. Regulators recently pulled a vape product from the market.
Maurice Sendak, author of “Where the Wild Things Are” and “Alligators All Around,” is the focus of the Skirball Center’s new exhibit, which includes original art and first editions of his books.
The Supreme Court ruled that former President Trump has immunity for some of his official acts. How will this affect his federal trial regarding the January 6 insurrection?
The Supreme Court recently ruled that cities have the right to break up encampments of unhoused people under anti-camping ordinances. What does the Grants Pass v. Johnson ruling mean for LA?
Press Play rebroadcasts our ur last in-person interview at the beginning of the COVID pandemic — it was with musician/humorist Kinky Friedman. He died last week at age 79.
Ceviche is a good option when summer tamps down on cravings for hot and rich food. Here are the top local restaurants and trucks offering the raw fish/seafood tossed with citrus juices.
It took years to negotiate a settlement between Purdue Pharma and victims of the opioid epidemic. Today, SCOTUS ruled that bankruptcy law shouldn't be used to shield the company's owners from future lawsuits.
Some health researchers want the current alcohol consumption guidelines — two drinks a day for men, one for women — reduced to two drinks a week.
Critics review the latest film releases: “A Quiet Place: Day One,” “Horizon: An American Saga - Chapter 1,” “Daddio,” and “Janet Planet.”
The new book “Hollywood Pride” is an encyclopedia of queer artists on-screen and behind the camera, spanning the late 1800s to today. Author Alonso Duralde gives a walkthrough.
For the first time in nearly 40 years, the Commission on Presidential Debates is not setting the rules of engagement for candidates. In Thursday’s debate, CNN will control the guidelines.
A majority of Supreme Court justices would reinstate a lower-court ruling that paused Idaho’s near-total abortion ban, suggested a document posted to the court’s website.
KCRW looks at barriers to accessing clinical trials for Black and Latino people. Plus, one cancer patient explains how his life changed after becoming involved in a trial.
Folks who dislike both Donald Trump and Joe Biden make up 1 in 5 voters in swing states. How they go, so may the country.
Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao, who already faced a recall, defended herself on Monday after the FBI raided her home. Her city is facing high rates of crime and homelessness.
“The Big Cigar” (Apple TV+) follows Black Panther co-founder Huey Newton's 1974 escape to Cuba, aided by a Hollywood producer who disguised the plan as a film production.
LA LOM creates a nostalgic feel through their music, inspired by cumbia, bolero, and retro soul. The instrumental trio’s debut album features songs named after Los Angeles streets.
A ceasefire in Gaza seems unlikely. With escalating conflict involving Israel and Hezbollah, U.S. officials fear this could lead to a broader Middle East war.
The Lakers’ new hire, JJ Redick, has never coached a team, aside from his son’s youth basketball squad. Did his relationship with Lebron James make all the difference in his latest job?
Waymo robotaxis have been cruising LA for about three months. Despite concerns about safety and logistics, one transit writer says it's only a matter of time before Angelenos widely accept them.
Customization is endless when it comes to baking pizza. Here’s a breakdown of what tools you need, how to make dough, and which toppings to choose.
Louisiana’s governor says all public schools in his state must display the Ten Commandments. Civil liberties groups have announced an intent to sue, saying the move violates the First Amendment’s establishment clause.
LAUSD leaders recently voted yes on a cellphone ban for students. Board member Nick Melvoin explains how this would work and what safety concerns might arise.
Critics review this week’s new films: “The Bikeriders,” “Kinds of Kindness,” “Fancy Dance,” and “Thelma.”
Julia Louis-Dreyfus talks about her new film role as a mom struggling to accept her daughter’s death. She also shares wisdom from conversations with women ages 70 and up.
California’s early-season fires might be a sign of more intense blazes to come. A scientist explains how climate change is fueling natural disasters locally and nationally.
The widow of casino magnate Sheldon Adelson has helped fund right-wing causes in the U.S. and in her native Israel. She’s expected to give more than $90 million to a pro-Trump super PAC.
Actress Anna May Wong’s career spanned more than 60 films across the silent era and the talkies. Her life is now the focus of an exhibition at the Chinese American Museum.
“Traveling: On the Path of Joni Mitchell” chronicles the singer’s experiences of loss and sacrifice — and the songs marking turning points in her life.
The surgeon general wants health warnings on social media platforms, similar to tobacco products. A psychologist explains how the platforms can harm teen mental health.
A Houston bankruptcy judge ordered conspiracy theorist and right-wing provocateur Alex Jones’ personal assets be liquidated and sold to satisfy a defamation case brought by Sandy Hook parents.
At five can’t-miss pop-ups this summer, treat yourself to Texas-inspired BBQ, vegan mofongo, hand-rolled bagels with homemade cream cheese, crispy duck mole, and more.
The Supreme Court today upheld access to the abortion pill mifepristone, and issued rulings on labor and trademark cases.
Russian prosecutors indicted Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich on charges of espionage. If convicted, he could get up to 20 years in prison.
Bird flu is spreading among cattle — as more people are drinking raw milk. Pasteurization is what kills off diseases. So why are folks choosing the unprocessed route, despite health concerns?
Critics review the latest film releases: Inside Out 2, Treasure, Ghostlight, and Tuesday.
Great white sharks call Southern California shores their home. Carlos Gauna, a photographer and drone pilot, documents the hot spots and shares safety tips.
A measure to create harsher penalties for some drug and theft crimes has qualified for the November ballot. It comes as California lawmakers debate rising crime.
Jerry West, the perennial NBA All-Star and architect of the Lakers’ “Showtime” and Shaq/Kobe eras, dies at 86.
The cookbook “Kismet” features family recipes and favorites from the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern restaurants owned by Sara Kramer and Sarah Hymanson.
Apple is the latest tech company to unveil AI tools for its most popular products. Will this be truly helpful, or is it another ploy to sell more iPhones?
An FDA advisory committee has rejected a company's bid to use MDMA, or ecstasy, to treat PTSD. The panel was concerned about the strength of the evidence, allegations of participant abuse, and ill-defined therapeutic protocols.
A new documentary looks at George Coulam's multi-million dollar Texas Renaissance Festival. He’s ready to step down, and a fight is brewing over who will step up.
University of Connecticut basketball coach Dan Hurley said, “Thanks, but no thanks” to a reported six-year deal to be the Lakers’ new coach. The offer would’ve doubled his salary.
Mdocu Moctar’s “Funeral for Justice” is a blend of desert blues and sociopolitical commentary about his West African home country of Niger.
French President Emmanuel Macron has called for snap elections after far-right victories over the weekend. What's behind his risky strategy?
An Orange County judge temporarily halted University of California academic workers’ strike. They walked off the job in response to the UC system’s response to pro-Palestinian demonstrations.
The U.S. has spent millions on counterterrorism in West Africa since 9/11, but poverty and unrest are leading to military takeovers and the growth of Al-Qaeda and Islamic State affiliates.
Popsicles should be ice-cold but not ice-hard. Texture and flavor are equally important. The goal: Keep ice crystal formation small, which will produce a softer texture.
On the 80th anniversary of the storming of the beaches of Normandy, France, a new book chronicles the experiences of those involved — from generals and troops to allies and enemies.
The GA appeals court issued a stay on the Fulton County case. None of Trump’s remaining three criminal trials are likely to conclude before the November election.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Bad Boys: Ride or Die,” “Robot Dreams,” “Handling the Undead,” and “The Watchers.”
Many touring musicians say they’re earning less than ever. How has the industry changed since COVID, and what strategies are some artists using to keep performing live?
Donald Trump insists he won’t ban contraception in a potential second presidential term. But he and his allies are drafting policies that would come close.
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi won a third term, but the smaller margin of victory says a lot about how the world’s biggest democracy views him today.
A series of recent rule changes in the LDS Church have made missionary work more appealing to young members, but many still face mental health challenges.
Gillian Anderson talks about playing Margaret Thatcher, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Emily Maitlis, the BBC anchor who did the exclusive 2019 interview with Prince Andrew.
President Biden signed an executive order temporarily barring undocumented immigrants from seeking asylum. It’s what Trump tried to do in his first term.
Amid a largely self-censored media landscape, Israel’s leading left-wing publication Haaretz critiques the country’s government and provides an unflinching view on the war in Gaza.
One in five employers is less likely to hire recent college grads who took part in pro-Palestinian protests, a new survey shows. But other employers seem to support protest involvement.
The Flaming Lips’ “The Soft Bulletin” is 25 years old. Critics have called it a rock masterpiece for the trippy experimental sounds and big, sweeping orchestral pieces.
Mexico’s new president, Claudia Sheinbaum, has promised to continue her mentor Andrés Manuel Lopéz Obrador’s leftwing policies, but must contend with rampant cartel violence and corruption. Plus, how will she work with (or against) President Biden or a future President Trump?
Jury selection began today for Hunter Biden’s federal gun case. Charged with three felonies, he allegedly lied about his drug use to buy a gun in 2018.
The CDC recommended six feet of social distancing to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The decision pushed schools online, but wasn’t backed by data.
Sea otter 841 went viral last summer for stealing surfboards and evading authorities. Now she’s returned to the Santa Cruz waters where she made her name.
Can Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito and Juan Merchan, the judge presiding over Donald Trump’s hush money trial, be impartial about the former president, given their actions outside the courtroom that could be perceived as political bias?
Noah Gittell’s new book, “Baseball: The Movie,” traces the lineage of and connection between two great American pastimes — baseball and film.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Young Woman and the Sea,” “Jim Henson Idea Man,” “In A Violent Nature,” and “The Young Wife.”
Some travel tips for summer: Set price tracking alerts based on locations or dates, fly earlier in the day, and consider cargo pants/vests for extra storage space.
The White House says the latest Israeli airstrikes in Rafah didn’t cross the red line, in spite of civilian casualties and the growing humanitarian crisis.
The French Open kicked off on Sunday. Rafael Nadal lost in the first round, Coco Gauff advanced, while Naomi Osaka fell to Iga Swiatek in an intense match.
Decades worth of Negro League figures are now part of the Major League Baseball’s record books. Poet, historian, and author Rowan Ricardo Phillips argues that MLB should do more.
Chow down on cherries — dozens of varieties exist — while they’re still in markets for the next few weeks. Use them in pudding, salads, pies, and more.
TV critics share the best shows to watch, including “We Are Lady Parts,” “Lady in the Lake, ”The Acolyte,” and the 2024 Summer Olympics.
UCLA academic workers are protesting the school’s response to its Gaza Solidarity Encampment — days after Congress members grilled Chancellor Gene Block on the unrest.
Last week the Supreme Court upheld a voting map in South Carolina that concentrates Republican power. The ruling will make it harder to bring challenges on grounds that districts are racially gerrymandered.
A bit of sun exposure can benefit many people — Australia recently updated its public health guidelines to reflect this. So how much — or little — sunscreen should you wear?
Bill Walton, a UCLA star-turned-Clippers player, died on Sunday. After shooting hoops in the NBA, he became an ESPN broadcaster known for colorful commentary.
As Disney plans to pour $1.9 billion into upgrading its Anaheim resort, workers say the company needs to look out for them too.
The Department of Justice and more than two dozen states want to break up Live Nation-Ticketmaster. Joe Biden’s former trust-busting architect discusses what it means.
The LA Sparks host the Indiana Fever (and phenom Caitlin Clark) on Friday. They’ve moved the game from the 5,000-seat Walter Pyramid in Long Beach to the Crypto.com Arena in Downtown LA, which seats close to 20,000.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga,” “Taking Venice,” “Hit Man,” and “Queen of the Deuce.”
The California coast spans 840 miles and boasts diverse flora and fauna. Pat Krug’s new book explains why these creatures live where they do, and gives tips on how to spot them.
Scarlett Johansson says ChatGPT’s new AI assistance, “Sky,” sounds alarmingly like her. She previously declined a request from OpenAI to be its voice.
Film critic Tim Grierson reviews what’s new at Cannes, including works from Francis Ford Coppola and Yorgos Lanthimos. A Donald Trump biopic is also in the lineup.
Alyse Whitney’s new cookbook is exuberant, fun, and filled with recipes for all kinds of dips — classics, five-minute ideas, plus light and healthy fare.
The first laws criminalizing stalking in California stemmed from the 1991 trial of Tucson resident Robert Bardo, who tracked down and killed LA actress Rebecca Schaeffer.
Nevada is crucial for another Biden presidential victory in November. But an emerging group of evangelical Latino voters could deliver a win for Trump, who leads in the polls.
After closing arguments next week, Trump’s legal fate will be with a New York jury. They must decide whether he ordered a hush money payout and falsified business records to cover it up.
A new HBO docu-series looks at the rise of Stax Records. The label that boasted Otis Redding and Isaac Hayes couldn’t survive the cut-throat music industry.
LA officials are increasing law enforcement presence on the county’s Metro system following a spike in violence over the last few weeks.
Iran’s president Ebrahim Raisi died in a helicopter crash on Sunday. His death leaves two major roles to fill in Iran’s regime.
Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito blamed his wife for displaying a "stop the steal" symbol at their home after the January 6 insurrection. It's just the latest example of a justice wading into partisan politics.
The LA City Council declared May 19 “Father Greg Boyle Day,” and Joe Biden recently awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Boyle for his anti-gang violence work. KCRW re-airs an interview with Boyle from 2022.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Back to Black,” “IF,” “Gasoline Rainbow,” and “Babes.”
Google will start putting AI-generated answers at the top of search results. Content creators and media outlets say this will cost them clicks.
A military historian and retired Army colonel discusses Benjamin Netanyahu’s strategy against Hamas, and what the war in Gaza means for Israeli politics domestically and globally.
How are various sugars made, and what textures and flavors do they add to baked goods and other dishes? Evan Kleiman walks you through her library of sugars.
Billions in the UC system’s portfolio are tied to holdings targeted by pro-Palestinian protests. Plus, did CHP officers break California law during its UCLA encampment sweep?
Cartels in Mexico have created one of the deadliest election years in the country’s history. What will this mean for voters heading to the polls next month?
The 401(k) has increased the wealth of millions while exacerbating income inequality among older Americans. What can be done to close that gap?
Growing up in mostly white, small towns in Ohio, Jamie Figueroa felt cut off from her Puerto Rican heritage. She chronicles her journey to connect with her Boricua roots in a new book.
Decades of erosion and climate change constantly shut down Highway 1 through Big Sur. The damage is worsening as more intense storms hit the coast.
President Biden today announced higher tariffs on Chinese goods, saying the aim is to protect the U.S. economy from overseas competitors. Trump has taken aim at U.S.-China trade policy as well.
The New York Times spoke to dozens of people who reported COVID side effects, ranging from shingles to brain damage, as part of a year-long probe. Despite reports to the CDC, concerns have gone unanswered.
Comedian Richard Gadd says “Baby Reindeer” is a true story of his stalker. That woman says Gadd exaggerated greatly and is threatening to sue.
LA Philharmonic Music and Artistic Director Gustavo Dudamel talks about conducting Beethoven's only opera, plus his choice to start leading the New York Philharmonic in 2026.
The New York Times/Siena College polls show Biden losing to Trump in Michigan, Nevada, Pennsylvania, Arizona and Georgia. Biden has lost support with key Democratic demographics.
The state of California tried to stop a lawsuit relating to a fatal COVID-19 outbreak at San Quentin prison. Today, the Supreme Court allowed it to go forward.
Roger Corman, who died last Thursday, helped launch the careers of directors like Francis Ford Coppola, Martin Scorsese, Ron Howard, and James Cameron.
Andrea Nguyen, Clarissa Wei, and Hetty Lui McKinnon have all been nominated for a James Beard Award. Try their cookbook recipes during this AAPI Month.
The new book “White Rural Rage” explores anger in the heartland and the threat it poses to American democracy.
Critics review the latest film releases: “The Poolman,” “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes,” “Last Stop in Yuma County,” and “Power.”
Though he hated being called a “producer,” Steve Albini was behind albums by The Pixies and Nirvana. He helped create a D-I-Y, analog sound in rock music that influenced others.
In “Help Wanted,” part-time employees of a big-box retail store in New York are barely making a living. Author Adelle Waldman’s own job experiences inspired the novel.
Ryan Crocker, a former U.S. ambassador to Middle Eastern countries, says Israel should heed the message behind the Biden administration’s withholding of bombs.
Hollywood’s summer box office season is here. So far, it pales in comparison to last year’s $4 billion bonanza brought in by “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer.”
Actor Chris Pratt razed an architecturally significant house. Another wealthy homeowner wants to demolish Marilyn Monroe’s former home. What are LA’s historic preservation rules?
Lookout Santa Cruz has earned the 2024 Pulitzer Prize for Breaking News Reporting. The winning coverage was about the flooding and mudslides along the Central Coast last January.
Once viewed as a progressive movement for a Jewish state, Zionism has taken on a settler colonialist connotation for many pro-Palestinian protestors.
One reason for sky-high veterinary bills? Private equity funds and big corporations have been gobbling up small, independent vets.
Maya Rudolph spent eight seasons on “Saturday Night Live” doing impressions. In her latest show, she’s a billionaire determined to donate her fortune.
Joan Baez talks about her poetry, memories of abuse, living with dissociative identity disorder, and abstaining from the Gaza protests on college campuses.
After violence broke out between pro-Palestinian activists and counter-protestors at UCLA, campus officials are launching its new Office of Campus Safety.
Student protesters are demanding universities divest from Israel. But in California, divestment may not be legally achievable because of a little-known civil rights law.
Six months after the Hollywood strikes, film and TV productions are still down. Now IATSE is at the table with the AMPTP. Could a strike be on the horizon?
Critics review the latest film releases: “The Fall Guy,” “I Saw the TV Glow,” “Evil Does Not Exist,” and “Mars Express.”
Police arrested more than 130 people at UCLA after law enforcement dispersed protesters and dismantled a pro-Palestinian encampment. The demonstrations have taken attention away from the actual war in Gaza.
Arizona's Republican-led legislature repealed the state's Civil War-era abortion ban, reverting to a 15-week limit. Meanwhile, Florida enforces a six-week ban.
Shows that have all the trappings of prestige TV — the cinematic look, the big names — are everywhere on streaming services. But one critic says they’re all average.
Strawberries are easy to transform into a dish that’s like a gift. To kick them up a notch, marinate them with a drizzle of flavorful balsamic vinegar.
After violence between pro-Israeli and pro-Palestinian sides broke out at UCLA overnight, two Dartmouth lecturers with differing views on the war offer a model for cooperation.
The Department of Justice proposed making cannabis a Schedule 3 drug, acknowledging after decades of illicit use that it has medical value and a lower risk for abuse. It’s currently Schedule 1, along with heroin.
The daughter of late film critic Gene Siskel is out with a new poetry book, “Two Minds,” about grief and the sudden death of her father when she was 12 years old.
Trader Joe’s works with global suppliers to make eclectic products, but some small food producers say the company rips them off, reports Adam Reiner, founder of Restaurant Manifesto.
Campus protestors nationwide are demanding universities divest of financial ties to Israel. Is that possible in today's complex, global economy?
The NLRB has accused Trader Joe’s, Starbucks, Amazon, and SpaceX of harassing and intimidating workers. The companies are challenging the power of the board to protect workers’ jobs.
Author and USC professor Viet Thanh Nguyen won a Pulitzer Prize for his 2015 novel “The Sympathizer.” It’s been adapted into a new limited series from HBO.
After the Denver Nuggets eliminated the Lakers from the NBA playoffs on Monday night, Lebron James refused to say whether or not he’ll be wearing purple and gold next season.
USC journalism professor Sandy Tolan talks about what he witnessed when visiting Gaza protest encampments on campus. He also responds to the commencement cancellation.
Despite tense moments between pro-Palestinian and pro-Israel demonstrators at UCLA over the weekend, school administrators and police mostly stayed out of it.
Hundreds of demonstrators have been arrested nationwide amid protests on college campuses. Law professor Jessica Levinson explains the free speech issues and how these schools have responded.
Brian Eno pioneered “ambient music” and helped create the sounds of U2, David Bowie, and other rock stars. Multiple versions of a new documentary show his life and work.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Challengers,” “Uncropped,” “Egoist,” and “Alien” (re-release).
The Supreme Court justices grant that presidents have some immunity when it comes to prosecution, but differ in how much and when it applies.
A New York appeals court has overturned the rape conviction against Harvey Weinstein, saying a judge mistakenly allowed women who were not part of the charges to testify that the former Hollywood producer abused them.
More than a dozen horses died during the 2023 racing season at events like the Kentucky Derby and the Belmont Stakes. A new documentary looks at what’s behind the crisis.
Fava beans are one of the most ancient plants and among the easiest to grow. They’re key in Mediterranean and Middle East food cultures.
Biden’s new legislation is forcing TikTok’s Chinese parent company, ByteDance, to sell the social giant to a U.S. company. TikTok plans to challenge this in court.
Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and bestselling author David Sanger’s new book chronicles America’s plunge into simultaneous confrontations with two very different adversaries — China and Russia.
LACMA has signed on as a partner in the development of Las Vegas’ only standalone art museum. Pieces from LACMA will be on rotating loan in Vegas once the museum is complete.
Protests over the war in Gaza have engulfed college campuses across the country. Faith leaders offer guidance in these contentious times.
Tesla sales are slumping. Its trucks have been recalled to fix a safety issue. And Elon Musk seems to be alienating potential buyers with his remarks on social media.
In PBS’ “Art Happens Here,” actor John Lithgow goes back to high school to explore the power of arts education — dance, ceramics, silk-screen printing, and vocal jazz ensemble.
Erick Elliott’s (a.k.a. Erick the Architect) first solo album, “I’ve Never Been Here Before,” features big-name collaborators like James Blake and George Clinton.
The Supreme Court appeared divided after oral arguments over a Grants Pass, an Oregon law that bans camping in public areas. Lower courts say it amounts to “cruel and unusual punishment.”
Private companies are buying farmland in rural Arizona. The goal isn’t to farm crops but to access water from the Colorado River.
In Las Vegas today, construction began on a train that would get travelers from Rancho Cucamonga in San Bernardino County to the Las Vegas strip in about two hours.
Charoset is a melange of dried and/or fresh fruits plus nuts — all chopped or ground to a paste. It’s typically prepared for seders or Passover ritual dinners.
Two Boeing whistleblowers testified about their safety concerns in a Congressional hearing this week. KCRW looks at how the company became mired in safety issues.
The World Health Organization is warning of the dangers of bird flu, should it jump from animals to humans. Last month, a second person in the U.S. contracted the disease.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Abigail,” “The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare,” “We Grown Now,” and “The People's Joker.”
The Monterey Bay Aquarium has been fostering abandoned sea otter pups for release into the wild. Now the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach is joining the effort, rehabbing its first orphaned baby.
After months of pressure, House Speaker Mike Johnson has called a series of votes on foreign aid packages. Hard-right Republicans threaten to oust him if he follows through.
After an unsuccessful attack on Israel, Iran faces more sanctions from the West and more retaliation from Israel. How do ordinary Iranians feel about this conflict?
The Federal Bureau of Prisons announced this week that it will close the women’s prison in Dublin, California — where prison staff have reportedly assaulted inmates.
The fourth season of the award-winning “Serial” podcast tells the stories of Guantánamo Bay, from the prisoners and the people who worked there. Host Sarah Koenig shares what she uncovered.
Hilton Carter, a.k.a. The Plant Doctor, is out with “The Propagation Handbook.” He shares his tips on how to propagate plants such as pothos, ficus, succulents, and more.
USC has barred valedictorian Asna Tabassum from speaking at commencement next month. The school’s reasoning: safety concerns after groups criticized her pro-Palestinean views.
Leading the GOP coup against House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and a sex scandal have defined Matt Gaetz’s tenure in Congress. Yet the Florida Republican maintains influence with his party’s standard-bearer, Donald Trump.
ABC’s “Abbott Elementary” is a mockumentary that portrays the chaos within an inner-city school. Janelle James talks about playing the brash, self-centered principal.
The southbound 101 freeway in Agoura Hills will be closed nightly for the next few weeks — as Caltrans continues building a massive wildlife bridge.
Donald Trump is now the first U.S. president to stand trial in a criminal case over charges he falsified records to cover up a $130,000 payment to buy the silence of adult film star Stormy Daniels during the 2016 campaign.
After Iran’s unsuccessful missile attack, how will Israel retaliate? Plus, how long can Ukraine stave off Russian attacks? The Wall Street Journal’s Yaroslav Trofimov weighs in.
KCRW DJ Ro Wyldeflower Contreras recommends new songs from Chicano Batman, Reyna Tropical, Baby Rose, Brainstory, and Hiatus Kaiyote.
OJ Simpson, 76, died on Wednesday. Thirty years ago, his murder trial and acquittal became a flashpoint of celebrity, race, and jurisprudence.
Mexico City, home to 22 million people, is facing drought, drying reservoirs, and leaky infrastructure. Some parts of the city have no running water at all.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Civil War,” “In Flames,” “Sting,” and “Sasquatch Sunset.”
Love to eat artichokes but dread cooking with them just by looking at the spiny cones? Enter frozen and marinated artichoke hearts.
All 371 locations of 99 Cents Only stores will close permanently, which means a big loss for those who rely on a low-income brick-and-mortar retailer in their neighborhood.
The Arizona Supreme Court ruled on Tuesday that a 160-year-old abortion ban may be enforced. Meanwhile, polling suggests voters feel strongly about abortion — mostly favoring it — but that doesn’t necessarily translate into votes for Democrats.
A neuroscience professor explains how episodic memory works and why our brains sometimes hold onto inane information. He also gives tips on strengthening your power of recall.
LA’s animal shelters are so overcrowded that the City Council has paused issuing dog breeding licenses. The president of a local rescue explains what’s going on.
The group Open Books is giving what it calls “LGBTQ+ affirming literature” to public schools, including every elementary campus in the LAUSD.
Rory Kennedy talks about “Synanon Fix,” a four-part documentary series on HBO about the drug rehab center that turned into a cult. KCRW also asks about her presidential candidate brother.
California lawmakers revealed a slate of bills aimed at reducing retail theft. It’s an attempt to fight crime without violating Prop 47, the criminal justice reform passed in 2014.
RFK Jr. is running an uphill campaign trying to pull from anti-establishment Democrats and Republicans, but liberals are worried that his campaign is a Biden spoiler.
Rudy Mancuso’s synesthesia means daily sounds transform into layered rhythms and melodies. He explores that beautiful and frustrating experience in “Música.”
House Speaker Mike Johnson is facing pressure from Democrats and foreign leaders to pass more aid to Ukraine, while hard-right members of his own party threaten his speakership.
Former DOJ official Jeffrey Clark faces disbarment after his schemes to overturn the 2020 election. He’s just one of nearly a dozen lawyers facing legal action for their work with Trump.
HBO’s “Curb Your Enthusiasm” ended its 12th and final season Sunday night. We review the episode and discuss how Westside Los Angeles featured prominently in the show.
Sonoran white wheat is core to making flour tortillas. It has resurged in the past decade thanks to its versatility in baked goods, sweet flavor, and white color.
If re-elected, Trump has vowed not to defend NATO countries that haven’t paid their full share if Russia attacks. NATO leaders are scrambling to “Trump-proof” Ukraine aid.
The proposed Right to Disconnect bill allows CA employees to ignore after-hours texts from bosses. It defines nonworking hours and imposes fines on violators.
Critics review the latest film releases: “La Bête,” “Monkey Man,” “Girls State,” and “Musica.”
A total solar eclipse will trace a path from Texas to Maine on April 8. One zoo curator explains how her animals responded last time.
The LA Festival of Movies debuts this week, featuring brand new films, world premieres, older independent flicks that may deserve a second look, and titles that haven’t played within the circuit yet.
The damage is still unfolding from Taiwan’s 7.4 magnitude earthquake. But strong building codes and community preparedness helped lessen the disaster. We look at how LA compares.
California auto-loan tycoon Don Hankey provided a $175 million bond to Donald Trump as he appeals a civil fraud charge. He says the deal is just good business.
With a raspy voice and raw lyrics, Lola Young is poised to be one of the next major British pop artists. She shares her inspirations and career hopes.
Atlantic writer Franklin Foer examines rising antisemitism from the political left, and why what he describes as a “Golden Age for American Jews” is over.
An Israeli airstrike killed seven World Central Kitchen workers in Gaza on Monday, and the U.N. is warning that a famine might be imminent.
The Florida Supreme Court enacted one of the strictest abortion bans in the country this week. Abortion access is now going to be on the state’s 2024 ballot.
Amy Chozick covered Hillary Clinton’s 2008 and 2016 presidential campaigns. Her memoir “Chasing Hillary” is the basis for the new Max series “The Girls on the Bus.”
Technology has devastated kids’ abilities to connect and learn. Pew data from 2022 says nearly half of teens were online almost constantly.
The state’s mandatory $20/hour minimum wage for fast food workers goes into effect on April 1, but some say that amount isn’t enough. Higher menu costs and layoffs might come.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire,” “La Chimera,” “The Shadowless Tower” and “Wicked Little Letters.”
The Dodgers' home opener is today as a cloud hangs over star player Shohei Ohtani due to allegations that his now-former interpreter stole millions from Ohtani to cover gambling debts.
The Santa Monica City Council recently voted to explore compensating the descendants of a Black man named Silas White for his plot of land on Ocean Ave.
New analysis from the Kaiser Family Foundation shows that Medicare spending on weight loss drugs like Ozempic rose to $5.7 billion in 2022 — up from $57 million in 2018.
LA City Council officials have announced plans to eliminate traffic lanes, widen sidewalks, and add bike and bus lanes to the storied Hollywood Boulevard.
An excerpt from KCRW’s Life Examined talks about building community despite our isolated lifestyles. Plus, hear practical tips for forging meaningful connections.
When vegetables begin to flower, they’re reaching the end of their life cycles. But you can still eat the plants, which have an added sweetness or bitterness.
Judy Baca’s collaborative effort to create “The Great Wall of LA” is the subject of a new LA Times short documentary. The mural is being extended to another half mile.
Four men accused in Friday's terrorist attack at a Russian concert hall appeared in court bruised and bandaged — an example of Putin’s regime using violence to exert political control.
The LA Innocence Project is pushing for new evidence and DNA testing in Scott Peterson’s quest for a retrial. Peterson was convicted of murdering his wife and their unborn son two decades ago.
Beyoncé topped Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart with a single from “Cowboy Carter,” but the album has drawn backlash over who’s qualified to make country music.
A new AI company called Suno wants everyone to be able to produce their own pro-level songs. What does that mean for artists?
The U.N. Security Council called for a ceasefire in Gaza, with the U.S. abstaining from the vote. Will it make a difference in the conflict?
The Supreme Court will hear arguments challenging the major abortion drug mifepristone, which is used in more than half of all abortions in the U.S.
Alynda Segarra latest’s album, “The Past is Still Alive,” honors people, places, and moments from their travels. The songs also talk about substance addiction.
Regarding Her, a nonprofit accelerating the growth of women entrepreneurs and leaders in food and beverage, is sponsoring a spattering of events this March.
California voters narrowly passed Prop 1, Newsom’s signature mental health initiative. It’s poised to overhaul treatment for drug addiction and homelessness. What happens next?
A risk calculator caught actress Olivia Munn’s aggressive breast cancer a year early, while regular screenings missed it. Should other women use the tool too?
Pine Mountain Club, about an hour north of LA, has suffered hundreds of break-ins and thousands of dollars of bear-related damage over the past decade.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire,” “Shirley,” “The American Society of Magical Negroes,” and “Carol Doda Topless at the Condor.”
In “Problemista,” a Salvadoran immigrant longs to become a toy designer when he arrives in New York. The challenges of getting a U.S. work visa threaten his dreams.
In Texas, Senate Bill 4 would allow local police to arrest people suspected of entering the country illegally. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit blocked it ahead of oral arguments.
After the ousters of anti-LGBTQ school board members in Orange County and a watering down of Florida’s “Don’t Say Gay” law, are the culture wars calming down?
Armed gangs are roaming Haiti’s streets, attacking government buildings and shutting down the main airport in Port-au-Prince. The prime minister says he'll resign.
Shohei Ohtani got two hits in his Dodger regular-season debut against the Padres. Plus, the NCAA women's basketball tournament is drawing more attention than the men’s competition.
Aging pop stars Jennifer Lopez and Justin Timberlake are promoting new albums. Are audiences interested in new material, or just hoping they'll bring sexy back?
Despite bans in 14 states, over 1 million abortions occurred in the U.S. last year, marking the highest number in a decade, per the Guttmacher Institute.
It could soon be a lot cheaper to sell your home. A prominent industry group for realtors just agreed to lower commissions. What does this mean for the housing market?
To make housing more affordable, President Biden is proposing new policies, some of which would need Congressional approval in an election year.
Anthony Madu's ballet moves went viral in 2020, capturing hearts worldwide. His journey from Nigeria to a prestigious conservatory is told in the film “Madu.”
The world of 1970s Laurel Canyon is on full display in Ginny Winn’s book, “Grievous Angels, Trout Masks, and American Beauties: 1970s Rock & Roll Photography of Ginny Winn.”
Gov. Newsom has made Prop 1, the mental health and housing bill, his signature piece of legislation in 2024. Though still expected to pass, a narrow victory is not what he was hoping for.
A few swing states have decided recent elections. Third-party or independent candidates could impact Biden and Trump’s path to victory.
KCRW looks at the latest developments in Trump’s multiple legal challenges, including the fate of the Georgia trial where he’s been accused of election interference.
Conditions appear just right for a spring super bloom after a rainy winter, meaning colorful California hillsides and fields are coming.
A classic fruit pie is vegan except for that buttery crust, which is the easiest part of the pastry to tweak. Several great plant butters are available.
Some members of Congress view TikTok as a national security threat since it collects data on U.S. users, and the Chinese government could control the software.
If you’re driving a new car, data like how fast you accelerate and how hard you brake might be influencing your insurance premiums. How can you find out if it is?
Critics review the latest film releases: “One Life,” “Arthur the King,” “The Animal Kingdom,” and “Little Wing.”
“High & Low” chronicles John Galliano’s rise with Givenchy and Christian Dior, then his downfall due to alcoholism and anti-Jewish remarks. Now his work for Maison Margiela is winning audiences.
An Atlanta judge has dismissed six charges against Trump and his co-defendants, but left most of the racketeering case intact. Will it delay his prosecution?
Gemini, ChatGPT, and Grok — more Americans are concerned than excited about artificial intelligence. But how can these products make our lives easier and better?
Men get maximum health benefits if they log 300 minutes a week of moderate to vigorous exercise, while women need only 140 minutes, a new study shows.
Kanye West, now Ye, will headline the hip-hop festival Rolling Loud. Despite past controversies like his antisemitic remarks, the comeback hints at a forgiving audience.
A massive storm that’s killed thousands and caused two dams to collapse in Libya is a reminder of the danger of aging American infrastructure.
Menopause can include hot flashes, night sweats, and depression. Black and Latino women could experience more severe and longer-lasting symptoms, research shows.
In “The Underworld,” journalist Susan Casey takes readers into the deep ocean to explore volcanoes, trenches, and a booming ecosystem that’s vital to our survival.
Figs are abundant at the end of summer. With sweetness and rich texture, they pair well with cheeses of all kinds and cured meats.
The U.S. poverty rate jumped to more than 12% as COVID programs helping with food, rent, and unemployment ended. Now food banks are seeing higher demand.
Despite a slim GOP majority and looming government shutdown, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy launched an impeachment inquiry into President Biden.
In the PBS show “America Outdoors,” journalist and comedian Baratunde Thurston takes viewers on nature adventures and engages locals in conversations.
Jacob Collier makes his Hollywood Bowl debut on September 13 with the LA Philharmonic. He talks to KCRW about the performance and his musical roots.
Grace Potter wrote her latest solo album, “Mother Road,” during cross-country trips that began in 2021. She left her LA-area home to reflect on life and COVID.
The Justice Department is suing Google, claiming they have a monopoly on internet search. It’s the biggest tech antitrust case since Microsoft in the 90s.
Over an 18 month period, federal prosecutors in one Texas district disproportionately prosecuted asylum seekers coming from Muslim-majority countries.
An appeals court says the Biden administration likely violated the First Amendment as it tried to fight COVID disinformation.
Coco Gauff won the women’s title at the U.S. Open over the weekend, and Serbian superstar Novak Djokovic won his 24th Grand Slam title.
Your car is spying on you and likely collecting more personal data than necessary, according to a new study from the Mozilla Foundation.
The top candidates for Mexico’s 2024 presidential election are former Mexico City Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum and Senator Xóchitl Gálvez.
After states passed bans on abortion in the wake of Roe v. Wade’s fall, women are still seeking them in huge numbers in bordering states.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Scrapper,” “El Conde,” “The Nun II,” and “My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3.”
Ratatouille shows off the best summer produce: squash, eggplant, peppers, onions, garlic, tomatoes. The dish originates from Southern France.
Narcan, the nasal medication used to reverse an opioid overdose, will be available over the counter later this month. A two-dose box will cost about $45.
Former Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio was sentenced to 22 years for his role in Capitol insurrection — the harshest penalty yet related to that attack.
Chat GPT is worried that people will use OpenAI to generate targeted political ads filled with misinformation. That could spell bad news for U.S. politics.
The late feminist bell hooks pushed feminism beyond white, middle-class concerns to include poor women of color. A new collection of her interviews is out now.
For decades, Californians have been able to earn associate degrees behind bars. This fall, a new slate of bachelor’s degree programs will start.
More buses of migrants are arriving in LA, NY, Chicago, Boston, and other left-leaning cities, sparking tension between city Democrats and the Biden administration.
Unemployment is low, inflation is going down, and the risk of recession is small too. So why do the majority of Americans think the economy is getting worse?
States like Florida and Alabama are under fire for excluding Black-majority districts in their state congressional maps. What are the consequences?
Two decades after the premiere of “The O.C.,” Alex Zaragoza talks about the problematic way that show portrayed her hometown of Tijuana.
Rotisserie chickens are affordable, convenient, and can be used in many ways. Include them in Mexican dishes, salads, or a grand aioli.
The Biden administration proposed loosening marijuana restrictions and reclassifying cannabis as a Schedule III drug. It could open new avenues for research and change how pot is regulated and taxed.
A new reproductive care clinic was scheduled to open in Beverly Hills. Then anti-aboriton activists started protesting.
Critics review the latest film releases: “The Equalizer 3,” “Goldfish,” “The Good Mother,” “Nandor Fodor and the Talking Mongoose.”
Hollywood’s below-the-line workers are not on strike, but they’re still out of work as writers and actors walk the picket lines. A prop master and a graphic designer share how they’re faring.
Last week, Hollywood executives publicly released their latest contract offer to WGA members, who did not react well. And SAG officials haven’t met with studios since their strike began.
A group of tech investors bought thousands of acres of NorCal land — for some $1 billion — to build a new city. They kept it a secret from locals.
On Labor Day, a new documentary about Little Richard will air on TV. “Little Richard: I Am Everything” shows how rock and roll originated with Richard Penniman. It includes interviews with family members, musicians, and Black and queer scholars.
CA Attorney General Rob Bonta on Monday sued the Chino school district over its policy requiring staff to notify parents if students identify as a different gender at school.
California banned single-use plastic bags seven years ago. But a new LA Times investigation shows we’re now using more plastic bags, not fewer.
Ohio businessman Vivek Ramaswamy has been called Trump 2.0. But whether the brash contrarian can convert his early buzz into GOP primary wins is unknown.
The Hollywood strikes have halted U.S. production. But if film/TV executives think international content will save them, they should think again.
The US Open is taking place in Queens, New York. All eyes are on Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz, who’ve been competing against each other all season.
Grammy winner Kirk Franklin is credited with shaping contemporary gospel. He talks about channeling heated emotions into songs, and making time for his kids while touring
A judge set a March date for former President Trump’s federal election trial. Meanwhile, some of Trump's co-defendants in the Georgia election fraud case are requesting speedy trials.
New COVID infections and hospitalizations are steadily increasing again, but deaths remain low. Will it remain this way with new variants and a fall booster?
“Black California Dreamin’: Claiming Space at America's Leisure Frontier” is an exhibition that looks at how African Americans shaped recreation sites across the state.
El Segundo defeated the country of Curacao to win the Little League World Series on Sunday, marking the first time a California team won the title in a dozen years.
Some 80 miles off California’s central coast, thousands of pearl octopuses have gathered near an extinct underwater volcano, an ideal place for mating and nesting.
During Thursday night's first GOP presidential primary debate, newcomer Vivek Ramaswamy shined. Veterans Chris Christie, Mike Pence, and Nikki Haley held their ground. Frontrunner Donald Trump skipped it all for X.
Japan began releasing nearly 8,000 tons of treated radioactive wastewater into the Pacific Ocean today. It’s the first step in a decades-long plan to clean up the Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Gran Turismo,” “Retribution,” “Golda,” and “Bottoms.”
Evan Kleiman talks about tomato sandwiches, which consist of four or five ingredients: a large and aromatic summer tomato, soft bread that’s white or wheat, mayonnaise, salt and black pepper.
The Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers publicly shared its latest proposal to the Writers Guild of America. But writers don’t seem thrilled.
The economic fallout of Hollywood’s strikes goes beyond the entertainment industry. It’s hitting LA businesses like dry cleaners and prop houses, plus other cities nationwide.
Harvard-trained attorney and former liberal Democrat Kenneth Chesebro turned himself in Wednesday. He faces charges in Georgia for concocting the fake elector scheme to overturn the 2020 presidential election.
Actor Ben McKenzie is trying to convince anyone who will listen that the cryptocurrency world is a giant scam. He makes the case in the new book, “Easy Money.”
Shannon Lee talks about “Warrior,” which follows a martial artist who immigrated to San Francisco in the 1800s. It’s based on a TV pitch penned by her father.
Eight candidates will spar in Milwaukee at the first GOP presidential debate. Donald Trump, the front-runner, will be absent. How could this benefit the other contenders?
Doctors have noted that some dementia patients suddenly take up painting, welding, wood carving — even as their memory-loss symptoms worsen.
Burning Man organizers have traditionally championed sustainability. The festival is now struggling to stay eco-friendly and adapt to climate change.
Preparing for natural disasters goes beyond stocking extra food and water. Secure your important financial documents and insurance plans too.
Today marks President Biden's first visit to Maui since wildfires devastated the city of Lahaina. The island now faces the daunting task of rebuilding.
Former White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows thinks he should be immune from prosecution in Georgia’s 2020 election interference probe, or possibly have his case moved to federal court.
A kiss from a Spanish soccer official threatened to steal the spotlight from the nation’s Women’s World Cup victory. Before this, some players refused to play for the coach.
Jalen Ngonda, an American artist based in London, mixes the sounds of Motown, classic soul, funk and R&B.
Boy George talks about 40 years of Culture Club, his influences, and how he’s handled fame. DJ Valida shares a special playlist inspired by Boy George and Culture Club. And critics review the latest film releases: “Blue Beetle” and “Strays.”
Carla Morrison talks about mental health, taking a long break from music, and rediscovering her songwriting passion. Plus, DJ Ro Wyldeflower Contreras shares a special playlist inspired by Morrison.
Ozomatli’s Ulises Bella and Raul Pacheco discuss the band’s origins, long-standing political activism, and transformation after losing family members. Plus, DJ Raul Campos shares a special playlist inspired by Ozomatli.
Press Play is kicking off its week-long Summer Mixtape, featuring artist interviews and curated sets from KCRW DJs. Today, country rock star Lucinda Williams talks about her new album titled "Stories from a Rock N Roll Heart," continued recovery from a stroke, close relationship with her dad, and more. Plus, DJ Anne Litt shares a special playlist inspired by Williams.
To satisfy hunger while staying cool, turn to cold and savory Korean noodle soups, tomato-centered gazpacho, and fruity granita.
Critics review the latest film releases: “The Last Voyage of the Demeter,” “Jules,” “Medusa Deluxe,” “Men of Deeds,” and “Red, White, & Royal Blue.”
Amid climate change, wildfires eviscerated the Hawaiian town of Lahaina this week. Thousands of people are now displaced.
Open AI, the company behind Chat GPT, is leading artificial intelligence. What is it truly capable of?
After three long pandemic years, employers say recent college graduates lack the hard and soft skills needed for the modern workplace.
Ohioans have rejected a measure that would make it harder to amend the state’s constitution. Abortion access was the subtext, leading up to a vote over the matter this fall.
Amid health and political challenges, Senator Diane Feinstein and her daughter are suing the estate of Feinstein’s late husband over money for health needs.
A new documentary tells the story of Doug Butler, a Vermont dairy farmer who risked losing his home to chase his dream of sled racing dogs in Alaska.
Tesla’s Cybertruck may hit the streets as soon as September. After months of delays, will the vehicle be able to compete in the EV truck market?
Mayor Karen Bass has stayed neutral in this year’s Hollywood and LAUSD strikes. Now she’s involved in union negotiations with local government workers.
UCLA, USC, Colorado, Oregon, Washington, Arizona, Arizona State and Utah are leaving the Pac-12, prompting concerns of whether the conference can survive.
In his latest documentary, director Steve James tells the story of Ted Hall, a physicist who handed atomic bomb plans over to the Soviet Union. His motive? Compassion for the Soviet people.
Some of today’s most influential voices in the food world are home cooks on TikTok, where creators show vulnerability and leave out the heavy editing.
Musicians earn meager streaming residuals and are threatened by AI, but unlike Hollywood actors and writers, they don’t have a union that can fight for them.
NBCUniversal is accused of abusing reality TV stars and crews by covering up sexual violence, exploiting minors, and using alcohol to “manufacture mental instability."
Greta Gerwig’s “Barbie” movie has grossed more than $1 billion at the global box office, making her the only woman director to achieve this on her own — without a male co-director.
A woman has filed a federal lawsuit against Detroit’s police after facial recognition tech linked her to a carjacking. She was eight months pregnant at the time.
A Texas judge struck down parts of that state’s restrictive abortion ban. The ruling is on hold as the state appeals. And a federal appeals court ruled Mississippi’s lifetime voting ban for felons is unconstitutional.
This Friday is a meeting to plan a meeting for the WGA and AMPTP. With writers and actors striking, some film releases are already pushed to next year.
ESPN is still Disney’s cash cow to some degree, but profits are shrinking and opportunities for growth are fewer. Disney is considering selling off a partial stake in ESPN.
The CDC says COVID hospitalizations started to tick up toward the end of July – to around 8,000 a week. How worrisome is this, and when could a booster vaccine roll out?
Critics review the latest film releases: “Meg 2: the Trench,” “Passages,” “The Beasts,” and “Kokomo City.”
No-churn ice cream recipes involve whipping air into the mixture to lighten it before freezing. To achieve smoothness and richness, use high-fat ingredients.
Hollywood studios are rushing to hire AI professionals, despite ongoing strikes and layoffs. What could this mean for the industry’s future?
Donald Trump is simultaneously running for office and facing dozens of criminal charges. It's expensive. His PAC is nearly broke, and he's starting a legal defense fund.
More than 7,500 pedestrians were killed by cars last year, marking a 40-year high, according to a preliminary report from the Governors Highway Safety Association.
In a new memoir, former LA politico Zev Yaroslavsky reflects on his nearly 40 years in local office, first on the City Council, then on the Board of Supervisors.
The new documentary “The Deepest Breath” tells how Stephen Keenan died six years ago while trying to rescue fellow freediver Alessia Zecchini.
Special Counsel Jack Smith today indicted Donald Trump for alleged conspiracy to overturn the 2020 presidential election and his role leading up to the Capitol insurrection.
Congressional Republicans are threatening to torpedo the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). It's one of President George W. Bush's greatest achievements.
The U.S. Women's National Soccer Team is now in the final 16 of this year's World Cup. But the usually dominant squad is looking shakier than most people expected.
Concertgoers have been increasingly throwing objects at performers while they’re on stage. Why? Blame “main character syndrome.”
Madonna’s debut self-titled album turned 40 years old last week. With hits like “Holiday” and “Borderline,” the icon created a subversive image and influenced women artists who came decades later.
The U.S. is potentially losing billions of dollars of productivity amid weeks-long oppressive heat. People can’t work in excessive temperatures, businesses must crank up A/C, and customers are staying home instead.
Last week’s additions to an earlier indictment of former President Trump over the handling of classified documents could undercut his best defense.
Lithium is the principal element needed to produce electric car batteries, and now there’s a gold rush for it in Afghanistan, spurred by the Chinese. This could give the country an edge in producing EVs.
In “Owner of a Lonely Heart,” Beth Nguyen writes about being a refugee, feeling like an imposter as both American and Vietnamese, and being separated from her mom for 11 years.
The ocean current system depicted in the movie “The Day After Tomorrow” could end mid-century, says a new study from the University of Copenhagen. Not everyone agrees on the timing.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Haunted Mansion,” “Talk to Me,” “War Pony,” and “Sympathy for the Devil.”
When it’s too hot to cook, but you want to eat something filling and protein-packed, consider Japanese and Chinese versions of cold tofu: hiyayakko and liangban doufu.
The family of musician Sinéad O’Connor announced today that she has died at age 56. The pop star became a pariah after criticizing the Catholic Church and its secrecy around child abuse. KCRW replays a conversation about the Showtime documentary “Nothing Compares,” that reflects that time in her life.
The Department of Education is investigating Harvard’s legacy admissions. Critics say the practice disproportionately favors kids of white, rich alumni and donors.
How a small-town lawyer is using the RICO Act, a law designed to go after the mafia, to sue oil companies. She says they knew fossil fuels were causing climate change and hid the info.
“Lazy girl job” is a bit of a backlash to “girl boss,” and it speaks to the attitude that many Amerians now have about pursuing more balance between work and life.
Meth patients would receive a gift card when their drug test comes back clean. California plans to roll out its “contingency management” program in 24 counties.
Elon Musk rolled out a complete rebrand of Twitter as “X” — part of his obsession with the letter and his vision for an "everything app" that dates back to his PayPal days.
A new film on PBS’ Frontline, “20 Days In Mariupol,” chronicles Russia's siege of the Ukrainian port city of Mariupol during the early stages of the war.
LA Times Food Editor Daniel Hernandez is out with a comprehensive guide to visiting Mexico City. He talks about the city’s customs, food, and its relationship with tourists and new expats.
With a banjo and an arpa llanera, Larry Bellorín and Joe Troop are fusing traditional Venezuelan and Appalachian folk music.
Israel passed the first part of a deeply divisive overhaul of its judicial system, which limits the Supreme Court’s ability to block government decisions.
Former President Trump faces a possible civil rights charge related to his alleged efforts to overturn the 2020 election. His campaign and criminal defense are increasingly overlapping when it comes to fundraising.
The only other time that both Hollywood actors and writers striked simultaneously was 1960. The industry was relatively new, and TV was the big disruptor.
The diversity chiefs at Netflix, Disney, Warner Bros. Discovery, and the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences lost their positions over a span of 10 days.
The Temecula Valley Unified School Board faces a $1.5 million fine after rejecting state-approved textbooks that mention slain LGBTQ rights icon Harvey Milk. Gov. Newsom vowed to send the books to the district anyway.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Barbie,” “Oppenheimer,” “The Beanie Bubble,” and “They Cloned Tyrone.”
Add these dips to your repertoire: One is based on labne, which is drained and thickened yogurt. The other is nut-based — full of protein and an easy light meal.
With SAG-AFTRA striking, actors aren’t allowed to promote their films. Business is also down for PR firms, agents, set workers, caterers, drivers, and restaurants.
Arizona is facing unprecedented heat and drought, but it leased land and water to Saudi Arabia to grow alfalfa for its dairy cows back home.
Theaters nationwide are struggling with an aging audience, the ongoing economic impact of COVID, and competition from TV streaming platforms.
The film “Oppenheimer” focuses on the man who invented the atomic bomb. It’s based on the book “American Prometheus,” which was almost never published.
As the SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes halt scripted production, the Milken Institute projects the delays could equal $4 billion in damages to Hollywood.
Residuals (pay when a show re-airs) is an issue at the center of the SAG-AFTRA strike. A standard doesn’t exist for how they’re calculated for shows on streaming platforms.
The centrist group “No Labels” signaled on Monday that it could launch a third-party bid for the White House in 2024. Democrats are panicking about the prospect.
Scientists discovered low-frequency gravitational waves that bend and stretch space-time and distort all four dimensions of our universe.
San Francisco’s Anchor markets itself as the oldest craft brewery in America. It has survived earthquakes, fires, prohibition, and depressions. Now it’s closing.
Jeff Goodell, author of “The Heat Will Kill You First,” explains that when your body temperature reaches 105 degrees, proteins that control cell functions begin to break down.
Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor faces ethics questions over her book royalties, and attorneys and activists want to possibly overturn the decades-old murder conviction of the Menendez Brothers.
Hollywood writers, actors, and hotel workers are on strike. Before them, educators and dock workers pushed for higher pay. Why has LA become the center of labor activity?
Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour is expected to gross more than $1 billion, and local hotels and restaurants are seeing rising revenues as fans flock to cities for her concerts.
“We demand respect”: SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher slams Hollywood studios as actors prepare to join writers on the picket lines this Friday.
SAG-AFTRA actor Parisa Fakhri (“SEAL Team” on Paramount+) explains why she voted to strike and what she wants to see in the industry going forward.
The FDA announced it’s making a birth control pill available over the counter. It’s a daily hormonal pill that’s been available by prescription for decades.
Critics discuss the latest film releases: “Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One,” “Final Cut,” “Black Ice,” and “Theater Camp.”
Corn is a seasonal summer treat that you can boil, grill, or eat raw. Slather it with butter and salt, or dress it up for Mexican elotes. Kernels have all kinds of uses once they’re cut off the cob.
Parts of LA are headed for triple-digit temperatures, and not everyone can access A/C or afford it. What can we do — on a policy and individual level — to stay safe?
Cities are adopting LED bulbs for streetlights, billboards, and stadiums. But they create a lot of light pollution, obscuring stars and disrupting our sleep patterns.
An Oklahoma judge has dismissed a reparations lawsuit filed by the last three survivors of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre.
A new podcast digs into the crimes of Ed Buck, the political donor who abused gay men in West Hollywood. The show also delves into LA’s underground world of “party and play.”
Emmy nominations are out — “Succession” leads with 27. Meanwhile, the writers’ strike is in week 10, and the Screen Actors Guild might strike on Thursday.
TV critics discuss hot new shows to look forward to, including “Secret Invasion,” “The Horrors of Dolores Roach,” and “I'm A Virgo.”
Michelin recently added 10 new restaurants to its California Guide, including six in LA. Some of them could earn one to three stars next week.
Michelin awards stars to restaurants all over the world. But there’s not a single-starred restaurant in Mexico or Australia — nor in any country on the African continent.
Meta says its platform Threads already has more than 100 million users. Can it actually replace Twitter? KCRW looks at the promise and perils it faces.
The LA Times dropped daily sports scores to focus on magazine-style profiles and investigations. The Times’ owner sold the San Diego Union-Tribune to a hedge fund known for gutting newspapers.
Nashville artist Kelly McKernan is part of a class-action lawsuit against two AI companies and DeviantArt. They say AI companies violate copyright laws.
Cluster bombs spread small grenades over a large area and can harm civilians. Most countries have banned them. On Sunday, Biden justified this decision to send them to Ukraine.
A federal appeals court decision on homelessness drew blistering dissents from conservative judges, and California’s Supreme Court says employers aren’t responsible for the spread of COVID in employees' families.
Jake Shears is out with a new disco-heavy album, "Last Man Dancing.” It features big-name artists like Kylie Minogue, Big Freedia, and Iggy Pop.
You can cook practically anything in an air fryer, which is a super efficient convection oven. But don’t use it for battered foods, which make a mess.
Violent protests have died down in France after the police killing of 17-year-old Nahel Merzouk. But now the country’s far-right seems to have an opening.
The new “Barbie” movie shows a world map where Asia is an amorphous blob featuring nine dashed lines, which Vietnam claims represents its disputed territory with China.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Joy Ride,” “The YouTube Effect,” “Amanda,” and “WHAM!”
Book critics share their summer reading recommendations, including “All-Night Pharmacy,” “The Bee Sting,” Witness” and “Bridge.”
To counter turmoil at Twitter, Facebook will be entering the micro-blogging space on Wednesday with its service called Threads. Will Twitter devotees switch?
Hundreds of wildfires are raging across Canada. Will California face a similar fate — after a very wet winter that left lots of wildfire fuel?
In the Mojave Desert, the sprawl of solar panels would help the U.S. get off fossil fuels, but it threatens habitats of native plants and animals.
David Bowie’s childhood best friend Geoff MacCormack’s photos of the glam rocker’s early tours are the subject of a new book.
The Supreme Court rejected affirmative action, struck down Biden’s student loan forgiveness plan, and ruled in favor of a woman who wouldn’t design wedding sites for same-sex couples.
Independence Day is Tuesday. For some people, the U.S. flag doesn’t symbolize unity, but instead division, MAGA Republicans, or jingoism.
Go behind the scenes of multi-million dollar weddings with a former luxury wedding planner-turned-Atlantic staff writer.
In spite of billions of dollars spent on housing, services and intense policy attention, homelessness in LA remains stubbornly high.
The Supreme Court struck down the use of affirmative action in college admissions. What will happen now to campuses and prospective students nationwide?
Critics review the latest film releases: “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny,” “Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken,” “Every Body,” and “Prisoner's Daughter.”
Red, white, and blue food displays can be striking, but don’t go overboard with gimmicks. Go for simple caprese salads, blue potato salads, pies, and pavlovas.
Nearly 20% of Americans identify as Hispanic or Latino, according to the U.S. Census. But the category is outdated and based on inaccurate and potentially harmful notions about race, says author Hector Tobar.
Now that Russian President Vladamir Putin has fended off a coup, what will happen with the leftover Wagner Group troops? How could this affect the war in Ukraine?
Robotaxis are being tested in LA and Santa Monica. The CA Public Utilities Commission is expected to vote next month to allow Waymo and Cruise to bring driverless cars to those cities and others.
Ryan Seacrest will be the next host of “Wheel of Fortune.” Pat Sajak, who’s held the role since 1981, announced he’s stepping down after the show’s 41st season.
BenDeLaCreme, a contestant on Hulu’s “Drag Me to Dinner,” talks about the legislative threats facing LGBTQ+ people, and offers support to young people.
Justice Samuel Alito's undisclosed gifts became the subject of a ProPublica investigation. When asked to comment before publication, Alito instead wrote an op-ed in the Wall Street Journal.
The contract between Hollywood studios and actors is expiring at midnight Friday. SAG-AFTRA has received a strike authorization from its members and is now negotiating with studios.
A drought in Mexico is driving a multi-year shortage of red peppers, which is needed to make Sriracha hot sauce. A bottle that used to be about $4 is now $20.
Hundreds of sea lions and dolphins off the coast between Santa Barbara and San Luis Obisbo have died this month, likely due to toxic algae called “red tide.”
A raspy singing voice and steel guitar are essential to the songs of Nat Myers, who was raised in Kentucky by his Korean mom and white American dad. His new album is “Yellow Peril.”
The LA Times received a thumbnail drive smuggled out of LA Men's Central Jail, containing videos showing stabbings, fist fights, suicide attempts, and graphic incidents.
The Supreme Court rejected the congressional map from Louisiana officials that only included one majority-Black district, allowing the state to redraw the map.
Yevgeny Prigozhin, who leads the paramilitary force called the Wagner Group, led an open rebellion against President Putin’s military leadership over the weekend.
Tinned fish is an exploration of geography, tradition, ocean bounty, sustainability, and artful design. Here are different ways to eat them at home and at restaurants.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Asteroid City,” “No Hard Feelings,” “Nobody's Hero,” and “Desperate Souls, Dark City, and the Legend of Midnight Cowboy.”
Huntington Beach is among the cities nationwide that are considering or outright banning books about racism and sexuality. How do the bans tie into our historic fear of reading?
With new USDA approval, two California companies will be able to start selling their lab-grown chicken. It could mitigate environmental impacts, but will consumers buy it?
Electric bills would be tied to not only how much electricity people use, but how much money households make, according to California Assembly Bill No. 205. It’s drawing praise and criticism.
Since the overturning of Roe v. Wade a year ago, more than a dozen states have practically banned abortions, while other states enacted laws to protect the health procedure.
Why does America, the world’s richest country, have so many people in poverty? Sociologist Matthew Desmond says it’s a choice — in his new book “Poverty, By America.”
Alex Morgan and Megan Rapinoe will compete in the Women’s World Cup, but the team is missing other key players who are injured. Of the 23 players, 14 have never been to the World Cup.
Alex Borstein’s new comedy special is a mix of musical theater and storytelling. She talks about its origins and reflects on “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.”
Donald Trump’s trial — over his handling of classified papers — is set for mid-August. Hunter Biden reached a deal with the feds to plead guilty to misdemeanor tax charges.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott last week bused more than 40 migrants to LA. Mayor Karen Bass called the move a political stunt. KCRW learns about the conditions they faced on the long trip.
In the need for profits, Reddit unveiled a plan to start charging some third-party developers for accessing its data. Volunteer moderators protested, shutting down thousands of forums.
Tariq Nasheed, founder of the Hidden History Museum, says he crowdfunded over $1 million in a month to show Black history from a grassroots perspective.
Gray, dreary weather continues to dampen the mood of usually sunny SoCal. El Niño has returned. And fires in Canada are still burning out of control.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Elemental,” “Blue Jean,” “The Blackening,” and “The Flash.”
This Pride Month and beyond, check out LA businesses owned by people who identify as LGBTQ+ and are actively engaged with their communities.
Curren Price, known as a city council member who fights for low-income South LA communities, was charged with embezzlement, perjury, and conflict of interest.
Former President Donald Trump pleaded not guilty to 37 federal charges on Tuesday in court. He’s campaigning as a victim of political persecution.
Six out of seven major quakes along the San Andreas Fault over the last 1000 years occurred when the Salton Sea’s predecessor, Lake Cahuilla, was filled.
Sam Irby’s fourth book of essays, “Quietly Hostile,” includes stories about being the perfect house party guest, incontinence on airplanes, growing up on food stamps, and more.
Composer Danny Elfman talks about his decades-long career, collaborations with Tim Burton, battle against hearing loss, and return to the stage at Coachella in 2022.
The Labor Department reports that price pressures are easing. But Americans are still paying more for necessities. Will this stave off another interest rate hike?
Nikola Jokic just led the Denver Nuggets to their first NBA championship, and Novak Djokovic won his record 23rd tennis Grand Slam.
Some scientific research suggests eating ice cream could protect people from diseases like diabetes. Is this too good to be true?
Elton John’s “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” came out 50 years ago, in late 1973, showing that glam rock was an escape from daily life, especially for men.
Donald Trump will appear in a Miami federal court on Tuesday, facing 37 felony counts over his handling of classified federal documents after he left the presidency.
Sixteen plaintiffs — ages 5 to 22 — are suing Montana lawmakers, claiming the state is violating their constitutional right to a clean environment and isn’t addressing climate change.
More people are preferring to buy secondhand goods — through Goodwill, online platforms, and more — because it’s cheaper and better for the environment.
The Los Angeles Times joins a slate of news and media companies, including Spotify, Buzzfeed News, and NPR, that have laid off employees in recent months.
Rising to fame in the 1980s, Keith Haring’s graffiti-inspired drawings became synonymous with HIV/AIDS activism. His legacy is the focus of a new exhibition at The Broad Museum.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Transformers: Rise of the Beasts,” “The Angry Black Girl and Her Monster,” “Lynch/Oz,” and “Flamin' Hot.”
At the height of World War II, Mexican American youth in LA were targeted in the Zoot Suit Riots. Many prominent Black Angelenos came to their defense.
In California, an estimated 1 in 5 community college applications are scams, amounting to hundreds of thousands of "ghost students” who are trying to steal financial aid.
Hundreds gathered to protest and support the Glendale Unified School District’s decision to make June LGBTQ+ Pride month. Fighting erupted. Three were arrested.
The book “Monsters: A Fan’s Dilemma” explores questions about separating art from artists who’ve done horrible acts, such as Michael Jackson, Roman Polanski, Woody Allen, and others.
Summer is Hollywood Bowl season. Whether you’re in a box or more affordable seat, there’s an overflow of good food to bring for dinner before the show.
Patricia Arquette talks about “High Desert,” a twisted comedy about a former drug dealer who struggles to remain sober and cope with her mom’s death.
Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie announced his presidential candidacy today, and former Vice President Mike Pence is expected to follow on Wednesday. On the Democratic side, anti-vaccine conspiracy theorist Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is polling at 20%.
Southwest and American Airlines’ pilots unions voted last month in favor of a strike authorization, as negotiations over a new contract are ongoing. Meanwhile, demand is high for travel this summer.
On Monday, Apple unveiled its first major new product in roughly a decade. Its Vision Pro is a virtual and augmented reality headset that looks like fancy ski goggles — priced at $3500.
AI is reviving voices of deceased musicians and creating new tracks by contemporary artists. The tech could mean job loss, especially for people in technical roles such as mixing and mastering.
The DGA reached a possible deal with Hollywood studios over the weekend. How could this affect the striking film/TV writers?
South American migrants were bussed from Texas to New Mexico, then flown to Sacramento. California’s attorney general is evaluating criminal or civil action against people who sent those migrants.
State lawmakers want to force big tech companies like Meta to pay for news articles that appear on their sites. Assemblymember Buffy Wicks sponsored a bill that would make this happen.
How serious is the threat of artificial intelligence replacing Hollywood writers? It’s a point of contention in the current Writers Guild strike.
Senator Bernie Sanders says he’ll vote no on the debt ceiling deal. It passed the House on Wednesday with bipartisan support and is up for debate in the Senate.
Nimbu pani, balanced between sweet and sour, uses optional spices and a funky black salt. Brazilian lemonade has creamy luxuriousness from sweetened condensed milk.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse,” “Past Lives,” “The Boogeyman,” and “Shooting Stars.”
Celine Song’s film “Past Lives” is about what happens when a girl from Korea emigrates and leaves behind her childhood sweetheart, and they reconnect decades later.
State Farm, the largest home insurance provider in the state, will no longer issue new policies. It’s a sign that climate change is upending the economics of housing.
With congestion pricing, the city would charge you for driving on busy roads or highways, maybe always or just during peak hours. LA Metro is expected to unveil details this summer.
Casey DeSantis is among the few people her husband Ron takes political advice from. That makes her, according to some close to the couple, both his greatest asset and weakness.
Automakers want to kill AM radio. Ford had plans to remove AM from all new vehicles starting next year, but backtracked after getting pressure from lawmakers.
Georgia Pritchett says the joy of writing “Succession” is seeing the characters develop, often in disturbing ways. She breaks down the series finale.
Rufus Wainwright talks about his new album “Folkocracy,” his past operas, and his upcoming Walt Disney Concert Hall show.
Big Supreme Court opinions usually drop in June, and there are several major cases left, including on voting rights, redistricting, and affirmative action.
Prominent artificial intelligence leaders are warning that the technology puts humans at risk of extinction, on par with nuclear war and pandemics.
On this Memorial Day, Press Play rebroadcasts some favorite interviews from the year.
In South India, a couple adopts an abandoned baby elephant named Raghu, showing how humans and animals can thrive together.
Author Alex Prud’homme explores the appetites of more than two dozen U.S. presidents in “Dinner with the President: Food, Politics, and a History of Breaking Bread at the White House.”
The documentary “Sometimes When We Touch” explores the rise of soft rock during the 1970s and 1980s.
Loquat trees seem to be everywhere in SoCal this season. Eat the egg-shaped, apricot-colored fruits fresh off trees, or use them to make jams, syrups, chutney, and more.
House Speaker Kevin McCarthy says debt ceiling talks are continuing with President Biden. They went better on Wednesday, but lawmakers remain “far apart” on some issues.
Tina Turner died on May 24 at age 83. KCRW replays an interview about a documentary that covers her relationship with Ike Turner, who physically and emotionally abused her for years.
Critics review the latest film releases: “The Little Mermaid,” “You Hurt My Feelings,” “About My Father,” and “The Wrath of Becky.”
The LAPD will soon get a $280,000 robot dog that’s meant to help officers avoid dangerous and potentially violent encounters. Activists are raising privacy concerns.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis launches his long-expected presidential campaign on Twitter alongside Elon Musk. The move signals a shift in the conservative media landscape.
British Thomas J. Price makes massive sculptures of ordinary people. They’re part of his first major U.S. exhibition at Hauser & Wirth’s Downtown LA gallery.
LA restaurateur and author Bricia Lopez says her new Mexican-style grilling cookbook “Asada” is filled with “recipes that embody Los Angeles.”
The Dodgers reinvited the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence to their Pride Night celebration, after disinviting them over conservative backlash.
KCRW looks at the leveling of the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut. Russia claims to control the once lively city, but Ukraine denies it.
As California prepares for an EV future, KCRW looks at Norway, where nearly roughly 80% of all cars sold are battery-powered.
“Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie” covers the actor’s childhood in Canada, movie and TV stardom, and struggle with Parkinson's disease.
This year, Missy Elliott will become the first woman rapper inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. KCRW looks at her influence from the 2000s to today.
Sen. Dianne Feinstein’s return to Washington D.C. was expected to bring relief to Democrats, but so far it’s intensified longstanding concerns about her health.
A Supreme Court decision over copyright and artistic expression splits two liberal justices as they trade barbs in court opinions.
After nearly a year of debate, California and neighboring states have agreed on a temporary plan to avert disaster on the Colorado River. Will it be enough?
The Lakers’ chances to win a 17th NBA championship are now slim to none. But basketball in LA won’t stop thanks to major WNBA storylines.
Families of terrorist attack victims sued Twitter and Google for allowing ISIS to use their platforms. But the Supreme Court sided with tech companies.
In docuseries “Menendez + Menudo: Boys Betrayed,” a former member of the 80s boy band alleges he was raped by a Jose Menendez, a top executive at RCA Records.
For lobster rolls, hot or cold, you want meat from the knuckle and claw. Don’t completely rely on the tail because its toughness doesn’t fare well in a roll.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Fast X,” “Master Gardener,” “Sanctuary,” and “White Men Can't Jump.”
The California Constitution would be amended to guarantee housing as a fundamental right — if a new bill passes the state legislature and is signed into law.
In her new dessert cookbook “Mayumu,” author Abi Balingit whips up confections inspired by her Filipino heritage and California upbringing.
The U.S. Treasury warns that without a debt limit increase, the government will run out of money around June 1. What would this look like globally?
In Half Moon Bay, gender equity and experience are at the heart of a fight over the future of the famed Mavericks big wave surf competition.
Millennials and Generation Z are eating more snacks daily compared to other generations. They want convenient fuel without the effort of cooking.
Three tech leaders testified at a Senate hearing on artificial intelligence. The panel included Sam Altman, who runs the nonprofit that developed ChatGPT.
The Frontline documentary “Clarence and Ginni Thomas: Politics, Power and the Supreme Court” looks at how the two became a power couple in GOP politics.
KCRW remembers Gloria Molina, the first Latina on the LA City Council, Board of Supervisors, and State Assembly.
Congresswoman Maxine Waters is being sued by former campaign opponent Joe Collins, who claims she defamed him. Will this case affect other political races?
In terms of wealth, millennials are on par with Baby Boomers and Gen X, according to the new book “Generations” by San Diego State University Psychology Professor Jean Twenge.
Paramount announced last week that it would cut MTV News due to budget concerns. Former correspondent Tabitha Soren talks about the program’s 36-year legacy.
Pavlova features a soft-centered crunchy meringue that plays with whipped cream and fresh fruit. This time of year, berries are the star.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Book Club: The Next Chapter,” “Blackberry,” “Monica,” and “L'immensità.”
More than three years after the U.S. declared a public health emergency, KCRW looks at how COVID-19 has changed our lives.
With Title 42 set to expire tonight, San Diego braces for a flood of asylum seekers. Tens of thousands of migrants are already gathered along the border with Mexico.
New York Congressman George Santos has pleaded not guilty to 13 counts of financial crimes. He remains on the job for now, but faces decades in prison.
A state corrections board is calling for the closure of two LA County juvenile halls amid staffing shortages and reports of drug use and increased violence.
The story of how one woman brought down KKK leader D.C. Stephenson, one of the most powerful men in America, is the subject of Timothy Egan’s latest book.
A young black bear has moved in. His name is BB-12, and he’s been spotted around Malibu Creek State Park and in Point Mugu State Park.
Women should be receiving regular mammograms starting at age 40, according to new draft guidance from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force.
Americans have conflicting views on anti-trans policies being pushed in Republican states, says a new Washington Post-KFF poll. KCRW looks at the nuances.
The killer in the mass shooting at a Dallas-area mall was Latino, and according to reports, may have held white supremacist beliefs. Is that common?
More than a dozen universities have closed in Japan due to its declining population. Could the U.S. be in store for the same fate, as college enrollment slips here?
In Netflix’s “Beef,” two strangers get into a dispute in a parking lot, and the random encounter devolves into catfishing, kidnapping, and more.
California’s Reparations Task Force recommends billions in payments and a formal apology to descendants of slavery.
A New York jury is set to begin deliberating a civil case against Donald Trump. E Jean Carroll is suing the former president for allegedly raping her in 1996.
The Writers Guild and AMPTP aren’t close to a deal, but the studios agree that showrunners must cross picket lines to do the non-writing parts of their jobs.
Miles Davis changed modern music when he released “Bitches Brew” 53 years ago. Today, a new project called “London Brew” pays homage to his legacy.
Tonight at Crypto.com Arena, the Lakers will play the Golden State Warriors in Game 4 of the NBA Western Conference Semifinals.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Guardians of the Galaxy, Vol. 3,” “One Ranger,” “What's Love Got to Do with It,” and “The Eight Mountains.”
After plotting the January 6 insurrection, four members of the Proud Boys were convicted of seditious conspiracy. What’s next for far-right groups?
Eighth graders’ understanding of U.S. history and civics is declining, according to data out this week. The results may signal a democracy in trouble.
Mattel recently unveiled the first Barbie with Down Syndrome. The doll is part of the fashionista collection that’s designed to be more inclusive.
On May 6, Charles III will be crowned king — in Britain’s first coronation in 70 years. The religious ceremony will be filled with symbolic rituals.
Loneliness can be as dangerous as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, says the U.S. surgeon general. It can also cause other health issues like heart disease, cancer, and accelerated aging.
The controversial immigration policy known as Title 42 ends next week. What will happen to the thousands of migrants seeking asylum in U.S.?
The most important thing to know about making paella is that the size of pan dictates the amount of ingredients. Here’s a recipe, plus list of local restaurants that serve it.
A massive collection of fine jewelry — which has a controversial connection to Nazi Germany — is up for bidding at Christie’s auction house.
Arnold Lobel published his first book about the amphibian friends in 1970, and now his characters have a TV animated series. KCRW talks to Lobel’s kids, who work on the show.
More than 11,000 film and TV writers hit the picket lines today. Their contract expired at midnight. WGA and AMPTP did not agree on new terms.
In the 1950s-1960s, city officials in Palm Springs pushed out some 2,000 Black and Latino residents from their homes in an area called Section 14. Those families want reparations.
Climate change could lead to hundreds more home runs in professional baseball, estimates a new study from Dartmouth. What will this mean for fans?
Indian mystic Sadhguru is a spiritual adviser to Hollywood celebrities and the ultra-rich. He gained U.S. fame partly thanks to social media. What’s his appeal?
With “Thinking Out Loud,” Ed Sheeran is accused of copying the chord progression in Marvin Gaye’s “Let’s Get It On.” A forensic musicologist breaks down the trial.
The presidents met at the White House today, sending a message to China that the U.S.-Philippines relationship is strong, despite the Marcos’ corrupt family history.
Chief Justice John Roberts won’t testify at a congressional hearing on Supreme Court ethics rules. Plus North Carolina’s state Supreme Court recently overturned a ruling it made on gerrymandering.
A proper cherry pie is made with sour, not sweet, cherries. You want a flaky, buttery crust and a nicely thickened filling. Evan Kleiman offers a recipe to try.
In a lawsuit, Disney is accusing Florida Governor Ron DeSantis of launching a “relentless campaign to weaponize government power” against the company.
A Russian private military group with close ties to President Vladimir Putin has been expanding its influence in Africa for years. Now it’s likely arming Sudan’s paramilitary.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret,” “Big George Foreman,” “Sisu,” “Polite Society.”
Vicki Lawrence got her start on “The Carol Burnett Show” more than 50 years ago. She talks about her friendship with the lead actress and reflects on past sketches.
Despite a temporary ceasefire agreement, fighting continues between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary group the Rapid Support Forces. Hundreds are dead.
The W.H.O. says there’s a "high risk of biological hazard" in Khartoum following the lab’s capture. Experts say it’s time to improve global biosecurity.
More than a dozen Google employees are concerned about the tech giant’s rush to release the AI feature Bard. What are their fears?
In “Egg,” author Lizzie Stark explores the history of the egg, from Gold Rush-era gang wars in San Francisco to vaccine development and chickens in space.
Top Chef season 10 winner Kristen Kish’s new National Geographic series takes viewers to restaurants in some of the planet’s most remote corners.
Musician and activist Harry Belafonte, 96, died today from congestive heart failure at his New York home. KCRW’s Elvis Mitchell gives a remembrance.
If Biden is reelected, he will be 86 years old at the end of his second term. How much does brain health matter? A geriatric psychiatrist weighs in.
Prosecutors dropped criminal charges against actor Alec Baldwin in the shooting case on the “Rust” film set. New evidence suggests the prop gun was modified.
Willie Nelson is performing at the Hollywood Bowl this weekend to celebrate his 90th birthday. KCRW’s Jeremy Sole shares some of his favorite tracks from the singer.
Fox News is parting ways with host Tucker Carlson. This comes after Fox’s parent company settled a lawsuit against Dominion Voting Systems for nearly $787 million.
The California Supreme Court declined to block Gov. Newsom’s CARE Court, a plan that could force people with severe mental illness into treatment.
Jury selection starts Tuesday in E. Jean Carol’s battery and defamation lawsuit against Donald Trump. The writer accused him of raping her almost 30 years ago.
With the growing popularity of Ozempic, Wegovy, and other drugs that can help people lose weight, the diet industry is facing an existential crisis.
Carrots, the sunny root vegetables, add crunch and sweetness. Try these recipes: Turkish carrot yogurt meze and Tunisian carrot salad.
Biden’s nominee for labor secretary, Julie Su, faced a grilling from Senate Republicans on Thursday over the gig worker bill AB5 plus pandemic unemployment fraud.
Former LA Mayor Richard Riordan, 92, died this week. KCRW looks at his leadership amid the Northridge earthquake and the LAPD Rampart corruption scandal.
The Boy Scouts of America will start to pay $2.4 billion to more than 80,000 sexual abuse survivors. The BSA emerged from bankruptcy on Wednesday.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Carmen,” “Little Richard: I Am Everything,” “Chevalier,” and “Guy Ritchie’s The Covenant.”
Mayor Karen Bass’ first city budget includes $1.9 billion for the LAPD. This comes as the agency faces a hiring and retention crisis.
Fox settled its defamation suit with Dominion Voting Systems on Tuesday for $787.5 million. It could affect Fox’s coverage and the broader media landscape.
Extreme restrictions on abortion access are putting GOP figures in a difficult political bind. The majority of Americans still support access to the health procedure.
For decades, studies suggested moderate drinking might have some health benefits, like red wine boosting heart health. Now a new analysis debunks those myths.
Researchers have discovered a new ecosystem growing inside the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, which is about twice the size of Texas.
Hollywood writers are demanding better pay, and thousands could walk off the job in two weeks. If a strike happens, viewers can expect more reality TV content.
Rafael Casal’s film-turned-TV series “Blindspotting” is set in Oakland, and uses humor, music, and dance to show what life is like when a loved one is incarcerated.
Higher demand for adult ADHD treatment has fueled a broader shortage of meds. Psychiatrists are still figuring out how to assess and treat the disorder for adults.
Promoters of the long-debunked theory that vaccines can cause autism have found powerful allies in MAGA conspiracy theory groups.
Rock and roll pioneer Little Richard’s legacy is the focus of a new documentary, which explores rock music’s roots in the queer, Black American experience.
The fatal stabbing of Cash App Founder Bob Lee in San Francisco reignited fears that the city is becoming more dangerous. Crime data shows a different picture.
Rupert Murdoch, 92, is in his final act, according to Vanity Fair’s Gabriel Sherman. His performance has been erratic, leaving Fox News and his family in disarray.
The Supreme Court temporarily upheld the FDA's approval of the abortion drug mifepristone, and Justice Clarence Thomas still faces questions over financial disclosures.
Atayef (qatayef) asafiri, a pastry often eaten during Ramadan, is filled with thickened cream, and the ends are dipped in nuts. Here’s how to make them or buy them in LA.
California Senator Dianne Feinstein, who is 89 and was diagnosed with shingles in February, is facing calls to resign. What could happen to her seat if she doesn’t?
Opening arguments start on Monday in the biggest media defamation trial in decades: Dominion Voting Systems' $1.6 billion defamation suit against Fox News.
Critics review the latest films: “Mafia Mamma,” “Suzume,” “Beau is Afraid” and “Renfield.”
A new book by photojournalist and Orange County native Gabriella Angotti-Jones explores what it's like to be a Black female surfer in sometimes hostile waters.
With states unable to agree on a plan to address water shortages on the Colorado River, the federal government has laid out three options to save the river.
At least a dozen winter storms have brought nearly 60 feet of snow to the Sierra Nevada ski town of Mammoth Lakes. KCRW talks to its mayor.
Before Roe v. Wade, the LAPD employed a special unit to investigate illegal abortion providers. The LA Times’ Brittny Mejia uncovered their history.
Thirty years ago, a different Super Mario Bros. adaptation hit theaters, and it flopped. Now it’s getting a second life with a new generation of fans.
The White House is launching a $5 billion program to research the next generation of COVID vaccines and what it’ll take to bring them to market.
Many Gen Zers are choosing milk alternatives over cow milk. The dairy industry is looking for ways to change that, including marketing milk as a sports drink.
Pentagon officials are scrambling to contain the fallout after a trove of leaked documents about the war in Ukraine started spreading across social media.
The PBS Frontline series “America and the Taliban” looks at four U.S. administrations’ worth of missteps, missed opportunities, and American hubris in the war in Afghanistan.
California is paying hefty fines for its handling of suicides at state prisons. A federal judge says corrections officials have long failed to fully implement court-ordered suicide prevention measures.
Two federal judges handed down conflicting rulings on Friday over the abortion drug mifepristone. It could set up a Supreme Court showdown.
Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas didn’t disclose lavish gifts from a billionaire donor. The LA Times' David Savage flagged their relationship two decades ago.
How long does it take before you change the station or hit “skip” if you don’t like a song? Seconds — according to researchers at New York University.
A pivotal moment just happened for the Roy family. James Poniewozik, chief TV critic for the New York Times, unpacks it. Warning: major spoilers ahead.
Half a million people left California between April 2020 and July 2022, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Four of them explain what drove them out.
California Governor Gavin Newsom’s tour of red states suggests presidential ambitions. What does he really gain from harping on GOP governors like Ron DeSantis?
Sutherland Springs mass shooting victims reached a $144 million settlement with the government. But they feel neglected compared to victims of other attacks.
Critics review the latest film releases: “The Super Mario Bros. Movie,” “Air,” “Showing Up,” “How To Blow Up a Pipeline,” and “Paint.”
Artists, explorers, and scientists are recording audio of Antarctica sea ice melting, hoping the sounds help people sympathize with the environmental crisis.
After months of heavy storms, California’s mountains now have some of the largest snowpacks on record. But how fast could the snow melt and produce flooding?
After Janet Protasiewicz gets sworn in as a Wisconsin Supreme Court justice, the liberal minority there will become a majority. It could have implications for the 2024 presidential election.
The arrest of American journalist Evan Gershkovich in Russia sparked outrage in the U.S. Moscow detained the Wall Street Journal reporter on espionage charges.
Gefilte fish is a mixture of ground fish, onion and carrot, bound with egg and matzo meal, and seasoned with optional sugar, salt and white pepper. It’s traditionally cooked in a rich fish broth.
With Netflix losing some of its glow and reports of massive layoffs at Warner Bros. Discovery and Disney, is anyone making money at streaming?
LA County Supervisor Hilda Solis withdrew a motion on Monday that would’ve declared LA County jails a “humanitarian crisis.” The plan drew backlash from law enforcement and criminal justice advocates.
House Speaker Kevin McCarthy is set to meet with Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing-wen on Wednesday at the Ronald Reagan Library. And China isn’t happy about it.
Many Black evangelicals have a complicated relationship with the church, and their white and politically conservative fellow congregants who are drawn to Christian nationalism.
An LA-based company, which owns mixed-martial arts league UFC, is now acquiring World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). What will the new company look like?
Donald Trump is now the first American president to face criminal charges. He is set to surrender in Manhattan on Tuesday. What political consequences will he face?
The judge in Dominion Voting Systems’ $1.6 billion defamation case against Fox News says that lawsuit will go to trial. But this judge has suggested he disagrees with many of Fox’s arguments.
LA City Councilmember Kevin de León survived a recall attempt. He’s refused to step down, and now will likely remain in office until the end of his term.
“Louder Than A Riot” explores racism and sexism against Black women in hip-hop culture. The impetus: the trial of rapper Tory Lanez, who was found guilty of shooting Megan Thee Stallion.
Musician and composer Ryuichi Sakamoto passed away last week. Though he’s considered an early pioneer of electronic music, he fused together many genres.
Some of LA’s most long-standing restaurants include The Original Pantry Cafe, El Cholo, Canter’s Deli, and more. They’re part of the book “L.A.’s Landmark Restaurants.”
There’s been so much flooding that Tulare Lake has re-emerged. It was once the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi, and was mostly dry for more than a century.
Thousands die annually while waiting for a heart, kidney, or liver transplant. The U.S. government now says it wants to overhaul the nation’s organ transplant system.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves,” “Rye Lane,” “A Thousand and One,” and “The Five Devils.”
In 1984, a software engineer in Soviet Russia created Tetris for fun. The story of how it became a worldwide success is the subject of a new Apple TV+ movie.
An AR-15-style rifle has been used in most of the last decade’s mass shootings, including at a Nashville school this week. How did it become so popular?
The FDA approved Narcan for sale in supermarkets, gas stations, online stores, and more. The drug can prevent overdose deaths. Will stores agree to sell it?
The most exciting ticket in sports now is women’s college basketball. Undefeated South Carolina takes on Iowa’s dynamic Caitlin Clark. For men, San Diego State is in the Final Four.
“Storming Caesars Palace” is a new PBS documentary that follows a group of poor women who fought back against the racist stereotype of welfare mothers.
Dozens of people died in a fire at a migrant detention facility in Mexico. President López Obrador says migrants started it, but many details remain unclear.
Starting April 1, there will be a one-time sales tax on properties worth over $5 million. To avoid the charge, Angelenos are rushing to sell their mansions.
To celebrate spring, Evan Kleiman shares how to make risotto with the triad of spring vegetables — asparagus, leeks and peas — and another one with strawberries.
Violinist Randall Goosby rose to fame when he was 13 years old. Now he’s working to make classical music more inviting to other kids of color.
Hundreds of thousands of Israeli protestors succeeded in stopping Prime Minister Netanyahu’s imminent overhaul of Israel’s judicial system. But for how long?
As we wait for an indictment of former President Trump in the Stormy Daniels case, Loyola Law Professor Jessica Levinson untangles the looming legal clouds.
The pill naltrexone is already approved for severe alcohol use disorder, but a new study suggests it could also help reduce the occasional binge.
TikTok CEO Shou Chew testified before a House Committee looking at the social media platform’s data security and relationship with the Chinese government.
William Kentridge is best known for his charcoal illustrations and unique animation style, where he draws a picture, films it, then erases and redraws.
Critics review the latest film releases: “John Wick: Chapter 4,” “A Good Person,” “Tori and Lokita,” and “The Lost King.”
A new book called “The Black Guy Dies First: Black Horror Cinema From Fodder To Oscar” traces 50 years of Black characters and culture in scary movies.
What pies could constitute a full dinner? Consider a savory one with swiss chard for the main course, and a sweet one with rhubarb and raspberries for dessert.
The Sklar Brothers talk about Japan topping the U.S. in Tuesday night's World Baseball Classic, and March Madness.
The Federal Reserve raised interest rates, while juggling banking turmoil and ongoing inflation. What does this say about the health of the U.S. economy?
The LAUSD strike has started. KCRW hears from a special ed assistant teacher who says she makes $37,000/year. She says her classroom has too many students and not enough resources.
This tax season, personal finance columnist Michelle Singletary explains how to claim adult dependents, get deductions for classroom expenses, and find an accountant.
A Fox News producer is suing the network, alleging its lawyers coerced her to give misleading testimony in the legal battle over Fox's coverage of Dominion Voting after the 2020 election.
The band Blood, Sweat, & Tears says the State Department blackmailed them into touring communist Yugoslavia, Romania, and Poland in 1970. A new film tells the story.
Gov. Newsom wants to transform the state’s oldest prison — San Quentin — into a rehabilitation center inspired by prisons in Scandinavian countries like Norway.
Earth is approaching catastrophic levels of global warming and irreversible damage within the next decade, but there’s still a little time to avoid calamity, says the U.N.
COVID-19 may be linked to raccoon dogs that were illegally being sold at a seafood market in Wuhan, China. That’s according to a team of international researchers.
Wyoming recently became the first state to ban the pills used for medication abortions. Drugs like mifepristone and misoprostol are the most common way to end a pregnancy.
The Persian New Year is a time to celebrate spring and fresh beginnings. Nassir Nassirzadeh, a first-generation Iranian American and KCRW DJ, shares songs for the holiday.
SEIU Local 99 — the union representing LAUSD staff like bus drivers, janitors, cafeteria workers, and teacher aides — could be on the verge of a three-day strike.
Sunday is the 20th anniversary of the start of the Iraq War. Along with the government con to sell it to the public, the war launched a still-current age of grift.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Shazam! Fury of the Gods,” “Inside,” “La Civil,” and “Wildflower.
Wouldn’t it be lovely to cultivate a pot or two of easy-to-grow plants just for the visual pleasure of their flowers, then snip a few to enhance a familiar dish at the table?
Emmy, Grammy, and Tony Award-winning actress Lily Tomlin reflects on her biggest roles and female representation in Hollywood.
In Texas today, a federal judge heard a case that could undo the Food and Drug Administration’s decades-old approval of the abortion pill mifepristone.
LA Metro’s trains and buses are facing a huge increase in crime and drug overdose deaths. Fewer commuters are using public transportation now.
Gustavo Dudamel will leave for the NY Philharmonic in three years. One of his greatest legacies in LA is spreading youth music education. Who might replace him?
Morgan Cooper’s drama “Bel-Air” has the same premise as the 1990s sitcom, but differs in format and characters’ journeys, and relies heavily on music.
A California state appeals court has upheld Proposition 22, which defines workers for companies like Uber, Lyft, and Postmates as independent contractors.
The U.S. Justice Department is reportedly investigating the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank. Its failure is the latest problem hitting the tech industry.
Lawmakers have already introduced more than 400 bills targeting LBGTQ rights this year, according to the ACLU.
The Food and Drug Administration is trying to crack down on food labels and more clearly define what actually is healthy, particularly when it comes to added sugar.
President Joe Biden says the American financial system is safe, as regulators rushed to secure two regional banks that failed in the last week.
KCRW gets the latest in Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s case that looks into whether Donald Trump broke campaign finance laws and falsified business records.
Thee Sinseers is keeping Chicano soul — a sound defined by dreamy, sunny, and romantic ballads — alive. Its lead singer Joey Quiñones talks about the band’s inspirations.
California will not renew a $54 million contract with Walgreens after the chain announced it would not dispense mifepristone in at least 20 states.
The U.S. Department of Energy announced an accidental lab leak was the most likely origin of COVID-19, but added a caveat of having “low confidence.”
Critics review the latest film releases: “Scream VI,” “Fugue,” “Champions,” “Pacifiction.”
Michael Schulman’s new book, “Oscar Wars,” looks at some shocking moments and controversies in the Academy Awards’ 95-year history.
LA Mayor Karen Bass talks about her first three months on the job, including her work to address homeless and housing, plus safety and policing on public transit.
The FICO scores of credit card users in the South were lower than anywhere else in the nation, researchers found when reviewing more than 200 million credit cards.
Former President Jimmy Carter is 98 and now in hospice care. Press Play reflects on what may be the biggest accomplishment of his presidency: the 1978 Camp David Accords.
Irish stew — made with lamb, not beef — is a perfect low and slow braise for a still nippy spring evening, and it’s an economical way to feed the family.
Another atmospheric river storm system is expected to hit California this week. It’s the latest in a series of storms that have pummeled the Golden State.
The drug Ozempic has become an appetite suppressant for some rich and well-connected people. It's changing the definition of thinness and what it takes to achieve it.
"The Martha Mitchell Effect" shows how the wife of President Nixon's campaign manager blew the whistle on Watergate and helped bring down his presidency.
Now 16 years after the 2007 writers’ strike, friction remains over how much writers should earn when their work appears in non-traditional formats.
Emergency crews are still trying to free Californians who have been trapped by record snowfall. One resident shares his story of fleeing home.
The U.S. Supreme Court may throw out an election law case from North Carolina that would give state politicians unprecedented power.
In “The Elephant Whisperers,” a South Indian couple adopts an abandoned baby elephant named Raghu, showing how humans and animals can thrive together.
This year’s Latin Grammys will take place outside the U.S. for the first time — in Spain. However, some people are upset because, well, Spain is not in Latin America.
“How Do You Measure a Year?” is a window into the intimate moments between a parent a child and their love for each other.
Drugmaker Eli Lilly announced on Wednesday that it’ll slash the price of insulin. Why does diabetes continue to increase around the globe?
As the GOP anticipates Ron DeSantis announcing a 2024 presidential run, KCRW assesses what his campaign could look like, and whether his brand of politics will play as well nationally.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Creed III,” “Palm Trees and Powerlines,” “Blueblack,” and “Operation Fortune.”
The Oscar-nominated documentary short “Stranger at the Gate” focuses on a military veteran who planned to bomb a mosque, but ultimately became its president as he converted to Islam.
Tens of thousands are protesting an overhaul of Mexico’s election laws that critics say would cripple its independent election watchdog and threaten its democracy.
In LA, road rage is the worst it’s been in a decade and has become more violent, according to number crunching from the news outlet Crosstown.
KCRW’s beloved annual event will be on April 30 at UCLA, where bakers, pie aficionados, and families can compete, taste, shop, learn, and hang out.
The Oscar-nominated documentary short "Haulout" follows a Russian scientist who tracks the lives of walruses, a species increasingly struggling amid climate change.
“Party Down” — about a catering company staffed by aspiring actors, writers, and lost souls — has been rebooted.
If semiconductor chip manufacturers want new federal subsidies, they’ll have to meet certain requirements like ensuring affordable child care for their employees.
In summer, California’s power grids are strained by heat and fires, but they’re vulnerable to winter storms too. The problem will likely grow with climate change.
Two California lawmakers want to ban the use of police dogs to arrest or apprehend suspects. A historian shares the history of dogs in law enforcement.
American officials are increasingly concerned that China will supply Russia with weapons as the war in Ukraine enters its second year.
The Supreme Court will soon hear oral arguments in a pair of challenges to Biden’s student loan forgiveness plan. Nearly half-a-trillion dollars worth of debt relief is at stake.
This year’s Oscar nominees for Best Original Song include works by Lady Gaga, Rihanna, Diane Warren, and more. Press Play gets reviews from Noah Gittell, a freelance film critic.
Researchers are honing in on why some people develop long COVID, which includes symptoms such as lingering fatigue, brain fog, and shortness of breath.
Rare weather is fueling an unusual storm in Southern California. Parts of LA and Ventura County are under a blizzard warning Friday and Saturday.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Cocaine Bear,” “The Quiet Girl,” “Jesus Revolution,” “Die Hart: The Movie,” and “We Have a Ghost.”
Support women-owned hospitality businesses during the Regarding Her Festival, which begins March 1. There’s a mix of dinners, daytime events, and classes that highlight foodie collaborations.
In “Eat and Flourish: How Food Supports Emotional Well-Being,” author Mary Beth Albright explores the relationship between food and mood.
Today the Supreme Court is hearing a case that asks whether social media companies can be sued for allowing terrorist groups to put dangerous content on their platforms.
The Southern Baptist Convention has expelled Southern California’s Saddleback Church in response to its decision to ordain women pastors.
Following the overturning of Roe. v. Wade, some Jews and Muslims are now fighting in court, saying their religious freedom to have an abortion is compromised.
Author Alex Prud’homme explores the appetites of more than two dozen U.S. presidents in “Dinner with the President: Food, Politics, and a History of Breaking Bread at the White House.”
For decades, tech companies have not been held liable for the content they host. That’s due to Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, which the Supreme Court is now reexamining.
UCLA researchers found that some pills bought from Mexican pharmacies contain life-threatening ingredients such as fentanyl, heroin, and methamphetamine.
Bishop David O’Connell was killed at his home in Hacienda Heights this weekend. He served the Catholic Church for 45 years and was known as a peacemaker.
On this Presidents’ Day, Press Play rebroadcasts some of our favorite interviews.
Stand-up comedian Atsuko Okatsuka went viral on TikTok for doing the drop challenge with her grandmother, and afterward, she took her comedy to HBO.
The film “Good Night Oppy” tells the story of Opportunity, a NASA rover that exceeded expectations, and explored and analyzed the planet’s surface for nearly 15 years.
Musician Allison Russell wants to heal the world — and herself — in her latest album “Outside Child,” which reflects on a decade of childhood abuse.
East Palestine, Ohio, is still reeling after a freight train — that was carrying hazardous materials — got derailed.
The body parts of a gay porn actor were found in a West Hollywood dumpster in 1990. His case stumped detectives for more than 30 years.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Of An Age,” “Winnie-the-Pooh: Blood and Honey,” and “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania.”
Senator Dianne Feinstein is retiring at the end of her term and will not seek reelection. She’s led a three decade-plus career in California politics.
Governor Gavin Newsom’s given the green light to hold more water in reservoirs, marking a major victory for farmers. Environments say it will harm salmon and other fish.
“City of Tents: Veterans Row” looks at the birth and disbandment of the large homeless encampment in Brentwood along San Vicente Boulevard. Press Play airs episode one.
Need TV recommendations for the little ones at home? Check out “Bluey,” “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood,” and “Pinecone and Pony.”
Nearly 60% of teen girls report feeling persistent sadness or hopelessness – the highest rate seen in the last decade, according to the CDC.
Five years ago today, 17 people died in a mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in South Florida. Some of those survivors founded the March for Our Lives movement.
Speed dating is regaining popularity with younger generations fed up with swiping to find love. Even some dating apps are hosting in-person speed dating events.
KCRW DJs Francesca Harding, Travis Holcombe, Tyler Boudreaux, and Jeremy Sole share their favorite love songs.
The United Nations is predicting the death toll in Turkey and Syria to keep rising after the recent 7.8 magnitude earthquake. More than 36,000 have passed away.
A federal judge in Washington D.C. says the U.S. Constitution may still protect the right to an abortion, despite the Supreme Court’s decision overturning Roe v. Wade.
Four objects flying over the U.S. and Canada have been shot down. The first was a Chinese spy balloon. Officials haven’t said what the three latest objects are.
Russia is potentially planning a large-scale offensive on Ukraine. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is traveling all over Europe to drum up support from political leaders.
Randy and Jason Sklar give a sneak preview of Super Bowl LVII, where the Philadelphia Eagles take on the Kansas City Chiefs.
In the YouTube series and now cookbook “Don’t Panic Pantry,” chef Noah Galuten and his wife show people how to make simple and healthy meals at home using mostly pantry staples.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Somebody I Used to Know,” “Sharper,” “The Blue Caftan,” and “Magic Mike's Last Dance.”
LeBron James is now the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. He entered the league at age 18 and will probably play into his 40s, says writer Dave Schilling.
Saudi Arabia faced pushback for its human rights record, but now that seems to be waning, as the country once again tries to make inroads into U.S. entertainment.
The American Academy of Pediatrics is recommending earlier and more aggressive interventions for kids who are severely overweight. The move is prompting serious debate.
Adrian Miller, a James Beard Award-winning food historian and author of “Black Smoke,” talks about how African Americans shaped one U.S. barbeque.
KCRW music critic and DJ Eric J. Lawrence died on Tuesday at age 52. Press Play revisits his conversations about 1991 rock, Bob Dylan, and Dr. John.
California is susceptible to the earthquakes that recently devastated Turkey and Syria. Seismologist Lucy Jones gives tips on preparing.
Mount Baldy in the San Gabriel Mountains is a popular destination for Angelenos and tourists. But it’s also deadly, even for experienced hikers, especially in the winter.
During President Joe Biden’s annual State of the Union address tonight, he’s expected to defend his infrastructure and manufacturing record, and reassure Americans on their economic worries.
The new Netflix docuseries “African Queens” explores the lives of some of the most powerful women in the continent’s history. It debuts on February 15.
For the Super Bowl, try making your own umami-rich, layered Philly cheesesteak sandwich on a griddle at home for the ultimate customized flavor.
After World War II, the Soviet Union officially banned rock, jazz, and blues music. But people made bootleg versions of that music — recorded onto thin sheets of X-Ray film.
Two devastating earthquakes rocked the border region between Turkey and Syria this morning. The recovery will be particularly difficult in war-torn Syria.
Abortion opponents celebrated the overturning of Roe v. Wade, and now they’re looking for other ways to undo federal and state regulations around the ability to terminate a pregnancy.
Trillions of gallons of water are in an underground aquifer in the Mojave Desert. Private companies are trying to tap and harvest it, but some question the ethics.
Governor Gavin Newsom unveiled a new concealed carry bill this week, banning guns in public places. It’s a response to the latest California mass shootings.
For months, seven states that rely on the Colorado River have been debating how to reduce their water use — because the river is nearing critically-low levels.
Other states, including Massachusetts and New York, are taking a page out of the California playbook and are working to improve and protect abortion access.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Knock at the Cabin,” “80 for Brady,” “The Amazing Maurice,” and “Pamela, A Love Story.”
Making chocolate soufflé is not difficult. There are just a few techniques that are easy to master. Even if yours doesn’t rise, it will still have all the attributes that make you swoon.
The College Board has revised some of its new AP African American studies curriculum following criticism from Governor Ron DeSantis and other conservatives.
After taking over Twitter, Elon Musk now faces a roughly $300 million interest payment on the company’s debt.
“The Quiet Epidemic” examines the spread of Lyme disease and the medical establishment’s reluctance to acknowledge its seriousness.
For years in San Francisco, wetsuit-wearing members of a swim club have been shamed by those who don’t wear them. Why?
A comet with a green tail will be the most visible in tonight's sky. It last passed through our solar system 50,000 years ago.
The government has asked California and six other states to reach an agreement on drastic cuts for water use, or it would make the decision itself. Today is the deadline.
Starting May 11, the U.S. government will no longer fully pay for COVID testing, treatment, and vaccines for people who don’t have health insurance.
Since July, a new law has required the California Justice Department to investigate incidents where police fatally shoot someone. But in some cases, that’s not happening.
A new Frontline documentary explores why American presidents have declined to aggressively confront Vladimir Putin as he tried to rebuild the Soviet Union.
Following the violent beating and death of Tyre Nichols, retired LAPD Sergeant Cheryl Dorsey looks at the Memphis police department and what went wrong.
Is there a benefit to watching videos of police brutality? Do they galvanize people to fight for change or do they numb viewers to trauma?
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis could face a lawsuit over the state's decision to reject a new Advanced Placement class on African American studies.
The Academy is investigating the promotional campaign behind Andrea Riseborough’s Oscar nomination for her role in “To Leslie.”
The new documentary “Sometimes When We Touch” explores the rise of soft rock during the 1970s and 1980s.
Lisa Marie’s sudden death, at age 54, has more women thinking about heart health. The CDC says heart disease is now the leading cause of death for women in the U.S.
Adam Schiff and Katie Porter are running for Dianne Feinstein’s Senate seat, and Barbara Lee is expected to officially join the race too.
Critics review the latest films: “Infinity Pool,” “The Man in the Basement,” You People,” and “Close.”
Make a porridge from semolina with milk and parmesan, and add an egg for richness. It’s the first step in making gnocchi alla Romana.
Amid the drama in the Kevin McCarthy speakership fight, Rep. Katie Porter sat cooly reading Mark Manson’s “The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck.” KCRW speaks to the book’s author.
KCRW remembers each of the 11 people who died during the mass shooting in Monterey Park after the city’s Lunar New Year celebration. All of them were in their 50s, 60s, and 70s.
The U.S. Justice Department, California, and seven other states are suing Google over its digital advertising business. At the center of the lawsuits is the company’s online power.
California’s recent storms have damaged hundreds, if not thousands, of cars. Many of them could end up for sale again, and sometimes the damage is not obvious.
Paramount’s drama series “Yellowstone” has gotten so popular that it’s inspiring city slickers to sport Stetsons and sheep-lined flannel.
Deadly mass shootings occurred in Half Moon Bay and Oakland on Monday, following Saturday’s massacre in Monterey Park. What roles do California laws and everyday residents play in these incidents?
A lawsuit claims the Getty family has avoided paying up to $300 million in California taxes. The story reveals how ultra rich people’s tactics widen the U.S. wealth gap.
“Everything Everywhere All At Once” leads the 2023 Oscar nominations. It joins “The Banshees of Inisherin,” “Women Talking,” “Top Gun: Maverick,” and others for Best Picture.
TV networks and streaming platforms are bringing back series like “Night Court” and “That ‘70s Show.” What’s driving the reboot craze?
Monterey Park, the site of a mass shooting on Saturday after the city’s annual Lunar New Year ended, is home to Asian immigrants and mom-and-pop businesses.
The anti-abortion movement has struggled to form the same unity and cohesion it once had. Activists in favor of abortion access have gained their own victories.
Investigators have found no conclusive evidence of who leaked the draft of summer’s Dobbs decision, or how it ended up in the hands of the Politico reporters who published it.
The Sundance Film Festival is back in-person for the first time since the COVID pandemic. KCRW talks about the latest movies and directors making a splash.
John Cale has built a massive discography of avant-garde rock music. At 80, he has just released “Mercy,” his 17th solo album and first new music in a decade.
Scammers are posing as recruiters and hiring managers, holding interviews, and making offers. Prospective tech workers are the main victims now, but everyone is vulnerable.
California companies must include salary ranges in their job postings under a new state law. But some companies appear to have found a loophole.
Alec Baldwin and armorer Hannah Gutierrez Reed face involuntary manslaughter charges stemming from the fatal shooting on the “Rust” movie set.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Alice, Darling,” “Women Talking,” “Missing,” and “When You Finish Saving the World.”
Nights are crisp now, so we need something to eat on repeat that’s warming and filling, but not heavy nor hard to make. Try Rhode Island clear chowder.
In the film “Women Talking,” Mennonite women were drugged and raped by men in their community, and they’re debating whether to fight or leave.
Marjorie Taylor Greene and Paul Gosar were previously kicked off House committees for making violent or extreme statements. Now they’re expected to serve on the House Oversight Committee.
Over the weekend, people in Israel were protesting Benjamin Netanyahu’s plan to overhaul the country’s judicial system. He formed the most right-wing government in the country’s history.
LAPD Chief Michel Moore is facing a tough fight to earn a second term. It comes after three men died following recent encounters with police.
Egg prices have jumped roughly 60% over the last year because tens of millions of birds have been infected by a severe outbreak of the avian flu.
California is assessing the damage from weeks of severe storms. How many residents have flood insurance, and how do you get it?
White House and Department of Justice officials found extra documents from Joe Biden’s Delaware home on the same day that Merrick Garland appointed a special counsel to investigate.
House Republicans want to look into Hunter Biden’s past business dealings and how he ended up on the board of a Ukrainian oil company while his father was vice president.
The new Showtime documentary “Nothing Compares” follows Irish Singer-songwriter Sinéad O’Connor’s rise to fame and eventual downfall.
Attorney General Merrick Garland has announced he’s appointing a special counsel to look into the handling of classified documents tied to President Joe Biden.
Guitarist Jeff Beck died on Tuesday at age 78. Known best for his work with London band The Yardbirds, he was inducted twice into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Skinamarink,” “Plane,” “Broker,” and “No Bears.”
What should you do with leftover holiday panettone? Make a rich French toast or a bread pudding with luxurious chocolate.
Author Samantha Cole explains how a Playboy centerfold became the standard for image processing, porn sites show innate human problems, and A.I. is developing faster than people can grasp.
California is projected to see a $22 billion budget deficit this year, so Gov. Gavin Newsom is proposing big cuts to the state’s climate and transportation programs.
The FAA delayed some 7,000 flights this morning after it experienced a tech glitch. The incident comes after tens of thousands were stranded over the holidays.
New York Congresswoman Elise Stefanik campaigned as a moderate millennial, but now she’s gone full Trump, with nods to QAnon and racist conspiracy theories.
Brian Tyree Henry breaks down his lead role in “Causeway,” the grief and healing process, and his approach to acting.
As consecutive storms hit California, at least 16 people are dead and tens of thousands are under evacuation orders, including all of Montecito.
Comedy can be a useful way to understand and maybe cope with Earth’s bleak future, says Kasha Patel, who writes the Washington Post’s “Hidden Planet” column.
Biden recently made the first visit by a U.S. president to Mexico in nearly 10 years, as the two countries struggle to tackle immigration and the smuggling of fentanyl into the U.S.
Folk singer-songwriter Judy Collins talks about her new album, addiction, and her friendship with Leonard Cohen, which helped shape her musical career.
LA officials are searching for unhoused residents in areas at risk of flooding and are warning them of the coming storms.
Next week in San Francisco, a trial is supposed to get underway to settle a dispute between Tesla shareholders and the company’s CEO. Elon Musk argues he can’t get a fair court case there.
Protestors in Brazil stormed the country's government buildings over false claims that the presidential election was rigged and are calling for the reinstatement of Jair Bolsonaro.
The South Pasadena City Council is working to humanely relocate its resident peacocks. As it turns out, other LA communities are dealing with the birds.
Several storms are rolling across California, bringing intense wind and flooding. They’ll replenish but not totally fill reservoirs due to long-standing drought.
California Congressman Kevin McCarthy has lost eight bids for House speaker in three days. The gridlock has thrown Congress into disarray.
Liberal cities in blue states are the epicenters of the country's growing homelessness crisis because not enough affordable housing is being built, says one Atlantic staff writer.
Critics review the latest film releases: “M3gan,” “Alcarràs,” “Mars One,” and “A Man Called Otto.”
Can happiness come from life’s biggest sorrows? Poet Ross Gay explores the idea in his new book called “Inciting Joy.”
People can now get mifepristone, the drug that induces abortion, from big chain pharmacies. If you’re in a state that bans the health procedure, you can get the drugs delivered via USPS.
Twitter is reinstating the account of Andrew Tate, dubbed by some as the king of toxic masculinity. He was arrested recently on suspicion of human trafficking, rape, and forming a criminal group.
California is getting slammed with storms. Is it possible to efficiently capture the rainwater for future use?
From late fall through January, try olio nuovo, as it is called in Italian, or new oil. The fleeting seasonal product is bottled and sold immediately after pressing in the late fall or early winter.
Unrealistic norms and expectations surrounding parenting, exacerbated by the COVID pandemic, are destroying moms. That’s the argument in the book “Screaming On The Inside.”
Freshman Republican Congressman George Santos is owning up to making “mistakes” as he faces accusations of fabricating parts of his life.
NFL player Damar Hamlin remains in critical condition after he collapsed during a match on Monday. The incident raises new questions about player safety.
Looking for a new show to binge this January? Consider “The Last of Us,” “Poker Face,” “Shrinking,” and more.
This year, scientists used lasers to harness solar power. NASA released stunning images from the James Webb Telescope and moved an asteroid off its course.
Danielle Ponder’s music reflects her time defending poor clients in court. She became a lawyer after her brother was imprisoned for robbery. After five years in law, she’s making music full-time.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Babylon,” “Living,” “Wildcat,” and “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish.”
Schools nationwide are duking it out for a spot in the College Football National Championship game, which will be played in January at SoFi Stadium.
Coronavirus is spreading rapidly in China, just weeks after the country abruptly ended its zero-COVID policy. Now with restrictions gone, hospitals are overflowing.
The enigmatic, LA-born TV psychic Miss Cleo is the subject of a new HBO documentary. She was the face of an infomercial empire known as the Psychic Readers Network.
Silvana Estrada, a 24-year-old Mexican artist, often sings about heartbreak and loneliness. She shares her musical influences, and explains why she deliberately raises her voice during the emotional climax of a song.
Filmmaker Paul Feig (“Bridesmaids”) became a mixologist during the pandemic, and he’s out with a new book called “Cocktail Time!: The Ultimate Guide to Grown-Up Fun.”
Burbank Congressman Adam Schiff discusses potential criminal charges against Donald Trump, plus his relationship with Kevin McCarthy, and his serious consideration of a Senate run.
British artist David Hockney has a new exhibition at the LA Louver gallery in Venice. It includes rich paintings of nature, all created on an iPad.
“Kindred,” Octavia Butler’s novel-turned-TV series, follows a young Black woman who lives in LA in the present but is hurtled back to Antebellum Maryland seemingly at random moments.
Non-boozy drinks are becoming more popular this holiday season. Here are recommendations from Austin Hennelly of the bar Kato and Jillian Barkley of the shop Soft Spirits.
Lionel Messi guided Argentina to a nail-biter win in the FIFA World Cup final. It’s helped cement his legacy as one of the greatest players in soccer history.
The January 6 committee’s final televised session is today. It's also expected to make a criminal referral of former President Donald Trump to the Justice Department.
Fentanyl overdose is now the leading cause of death for Americans ages 18-49, and the federal government failed to see it coming. That’s according to a big investigative series by the Washington Post.
When musician Fantastic Negrito researched his family history during the pandemic, he discovered a 300-year-old interracial love story and siblings he didn’t know about.
Chaos is bleeding into Elon Musk’s main business following his takeover of Twitter. Tesla’s stock price is down and advertisers are fleeing the platform.
KCRW revisits its conversation with Wajahat Ali about his memoir “Go Back to Where You Came From: And Other Helpful Recommendations on How to Become American.”
Critics review the latest film releases: “Avatar: The Way of Water” and “EO.”
“Jeanne Dielman, 23, quai du Commerce, 1080 Bruxelles” has been named the greatest film of all-time by Sight and Sound magazine.
Lensa AI allows users to upload selfies and transforms them into fantastical portraits. Some women say it's returning sexualized versions of their photos.
Thousands of migrants are trying to cross the border in El Paso. The surge comes as Title 42, the pandemic-era immigration policy, expires next week.
Women in Iran weren’t allowed to attend soccer games until 2019 — after decades of protests. That history is the subject of the podcast “Pink Card.”
It’s tamale season in LA. Variations are available from Mexico, Central America, and South America, each with their own character.
Scientists at the National Ignition Facility say they’ve achieved fusion. Theoretically, it can generate lots of energy without nuclear waste.
Researchers and journalists are unionizing. They’re part of a growing organizing movement over the last decade.
“Fleishman is in Trouble” is a book-turned-TV series starring Jesse Eisenberg and Claire Danes as a newly divorced couple.
Film critic Alonso Duralde talks about the latest holiday movies, including “Falling for Christmas” and “The Holiday Sitter.”
Karen Bass was sworn in as LA’s first female mayor on Sunday. Today, she kept her campaign promise of declaring a state of emergency on homelessness.
Next week, the January 6 committee will release its final report on the Capitol insurrection. Today, a federal judge ended the special master’s review of sensitive materials the FBI seized from Mar-a-Lago.
Morocco is the first African country to make it to the final four in the World Cup. They play France on Wednesday. Tuesday’s match – Argentina versus Croatia – rounds out the semifinals.
KCRW DJs’ favorite holiday songs are by Los Lobos, Prince, Bing Crosby, the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers, Randy Travis, and more.
China has lifted several of its pandemic health restrictions.That includes allowing asymptomatic or mild COVID patients to quarantine at home.
Critics review the latest film releases: “The Whale,” “Empire of Light,” “Emancipation,” “One Fine Morning,” and “Pinocchio.”
Gift-giving season is a great way to remind yourself of the bounty of great products and people in Southern California. Evan Kleiman offers ideas for the people on your list.
Scientist Temple Grandin credits her success to how she thinks: in pictures. Her new book is “Visual Thinking: The Hidden Gifts of People Who Think in Pictures, Patterns, and Abstractions.”
The U.S. Supreme Court heard hours of oral arguments in a case that will decide whether state courts can review legislative maps and overturn local election laws.
Raphael Warnock beat former football star Herschel Walker in the Georgia runoff election, giving Democrats a clear majority in the U.S. Senate.
Academy Award winner Julia Reichert, 76, died last week after a battle with cancer. The documentarian dedicated her career to filming the working class.
Stand-up comedian Atsuko Okatsuka went viral on TikTok for doing the drop challenge with her grandmother. Now she’s making her HBO comedy special debut.
Governor Gavin Newsom has convened a special legislative session in Sacramento to address record-high gas prices and what he describes as price gouging.
Colder temperatures reduce the body’s ability to fight viruses. That’s according to a new study in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology.
How grad students make money can be complex and piecemeal — a maze of funding that’s harder to navigate in an expensive place like LA or New York.
The Oxford English Dictionary has declared “goblin mode” as its word of the year. It’s the first time a term has been chosen by the public.
After superstar Johnny Cash attempted to take his own life, he reconnected with the faith of his youth, which guided him until he died. His spiritual journey is the subject of a new documentary.
Iran’s morality police has been subject to months of protests after the death of Mahsa Amini in its custody. What happens next?
The Supreme Court today heard arguments in a case involving a Colorado web designer who doesn't want to work with same-sex couples.
A new film, “All the Beauty and the Bloodshed,” tells the twin story of Nan Goldin’s activism against the Sackler family and her personal journey as an artist.
Russian missile attacks have prompted widespread power outages in Ukraine. They’ve left millions of locals without heat, electricity, and water, just as the coldest months arrive.
Chinese officials are signaling that the country may start to move away from its strict “zero-COVID” policy. The news follows weeks of quarantine-related protests.
FTX founder and former CEO Sam Bankman-Fried is apologetic, but evasive, in the latest interview about the downfall of his cryptocurrency company.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Violent Night,” “Return to Seoul,” “Spoiler Alert,” “Four Samosas.”
Pomegranates are much more than fodder for holiday table displays. Once you know how to open them up and reveal the seeds, they are as satisfying a snack as popcorn.
In her new memoir “Uphill,” journalist Jemele Hill recounts her high-profile departure from ESPN, and growing up poor in Detroit to a single mother.
Congressman Hakeem Jeffries has been elected as the next Democratic leader in the U.S. House. He'll be the first Black man to lead a major party in Congress.
Traits and attributes that animals find appealing may not make sense in a warming world, such as a lion’s dark and bushy mane or a peacock’s picturesque plumage.
“Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery” made $13 million during its limited one-week run in theaters. Netflix plans to stream the film starting December 23.
The University of California has reached a tentative deal with striking workers on higher wages and cost-of-living increases. But other demands have yet to be met.
Nancy Pelosi says she’ll bring a bill to the House floor on Wednesday to force a deal to prevent a massive railroad worker strike. Kevin McCarthy criticized the Biden administration for letting it come to this.
Haiti is unraveling amid escalating gang violence and a growing humanitarian crisis. The Biden administration is considering sending a multinational armed force there.
Audible’s “Fade” follows a Latina novelist who lands her first job in a Hollywood writers’ room, then learns she’s a diversity hire, and her only office friend is the janitor.
Oscar Award-winning singer, dancer, and actress Irene Cara died at age 63 on November 25. She’s best known for her songs “Fame” and “Flashdance.”
Actress Constance Wu’s new memoir, “Making a Scene,” is about growing up in Virginia and transitioning from theater, to TV, to film.
In a few weeks, COVID will likely rise nationwide due to holiday travel and gatherings. Teams are working on a universal COVID vaccine, but funding is in short supply.
The U.S. Supreme Court struck down a New York law that required people to have a good reason to carry a gun in public. Could that impact strict gun laws in other states?
Actress Brooke Smith (“Grey’s Anatomy”) was a rebellious teenager in the 1980s, hanging out with punk rock kids and photographing the scene in New York. Her new book is “Sunday Matinee.”
An American journalist says he was detained by security at a FIFA World Cup match in Qatar. He was wearing a shirt with a soccer ball surrounded by a rainbow.
This year, many Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday deals have already started. What’s going on, and are they any good?
Some of the country’s top law schools are pulling out of U.S. News and World Report’s rankings, which critics say penalize schools.
The winners of this year’s KCRW Radio Race: Team Phantom Thread, comprised of Nelson Aguilar and Chuck Hua. In their story called “Liftoff,” Nelson shared his lifelong secret.
Critics review new film releases: “Strange World,” “Devotion,” “Nanny,” and “Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery.”
A new documentary tells the story of Opportunity, a NASA rover that exceeded expectations, and explored and analyzed the planet’s surface for nearly 15 years.
As home cooks know, there will likely be hiccups and frustration when putting together a masterful Thanksgiving spread. Good Food host Evan Kleiman shares last-minute hacks.
On Saturday, a gunman burst into LGBTQ bar Club Q and killed five people and injured 17 others. The suspect has a history with law enforcement, including a 2021 bomb threat.
A shooting at Colorado Springs bar Club Q left five people dead. Two worked at the establishment and another was a mother to an 11-year-old daughter.
Disney’s board of directors has ousted Bob Chapek. Former CEO and Executive Chairman Bob Iger will replace him.
Taylor Swift fans are devastated after major glitches crashed the Ticketmaster sale for her upcoming tour. The company is now under intense scrutiny.
Another famous U.S. Supreme Court ruling was leaked in 2014. It was written by Justice Samuel Alito.
Disgraced FTX leader Sam Bankman-Fried is considered one of the founders of the effective altruism movement. Has it ever been successful?
This Thanksgiving, hear again from chefs and cookbook authors who spoke with Press Play. Try their recipes for spicy and sour tomatoes; Calabasas squash, tomatoes, and queso fresco; chocolate gingerbread. And for the main dish: tacos!
As Congresswoman Karen Bass is officially announced as LA’s next mayor, the homelessness crisis here keeps growing, and Angelenos are losing trust in City Hall.
Billions will watch the World Cup as kicks off on Sunday. But this year’s event is plagued with scandals and allegations of human rights abuses.
Critics review the latest film releases: “The Menu,” “She Said,” “The Inspection,” “Bones and All.”
William Kentridge is best known for his charcoal illustrations and unique animation style, where he draws a picture, films it, makes changes by erasing and redrawing. Thirty years of his work is now on view at the Broad Museum.
Donald Trump is running for president for the third time. His Tuesday announcement is widely seen as an attempt to shield himself from criminal and civil investigations.
After the U.S. withdrew from Afghanistan in 2021, the government fell to the Taliban. “Retrograde” documents Afghan forces’ last battles against the Taliban.
Jennifer Siebel Newsom delivered graphic testimony this week in Harvey Weinstein’s trial. She detailed an alleged 2005 sexual assault.
If you’re going to bake a pie this Thanksgiving, try making the dough with cookies, nuts, or coconut.
Magician Penn Jillette’s new novel “Random” is about a son who inherits his father’s crippling gambling debt and must repay it if he wants to live.
The U.S. is seeing a wave of job cuts at some of the biggest tech companies, including Amazon, Meta, Twitter, Salesforce, Stripe, Redfin, and Lyft.
The U.S. is shifting towards electric cars, and some gas stations are preparing now by building charging ports. But the transition is financially tough.
Nearly 50,000 academic workers from the University of California are on strike. They want more than double their salaries, plus subsidies for housing, child care, and transportation.
Which party will control the House? It could be affected by a Supreme Court decision to let stand legislative maps that were racially discriminatory.
A new podcast explores the death of rising art star Ana Mendieta and sculptor Carl Andre, her then-husband who was accused and acquitted of her murder.
Musician Allison Russell wants to heal the world — and herself — in her latest album “Outside Child,” which reflects on a decade of childhood abuse.
Daniel Radcliffe plays Weird Al Yankovic in a new parody biopic. “Weird: The Al Yankovic Story” is filled with events that did and did not happen.
Ron DeSantis won reelection as Florida’s governor, but his supporters want him to pursue the Republican nomination for president in two years. One obstacle could be Donald Trump.
Critics review the latest film releases: “The Fabelmans,” “Sam & Kate,” and “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.”
A turkey shortage is happening now because of the avian flu. That means you’ll pay more for the traditional Thanksgiving bird. So maybe you want to skip it?
Voters in California, Vermont, and Michigan enshrined the right to an abortion in their state constitutions. Kentucky residents said no to amending their constitution to deny abortion protections.
Many of LA’s midterm races are still too close to call. That includes the mayoral face-off between Rep. Karen Bass and Rick Caruso. Results won’t be known for days.
Historically, most Latinos voted for Democrats, and they still do. But in recent years, Republicans started cutting into those margins. Which party are they more likely to support going forward?
Thousands of people of Japanese ancestry were incarcerated during World War II. A new exhibit in Little Tokyo lists each name in a 1000-page book.
Some of LA’s famous recreation spots were used as detainment sites during World War II. That includes a now-shuttered golf course in Tujunga.
Under Elon Musk’s new leadership, Twitter has been delisted from the New York Stock Exchange and has introduced new changes. Some users are leaving the platform in response.
Californians could decide which party controls the U.S. House, due to key races in Orange and LA Counties. That includes the fight between Jimmy Gomez and David Kim, plus Michelle Steel and Jay Chen.
Many races in the 2022 midterm elections might not be called for days. It could lead to another replay of the 2020 election, where the Republican lead vanished in several states.
CVS announced it will lower the price of its store-brand menstrual products and pay the sales tax on them in more than a dozen states.
How do mental health diagnoses shape the identities of people experiencing them? Author Rachel Aviv explores this in “Strangers to Ourselves.”
Ahead of Tuesday’s midterm elections, Georgia and Pennsylvania have lawsuits over who is allowed to vote.
The fight has gotten intense for Sheila Kuehl’s LA County supervisor seat. Democrats Bob Hertzberg and Lindsey Horvath have accused the other of being closet Republicans.
The modern Republican Party was created in the image of Newt Gingrich, Pat Buchanan, and Rush Limbaugh, says Vanderbilt University’s Nicole Hemmer, author of “Partisans.”
The Sonoran Desert Toad’s glands secrete a potentially deadly hallucinogenic, but national park visitors have been seeking out these creatures to lick them.
Actor Tim Robbins has been a champion of people who are incarcerated for decades, by bringing theater to prisons and juvenile detention centers.
Right-wing politicians are gaining power in countries such as Israel, Sweden, and Italy.
Plane ticket prices are expected to reach an all-time high this holiday season. On average, domestic flights during Thanksgiving cost about $468.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Bardo, False Chronicle of a Handful of Truths,” “Next Exit,” “Something in the Dirt”, “Causeway,” and “Weird: The Al Yankovic Story.”
Hua Hsu and his college friend Ken were both Asian American but opposites. A few years after they met, Ken died in a carjacking. Their bond is the focus of Hsu’s new memoir.
Orange County health officials have declared a state of emergency over a serious rise in respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which disproportionately affects kids.
Prisons have long relied on inmate labor, usually paying them very little or not at all. Next week, voters in five states will decide whether to prohibit that practice.
This fall, find satisfaction with the crunch of what is in season. Try a radish salad with a soft, flavorful cheese for balance. And add crisp, sweet apples to the original Waldorf salad.
Rep. Karen Bass is running against Rick Caruso in the race for LA mayor. She talks about how she’d alleviate crime and homelessness, and why Black and Brown relations are not broken.
Many LA County residents could be inundated by at least a foot of flood water — should a once-in-a-100-year storm hit the area, according to UCI researchers.
With shows like “East New York” and “The Rookie: Feds,” Hollywood is telling a new narrative about law enforcement following George Floyd’s murder.
All 10 spots on the Billboard Hot 100 are claimed by songs from Taylor Swift’s new album “Midnights.” It’s the first time that no men are topping the charts.
State Senator Scot Wiener has received thousands of death threats over the last few years. He says there’s little security for the majority of Congress members.
The U.S. Supreme Court is hearing oral arguments in two big affirmative action cases, including one from the University of North Carolina, where plaintiffs allege the school discriminated against Asian and white applicants.
The new opera “Omar” tells the real story of Omar ibn Said, a man who was taken in 1807 from what’s now Senegal, and was enslaved in North and South Carolina.
Looking for a good scary movie to watch this Halloween? Check out “The Innocents,” “Hellbender,” “Sissy,” “Jennifer’s Body,” “The Stranger,” and “Tales From the Hood.”
Costumes on “The Masked Singer” include a pink dragon in a wedding dress, a colorful hummingbird with a giant prosthetic head, and more. Tim Chappel shares his design process.
I bonds keep pace with inflation, and right now they’re paying at 9.62%. The money must be parked for a while, and it could be a good option to pay for your kids’ college.
Congressional progressives are calling on the Biden administration to negotiate an end to the Russia-Ukraine war. What could that look like?
Critics review the latest film releases: “Armageddon Time,” “All That Breathes,” “Call Jane,” and “Please Baby Please.”
Protests continue in Iran and worldwide after Mahsa Amini died in police custody. Her death coincides with a massive fire that reportedly killed eight people.
Mike Davis, 76, died on Tuesday. In his book “City of Quartz,” he accused politicians of working with real estate developers to the detriment of the city, the working class, and people of color.
The race for Pennsylvania’s next senator could decide which party controls the U.S. Senate. Candidates John Fetterman and Dr. Mehmet Oz met for their first and only debate on Tuesday.
In “Liberation Day,” many of George Saunders’ new short stories take place in a dystopian future, which he describes as the perfect setting to explore new ideas.
This Halloween, here’s a short list of favorite local candy makers and chocolatiers that for most of the year, you might avoid in a quest for health.
Artist Ye has been spouting conspiracy theories and antisemitic rants. But that’s galvanized people who believe in goodness, love, and understanding, says LA Rabbi Steve Lede
More than 100,000 Americans died of a drug overdose in 2021, according to the CDC. The new book “Raising Lazarus” follows the people saving the lives of those struggling with drug addiction.
A new PBS film looks at how people are finding a voice and income stream on TikTok, but also harassment and censorship. Its content moderation lacks transparency, says director Shalini Kantayya.
Emmy winner Leslie Jordan, 67, died on Monday in a car crash in Hollywood, after a reported medical emergency. He was best known for his role in “Will and Grace.”
Math scores for fourth and eighth graders have faced their steepest decline ever recorded, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Reading scores also dropped, though not as severely.
Republicans only need to win a handful of seats during the midterms to take back the majority in Congress. Polling shows the party is gaining momentum across the U.S.
A U.S. federal appeals court last week halted President Biden’s loan forgiveness plan from taking effect, while the Supreme Court blocked a separate challenge to the program.
iLe is known for celebrating her home of Puerto Rico — with emotional ballads, Latin folk songs, and protest music. Her third solo album, “Nacarile,” reflects on power, trauma and strength.
Kevin de León says he will not step down from LA City Council following the release of racist audio from him and his colleagues there. He wants to prove to his constituents that he deserves to keep his job, says León Krauze, who recently interviewed de León.
Former U.S. military leaders are helping anti-democratic countries with a history of human rights abuses, such as Saudi Arabia. That’s according to a new Washington Post investigation.
Critics review new film releases: “Black Adam,” “Aftersun,” “The Banshees of Inisherin,” “Ticket to Paradise,” and “Wendell & Wild.”
Spice up a bowl of comforting popcorn with everything bagel seasoning, chai masala, clarified butter, or pumpkin spice for the ultimate flavor bomb.
Eli Timoner, who founded Air Florida, had a picture-perfect life, then suffered a stroke at age 53. His health deteriorated so much that he sought aid-in-dying drugs. He’s the focus of the film “Last Flight Home.”
Thanks to the #MeToo movement, several Hollywood figures are on trial right now, including Kevin Spacey, Danny Masterson, and Harvey Weinstein.
Anna Voloshyna’s new cookbook, “Budmo!: Recipes from a Ukrainian Kitchen,” celebrates Eastern European cuisine and Ukraine’s identity.
As the first Chinese American movie star in Hollywood, Anna May Wong made more than 60 films, but was never cast as the lead. That changed when she paved a way for herself in Great Britain.
Dustin Lance Black grew up in a conservative Mormon household and struggled to reconcile that when he realized he was gay. His memoir “Mama’s Boy” has been adapted into an HBO documentary.
Republicans want to flip at least five seats during the 2022 midterm elections to gain a majority in the U.S. House. A few of those are in California.
Inflation has forced Salt Creek Grille owner Greg Amsler to raise prices at his restaurant. It’s experiencing a drop in customers amid a tough economic climate.
Global pop sensation BTS is taking a hiatus to participate in South Korea’s mandatory military conscription. Its label says the band will reunite in 2025.
The CDC is warning that the flu season will be worse this year. Plus, two new Omicron variants have emerged.
LA County Sheriff Alex Villanueva has repeatedly butted heads with the Board of Supervisors, including on COVID mandates and allegations of deputy gangs running rampant in the department.
The Biden administration has introduced new rules severely limiting China’s ability to make semiconductor chips — the tiny devices found in cell phones, video games, military gear, and more.
Gap’s parent company announced last month that it's cutting 500 corporate jobs. Pair that with an embarrassing public breakup with Kanye West. What’s led to the retailer’s decline?
Björk describes her 10th album, “Fossora,” as her “mushroom album.” It’s a reflection on her role as mother and grandmother, plus her mom’s death.
Through texts and emails, election fundraising messages are getting worse and dragging “us to hell,” according to political writer Tim Miller.
Inflation remains at a four-decade high, as consumer prices are up 8.2% over the past year, according to the BLS. The Federal Reserve is moving quickly to prevent a recession, but it’s tricky.
Critics reveal the latest film releases: “Halloween Ends,” “Stars at Noon,” “Decision to Leave,” “Till,” and “Rosaline.”
Masienda’s Jorge Gaviria gives suggestions for LA’s must-have tacos you probably haven’t tried yet: Ditroit, Anajak, Birria el Jalisciense, and Villas Tacos.
The leaked audio of racist comments made during a redistricting meeting among LA City Council members is yet another scandal in the city’s government, which already included corruption investigations and convictions.
Monkeypox cases in the U.S. have dropped dramatically. It’s due to high vaccination rates, natural immunity, and behavior changes, says Dr. Kaiyti Duffy.
“Survival of the Richest” explains how tech billionaires like Jeff Bezos are obsessed with finding ways to escape Earth — and the crises they helped create, such as social and economic unrest.
A pair of Levi’s jeans from the 1880s sold for $76,000 this month. It represents a lot of history about California and immigrant labor in the U.S., says journalist Jacob Gallagher.
Three members of LA City Council are facing more calls to resign after they were caught on tape making racist remarks. How does all this affect the remaining councilmembers and LA’s mayoral candidates?
The LA County Federation of Labor has long held power over city politics. Its legacy can be traced back to union leader Miguel Contreras, says historian Miriam Pawel.
Today’s Skid Row results from a series of court decisions, the evaporation of mental health services, and a growing scourge of cheap and highly-addictive drugs.
The documentary “Hallelujah: Leonard Cohen, A Journey, A Song” tells the story of the infamous song and Cohen’s expansive musical career. It’s out on Blu-ray and digital today.
Audio leaked over the weekend of three Latino members of LA City Council making racist comments in October 2021. Today Nury Martinez resigned as president. The audio is a display of elected officials trying to influence the redistricting process along racial lines.
A 29-year-old consultant in LA shares how he and his wife bought their first condo for $859,000. The CEO of the National Housing Conference explains whether it’s better to rent or buy.
When Kenyan musician Ondara was a teen in Nairobi, he often skipped school to listen to Bob Dylan. He now lives in the U.S. and has become a folk singer himself.
The #MeToo movement brought down powerful Hollywood figures, including Harvey Weinstein and Kevin Spacey. But the organization behind it has imploded.
If Republicans win control of the U.S. House in the November midterm elections, as expected, then Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy is likely to take over as its speaker.
The Salton Sea is so salty that birds, fish, and insects can’t survive there. Its lakebed also grows drier by the day, revealing toxic dust. A plan to save it has been rejected, so now what?
Critics review the latest movie releases: “Amsterdam,” “Tár,” “Lyle, Lyle Crocodile,” and “Triangle of Sadness.”
For Indigenous People’s Day, buy ingredients from tribal sources and stock your pantry full of Tepary beans, polenta, wheat berries, and blue corn.
“Black Skinhead: Reflections on Blackness and Our Political Future” is a new book that documents and analyzes the increase in Black Republican voters and representation since 2020.
Gas prices in California have reached historic highs, averaging $6.49 per gallon in Los Angeles. Why is gas still so expensive?
Santa Clara County prosecutors want Uber and Lyft to report allegations of sexual assault by drivers to the police. The companies are refusing.
The all-female military unit fought for the Kingdom of Dahomey. They were considered to be fearsome and just as capable as the men.
National Women’s Soccer League coaches fostered a culture of abuse and harassment, while team owners and the president of U.S. Soccer at the time failed to stop the abuse, according to a new report.
“Confidence Man” and “The Divider” are recently-published comprehensive books about Donald Trump’s presidency. KCRW gets summaries and asks why there’s a continued appetite for Trump books.
Music legend Loretta Lynn died today at age 90. Her legacy paved the way for outspoken women in country music.
What TV show to watch this fall? “The Last Days of Ptolemy Grey,” “Breeders,” “Warrior,” and “Miracle Workers” are recommendations from The Atlantic staff writer Shirley Li.
Bears at Katmai National Park are packing on pounds in hopes of being crowned the fattest and thus healthiest. It’s also close to hibernation season.
Governor Gavin Newsom just signed a law that decriminalizes jaywalking, after activists argued that people of color are more likely to be ticketed. It goes into effect on Jan. 1, 2023.
SCOTUS’ new term includes a voting rights case that could determine the outcome of the 2024 election. The justices are also primed to weaken legal protections against discrimination at colleges and the ballot box.
In Brazil’s presidential race, Jair Bolsonaro and Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva are heading to a runoff. The incumbent’s camp is emboldened, but a Lula victory is more likely.
Several veteran cast members of “Saturday Night Live” have left, and Trevor Noah surprised many when he recently announced plans to quit as host of “The Daily Show.”
Slave to Sirens is the first all-female thrash metal band in Lebanon, and the new documentary “Sirens” follows their effort to break through in the country and abroad.
Today nearly 60% of NFL players are Black, only three head coaches are Black, and zero team owners are Black, according to a Washington Post investigation.
Oath Keepers leader Stewart Rhodes could end up spending 20 years behind bars — if he’s convicted for his role in the January 6, 2021 Capitol insurrection.
Gov. Gavin Newsom on Wednesday signed a bill that would make it easier for farmworkers to vote in union elections, though he originally opposed it.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Bros,” “The Good House,” “God’s Creatures,” and “The American Dream and Other Fairy Tales.”
Avocados are rich in healthy fats and can be used for a variety of surprisingly sweet and savory recipes like avocado pie, chopped salad, and panzanella.
Abigail Disney, the great niece of Walt, has spent years calling out the company for not paying its workers a living wage. She co-directed the new documentary called “The American Dream and Other Fairy Tales.”
Hurricane Ian is the first major storm to hit the Tampa Bay area in more than a century. Like many coastal regions, its population has rapidly grown.
Explosions on the Nord Stream pipelines have disrupted natural gas supplies to Europe. Meanwhile, thousands of military-aged men are fleeing Russia after Putin mobilized reserve forces.
Prop 30 is a tax increase on people making more than $2 million per year — to fund climate programs. Most of California’s Democratic establishment endorses it — except Gov. Newsom.
As Angel City Football Club nears the end of its first season, it has drawn thousands of fans, sold out games, and attracted more sponsorship revenue than expected.
Wednesday was supposed to be the next January 6 insurrection hearing, but the U.S. House Select Committee postponed it due to Hurricane Ian threatening the Florida coast. What to expect when lawmakers reconvene?
America often thinks of itself as a hero during World War II. But its culpability during the Holocaust is the subject is a new PBS documentary.
Sometimes black market dealers buy blocks of restaurant reservations. So some establishments now have memberships for booking ahead.
Bad Bunny’s latest music video focuses on Puerto Rico and its people’s ability to preserve amid chronic power outages five years after Hurricane Maria.
Giorgia Meloni is likely to become Italy’s first female prime minister and the country’s first far-right leader since World War II. Her coalition won the most votes over the weekend.
An Arizona judge has ruled the state’s Civil War-era prohibition of abortions can be enforced. It’s the latest state to restrict access to the procedure.
The Biden administration has chosen two sections off the California coast to build massive wind turbines, but environmentalists and commercial fishing groups are concerned.
Mississippi sued Brett Favre this year for allegedly misspending state welfare funds on sports stadiums. Now newly released text messages show Favre pressured the state’s former governor to secure that funding.
Protests are raging in Iran and across the world this week in response to 22-year-old Mahsa Amini’s death in police custody. She was arrested for not properly wearing her hijab.
Wednesday night’s debates were heated between LA County sheriff candidates Robert Luna and Alex Villanueva, plus mayoral hopefuls Karen Bass and Rick Caruso.
Nearly a year has passed since cinematographer Halyna Hutchins was shot and killed while filming “Rust.” The incident is still under investigation.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Don’t Worry Darling,” “Catherine, Called Birdy,” “The Justice of Bunny King,” and “Sidney.”
Caponata is the sweet and sour Sicilian vegetable dish that’s an ode to the eggplant. It’s great as part of a charcuterie board or on own as a starter served with crackers.
More Venezuelans are fleeing their home country to the U.S., and they’ve become pawns in a political fight between Republican governors and Democratic mayors.
When seeing a doctor, each diagnosis, procedure, and service has a code. Those labels and classifications affect what insurance will pay for, but they haven’t kept up with transgender care.
During one of Donald Trump’s recent rallies, he appeared to embrace QAnon, a fringe movement that combines conspiracy theories, putting Trump at the center as an almost Messiah-like figure.
Key to the perfect tortilla is the dough — masa. Jorge Gaviria has a new book out about the history of the ingredient, which he considers one of the greatest human inventions.
Brain fog is one of the most misunderstood long-haul COVID symptoms, according to science writer Ed Yong. It makes planning and concentrating nearly impossible.
The ACLU is suing the LA County Sheriff’s Department over what it calls “barbaric” and “medieval” conditions at the county jail system’s Inmate Reception Center.
The new CNN documentary series, “The Murdochs: Empire of Influence,” is a result of a long New York Times investigation into media mogul Rupert Murdoch’s rise to power.
Singer Halle Bailey plays Ariel in the 2023 live-action remake of “The Little Mermaid.” She’s the latest Black actress to endure a flurry of racism over her casting.
China is still enforcing strict COVID-19 restrictions, including lockdowns that force millions of people to stay in their homes for days on end.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis flew about 50 migrants seeking asylum to Massachusetts. Can politicians be prosecuted for this action?
Penny Wolin photographed intimate portraits of people who lived at Hollywood’s St. Francis Hotel in 1975. Now they’re published in a book called “Guest Register.”
Queen Elizabeth was beloved in Britain, but as the head of the monarchy, she was also the object of protests in a democratizing world, especially in popular music.
Teens are typically looking for anti-anxiety or ADHD pills, or lower-strength opioids, but many illicit, fentanyl-laced pills on the market that resemble legit drugs, says one professor.
The LA Sheriff’s Department raided County Supervisor Sheila Kuehl’s home as part of an investigation into a contract awarded to a nonprofit run by one of her friends.
Critics review the latest film releases: “See How They Run,” “The Woman King,” “The Silent Twins,” and “Moonage Daydream.”
Whether they’re red, yellow, or orange, farmers market peppers are sweeter and have a greater variety of overall flavor and texture than anything you find in a grocery store.
With inflation and concerns about crime, this election cycle doesn’t bode well for Biden and Democrats, while Republicans are in a good position to win November races, says TIME Magazine’s Molly Ball.
Fred Franzia, who created Trader Joe’s “Two Buck Chuck” discount wine, died on Tuesday at age 79. He said no wine bottle should cost more than $10.
The consumer price index has risen by 8.3% since last August. It comes as the cost of important essentials such as food, medical care, and rent increases.
The iIllegal cannabis market is taking over rural California and crippling local farmers. It’s also brought environmental destruction and worker exploitation.
Director Jean-Luc Godard died at the age of 91. The French New Wave pioneer revolutionized the conventional form of film.
The Players Choir is a group of singing and dancing NFL players that took to the “America’s Got Talent” stage. They made it all the way to the semi-finals.
In the race to become LA’s next mayor, Congresswoman Karen Bass and businessman Rick Caruso are trading barbs over their history with scandal-plagued USC.
Donald Trump’s lawyers are still trying to block the FBI from using classified documents seized from Mar-a-Lago as part of their criminal investigation.
This month’s heat wave broke temperature records across the American West, and now the top of Mount Shasta is largely brown. It used to have almost year-round snow cap.
Queen Elizabeth II’s death marks a new era for former British colonies who may see an opportunity to fully break from the monarchy.
Oliver Sim’s debut solo album, “Hideous Bastard,” is about being queer and HIV positive — while fighting the shame attached to that.
New York-based artist Sharon Sprung shares her process of painting former first lady Michelle Obama’s official White House portrait.
At the U.S. Open, Novak Djokovic didn’t play at all due to COVID-19 vaccine rules, Serena Williams lost in the third round of three sets, and new young players stepped up.
“Clerks” grossed $3 million at the box office, but director Kevin Smith says he didn’t get rich off of it. He also explains how a heart attack turned around his life, and weighs in on Harvey Weinstein.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Barbarian,” “Pinocchio,” “Medieval,” and “End of the Road.”
As a heat wave continues in California, policies about air conditioning access are distorted, says a USC professor. And 20% of LA households don’t have AC.
To quench thirst in this heat, Good Food’s Evan Kleiman recommends agua fresca, an iced drink made of water and minced or pureed fruit or vegetables, sweetened with sugar, and seasoned with lime or lemon juice.
Due to drought, vital agricultural products — corn, wheat and tomatoes — are seeing the lowest yields in years. What does this mean for California farmers and consumers?
The FAST Recovery Act, recently signed by Gov. Newsom, will set up a state-appointed council to protect fast food workers, and could help boost their wages to $22 an hour.
A Politico writer spent 10 straight hours sampling podcasts from Ted Cruz, Al Franken, Matt Gaetz, and Pete Buttigieg. But this medium isn’t a fit for politicians, he learned.
California is loaning PG&E more than $1 billion to keep the Diablo Canyon Nuclear Plant running. The utility company’s equipment sparked the 2018 Camp Fire.
New Omicron-specific booster shots are now available at some LA locations and should provide increased protection against infection and hospitalization.
A federal judge in Florida on Monday appointed a so-called “special master” to pore over thousands of documents the FBI seized from Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort.
“House of the Dragon” is set some 200 years before “Game of Thrones,” tracing House Targaryen’s collapse. “The Rings of Power” tells the origin of Middle Earth, where the “Lord of the Rings” takes place.
U.S. school kids lost two decades of reading and math progress, largely because of COVID-induced remote classes, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.
Around 80% of high schoolers get fewer than eight hours of sleep per night, and research shows they need more to maintain good mental health. A new California law mandating later school start times might help.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Honk For Jesus. Save Your Soul,” “Burial,” “The Invitation,” and “Gigi & Nate.”
At the U.S. Open, Serena Williams, who’s on the brink of retirement, beat the odds against rising star Anett Kontaveit, who’s ranked No. 2 in the world.
Critics of Biden’s student loan forgiveness plan say it’s unfair to people who already paid off their debts, and that it could add to already surging inflation.
A declining fish population in the polluted Gulf Coast spurred clashes between Vietnamese fishermen and KKK members after the Vietnam War. It’s the focus of Kirk Wallace Johnson’s new book.
To celebrate the last breath of summer, try picking your own fruits and vegetables from local farms. There’s still time to enjoy berries, squash, tomatoes, herbs, and summer flowers.
Triple-digit temperatures can cause cramps, exhaustion, and heat stroke for vulnerable individuals. A research scientist gives tips on protecting yourself and your neighbors.
To address drought, some people are proposing a giant pipeline to ferry water from the Mississippi River over the Rockies and through California’s parched deserts.
If the CDC greenlights a new COVID booster, people could start getting shots after Labor Day. But “demand is really weak and tepid,” says one science journalist.
A state bill would punish doctors for spreading false information about COVID vaccines and treatments. It awaits Governor Newsom’s signature.
The hit show “Yellowstone” appeals to a conservative audience, but liberals might find it entertaining and valuable, says professor Tressie McMillian Cottom.
NASA’s new moon rocket, Artemis 1, was expected to launch today, but the space agency scrapped the unmanned mission. It’s expected to try again on Friday.
The Justice Department on Friday released a redacted version of the affidavit that supported the search warrant for the FBI’s raid at former President Trump’s Mar-a-Lago home
Tech mogul Barre Seid quietly gave $1.6 billion to Marble Freedom Trust, which is run by Leonard A. Leo, who used to be the executive vice president of the Federalist Society.
Republican politicians nationwide are fighting over how far to take anti-abortion legislation in the wake of the Supreme Court striking down Roe v. Wade.
KCRW’s Global Beat Mexico highlights Vico Diaz, Los Vaguens, Veronica Valerio, Hela San, and Don Couto, who all put a modern twist on traditional sounds.
The California Air Resources Board is expected to finalize Gov. Newsom’s order that bans the sale of gas-powered cars by 2035. People will still be able to buy a used gas car here.
When Rapid City got a new conservative school board, a principal preemptively banned Dave Eggers’ “The Circle.” The author uncovered an atmosphere of fear among teachers.
School boards nationwide are now a battleground for the nation’s culture wars. One of the biggest groups leading the charge is Moms for Liberty.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Funny Pages,” “Three Thousand Years of Longing,” “The Good Boss,” and “Me Time.”
Vasectomies have drawn more interest since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, and California lawmakers are debating making the simple procedure free.
If approved by California voters this November, Proposition 26 would make in-person sports betting legal, and Proposition 27 would make online betting legal.
Far-right activists are targeting people who provide care for transgender kids, including school guidance counselors, teachers, and medical staff.
Tourist David Kurtz filmed three minutes of mostly Jews in a Polish village doing quotidian things in 1938, who had no idea of the horrors to come. It’s the basis of a new documentary, “Three Minutes: A Lengthening.”
Tomatoes of all different shapes and colors will bring you a flavor bomb when used together. Use them to make a pie, or even easier, a cobbler.
Gov. Newsom on Monday vetoed legislation that would’ve allowed LA, SF, and Oakland to open sites where people struggling with addiction can use drugs in a controlled environment.
Nearly 700 times this year, cars have raced or spun donuts in front of crowds, blocking an intersection. State Sen. Henry Stern’s bill would increase possible penalties for crimes related to street takeovers.
The Inflation Reduction Act gives generous tax breaks for facilities that use carbon capture technology. Kurt House, CEO of KoBold Metals, says this will lead to more oil and gas burning.
The new documentary “Katrina Babies” looks at how the 2005 hurricane affected the kids who survived it and are all grown up now.
Celebrities in Calabasas and Hidden Hills have received “notices of exceedance” due to exorbitant water use on their properties.
When musician Fantastic Negrito researched his family history during the pandemic, he discovered a 300-year-old interracial love story and siblings he didn’t know about.
Some six months into the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the two sides are fighting close to the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. Nearby residents have fled over fears of a Chernobyl-like disaster.
North Carolina voters passed constitutional amendments in 2018 that aimed to make voting tougher. Lawmakers who put them on the ballot may have been elected illegally.
Eight fraternities at USC have disaffiliated with the university this month over new rules that were supposed to address allegations of sexual assault at parties.
Artist Michael Heizer, who created “Levitated Mass” outside LACMA, has finished “City,” which is more than a mile long in the Nevada desert. Few people will be able to check it out.
How will the CDC change to prevent future public health crises? And how is the U.S. addressing monkeypox outbreaks and vaccine availability?
The LA Times’ Melody Gutierrez grew up in a 700-square foot homestead in Wonder Valley. She just visited the now-abandoned and dilapidated structure for the first time in 25 years.
Critics review new movies: “Beast,” “Spin Me Round,” “The Immaculate Room,” and “The Territory.”
Putting together appetizers is a great way to use pantry ingredients and clean up the condiments cluttering the fridge, including hot sauces, pastes, pickles, and more.
The Trump administration’s “zero tolerance” policy split up thousands of families. The government still can’t find the parents of at least 150 kids, says the Atlantic’s Caitlin Dickerson.
The Inflation Reduction Act incentivizes farmers to make their land more sustainable and use less greenhouse emissions. A decade from now, California agriculture will likely scale down.
The Hollywood Foreign Press Association is still struggling to repair its image a year after the LA Times revealed that the group had no Black members.
SoulCycle is planning to close roughly a quarter of its gyms, while Peloton is laying off 800 employees. With inflation, people are choosing cheaper exercise options and diversifying their workouts.
“Reservation Dogs” is back for its second season. Indigenous journalist Vincent Schilling talks about the show's depiction of life on a rural Oklahoma reservation.
The Academy of Motion Pictures and Sciences is publicly apologizing to Sacheen Littlefeather, who famously rejected Marlon Brando’s award for Best Actor in 1973.
LA County District Attorney George Gascon has survived a second recall attempt. A lot of his own prosecutors publicly supported his potential ouster.
After the FBI raided Mar-a-Lago last week, leaders from the Christian right say it's evidence that they and their followers will soon be the targets of religious persecution.
Polio cases have been identified in New York City, London, and Israel. But as long as you’re vaccinated, you should be protected, says UCSF’s Dr. Peter Chin-Hong.
The warrant used in the FBI’s raid of Trump’s Mar-a-Lago home shows that the former president is under investigation for potential obstruction of justice and violations of the Espionage Act.
The FBI and the Department of Homeland Security issued a joint bulletin on Sunday, warning of increased online threats against law enforcement officials.
Ursula, the villain in Disney’s “The Little Mermaid,” is an important milestone in Disney’s portrayal of queer characters, says LA Times writer Tracy Brown.
In the new album “Preacher’s Daughter,” Hayden Anhedönia (aka Ethel Cain) tells the story of a young woman trying to fit a mold that wasn’t meant for her.
People are illegally mining the Amazon rainforest for gold and tin ore. Some of those elements are going to Google and Apple. The mines are threatening Indigenous communities.
Massive rain storms across the nation are causing devastating floods and community damage, including in California’s deserts, the American South, and Korea.
NY Attorney General Letitia James is leading a probe into Trump’s business practices. When she met with the former president this week, he responded “same answer” to hours of her questions.
Guests review new movie releases: “Summering,” “Inu-Oh,” “Emily the Criminal,” and “Day Shift.”
A simple drink of yogurt, water, and salt can replenish electrolytes and slake thirst during hot weather.
A new form of physical therapy for long COVID patients involves singing lullabies, pop songs, and spirituals, while using opera techniques to rebuild their breath capacity and vocal stamina.
The LA City Council voted 11-3 on Tuesday to ban people from sitting, sleeping, lying on, or storing property within 500 feet of schools and daycare centers.
The new LAUSD term begins on August 15 — with eased COVID rules. Wearing masks is now optional, and weekly universal testing will no longer happen.
McDonald's has removed a Beyond Meat burger after a six-month trial run due to lackluster sales. Why are fast food chains struggling to make plant-based options work?
LA County has so far identified more than 600 monkeypox cases. The low vaccine supply makes it tough to get doses to Latino and Black communities with limited health care access.
Former WNBA star Brittney Griner has been sentenced to nine and a half years in prison for drug smuggling. The Biden administration is working to free her.
Over the last few weeks, shootings in New Mexico have killed Muslim men of South Asian descent, and Albuquerque police say they’ve detained a primary suspect.
The Republican mayors of Arizona and Texas have sent more than 6,000 migrants to New York and D.C., saying they can get help in the U.S.’ top “sanctuary cities.”
KCRW previews fall TV: “The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power,” “Interview with The Vampire,” the “Quantum Leap” reboot, “Monarch,” and more.
Four upcoming festivals will make you remember why you love music so much: This Ain't No Picnic, Desert Daze, Ohana Festival, and Primavera Sound.
HBO Max and Discovery+ are merging into one service. It’s part of an aggressive course correction that isn’t centered on streaming content.
The Senate just passed a massive bill aimed at fighting climate change, cutting prescription drug prices, and raising taxes on rich companies. What would California gain?
Georgia has new tax rules allowing an embryo to be claimed as a dependent on state tax returns. Indiana Gov. Eric Holcombe has signed a law that bans abortion from the moment of conception.
A Texas court has ordered Alex Jones to pay nearly $50 million to a family whose child died in the Sandy Hook school shooting. Now he faces two more similar trials with other families.
Street racers have performed stunts, donuts, and burnouts on the 6th Street Viaduct, drawing the attention of the LAPD and national news outlets.
Mark Finchem, a member of the Arizona House of Representatives and the far-right Oath Keepers, is now the Republican nominee for secretary of state.
New texts from Alex Jones’ phone indicate he may have withheld evidence during his defamation case against the families of victims in the Sandy Hook shooting.
Critics review new film releases: “Bullet Train,” “Easter Sunday,” “Sharp Stick,” and “Bodies Bodies Bodies.”
The repertoire of raw or lightly-cured fish on offer in Southern California restaurants is epic and includes crudo, sashimi, poke, ceviche and aguachile.
Beyonce’s latest album “Renaissance” is a celebration of Black queer culture that weaves disco, house, and ballroom. It’s an homage to the legends who came before her.
Dodgers broadcaster Vin Scully died Tuesday at age 94. He spent 67 years as the voice of baseball for the Los Angeles team.
On Tuesday the Senate approved the PACT Act, which would help veterans struggling with health problems after being exposed to toxic chemicals mainly in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Prosecutors would be able to sue social media companies for using designs they know are addicting to kids — if California Assembly Bill 2408 passes.
The U.S. government is suing to block Penguin Random House’s acquisition of Simon & Schuster on antitrust grounds.
“Secret City: The Hidden History of Gay Washington” details the brave and sometimes salacious characters of Washington D.C.’s gay culture during the 20th century.
President Biden on Monday night announced the death of Ayman al-Zawahiri, who became al-Qaeda’s leader after Osama bin Laden died in 2011. What happens to the extremist group now?
Nearly a year after U.S. troops withdrew from Afghanistan, some 19 million Afghans face life-threatening hunger, and women’s rights have deteriorated.
SoLa Impact says it costs them $250,000 to build one unit of affordable housing in LA. How are they doing it, while others take $600,000, on average, to build such a unit?
Nearly 85 kids globally now have monkeypox, says the World Health Organization. There are concerns that the disease may spread as kids return to classes and are in close contact.
President Biden on Saturday announced that he tested positive for COVID again. He had been negative. Like many people, he apparently now has the Paxlovid rebound.
Most Americans disapprove of SCOTUS’ decision overturning Roe v. Wade, but that doesn’t seem to bother the author of the opinion, Justice Samuel Alito.
Compared to sunscreen sold in the U.S., those from non-U.S. countries, such as Japan and South Korea, offer more protection and feel better on your skin, says The Atlantic’s Amanda Mull.
Girl Ultra (Mariana de Miguel) is a 27-year-old singer, producer and DJ from Mexico City. Her new album, “El Sur,” blends garage rock, house and techno.
“Do The Work! An Antiracist Activity Book” features comedy, crosswords, cutouts, and even a white supremacy word search. It’s written by CNN host W. Kamau Bell and activist Kate Schatz.
On Wednesday, Sen. Joe Manchin confirmed support for a spending package to tackle President Biden’s climate priorities. It would give tax credits to people who create clean energy projects.
In some low-income African countries, 5% or less of the population is fully vaccinated, according to local government data. Why the slow progress against COVID?
Critics review new film releases: “Resurrection,” “A Love Song,” “From Where They Stood,” “The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie,” and “DC League of Super Pets.”
“Lizzo’s Watch Out for the Big Grrrls,” an Emmy-nominated reality competition show, documents the pop star’s quest to find the next talented addition to her dance crew.
Another mask mandate might be imposed on LA County as early as July 29. The risk of COVID infection is now high, but the risk of a bad outcome is low, says UCSF’s Dr. Robert Wachter.
The Kansas Constitution currently guarantees abortion access, and residents will soon vote on whether the legislature could restrict the procedure. It’s a bellwether for the rest of the U.S.
“Aftershock” tells the story of two Black women who died from childbirth-related complications. Both deaths could have been prevented if medical staff listened and acted.
Sharks have recently appeared off the shores of San Diego, Huntington Beach, and Monterey. They’re looking to chow down on the ample amount of seafood there.
Comedian Cristela Alonzo talks about her childhood without financial security or health insurance, and the responsibility she shouldered as a first-generation Mexican American.
California has over 400 monkeypox cases, and tests and vaccines are tough to access. “It's important not to minimize how painful and difficult it can be to go through,” says a UCLA epidemiologist.
As the House Select Committee continues its probe into the January 6 insurrection, KCRW looks at a key figure in then-President Donald Trump’s attempt to stay in power: John Eastman.
This summer, quench your thirst with a boozy or non-boozy version of sangria. Try it with red or white wine and a splash of brandy for a classic version of the fruity, hot-weather drink
Americans can now call or text 988 to access the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. But many mental health centers are still understaffed and struggling to keep up with callers.
Californians will be able to sue anyone who imports, distributes, manufactures, or sells illegal guns in the state starting in January 2023. Gov. Newsom signed SB-1327 into law on July 22. It’s expected to face legal challenges.
In the four-part EPIX original docuseries “Women Who Rock,” women music legends describe how they survived and thrived in the male-dominated music industry.
Diana Kennedy, a British writer who dedicated her life to promoting and cooking diverse Mexican food, died on July 24 at age 99.
Press Play continues its second annual series, “Summer Mixtape,” which features musician interviews and custom sets from KCRW DJs.
R&B artist Maxwell has earned three Grammy wins and 13 nominations. Now he’s performing new and old hits, including “Off,” as he travels the country for “The Night Tour.”
Anthony Valadez spins an exclusive DJ set inspired by Maxwell and the neo-soul style of R&B. It includes tracks from D’Angelo, Chaka Khan, Erykah Badu, and more.
Press Play continues its second annual series, “Summer Mixtape,” which features musician interviews and custom sets from KCRW DJs. KCRW’s
Indie-folk singer Laura Veirs’ new album “Found Light” is about heartbreak and hard times. It also explores love of kids, community, friends and family.
Valida Carroll spins an exclusive DJ set inspired by indie-folk musician Laura Veirs. It features songs that communicate sadness, confusion, anger, liberation, and happiness.
Press Play continues its second annual series, “Summer Mixtape,” which features musician interviews and custom sets from KCRW DJs.
Before Bartees Strange became a musician, he worked on labor and climate movements. His new album, “Farm to Table,” focuses on the personal journey that shapes his genre-bending sound.
KCRW’s Dan Wilcox spins an exclusive DJ set featuring new artists: Automatic, Zenizen, Plato III, Cola, and Say She She. Plus, a 1974 classic by John Cale resonates right now.
Today kicks off Press Play’s second annual series, “Summer Mixtape,” which features musician interviews and custom sets from KCRW DJs. Singer-songwriter Regina Spektor talks about “Home, before and after,” her first album in six years. She reflects on the power of storytelling and fairy tales in her music. KCRW’s Wyldeflower spins an exclusive DJ set inspired by singer-songwriter Regina Spektor. It includes tracks from Spektor, Fiona Apple, Jimetta Rose, and Khruangbin.
“The New Black West” is a photo book that highlights Black cowboys and cowgirls in the Bay Area. Photographer Gabriela Hasbun says this is one of the safest, warmest, fun communities she’s met. Critics review new movie releases: “Where The Crawdads Sing,” “Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris,” “Murina,” “The Gray Man,” and “Paws Of Fury: The Legend Of Hank.” Dodger Stadium will host the All-Star game next week, and UCLA and USC are joining the Big Ten Conference. LA County has received some 7,000 monkeypox vaccine doses from the federal government. With COVID still spreading, can the public health system fight a second virus?
One reporter visited 10 of the most popular grocery stores in LA and found dramatic differences in prices for goods such as bread, avocados and coffee. Why the disparity, and where should you shop? Two California-based farmers explain how inflation, supply chain disruptions, and gas costs are making it tougher to find supplies and set prices for their produce. Truckers who move goods out of SoCal are threatening a work stoppage on July 14. They’re opposing a law that reclassifies independent contractors as employees. Singer-songwriter Courtney Barnett is known for making vulnerable rock music. She’s baring it all in a new documentary called “Anonymous Club.”
NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope has released its first images that show stars and galaxies never before seen. Some are believed to be more than 4 billion years old. Today’s January 6 Select Committee hearing focuses on extremist groups. The Oath Keepers and the Proud Boys were galvanized by Trump’s call to overturn the 2020 election results. Yosemite’s Washburn Fire has scorched 3,000 acres. To stave off the worst damage, should California focus on putting out current fires or preventing them in the first place? Do you remember blossoming from a dorky middle school kid into an attractive teenager who’s suddenly getting attention? A new Amazon Prime Video series explores that transition. Italy’s cipolle alla parmigiana is a cheesy, saucy pile of onion rings that are irresistible. The dish honors the local Cannara variety of red onion in the Umbria area.
Actress and author Selma Blair talks about her multiple sclerosis, addiction struggles, and sexual assault. She also explains how she grew to understand her mom, who was loving but neglectful. Critics review new film releases: “Thor: Love and Thunder,” “Clara Sola,” “Both Side of the Blade,” and “The Sea Dragon.” Could Gov. Gavin Newsom be planning to run for president? His TV ad in Florida caused a stir this week. Meanwhile, 71% of Democrats don’t want President Joe Biden to run for a second term. Illinois is completely surrounded by states that are outlawing abortion. Granite City is home to one abortion clinic fielding a wave of calls from people seeking the treatment.
LA is experiencing another COVID surge. On an airplane of 50 passengers or in a restaurant of 20-30 diners, there’s a 90-99% chance that someone there has COVID, says Dr. Bob Wachter. The LA County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk has certified the results of the state primary election. Karen Bass is the frontrunner in the LA mayoral race, and progressive candidates beat established incumbents on LA City Council. With Roe v. Wade overturned, Meta is removing posts offering abortion medications, while Google says it’ll delete location tracking data that shows a trip to an abortion clinic. Hip-hop star and actor Ice Cube co-owns a 3-on-3 basketball league called the BIG3. Now he’s taking the game to the Olympics. Summer is the perfect time to bake a stone fruit or berry pie, and making a homemade pie crust is nothing to fear.
The airline industry is seeing a whiplash in demand following COVID, says Laurie Garrow, who studies air mobility at Georgia Tech. She offers advice for traveling during peak summer. Individual states will have the discretion to decide who gets a concealed carry permit, following a recent Supreme Court ruling on the Second Amendment. Michelle Albert is the first woman of color to lead the American Heart Association. She has spent her career studying how heart disease affects Black women. Janet Malcolm alienated many in her journalism profession for investigating how a writer sold out his subject who happened to be a convicted killer. While tennis superstar sisters Serena and Venus Williams are out of the Wimbledon championships, other players are making waves.
“Marcel the Shell With Shoes On” debuted on YouTube in 2010 in a three-minute video, which has gained more than 32 million views. Now the seashell’s story continues in a full-length film.
Critics review new film releases: “Minions: The Rise of Gru,” “The Forgiven,” “Mr. Malcolm's List,” and “Accepted.”
This term, the Supreme Court struck down the constitutional right to an abortion, expanded gun rights, and chipped away at the separation of church and state.
The Supreme Court’s decision to limit the EPA’s ability to regulate power plants’ carbon emissions is a huge blow to the Biden administration’s efforts to tackle climate change.
Crisis pregnancy centers may offer free pregnancy tests, diapers, and other supplies. They aren’t places where you can get abortions or even sound medical advice.
Former White House aide Cassidy Hutchinson delivered an intimate look at former President Donald Trump’s behavior during the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol.
Globally, more people travel by bicycle than any other mode of transportation, according to Jody Rosen, author of “Two Wheels Good.” His book looks at the history and possible future of the machine.
Malt-forward beers are as delicious as hoppy brews, and are made from toasted and caramelized grains, like barley or wheat. The beer has a sweet and bready flavor.
In the 1980s, the Great Salt Lake spanned more than 3,000 square miles. Now it sits at less than 1,000 square miles. Its soil contains toxic chemicals, including arsenic.
After the Dobbs ruling, the Democratic Party responded by asking voters for donations. What’s the party’s strategy moving forward?
WNBA player Brittney Griner’s trial begins this week in Moscow. She was arrested in February, just days before the country’s invasion of Ukraine.
Following the Russian missile strike on a Ukrainian shopping mall, how will Western countries further sanction Russia?
Looking for a scenic hike to take this summer? Modern Hiker’s Casey Schreiner shares some of his favorites.
On the day the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, staff at a San Antonio abortion clinic had to turn away patients who were already scheduled for the procedure there.
Anyone can receive abortion medications in the mail, even if they live in states where the procedure is banned, says human rights attorney Kate Kelly.
The Supreme Court ruled today that a high school football coach has a constitutional right to take a knee in prayer after his team's games. The court recently also said religious schools can receive state public funding.
The documentary “Hallelujah: Leonard Cohen, A Journey, A Song” tells the story of the infamous song and Cohen’s expansive musical career.
The Supreme Court today overturned the nationwide right to an abortion. Congressman Adam Schiff says the court’s opinion could lead to other rights being taken away. Law professor Jessica Levinson says in the short term, the feds could cut regulations on abortion pills.
KCRW also hears from David Turok, one of the few doctors who perform abortions in Utah, and Sue Dunlap, head of Planned Parenthood Los Angeles. How are they mobilizing now?
Meanwhile, anti-abortion activists say the Supreme Court’s overturning of Roe v. Wade is an opportunity to support both mothers and babies.
All this is likely to impact the midterm elections. Democrats know they have a political advantage since voters, by a large margin, want abortion to be legal, says Sahil Kapur of NBC News.
More than 66,000 people are unhoused in LA County. UCLA researchers are trying to predict who is most likely to become homeless, so officials can intervene before it happens.
The Supreme Court issued two sweeping decisions today on gun rights and Miranda rights.
LeBron James joined the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2003, and the team’s fans waited 13 years for their first NBA championship. A new play looks at the star through the eyes of two Cavs fans.
Critics review the latest film releases: “Elvis,” “The Black Phone,” “Marcel the Shell with Shoes On,” “Beavis and Butthead Do the Universe.”
Oracle’s Larry Ellison bought most of the Hawaiian island of Lanai for $300 million, becoming the boss and landlord to residents. Many ended up struggling financially, and some moved off the island.
What can humans learn about sex and gender from chimpanzees and bonobos? That’s the focus of a new book by primatologist Frans de Waal.
Canned wine lends itself to wines that may not benefit from the air exchange of a corked bottle. And the metal of the can is perfect for a quick chill.
KCRW breaks down the latest revelations from the January 6 insurrection hearings, including former President Trump and his allies’ attempts to sway election officials.
Cal Fire’s workforce endures PTSD, suicidal ideation, and endless work rotations. CalMatters has chronicled the agency’s mental health crisis.
If Roe v. Wade gets overturned, President Joe Biden might employ executive orders, as he said on “Jimmy Kimmel Live” earlier this month. What can — and can’t — he do legally?
Herding cattle isn’t a profession left to the days of the wild west. A new documentary, “Bitterbrush,” follows two female range riders as they herd cattle in Idaho.
Summer — aka ice cream season — officially starts today. Check out paletas made with fresh fruit, Korean-style shave ice, the Filipino dessert halo-halo, vegan treats, and more at these LA spots.
California has the highest gas prices in the nation, and a $0.03 per gallon tax increase will kick in this July. Lawmakers keep debating whether to suspend the gas tax or give rebates.
“Woman-Ochre,” a long-lost masterpiece by Willem de Kooning, is now on view at the Getty Center. The painting’s theft and recovery is like a heist movie plot.
Martha Mitchell invited two journalists to rifle through Watergate papers to “nail” her husband John Mitchell, the disgraced Nixon attorney general and campaign manager.
Critics review the newest film releases: “Lightyear,” “Cha Cha Real Smooth,” “Official Competition,” and “Spiderhead.”
About 1.6 million Americans now identify as transgender, and nearly half of them are teenagers or young adults, according to UCLA. The demographic shift comes at a socio-politically fraught time.
A debate over providing gender-affirming health care is growing. Right-wing backlash is exacerbating the conversation.
Adam Laxalt, the Trump-endorsed former Nevada attorney general, has won the GOP nomination for Nevada's Senate seat. What this could mean for Democrats' tenuous hold of the Senate?
Jennifer Grey became a star after playing Baby in “Dirty Dancing.” In the late 1980s, she suffered a tragic car collision, then had a notorious nose job. Her new memoir is “Out of the Corner.”
Juneteenth commemorates the day of emancipation of enslaved African Americans, and gatherings often involve bountiful good food and red drinks.
Korean actor Lee Jung-jae reached global fame as Seong Gi-hun, or Player 456, in Netflix’s “Squid Game.” He says he’s grateful for so many fans and is eager to shoot season two.
The “millennial subsidy economy” is over, and many tech companies are changing their business models that have become unprofitable, says Atlantic writer Derek Thompson.
The value of Bitcoin has fallen more than 65% from all-time high last year, while crypto companies Celsius and Binance have frozen its users’ accounts in recent days.
Lawmakers in Washington D.C. are eyeing a plan that would relieve thousands for student loan borrows. What would that mean for the U.S. economy?
The Biden administration is embracing nuclear power as part of its climate change strategy. The latest season of “Wild Thing” explores whether this is the best way to go.
The all-Black Re-Collective Orchestra will make history on June 19 when it performs at the Hollywood Bowl’s “Juneteenth: A Global Celebration of Freedom” event.
Need summer book ideas? Try “Carnality” by Lina Wolff, “Trust” by Hernan Diaz, and “The Latecomer” by Jean Hanff Korelitz.
Paradise, CA, now has an inventory of new real estate after the 2018 Camp Fire devastated the town. People are moving back — or moving there for the first time.
Day two of the January 6 insurrection hearings focused on how former President Donald Trump and his team perpetuated the lie that the 2020 election was stolen.
As President Biden attends the Summit of the Americas in LA, a caravan of of thousands of Central and South American migrants is heading to the U.S.-Mexico border.
HBO’s new documentary, “The Janes,” details an underground collective of women who provided safe abortions in Chicago before Roe v. Wade.
Critics review new film releases: “Jurassic World: Dominion,” “Hustle,” and “Wyrm.”
“Stepping on the Tail of a Rainbow” is Takashi Murakami's first solo exhibit at The Broad. The interactive show explores pandemic life, natural disasters, augmented reality, and NFTs.
In the November runoff, if LA County Sheriff Alex Villanueva’s opponents consolidate to support former Long Beach Police Chief Robert Luna, Villanueva will have a tough fight.
Voters recalled San Francisco District Attorney Chesa Boudin on Tuesday. What does it mean for the progressive prosecutor movement, and LA DA George Gascón?
Dianne Feinstein’s failure to keep her promise of protecting abortion rights shows how she has let progressive victories slip away under their watch, says writer Rebecca Traister.
It’s the season for graduations, summer vacations, and possibly more time in air-conditioned spaces. How should people approach the pandemic now?
Gas prices, inflation, and interest rates are climbing, but more than two-thirds of U.S. adults say they could handle a $400 emergency with spare cash, according to the Federal Reserve.
An oak tree has been growing for 86 years in the LA backyard of high jumper Cornelius Johnson’s childhood home. But it’s sickly and developers are considering removing it.
Daytime TV mainstays such as Maury Povich, Ellen DeGeneres, and Wendy Williams are ending their shows. Who might replace them?
Nuns are flocking to TikTok, gaining legions of followers and catching the attention of brands and unscripted reality TV shows.
Tuesday is the last day to vote in the California primary, and 13% of registered voters have returned a ballot so far. KCRW looks at who’s voted, and who’s leading the race for LA mayor.
Over the weekend, shootings in Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Arizona and Tennessee left more than a dozen people dead. What will it take to break the nearly three-decade federal impasse on gun reform?
Here’s what to watch for during the first televised hearing of the House committee on the January 6 insurrection on the U.S. Capitol.
LAUSD is facing teacher shortages, dropped enrollment, learning loss, and questions about policing. Who is running for the school board, and how might their decisions affect students and staff?
Aretha Franklin, Sister Rosetta Tharpe, and other trailblazing singers are profiled in the book, “Isn’t Her Grace Amazing! The Women Who Changed Gospel Music.”
The CDC warned this week that some people who take antiviral drug Paxlovid can develop rebound COVID symptoms a few days after they recover.
The U.S. is steeped in gun culture, and much of that mythology comes from what we see in film, TV, and video games. Is there a link between media violence and gun violence?
A legal case involving Atlanta rapper Young Thug is sparking renewed conversation over whether song lyrics should be used as evidence in court.
Critics review new film releases: “Fire Island,” “Crimes of the Future,” “Benediction,” and “Cane Fire.”
Vibrant in color with a unique umami flavor, matcha has made its way into nearly every category of food and drink.
There are parallels between the fight over airline regulations and today’s debate over gun safety, says journalist Brendan Koerner.
The Republican National Committee is training poll workers in Democratic-heavy areas to stop people they believe are voting illegally, tapes show.
Today California’s reparations task force released its initial report that examines how governments have harmed Black Californians, and suggests how to pay reparations.
Haitians agreed to pay their former slave masters in order to remain free in 1825. But they couldn’t pay off the debt and had to borrow from French banks.
“Obi-Wan Kenobi” star Moses Ingram has received hundreds of racist and misogynistic hate messages.
“Top Gun: Maverick” grossed $156 million at the U.S. box office and $252 million worldwide during its opening weekend. Does this signal a strong summer for movie theaters?
“Elon Musk’s Crash Course” is a documentary looking at the accuracy of Tesla’s claims that some of its vehicles are self-driving.
Paola Prestini combines music with film, dance, and virtual reality. She’ll premiere her new album, “Houses of Zodiac,” this weekend at The Broad Museum.
As the U.S. Supreme Court prepares to decide on a New York gun case, KCRW looks at the legacy of the 2008 Heller vs. District of Columbia ruling.
Los Angeles voters have identified homelessness as the top issue in the election for LA’s next mayor. So KCRW and The LA Times hosted a debate among some of the candidates — Karen Bass, Kevin DeLeon and Gina Viola — to find out how they would solve that problem. KCRW’s Anna Scott and LA Times Times columnist Gustavo Arellano hosted the event. On this Memorial Day, tune into a special rebroadcast of the debate, which was recorded in front of an audience.
The story of the National Rifle Association involves infighting and backstabbing, million-dollar corruption, and a red-headed Russian spy. Tim Mak chronicles it all in his book called “Misfire.”
California Democrats are trying to pass new gun control bills. One would let private citizens sue manufacturers, distributors, and sellers of ghost guns and assault-style weapons.
While coronavirus vaccines are good at reducing the risk of hospitalization and death, they may not shield you from long COVID, according to new research.
Critics review new film releases: “Top Gun: Maverick,” “The Bob’s Burgers Movie,” “Zero Contact,” “Dinner in America,” and “Look at Me: Xxxtentacion.”
Evan Kleiman explains how cheeses like halloumi, smoked mozzarella, and kefalotyri have a high melting point, and they are perfect for summer grilling.
After Tuesday’s mass shooting in Uvalde, Texas, that took the lives of 19 students and two educators, LA’s Rabbi Steve Leder explains why there’s still hope in this dark moment.
Democrats tend to push for gun restrictions and assault rifle bans, while Republicans say it’s better to boost school security and/or arm teachers. What would effectively curb mass shootings?
George Carlin was known for his brash humor and political commentary. He’s the subject of Judd Apatow and Michael Bonfiglio’s new HBO film.
LA County saw more than 12,000 new COVID cases between Saturday and Monday. And over the past month, test positivity doubled and hospitalizations jumped by 80%. It’s all according to Barbara Ferrer.
It is possible to create a beautiful and functional home garden during California’s upcoming drought-induced water restrictions.
Online, #JusticeforJohnnyDepp has more than 15 billion views, while #IStandWithAmber has only about 8 million views.
Musician Bobby Brown’s life has made tabloid headlines, from his marriage to Whitney Houston, to a string of arrests, to the deaths of two of his children. A new biography about him debuts on May 30 on A&E.
LA County Sheriff Alex Villanueva is running for reelection despite being plagued by several scandals. Why aren’t there strong challengers in the primary election to take him on?
Communities must be aware of new monkeypox cases, but shouldn’t be alarmed over them, says UCLA’s Anne Rimoin.
A New Orleans-based federal court says an SEC judge violated the U.S. constitution’s right to a trial by jury. What does the case say about the power of executive branch regulators?
Services like Klarna, AfterPay, and Affirm enable shoppers to pay for goods in monthly installments — usually without a credit check or interest fees. What’s the catch?
KCRW DJ Tyler Boudreaux shares her favorite new jams fit for the upcoming summer season.
Netflix is trying to reassert itself as a streaming giant, but it projects losing some 2 million subscribers over the next quarter.
In the U.S., roughly two-thirds of people are against overturning Roe v. Wade, but most support some restrictions on abortion, according to a new poll.
While wedding venues are now open in LA, many couples are paying more than $100,000. Affected by supply chain issues and COVID protocols, brides have to be flexible.
Critics review new film releases: “Downton Abbey: A New Era,” “Men,” “Firestarter,” “Emergency,” and “Senior Year.”
The U.S. men’s and women’s soccer teams will split pay and prize money in a groundbreaking new collective bargaining agreement with the U.S. Soccer Federation.
In Pennsylvania, John Fetterman, who recently had a stroke, won the Democratic nomination for Senate. Doug Mastriano, who backed Trump’s efforts to overturn the 2020 election, won the GOP nomination for governor.
It’s not true that corporations are orchestrating inflation because they see an opportunity to pad their bottom lines, says the Washington Post’s Catherine Rampell.
At California’s competitive Lowell High School, many students are from working-class Asian families, and they’re struggling to get into Ivy League colleges.
Evan Kleiman offers recipes featuring spring fruit. Use strawberries for scones, blueberries for pies, rhubarb for BBQ sauce, and Meyer lemon sugar for cookies.
It could take two months until grocery shelves are restocked with infant formula. A pediatrician advises parents on how to feed their little ones in the meantime.
“Domestic terrorism” is what Biden calls the May 14 shooting at a NY supermarket. Federal lawmakers have said that the U.S. faces a great domestic threat from extremists motivated by white supremacy.
Nearly 108,000 Americans died of overdoses in 2021, according to preliminary CDC data. Meth and fentanyl are driving the surge. What should the U.S. be doing differently to slow the problem?
Some popular TV shows won’t be returning next season, including “Black-ish,” “This Is Us,” “Ozark,” “Better Call Saul,” and “Killing Eve.” How did some of them change cultural conversations?
This past weekend, six mass shootings rocked communities across the U.S. What’s causing the rise in gun violence?
Today the U.S. Supreme Court struck down part of a 20-year-old campaign finance law that limits how much money candidates can loan to their own campaigns.
Israeli police say they plan to investigate how the funeral of Palestinian journalist Shireen Abu Akleh turned violent. Two journalists who knew her explain why she was so revered.
Troy Andrews, aka Trombone Shorty, is out with a new album called “Lifted.” He talks about growing up in a musical family and how New Orleans is a “magical city.”
Gov. Newsom’s proposed $125 million legislation would expand abortion access in California, budgeting for more than 1 million abortion seekers traveling to the state per year.
Abortion access translates to big economic gains for pregnant people. How will that change if Roe v. Wade is overturned?
Five of California’s largest law enforcement agencies have serious issues with bias, according to the state auditor. Some police trainers are tied to far-right extremists.
Critics review new film releases: “On the Count of Three,” “Pleasure,” “Hello, Bookstore,” and “In Front of Your Face.”
After long pandemic closures, new restaurants are opening in LA every month. Here are three spots to try: Cobi’s, Bar Moruno, Caboco.
Starting this August, performing an abortion in Oklahoma will be a felony. KCRW checks in with Dr. Rebecca Taub, an OB/GYN who regularly travels to Oklahoma, and now Kansas, to relieve overburdened physicians.
Nearly half of all U.S. OB/GYN residency programs are in states that could ban abortions if Roe v. Wade falls. But abortion care can be applied to other specialties.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement has been surveilling anyone living in the U.S., from immigrants to citizens, and it can get around state laws that try to protect undocumented people, says a new report.
Julia Morgan designed California's iconic Hearst Castle, and hundreds of her buildings have survived earthquakes. She’s the focus of a new book by Victoria Kastner.
Apple is pulling the plug on the iPod, which came out in 2001. The first version cost some $400. Several generations came out, plus the Mini, Nano, Shuffle, and finally the iPod Touch.
Abortions were considered common in the 19th century. How did the medical procedure become so politicized today?
How abortion plays out in the Supreme Court and California — and how Democrats respond to it — will drive voters to the midterm polls and inform their decisions, says Politico’s Jeremy White.
Comedian Ziwe says her show is “uncomfortable conversations with iconic people.” She likes to “play up that chaos,” asking guests about race, politics, gender, culture, and class.
A portrait of Marilyn Monroe by Andy Warhol sold for a record-breaking $195 million. But that’s not his best work, says New York Times art critic Blake Gopnik.
Some people use smartphone apps to track their menstrual cycles. If abortion is outlawed in certain states, is their data safe?
Abortion would become a homicide and constitutional rights would apply “from the moment of fertilization” — if Louisiana passes a new proposed bill.
The Federal Reserve is raising interest rates to discourage people from buying more things because supply is low. But when rates are too high, a recession can happen.
The Spice Girls’ messages of girl power, individuality, and friendship resonated with young fans in the 1990s. But critics at the time said they were phonies.
Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov described the Ukraine-Russia conflict as a proxy war between Russia and NATO. White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki pushed back on that characterization.
Critics review new film releases: “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness,” “The Twin,” “Marmaduke,” and “Happening.”
Want to do a taco crawl but not drive all over SoCal? Get Evan Kleiman’s taco trifecta from Mercado la Paloma, a food hall in Historic South Central near USC.
Long-term residents of West Adams, a historically Black and Latino neighborhood, say they don’t fit into one real estate firm’s vision for making the area trendier.
Thirteen states have laws that would restrict abortion access if Roe v. Wade is overturned. Utah would severely limit the situations where someone could get the procedure.
Although countless people travel to California for abortion services each year, the state’s own residents don’t all have easy access to abortions.
TV has lied about abortion, says researcher Tanya Melendez. “The overarching lie was that it is a debatable moral issue only, and that agency is taken away from the women main characters.”
Loyola Law School professor Jessica Levinson breaks down the significance of the U.S. Supreme Court opinion draft leak on Roe v. Wade and the intentions behind it.
While the leak is shocking, the opinion itself has been predicted since Justice Barrett cemented the court’s 6-3 conversative majority in 2020.
California elected officials are proposing a constitutional amendment that could make abortion access permanent.
Variants of COVID variants now exist, and the virus’ genetic changes could alter — overnight — where the U.S. stands in the pandemic, says Dr. Michael Osterholm.
Netflix’s new documentary series, “Our Great National Parks,” covers five continents and 10 countries, showing intimate footage of elusive and new species.
The U.S. Forest Service is struggling to hire enough firefighters to handle what’s expected to be a brutal wildfire season.
This summer, the Supreme Court will likely gut the landmark Roe v. Wade precedent or overturn it entirely. Democratic states are preparing for their own post-Roe reality.
Tucker Carlson has strategically stoked the fears of white America to become the most-watched news show on cable TV.
Danielle Ponder’s music reflects her time defending poor clients in court. She became a lawyer after her brother was imprisoned for robbery. After five years in law, she’s making music full-time.
LA mayoral candidate Rick Caruso wants to build 30,000 shelter beds for unhoused people and hire 1,500 police officers to combat crime.
Moderna is asking the CDC to authorize a COVID vaccine for children under 6 years old. Meanwhile, kids are experiencing new hepatitis cases in Alabama.
Critics review new film releases: “Memory,” “Hatching,” “Navalny,” and “The Secret Lives of Marilyn Monroe.”
Japanese okonomiyaki and Korean jeon are satisfying pancakes, perfect for customization and creativity. These savory snacks are popular among chefs and home cooks.
This has been a record year for elite college applications and rejection letters. That’s partly because many institutions no longer require SATs/ACTs scores, so more kids think they have a shot.
The GOP will likely retake the U.S. House during the midterm elections. Democrats worry that the next few months will be their last shot at passing climate change legislation.
Extreme drought is forcing millions of Southern Californians to cut their water use starting June 1. How could LA’s future mayor tackle climate change locally?
As iconic sports car brands start to pivot to electric models, some drivers are waiting in line for the latest innovations.
The wok is commonly associated with Chinese cuisine, but Kenji López-Alt says it can be used for all kinds of dishes. His new book is “The Wok: Recipes and Techniques.”
Community organizer Gina Viola says she would abolish the LAPD and invest in communities to reduce crime, if elected as next mayor of Los Angeles.
Twitter has accepted Elon Musk’s $44 billion offer to buy the social media platform. What does it mean for the future of influential app?
Actor Johnny Depp wrapped up his testimony in his defamation trial against his ex-wife Amber Heard, claiming he was the victim of her aggression and violence.
The FX series “Better Things” stars Pamela Adlon as Sam Fox, a divorced mom struggling to raise her three daughters by herself. It’s based on Adlon’s real life.
The book “The Quiet Before” is about big social movements and what shaped them, from the 16th century Scientific Revolution to today’s Black Lives Matter protests.
The Supreme Court considers a case about a football coach who led a prayer on the field, and Donald Trump is held in contempt of court for refusing to hand over business records.
Emmanuel Macron has been reelected as France’s president. But far-right challenger Marine Le Pen got more support than in the 2017 race. Are voters there moving to the right?
The SF Disco Preservation Society touts more than 2,000 records from when disco was the soundtrack of gay liberation. It’s run by Jim Hopkins, who’s been a DJ since 1981.
How long will food prices continue to surge? They’ve been going up due to pandemic-induced supply chain disruptions and the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
More people are turning to food banks due to higher costs of groceries and gas. They’re also weighing what to prioritize first — food or bills.
Nearly half of the top 25 most polluted cities in the U.S. are in California, according to The American Lung Association. What’s causing the bad air quality?
Critics review the latest film releases: “The Northman,” “Petite Maman,” “Saturday Fiction,” and “The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent.”
April 23 is Record Store Day — a celebration of local music shops and vinyl records. Compared to digital, vinyl sounds more permanent, says KCRW DJ Travis Holcombe.
California Congresswoman Karen Bass talks about her plan to house 15,000 homeless Angelenos, and why LA needs a nonviolent approach to alleviate crime.
Netflix’s shares dropped by nearly 40% today, and on Tuesday, the company announced it lost subscribers for the first time in more than a decade.
“Troublemaker,” a new novel by actor John Cho, follows a 12-year-old Korean immigrant and his parents on the first day of the 1992 LA riots.
Cannabis edibles are on track to outsell smokeables. Here are recommendations for THC-infused gummies, chocolates, and beverages to find the perfect high.
A Florida federal judge has struck down the mask mandate for public transportation riders. But in certain situations when traveling, it’s recommended to keep your face covering on, says one doctor.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is asking state lawmakers to strip Disney of special self-governing power that’s been in place since the 1960s.
Showtime’s “The First Lady” reveals the private lives of Michelle Obama, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Betty Ford, and how they navigated expectations in the White House.
“Mad Max: Fury Road” is considered by critics as one of the greatest action movies of all time. But during filming, there were near deaths and fights between the two stars.
The Ukrainian band DakhaBrakha is touring the U.S. “It's very important for us to play a lot because Ukraine can disappear from the newspaper,” says member Marko Halanevych.
Mariupol appears to be on the brink of falling to Russia. Ukrainian forces there refuse to surrender, and local officials say over 100,000 civilians are trapped in the city.
Tom Girardi was accused of pressuring the California Bar Association to preserve his legal reputation despite lawsuits against him. Lawmakers audited the CBA last year, and the scathing findings are now out.
In his series “All Night Menu,” Sam Sweet breaks down the changing LA landscape by analyzing the history of specific addresses.
Elon Musk is offering to buy Twitter for $43 billion and make it more open toward free speech. He’ll likely have to borrow billions to complete the transaction.
Overdose deaths among teens are rising because the drugs available today can be more dangerous.
“Korean American: Food That Tastes Like Home” includes recipes that author Eric Kim’s mom cooked for him when he was a kid, plus new ones they developed together.
Critics review new film releases: “Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore,” “Father Stu,” “Paris, 13th District,” and “Dual.”
“I am physically very fit at the moment,” says Michelle Yeoh, who’s nearly age 60. She shares how she became an action movie star, and why her latest role is the heroine she’s long waited for.
Both Deaf and hearing performers will bring Beethoven’s only opera, “Fidelio,” to life this week. The LA Phil is collaborating with Deaf West Theatre.
Comedian Gilbert Gottfried, 67, died on Tuesday of myotonic dystrophy. KCRW reairs an interview with him about the 2017 documentary “Gilbert.”
More than a dozen LA gangs are targeting wealthy people wearing expensive watches, jewelry, and handbags in “follow-home robberies.”
Russian troops are now focusing on eastern Ukraine. “It seems to be equal opportunity carnage,” says the RAND Corporation’s David Shlapak.
COVID cases could rise in CA, as they have on the East Coast. There are good therapeutics here, and indoor air must be as clean as possible, says one doctor.
Elgin James talks about changing Hollywood’s typical narrative about people of color through his shows like “The Outlaws” and “Mayans M.C.”
Dates would do well on a Passover, Easter, or Ramadan table. Here are recipes for a savory version and a sweet version.
In the film “Master,” three Black women are haunted by ghosts and institutional racism at a predominantly white liberal arts college.
Sasami’s new album, “Squeeze,” mixes her indie-rock roots with metal. “I wanted to make an album that was drawing from this palette of frustration and rage and anger, and less kind of sorrow and solemnity and melancholy,” she says.
The House committee investigating the January 6, 2021 insurrection reportedly has enough evidence to make a criminal referral of former President Trump to the Justice Department, but is split over doing that.
The Opportunity Zones program was designed so the richest Americans would invest in the most economically distressed parts of the country. The incentive: a big tax break.
Thousands of Ukrainians are trying to seek entry to the U.S. and are at the Mexican border. This raises questions over who is prioritized for political asylum.
Reproductive rights advocates are bracing for the overturning of Roe v. Wade, and are preparing to provide abortions to people who need the procedure.
Mifepristone and misoprostol are used to end pregnancies. Conservative states are rushing to heavily restrict access to them, as activists are trying to find ways around those policies.
Critics review new film releases: “Sonic The Hedgehog 2,” “Ambulance,” “Aline,” and “Cow.”
The western United States is the driest it has been in at least 1200 years. How can California mitigate drought conditions?
The mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School birthed an online community hostile to reality, one that fed off itself despite evidence to the contrary. That’s according to author Elizabeth Williamson.
Hot pot, aka shabu shabu, is about cooking raw ingredients in a shared pot of flavorful broth. It’s a low-stress way of meal prep — only the broth is made in advance.
The LA Lakers aren’t heading to the NBA playoffs. But at least Dodgers baseball is almost here, and manager Dave Roberts is confident his team will win the World Series.
Mayoral candidate and LA City Councilman Kevin de León talks about providing new homeless shelters in every council district, creating a separate public health department for the City of LA, and more.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Russia of war crimes during a U.N. Security Council address. KCRW breaks down the latest on the Ukraine-Russia conflict.
Emmy Award-winning writer Georgia Pritchett details the chaos of self-reflection in her new book, “My Mess is a Bit of Life: Adventures in Anxiety.”
This year marks the 100-year anniversary of Jewish American girls earning the right to celebrate their adulthood through a bat mitzvah.
The 2022 Grammys returned to stadium-spectacle pop maximalism on Sunday, with a nearly four-hour telecast that favored extensive live performances over awards and speeches.
The world can cut carbon emissions in half by 2030, but it needs to act faster to prevent climate catastrophes, according to the United Nations.
Lynching is now a federal hate crime, punishable by up to 30 years in prison. Why did it take more than 100 years for a U.S. president to sign this into law?
A judge in LA recently struck down a law requiring corporate boards of publicly-traded companies to include a member from an underrepresented community.
In “How to Survive a Pandemic,” journalist and filmmaker David France chronicles the scientific and political race to create and distribute a COVID vaccine.
LA mayoral candidate and City Attorney Mike Feuer talks about his plan to build affordable housing for people experiencing homelessness, and addresses allegations of corruption.
Senator Chuck Grassley is investigating sexual harassment allegations against LA Mayor Eric Garcetti’s former aide Rick Jacobs. It’s further delaying the mayor’s confirmation as ambassador to India.
Critics review new film releases: “Morbius,” “The Bubble,” “Nitram,” and “Apollo 10 ½: A Space Age Childhood.”
“The Tinder Swindler,” “Inventing Anna,” and “Bad Vegan” are recent Netflix shows about con artists. It’s all lazy TV, says the LA Times’ Meredith Blake.
The California Reparations Task Force voted 5-4 on Tuesday to pay reparations only to Black residents here who can prove a direct connection to slavery.
Facebook’s parent company Meta hired a GOP consulting firm to try to convince Americans that TikTok was harmful to children, reports the Washington Post.
Many forensic scientists — in real life and on TV dramas — use unreliable methods that end up convicting innocent people, according to author Chris Fabricant.
Evan Kleiman celebrates women who make wine and own wine shops throughout California, from Santa Barbara to LA and San Diego.
Today the FDA authorized a second booster shot of Pfizer and Moderna vaccines for people ages 50 and up, plus some people who are immunocompromised.
Former President Trump likely committed felonies in his effort to overturn the 2020 election, said Judge David Carter on Monday.
Critics preview the highly anticipated TV show of this season: “Halo,” “The Offer,” “The First Lady,” “Atlanta,” and “Bridgerton.”
Silvana Estrada, a 24-year-old Mexican artist, often sings about heartbreak and loneliness. She shares her musical influences, and explains why she deliberately raises her voice during the emotional climax of a song.
On this Cesar Chavez Day, Press Play reairs some of our favorite interviews.
Arooj Aftab, the first Pakistani woman nominated for a Grammy, shares the meanings behind her songs, which are mostly sung in Urdu.
Comedian Al Madrigal shares his comic book “Primos,” which follows three Mexican American cousins of Mayan heritage who come together to save the world from evil.
Chef Roy Choi talks about prioritizing workers’ needs and equitable pay, and how the restaurant industry can drive gentrification, which particularly affects people of color.
In the first of five interviews with LA mayoral candidates, LA City Councilmember Joe Buscaino talks about his plan to provide immediate shelters to unhoused Angelenos, and defends his use of donor cash to travel abroad with his family.
In “Flee,” which is up for an Oscar this year, Jonas Poher Rasmussen interviews his friend Amin Nawabi, an LGBTQ Afghanistan native, about fleeing his war-torn home and connecting his past and present.
Critics review new movie releases: “The Lost City,” “Seven Days,” “Intregalde,” and “Stunt Rock.”
Novaya Gazeta is one of the last vestiges of independent journalism operating in Russia. “He's [editor Dmitry Muratov] found a way of really getting through what's happening in Ukraine,” says the Washington Post’s Paul Sonne.
More than 40 LA County sheriff’s deputies are members of gang-like cliques within the department, according to LA County Inspector General Max Huntsman.
At the maximum security state prison Attica, more than 1,000 inmates overwhelmed guards and civilian prison workers, and took control of the facility in 1971. An Oscar-nominated film looks at what happened.
“Common Ground” is a ceramics project involving raw material from all 50 states, plus D.C. and the five U.S. territories. It’s meant to explore how an intensely divided America can rediscover its commonalities.
President Biden says Vladimir Putin could use a cyberattack in response to sanctions after his country invaded Ukraine, but has no specificity about which U.S. sectors might be targeted.
COVID-19 cases may be ticking up in some places abroad, but travelers are itching to get away. Those returning to the U.S. must show a negative COVID test.
Through a series of vignettes about daily life in China, Academy Award-nominated documentary “Ascension” reveals what capitalism looks like in Xi Jinping’s country.
KCRW looks into the five nominees for Best Documentary Feature at this year’s Oscars: “Audible,” “When We Were Bullies,” “The Queen of Basketball,” “Lead Me Home,” and “Three Songs for Benazir.”
As Russia escalates its attacks on Ukraine, Africans and other foreign residents there face racism while struggling to escape.
Ketanji Brown Jackson is the first Black woman to be nominated to the Supreme Court. The Senate is holding four days of confirmation hearings. How might the proceedings unfold?
As the Russia-Ukraine conflict intensifies, and the U.S. isn’t importing Russian oil, journalist Graeme Wood says Saudi Arabia can produce more or less oil at will and thus manage the world’s energy markets.
“Summer of Soul” is Questlove’s new film about a 1969 summer-long concert series in NYC featuring Nina Simone, BB King, and other major musicians at the time.
For 20 years in rural northern India, an all-women group has run an increasingly popular news outlet called Khabar Lahariya. Most of them come from the Dalit caste, which is the lowest. Their story is told in the Oscar-nominated film, “Writing with Fire.”
COVID-19 is surging in Western Europe, caused by the more transmissible Omicron variant BA.2. It’s time to be proactive and prepare now, says UCLA doctor.
Critics review new movie releases: “Deep Water,” “Cheaper by the Dozen,” “Umma,” “Alice,” and “Master.”
Marmalade is the art of combining a clear jelly with softened pieces of citrus rind. It all started in Scotland, traditionally made with Seville bitter oranges.
Marlee Matlin has been one of the only Deaf actors consistently working in Hollywood. She says the industry is doing better in portraying the Deaf community, and wants interpreters to be shown during the whole duration of national TV broadcasts like the Super Bowl.
It’s been a year since a gunman killed eight people at three Atlanta-area spas. Six were women of Asian descent. They were the most shocking example of a wave of anti-Asian hate that began with the COVID pandemic. The violence hasn’t stopped.
Neda Toloui-Semnani’s new book is “They Said They Wanted Revolution.” She shares how her parents came to the U.S. in their youth in the 1950s-60s, then returned to Iran in the 1970s to join the insurrection there. Her father was executed and her pregnant mother was forced to flee.
Dolly Parton was nominated last month to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. This week, she said hasn’t earned the right to be there because she doesn’t make that kind of music.
Marcus Yam, LA Times foreign correspondent and photojournalist, is in Ukraine. He describes the dangers and importance of the job, how eerie Kyiv is right now, and coming across civilians who’ve died.
The biggest way to cripple autocracies like Russia is to stop financing fossil fuels entirely, says Bill McKibben, co-founder of 350.org.
A 1970 law that was supposed to help protect California’s ecosystem can stifle new housing developments. Is it time to revamp CEQA or get rid of it?
“Inventing Anna” is about Anna Sorokin, who convinced New York’s elite that she was a rich German heiress. One of the people she conned was Rachel DeLoache Williams, who ultimately got Sorokin behind bars.
Gov. Newsom’s CARE Court would give judges more power to push people struggling with addiction and severe mental illness into court-ordered care.
The International Criminal Court is investigating possible war crimes committed by Russia in Ukraine. Last week, Russian troops shelled a maternity hospital in the city of Mariupol.
The Texas Supreme Court on Friday ended a lawsuit aimed at killing the state’s law that bans abortions as early as six weeks. Nearby red states are trying to pass similar legislation.
Lin Manuel Miranda, Billie Eilish plus Finneas, Van Morrison, and Diane Warren have written this year’s Oscar-nominated songs.
Russia is famous for its billionaires who squirrel away their money through luxury yachts and real estate in Western cities. How could U.S. and European sanctions affect them and Vladimir Putin?
The Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science recently received a $20 million donation from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott. How has the institution helped shape LA?
Critics review new film releases: “Turning Red,” “The Adam Project,” “Gold,” and “Lucy and Desi.”
Irish soda bread is easy to make, involving wheat flour, buttermilk, salt, and baking soda. Evan Kleiman walks you through the steps.
Californians could get a rebate to ease the cost of gas, which averages $5.57/gallon today. Some stations are charging even more. Why are prices so high?
As more U.S. companies cut business operations in Russia, how much money could they lose, and will it add more hardship to everyday Russians?
Many people worldwide want to help Ukraine — by donating money and supplies — as the conflict with Russia continues. As usual, there are scammers to watch out for.
In the film “Three Months,” 18-year-old Caleb is about to graduate high school, then learns he’s been exposed to HIV and must wait three months for the final test results.
The 100 Percenters is a new activist group of music artists who say they can’t pay their bills ever since streaming became a dominant force.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called on the United Nations to expel Russia from the Security Council just days after Russia invaded Ukraine. Members of U.S. Congress echoed that sentiment.
The U.S., U.K., and European Union are all cutting or banning imports of Russian oil and gas. Over the weekend, President Vladimir Putin described the Western sanctions as “akin to a declaration of war.”
U.S. President Biden’s Test to Treat initiative would people with COVID symptoms to take a rapid test at a pharmacy, and if they’re positive, they’ll receive antiviral pills to consume at home.
The Lakers in the 1980s won five NBA titles and were known for bringing glitz and glamor to the Forum in Inglewood. They’re the focus of HBO’s “Winning Time.”
For $9.95 a month, MoviePass subscribers could see a movie a day in any theater in any city. The company boasted so in 2017, then went bankrupt in 2018. It plans to return this summer.
Kidsave, a Culver City-based nonprofit that has operated in Ukraine since 2016, is currently helping families get to safety following Russia’s invasion.
International Medical Corps, a nonprofit headquartered in LA, is providing medicines, critical care equipment, and health care personnel to Ukraine as the conflict with Russia continues.
The U.S. Supreme Court declined to review Bill Cosby’s case, and former Trump lawyer John Eastman faces an ethics investigation.
American pianist Ruth Slenczynska, 97, is releasing a new album called “My Life in Music.” She began performing at 4 years old, studied with Russian composer Sergei Rachmaninoff, and has played for multiple U.S. presidents.
Low-rise jeans, baby tees, and shrugs from the early 2000s are back. But overweight women were absent from these styles, says freelance writer Jess Sims.
Poland, Romania, Hungary, and Slovakia are accepting Ukrainian refugees who’ve been fleeing since Russia invaded their homeland about a week ago. What could long-term resettlement look like?
The Russia-Ukraine conflict is expected to further disrupt the global supply chain, as Russia is a major producer of special minerals and materials for car parts, and Ukraine is a big exporter of wheat and sunflowers.
Russia spent years building its cyber intelligence network, and many thought the country would use it to launch a “hybrid war” in its next major military conflict. It has yet to do so after invading Ukraine.
Critics review “After Yang,” “Fresh,” “Huda’s Salon,” and “The Batman.”
Evan Kleiman explains how yogurt can be used in sweet and savory dishes, plus as a child’s edible finger paint.
The 1990s was a decade of dial-up internet, compact discs, and Hollywood favorites such as “American Beauty” and “Friends.” Chuck Klosterman’s new book unpacks it all.
Amid the Russia-Ukraine conflict, China is trying to thread a needle between its close military and economic ties with Vladimir Putin’s country, and its much bigger economic interests in the U.S. and Europe.
Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok have banned two of Russia’s most popular news outlets across Europe. Apple suspended sales of all of its products in Russia.
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott recently told state officials to start classifying medical treatments for transgender kids as child abuse. It’s one of many efforts in red states to restrict LGBTQ youth’s rights.
In Ukraine, roads are bombed out and people can’t get basic needs, while Russia is also facing a humanitarian crisis. Anastasia Shostak, who has Jewish family members on both sides of the conflict, is struggling to get them out.
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is a defining moment for the GOP, says Ron Nehring, former head of the California Republican Party.
California will drop its school mask mandate on March 12, though LAUSD has not announced whether it will do so. Is it really safe for kids and adults to go maskless?
Hulu’s “The Dropout” chronicles the rise and fall of Elizabeth Holmes, who was convicted of lying to investors about what her blood testing company, Theranos, could do.
Ukrainian officials say the country’s second largest city has come under heavy Russian rocket fire. Rep. Adam Schiff looks at what may be next for both countries plus the U.S.
At CPAC, former President Trump implied strongly that he’ll run for president again in two years. And West Virginia and some of its coal companies are suing the EPA.
Trayvon Martin died 10 years ago this month. Along with George Zimmerman’s trial and acquittal of murder, it all sparked the enduring Black Lives Matter movement.
A new art exhibit at LA Live pays homage to Tupac Shakur, who died in a drive-by shooting in Las Vegas in 1996 when he was 25 years old.
President Biden responded to Russia’s full-scale attack against Ukraine by imposing heavy sanctions. But for Ukrainian Americans living in California, it’s personal and the latest chapter in a long history of Russian aggression against their country.
Ernest Prokopovych left Ukraine after World War II when he was 8 years old, and he arrived in the U.S. at age 13. Currently living in Calabasas, he says this moment feels familiar and brings back difficult memories.
“We left in 1944. It was a long trek, and we went through some areas where there was fighting that we witnessed personally. I remember one situation where there were some Jews lined up by a road, and they were being executed. My father covered up with his hand, my eye, so I wouldn't see it, but I saw it between the cracks. And to this day, I have a very, very, very vivid picture of this event,” he explains.
His family originally planned to flee the war-torn area and return home when the war ended, but that didn’t happen. He adds that four or five days ago, some family members in Ukraine emailed him to express concerns that “things are getting tight.” He replied but isn’t sure whether they’ll receive the message.
What does Prokopovych think will happen to Ukraine? “We hope for the best but in reality … Putin has already said that he wants to install a new government. So he's going to install somebody that is Russia friendly.”
Prokopovych points out that while this situation is influenced by oil prices, it goes beyond that. “What happens is that Ukraine falls, and if it falls quickly and easily, Putin will get the appetite to bring back the politics. … What we are doing by not responding properly, we are making Russia bigger and stronger, and that will create more calamities for us.”
For now, Prokopovych says he’s standing by to see how he can help his native country.
Responding to Russia’s attack against Ukraine, President Biden today announced freezing trillions of dollars in Russian assets, restricting some exports, and cutting off Russia’s largest banks from western markets.
California is dropping its indoor mask mandate for vaccinated people, and will begin treating COVID as an “endemic” disease. What does this mean for immunocompromised people?
Critics review new movie releases: “Studio 666,” “The Desperate Hour,” “Family Squares,” and "The King’s Man."
You only have until Fat Tuesday (March 1) to eat king cake, the blinged-out rings of dough marking Mardi Gras.
LAPD budgeting, crime, and homelessness took center stage during the first live TV debate in the race for LA’s next mayor.
LA District Attorney George Gascon is facing another recall attempt. His opponents have raised nearly $2 million, and the union representing rank-and-file deputy attorneys have voted to support the recall.
Dr. Paul Farmer, known for personally delivering medical care to impoverished people, died on Monday at age 62.
The story of Cyrano de Bergerac is now re-envisioned as a musical with Peter Dinklage as the lead, and instead of a big nose, his stature is what keeps him from love.
Hank the Tank, a 500-pound bear, is terrorizing South Lake Tahoe. He’s broken into 28 houses so far and loves human food.
Phat Tuesdays, a night for all Black comedians at the Comedy Store in LA, launched in the 1990s and helped Chris Tucker, Kevin Hart, and Tiffany Hadish start their careers.
Social circles tend to dramatically shrink after our mid 20s, but we actually need our friends more when we get older, says Atlantic staff writer Jennifer Senior.
President Biden today announced harsh sanctions against Russia — after Putin ordered his troops into Eastern Ukraine. What options does President Zelensky have if Russia takes over more parts of the country?
Gov. Newsom recently unveiled a law that tightens restrictions on ghost guns. Another one bans the marketing of certain weapons to children. The big one is modeled after Texas’ abortion law.
To try to change her personality, the Atlantic writer Olga Khazan took up improv, meditation, and anger management classes.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken addressed the U.N. about the Russia-Ukraine crisis today, as Moscow moved to expel a top U.S. diplomat in the country.
Critics review the latest movie releases: “Dog,” “Uncharted,” “The Cursed,” and “A Banquet.”
Evan Kleiman shares how you can make salads more craveable by adding dressings based on nuts, tahini, and cheese.
Al Madrigal’s new comic book series, “Primos,” follows three Mexican American cousins of Mayan heritage who come together to save the world from evil.
San Francisco residents voted on Tuesday to recall three school board members, including its president. Mayor London Breed supported the recall and will appoint their replacements.
Politicians on both sides are talking about reforming The Electoral Count Act, which is supposed to tell Congress what to do if there are problems with state voting tallies.
Supply chain issues are causing a shortage of Girl Scout cookies, including in LA. Some areas are extending cookie season to wait on more inventory.
The U.S. announced a few days ago that it’s temporarily banning avocado imports from Mexico after an American produce safety inspector in Michoacán received a threat.
Amazon’s new series, “As We See It,” follows three roommates who are on the autism spectrum, played by actors who experience it in real life.
Polls show Californians want officials to take faster action to get people off the streets and provide them with the help they need. Those feelings are similar across age, political affiliation, and race.
UC Berkeley might have to cut the size of its incoming freshman class, as a judge has sided with a neighborhood group accusing the university of exacerbating homelessness.
Since January, Magellan Health has been responsible for getting drugs to Medi-Cal enrollees. But the company is short-staffed, patient data is missing, and some claims were improperly denied.
Today Alberto Carvalho starts his tenure as LAUSD’s superintendent. His 100-day plan includes providing 24/7 technology for students, expanding early education, and more.
Employees would be able to take allegations of workplace misconduct to court if a new bill gets President Biden’s signature. It’d be a win for labor activists fighting closed-door arbitration.
Tens of millions of people bet on Super Bowl LVI. Sports betting in California is still not legal, but that could change this year.
Cate Le Bon, a Joshua Tree resident and native of Wales, talks about producing her new album “Pompeii” during COVID lockdown.
A new Omicron variant is emerging while some Democratic states are rolling back COVID rules. The CDC is urging Americans to keep wearing masks.
KCRW previews Sunday’s Super Bowl between the LA Rams and Cincinnati Bengals, plus the halftime show featuring Kendrick Lamar, Mary J. Blige, and others.
Sunday’s Super Bowl takes place at the $5 billion SoFi Stadium. KCRW learns what makes the venue unique, and the design choices architects made while building it.
Black-owned coffee roasters and cafes go beyond the beans to create welcoming neighborhood spaces that act as cultural hubs and remedy underrepresentation.
Critics review new movie releases: “I Want You Back,” “Marry Me,” “Kimi,” “Blacklight.”
In “The Girl Before,” David Oyelowo plays a brooding and controlling architect. “I'm looking to tell redemptive stories … that don't shy away from the darkness,” he says.
Olympic skier Mikaela Shiffrin is rekindling conversations about mental health. Kathy Kreiner-Phillips, who won gold at the 1976 Olympics, says we need to see elite athletes as human beings.
Canadian truck drivers and their supporters have moved their anti-vax protests to a key automotive artery connecting the Great White North to the U.S.
Facebook’s parent company Meta has dramatically lost value this year, which is fueling questions about the company’s future and plans to build a new internet.
Roy Choi discusses the pandemic impact on food service workers, the role of restaurants in gentrification, and why his business almost closed.
California’s indoor mask mandate is expiring on February 15 for vaccinated residents. Face coverings will still be required for unvaccinated people and those in LA.
California has committed $3 billion to convert thousands of its public schools into community schools — which aim to meet the needs of both students and their families — in the next seven years.
Ten films are up for Best Picture at the Oscars, including “Licorice Pizza,” “CODA,” and “The Power of the Dog.” KCRW looks at highlights from the nominations.
Patients with underlying conditions, including the Epstein-Barr virus, could be more likely to develop long-term COVID, according to new research.
Sarah Palin is suing the New York Times over an editorial that incorrectly linked her political activity to the shooting that nearly killed Arizona Rep. Gabby Giffords.
Esa-Pekka Salonen returns to the LA Philharmonic as its conductor laureate after a 13-year departure. He wants to integrate virtual reality into the musical experience.
In the video game “Norco,” a young woman explores the oil refineries and drainage ditches of New Orleans, in search of her missing brother.
Former Miami Dolphins head coach Brian Flores has filed a lawsuit against the NFL and all 32 of its teams, alleging that their hiring practices discriminate against him and other Black coaches.
It appears that Republican Leonard Moty will be recalled from Shasta County’s Board of Supervisors, and be replaced by a militia-backed candidate.
Critics review new movie releases: “Moonfall,” “Jackass Forever,” “Alone With You,” and “The Worst Person in the World.”
This Valentine’s Day, show your love to women-owned restaurants and food businesses. They’ll reciprocate with delicious treats for you and your partner or pal(s).
The last time the U.S. hosted the Winter Olympics was in 2002 in Salt Lake City. Due to climate change, it may be the last Winter Games here, says one professor.
It’s unclear when the COVID pandemic will end or at least reach the endemic stage, but the 1918 influenza pandemic can offer clues.
Crypto.com recently announced it was hacked, and thieves stole more than $30 million in cryptocurrency. Heists like these are becoming common.
Wajahat Ali, a Pakistani American lawyer, talks about his new memoir called “Go Back to Where You Came From: And Other Helpful Recommendations on How to Become American.”
Gov. Newsom wants to move the 700 death row inmates at San Quentin to other maximum security prisons. One law professor describes death row in California as “a more expensive version of life without parole that costs us $150 million a year.”
A fight over solar panels is brewing between the solar industry and most environmental groups on one side — versus utility companies, labor groups, and consumer advocates on the other.
Gas stoves are in nearly 40 million U.S. homes, and they together emit 500,000 cars’ worth of methane per year, according to a new study.
Induction stoves are an environmentally friendly alternative to gas stoves, but some restaurants aren’t able to make the switch.
Showrunner Matt Lopez discusses Latino representation on TV and why “Promised Land” is a love letter to his family.
Podcaster Joe Rogan and Spotify are being forced to respond to mounting public criticism that his show promotes COVID misinformation.
Former President Trump recently floated the idea of pardoning the January 6, 2021 insurrectionists, and disgraced attorney Michael Avenatti on trial for the third time in two years.
The LAPD, rail companies, and District Attorney George Gascón are facing scrutiny from a rise of train thefts throughout the pandemic.
Top U.S. orchestras had no female conductors — until Marin Alsop led the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra in 2007. She stepped down last June. Now a new film tells her story.
The LA Rams are going to Super Bowl LVI 2022, earning home field advantage against the Cincinnati Bengals on February 13.
The 2022 Winter Olympics start next week in Beijing. With thousands of worldwide athletes, coaches, and support staff arriving, can China avoid another coronavirus outbreak?
The U.S. is facing a dire blood shortage that’s prompted some LA trauma centers to close. Currently, the FDA says men who have sex with men can’t donate blood unless they’ve been celibate for the past three months.
Critics discuss highlights from the Sundance Film Festival, plus new films in theaters and on streaming services, such as “Home Team,” “Sundown,” and “Cyrano.”
Evan Kleiman explains why you should buy beans locally — and recommends where. There are also many ways of cooking beans, from simple to complex.
Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer plans to retire after nearly 30 years on the bench. President Biden has promised to appoint a Black woman to his post.
Mexican journalists staged protests nationwide on Tuesday in response to the murders of three journalists, including Lourdes Maldonado López, this month alone.
In the memoir “Lost & Found,” Kathryn Schulz shares the story of losing her father and finding the love of her life in the span of 18 months.
Peloton was massively popular during the pandemic, but now its stock is plummeting. There are talks of layoffs, selling the company, and maybe ousting the CEO.
When poor families receive no-strings-attached cash, that’s linked to more development in their babies’ brains, according to the new “Baby’s First Years” study.
With recent swings in the stock market, investors are anxious, and the Federal Reserve is expected to raise interest rates to fight inflation.
The United Farm Workers is struggling to grow its membership and gain attention from state lawmakers. What does its future look like?
“Finding Your Roots” is a PBS series that combs through family lineages of famous people. It’s inspired by host Henry Louis Gates Jr.’s own experience tracing his family tree.
Damon Albarn — from Blur and Gorillaz — recently said Taylor Swift doesn’t write her own songs, sparking near-immediate backlash from Swift and her fans.
Andrew Garfield talks about portraying playwright Jonathan Larson in “tick, tick…BOOM!” and reprising the role of Spider-Man.
The federal government is giving California $600 million for forest restoration work, post-fire cleanup, and the removal of so-called hazard trees.
The Supreme Court justices will hear challenges to race-conscious admissions programs at Harvard and the University of North Carolina this fall.
After a nail-biting football weekend, the LA Rams and San Francisco 49ers will face off at the NFC Championship game on January 30.
Tina Turner, Bruce Springsteen, and Bob Dylan are selling the rights to their music, costing major labels billions of dollars. Why are they selling?
LAUSD classrooms are seeing major disruptions as the district grapples with record COVID rates among students and staff. Two educators, who are also parents, share their back-to-school experiences.
On President Joe Biden’s first day in office, he unveiled a 200-page plan to beat COVID-19. What are the administration’s pandemic successes and failures?
Critics review new international film releases: “Stop Zemlia,” “The Pink Cloud,” “Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom,” and “A Hero.”
Chopped salad began in 1937 with Hollywood’s Brown Derby Cobb. Like the current TikTok salad craze, bowls of chopped ingredients have been viral ever since.
The authors of “Out of Office” discuss how telecommuting can make people feel an unhealthy need to constantly work, and why it’s problematic to tie so much of your identity to your job.
The threat of war looms along the Russian-Ukrainian border, where nearly 100,000 Russian troops are stationed. The White House says Russia could attack Ukraine at any point.
Today AT&T and Verizon activated 5G service to millions of cellphones in select U.S. cities. But if you live within two miles of an airport, you’re stuck with 4G.
André Leon Talley was the first Black man to serve as Vogue’s creative director, pushing for racial and gender diversity in fashion. He died Tuesday at age 73.
Following Saturday’s hostage situation in Texas, LA rabbi Steve Leder shares why local places of worship prioritize security training.
Eleven people involved in the 2020 U.S. Capitol insurrection have now been charged with seditious conspiracy, including the leader of The Oath Keepers.
All women will eventually go through menopause, which brings hot flashes, impaired sleep, dry skin, weight gain, and more. It’s important to become informed in your 30s and 40s.
Some parents and TV critics say “Euphoria” is too graphic and dangerous for young people to watch. But the 2.4 million viewers disagree as they tuned in for the show’s long-awaited return.
On this Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Press Play re-airs two interviews from 2021 with inspiring Black women: Film historian Jacqueline Stewart, who’s the head of programming at LA’s Academy Museum, plus Anita Hill, author of “Believing.”
An influx of patients is straining already short-staffed hospitals, and some have canceled elective surgeries, including Providence Holy Cross Medical Center in the San Fernando Valley. “Hillbilly Elegy” author JD Vance is a GOP candidate for the Senate in Ohio, and he appears to have modeled himself after Donald Trump. KCRW gets reviews for the newest films: “Scream,” “Italian Studies,” “Belle,” and “Hotel Transylvania.” A perennial plant will last many seasons, often growing more robust as years go by. Here are tips on growing them in your home garden.
Artificial intelligence can predict breast cancer years before it shows up on a mammogram, according to a new MIT study. Two massive voting rights bills would boost voting by mail, make election day a federal holiday, and allow the federal government oversee state voting laws to prevent racial discrimination. White supremacy and systemic racism have been at the core of U.S. identity for the past 400 years, according to Emily and Sarah Kunstler in their documentary called “Who We Are.”
There’s been a lot of mask confusion during the COVID pandemic. What’s the difference between N95, KN95, and KF94? Is double-masking with a cloth and surgical mask effective? Pandemic-induced stress hormones can weaken your brain cells’ connections — and your ability to execute daily tasks, stay focused, and carry on conversations. Mastering sleep and exercise can help. Banks have long made billions of dollars annually by charging people when they overdraw their accounts. Consumer advocates argue that these fees are abusive and predatory. HBO’s “How To with John Wilson,” now in season two, starts with a simple explainer and then delves into deep questions about life.
Arooj Aftab is nominated for Best New Artist at this year’s Grammys. She sings in mostly Urdu, and her work is inspired by an ancient form of Islamic poetry. COVID is here to stay, says epidemiologist Michael Osterholm. Now the question of how to live with COVID remains. The three men who chased and killed Ahmaud Arbery now face a second trial, this time on federal hate crime charges. KCRW recaps the past weekend's big NFL games and remembers comedian Bob Saget, who died on Sunday.
More than 700 people face federal charges for storming the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. Writer Kerry Howley profiled three insurrectionists and what’s happened to them in the months since.
Writer Barton Gellman says Jan. 6, 2021 was practice, and that Donald Trump’s Republican Party is in better shape to subvert the next election.
Critics review the newest movies: “Memoria,” “The Tender Bar,” “The 355,” and “The Lost Daughter.”
Evan Kleiman shares quick recipes for soups that can be made with water instead of broth and are full of vegetables and/or protein-rich legumes and beans.
Marlo Mack talks about her book, “How To Be A Girl: A Mother’s Memoir of Raising Her Transgender Daughter.”
The LAPD shot nearly 40 people and killed 18 in 2021, which is more than double the number of people that officers killed in 2020, according to the LA Times.
The U.S. Justice Department has charged around 700 people for their involvement in Jan. 6, 2021 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol. At least 80 of them have a military background.
This Sunday’s Golden Globes won’t have an audience, host, stars, or TV broadcast. That’s due to the weakened reputation of The Hollywood Foreign Press Association.
Amid the winter COVID surge, Long Beach, Alhambra, and Burbank districts resumed classes on Monday, and LA public schools will restart next Tuesday. It’s been a bumpy road for students, teachers, and parents.
Thousands of flights were cancelled this past weekend amid the COVID winter surge. More airline workers tested positive, and Americans abroad needed to show a negative COVID test before heading home
If the Supreme Court upholds Texas and Mississippi laws that severely curtail abortion, dozens of Republican-led states are expected to pass similar laws.
Critics share their most anticipated TV shows coming this year, including “Moon Knight,” “Pam and Tommy,” “Bel-Air,” “Hawkeye,” and “American Auto.”
Omicron is partly driving LA’s record-breaking COVID surge. UCSF’s Dr. Robert Wachter explains where we stand in terms of isolation rules, testing accuracy, and reliability of immunity.
The U.S. House committee investigating the Jan. 6, 2021 insurrection has sentenced dozens of people for their involvement, and held Mark Meadows and Steve Bannon in contempt of Congress.
Father Gregory Boyle founded the gang intervention organization called Homeboy Industries. He’s out with a new book, “The Whole Language: The Power of Extravagant Tenderness.”
Indie musician Moses Sumney talks about his new concert film called “Blackalachia,” leaving LA for North Carolina, and finding inspiration in nature.
A doctor from San Bernardino County explains how he’s handling another COVID surge as the Omicron variant spreads, and how he talks to vaccine skeptics.
The James Webb Space Telescope will launch on Christmas. It’s meant to help scientists understand exoplanets and the birth and evolution of stars.
Critics review the newest film releases: “The Matrix Resurrections,” “Parallel Mothers,” “Tragedy Of Macbeth,” “Jockey,” and “Memoria.”
Every year, KCRW’s DJs tally up their favorite artists and albums, and music programming director Anne Litt gives a rundown of this year’s picks.
The Biden administration plans to send at-home COVID tests to Americans who ask for one. Clinical microbiologist Susan Butler-Wu shares how effective they are.
President Biden’s $2 trillion “Build Back Better” plan includes major climate change reforms, but it’s lacking support, including from Sen. Joe Manchin.
Four months after the U.S. withdrew troops and funding from Afghanistan, residents there can’t afford enough food or fuel. One LA doctor is trying to help.
The documentary “Beanie Mania” looks at how the tiny pellet-filled stuffed animals from the 1990s fueled an investment bubble.
Warm drinks are perfect for winter holidays: Mexican ponche, Nordic glӧgg, mulled wine, mulled apple cider, and hot chocolate.
States nationwide are seeing COVID-19 surges, and New York reported more than 60,000 new cases this past weekend, the most since the start of the pandemic. “We're seeing both a reduction in the ability of the vaccines to protect you against the basic infection, but we're also seeing the fact that you're being exposed so many times, that the number of times your body's able to defend itself declines over time,” says Dr. Jay Varma, epidemiologist and Weill Cornell professor.
A U.S. federal appeals court reinstated a Biden administration rule that mandates businesses with 100 or more employees to require COVID vaccinations or weekly tests for unvaccinated workers.
Pitchfork editors share the year’s popular music books, including “The Motherlode: 100+ Women Who Made Hip-Hop” by Clover Hope and “Major Labels: A History of Popular Music in Seven Genres” by Kelefa Sanneh.
Amy Schneider has earned more than $500,000 total from winning “Jeopardy!” 13 times so far. She’s also the most successful trans candidate the show’s ever seen.