Chris Matthews Reveals Untold Stories from Washington’s Back Rooms
In this wide-ranging episode, American political commentator, retired talk-show host, and author Chris Matthews joins Gentry to discuss his new book, Lessons from Bobby: Ten Reasons Robert F. Kennedy Still Matters. Matthews lays out why RFK’s moral courage, coalition-building, and willingness to risk political capital still resonate—and what those lessons mean for the country now.
Grab the book here: Buy Lessons from Bobby. Simon & Schuster
Beyond the book, Chris shares a remarkable story from his younger years hitchhiking across Africa, then pivots to an unflinching conversation about the Kennedy legacy—with a special focus on Bobby. He and Gentry also unpack today’s political flashpoints: the new New York mayor and Assembly member Zohran Mamdani, the evolving crises between the U.S., Israel, and Palestine, and the brutal realities of the Russia–Ukraine war.
It’s candid, timely, and steeped in history—an essential listen for anyone who cares about American politics and the ideas that still shape it.
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19:15
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19:15
Marlon Wayans: The Wild Child of Comedy on Family, Fame & Fearlessness
In this high‑energy episode, Marlon Wayans joins Gentry Thomas to give fans the full scoop on his nationwide stand‑up tour — the “Wild Child Tour.” Want to catch him live? Click here for dates and locations: MarlonWayans.com/live‑showsHe shares stories about what inspired the tour, how he crafts his live sets, and what audiences can expect from a night with Marlon.
The conversation digs into Marlon’s early days in comedy and film, including his breakthrough roles in Scary Movie, White Chicks, and his beginnings on In Living Color. He also opens up about life’s more serious struggles—watching his older brother deal with crack addiction, learning lessons in brotherhood and responsibility, and how personal pain has shaped his funny, unfiltered voice.
Marlon shares one of the wildest stories in his career: when singer Macy Gray angrily jumped on stage at one of his shows over a joke—what went down, how he handled it, and what he learned from it.
Family remains at the center of everything. He discusses his relationship with his brothers and how they influenced each other creatively, and what family legacy means in the Wayans clan.
This conversation is raw, hilarious, and deeply human—filled with laughter, life lessons, and the kind of behind‑the‑scenes honesty you don’t always get from a comedy star. Don’t miss it.
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14:46
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14:46
Abby Phillip on Jesse Jackson, Trump Parallels & the Fight for Black Political Power
In this incisive episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, CNN anchor Abby Phillip joins us to discuss her powerful new book, A Dream Deferred: Jesse Jackson and the Fight for Black Political Power. Dive deep into the extraordinary story of civil‑rights leader Jesse Jackson, his historic presidential campaigns in the 1980s, and how his vision reshaped American politics. Buy the book here: A Dream Deferred: Jesse Jackson and the Fight for Black Political Power
Abby and Gentry explore how Jackson’s strategies—and his underrated influence—mirror present‑day dynamics with figures across the political spectrum. They analyze how extremists and politicians alike believe they’re right in their missions, and why understanding that truth is critical.
The conversation also tackles one of the most critical issues of our time: evolving diplomacy between the U.S., Israel and Palestine, and the high‑stakes role debate and the free press still play in democracy. Abby reflects on her role at CNN, the responsibility of journalism in today’s polarized climate, and how the integrity of the story matters now more than ever.
Tune in for an in‑depth, thought‑provoking discussion on power, politics, race, and media—only on Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas.
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17:36
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17:36
Sydney Sweeney: The Fighter, The Star, The Talk of Hollywood
In this dynamic episode, Gentry Thomas sits down with actress Sydney Sweeney, who’s taking center stage in her latest role as boxing legend Christy Martin in the new biopic Christy. Sydney opens up about the intense physical and emotional preparation that went into portraying a real-life champion, sharing how her childhood background in kickboxing helped fuel the performance.
The conversation dives into her role on Euphoria, the kinds of characters she gravitates toward, and her love for playing complex, driven women. She also reveals which sport she was best at growing up, the music that pumps her up before a fight scene, and what it’s like stepping into a role inspired by real-life grit.
Gentry and Sydney talk about the making of Christy, her chemistry with the cast, and how stepping into the world of combat sports shaped her perspective on storytelling. This episode is full of punch—from action and heart to insight and inspiration. Don't miss it!
Get tickets to see Christy Here --> Buy Tickets
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9:33
Jake Tapper on Race Against Terror: Secret Missions, Presidents, and the Fight for Truth
In this riveting episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, veteran journalist and CNN anchor Jake Tapper joins Gentry to discuss his powerful new book, Race Against Terror: Chasing an Al Qaeda Killer at the Dawn of the Forever War. This gripping true story follows the incredible global hunt for a terrorist who confessed to killing American soldiers—and how the justice system scrambled to respond. Get your copy here: Buy Race Against Terror
Jake and Gentry dive into the evolution of counter‑terrorism strategy, analyzing how different U.S. presidents have confronted extremist threats and why every radical believes their mission is justified. They also discuss what it’s like to moderate presidential debates and the heavy responsibility of journalism in today’s polarized media culture.
Tune in for an intense, thoughtful conversation on global security, democracy, and the critical role of a free press in safeguarding our future.
Go Backstage with Gentry Thomas as he interviews interesting people from celebrity musicians, athletes, and even movie stars.
STEP BEHIND THE SCENES ON THE BACKSTAGE PODCAST -
HOSTED BY GENTRY THOMAS.
WHERE MUSIC LEGENDS, SPORTS ICONS AND MOVIE STARS GET REAL ABOUT THEIR FAILURES, HARD WORK AND RISE TO THE TOP.
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