Podcast Summary: Chicks in the Office – "Blake Lively’s Leaked Texts to Justin Baldoni, Spencer Pratt Goes After Alex Cooper + Weekly Watch Report"

Release Date: January 20, 2025
Hosts: Ria and Fran
Source: Barstool Sports

1. Introduction

The episode kicks off with Ria and Fran greeting listeners and sharing their excitement about recent events, including a triumphant Eagles win. They set the stage for a lively discussion filled with pop culture insights, celebrity news, and their weekly watch report.

2. Sports Segment: Eagles' Victory and NFC Championship

Fran [01:09]: "If you have the day off today, I hope you're enjoying the day off."

Ria [01:15] shares her relief and joy over the Eagles' nerve-wracking win against the Lions, expressing excitement for their upcoming NFC Championship game hosted at home.

Fran [02:30]: Reflects on Kaitlin Bristow's enthusiastic presence at the game, highlighting her dedication as fans celebrate the victory despite the snowy conditions.

3. Main Topic: Blake Lively’s Lawsuit Against Justin Baldoni and Ryan Reynolds

Ria [30:36] introduces the central topic: Justin Baldoni's $400 million lawsuit against Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds. The hosts delve into the details, focusing on leaked text messages between Blake and Justin that have become the lawsuit's cornerstone.

Notable Text Message:

• Blake Lively [31:18]: "Allegedly, if you ever get around to watching Game of Thrones, you'll appreciate that I'm Khaleesi and I happen to have a few dragons for better or worse..."

Fran [35:07]: Criticizes Blake's text, mocking the "Khaleesi" reference and suggesting it undermines her credibility in the lawsuit.

Ria [37:09]: Discusses the conflicting nature of the lawsuit, pointing out that while Blake alleges sexual harassment, Justin counters with claims of professional mishandling and undermining her role in movie projects.

Analysis:

• The hosts highlight the complexity of the lawsuit, noting that Justin's allegations seem to focus on Blake's professional behavior, such as taking over movie projects and making derogatory comments.
• They argue that Justin's strategy to use Blake’s texts to discredit her harassment claims is an attempt to tarnish her reputation and shift public perception.

Fran [38:49]: Emphasizes that Justin and Blake are essentially fighting two different battles—Justin trying to save his image and Blake combating harassment—making their conflict personal and multifaceted.

4. Other Celebrity News

a. Andrew Dice Clay and Hannibal Burris Encounter

Fran and Ria [20:31 - 26:44] recount a bizarre encounter at a concert involving Andrew Dice Clay and Hannibal Burris. They describe the awkward interaction where Clay initially ignores Burris, only to later engage after a mix-up, resulting in an uncomfortable and tense exchange.

b. Matt James and Rachel Kirkconnell Breakup Rumors

Ria and Fran [60:07 - 65:37] discuss the burgeoning rumors surrounding the breakup of Matt James and Rachel Kirkconnell. They break down the timeline, including social media posts and speculations from sources like The Sun. The hosts express uncertainty and caution, emphasizing the lack of official statements from the couple.

c. Meghan Markle’s Possible Post-Divorce Book

Frank [89:00 - 99:22] touches on a Page Six article alleging that Meghan Markle is discreetly shopping a post-divorce book against Prince Harry. The hosts analyze the credibility of the claims, referencing Vanity Fair’s extensive coverage of Meghan and Prince Harry’s business ventures and internal conflicts.

5. TikTok Ban Discussion

Ria and Fran [54:05 - 83:09] engage in a comprehensive discussion about the recent 12-hour global ban on TikTok. They explore the implications for influencers and small businesses, sharing personal anecdotes and commenting on the varied reactions from the online community.

Key Points:

• The ban caused significant disruption for TikTok creators who rely on the platform for their livelihoods.
• Influencers like Remy Bader and others expressed confusion and frustration, with some deleting the app entirely.
• Fran [66:37] and Ria [77:03] humorously speculate about a potential Netflix documentary covering the chaos of the TikTok ban.
• The hosts lament the deep societal dependence on TikTok, highlighting both its positive community-building aspects and the negative addiction-related impacts.

6. Spencer Pratt vs. Alex Cooper

Fran and Ria [84:50 - 89:50] discuss Spencer Pratt’s public campaign against Alex Cooper following Heidi Spencer’s loss in the LA fires. Spencer’s attempts to pressure Alex into promoting Heidi’s song have backfired, leading to widespread criticism. The hosts condemn the online harassment directed at Alex Cooper, emphasizing the inappropriateness of targeting someone for not meeting Spencer’s demands.

7. Weekly Watch Report

In their Weekly Watch Report, Ria and Fran review various TV shows and movies they’ve watched recently, providing ratings and personal opinions.

Highlighted Shows and Ratings:

• Traders: Both hosts give it an A, praising the episode’s drama and character dynamics.
• Love Island All Stars: Ria gives it a B, intrigued by new dynamics and cast interactions.
• Severance: Fran gives it a B, finding it unique but not entirely captivating.
• Real Housewives of Salt Lake City: Ria rates it a C+, noting mixed feelings about cast interactions.
• Survivor: Ria and Fran briefly mention it, with Fran identifying as a correspondent.
• Friends: Both hosts express interest in the reunion and ongoing dynamics.
• John Mulaney’s “New in Town”: Fran rates it a B+, enjoying the comedic storytelling.
• Special Forces: Ria gives it a B, appreciating the show's dynamics despite some on-set injuries.

Key Observations:

• Character Relationships: The hosts emphasize the importance of character interactions and conflicts in maintaining viewer interest.
• Drama and Authenticity: There's a focus on how genuine or contrived the drama feels within the shows, with mixed opinions on different platforms’ approaches to reality TV.
• Upcoming Shows: Excitement about upcoming episodes and potential show dynamics keeps the conversation engaging.

8. Closing Remarks

Ria and Fran wrap up the episode by summarizing their discussions and reiterating their affection for their listeners. They encourage audience engagement and tease upcoming topics for future episodes.

Fran [100:50]: "Help is available for problem gambling. Call 888-7897 or visit ccpg.org. Please play responsibly."

Notable Quotes

• Fran [03:40]: "What are they just, like, super daggy."
• Ria [31:18]: "She is Khaleesi and I have a few dragons for better or worse..."
• Fran [45:58]: "It just feels icky to like discredit what Blake Lively is saying about how she felt."
• Ria [73:24]: "It feels like Alex Cooper is one of those people that people will go after..."

Conclusion

This episode of Chicks in the Office offers a comprehensive look into the intense lawsuit between Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni, explores the ramifications of the TikTok ban, and delves into various celebrity dramas and TV show analyses. Ria and Fran provide their unique perspectives, blending humor with insightful commentary, making the episode both informative and entertaining for listeners.