Critics at Large | The New Yorker
Episode: The Diva Is Dead, Long Live the Diva
Release Date: June 26, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of Critics at Large, hosts Vinson Cunningham, Naomi Frye, and guest critic Michael Shulman delve into the multifaceted concept of the "diva" within contemporary culture. Centered around Michael's in-depth profile of Broadway legend Patti LuPone, the discussion navigates the evolution of the diva archetype from its operatic roots to its current manifestations in various entertainment sectors.

Michael Shulman's Profile of Patti LuPone

Michael Shulman begins by recounting a memorable experience from his profile of Patti LuPone. At [05:30], he describes attending a New York Rangers game with LuPone, where she passionately yelled at players to "take it off, boys. I want to see naked hockey. No, full frontal," highlighting her unabashed and larger-than-life persona.

Vinson Cunningham praises the depth of Michael's writing, noting at [07:17], "If you want to know what it's like to hang out with Michael, just let this piece speak to you." Michael further shares an anecdote about LuPone's specific fondness for sherry ([08:28]), showcasing her intricate character traits and personal quirks that enrich his profile.

Defining the Diva: Origins and Characteristics

The conversation shifts to the origins of the term "diva," tracing it back to the opera. Vincent Cunningham explains at [21:10], "The original idea... someone who represents the extremities of human capacity," exemplified by legendary figures like Maria Callas. The hosts discuss how the term has historically denoted exceptional talent combined with a commanding presence.

Michael adds at [24:41], "The diva is someone who is a vessel not only for artistic joy but just for fun, who is kind of speeding through the world at a breakneck pace," emphasizing the blend of talent and temperament that defines a diva.

Patti LuPone: A Modern Diva

Delving deeper into Patti LuPone's persona, Michael outlines her illustrious career and her reputation for being "tempestuous and demanding" ([09:57]). They explore her candid nature and how her outspoken behavior has both fueled her legend and sparked controversy, particularly regarding her interactions with fellow performers like Keisha Lewis and Audra McDonald ([10:35]).

The discussion highlights Patti's recent apology, noted at [38:06], where she states, "For as long as I have worked in the theater, I've spoken my mind and never apologized. That is changing today." This marks a significant moment, suggesting a potential shift in the traditional diva archetype towards accountability and self-reflection.

The Diva Archetype in Modern Culture

The hosts and Michael examine how the concept of the diva has transformed in today's cultural landscape. They compare historical divas like Maria Callas and Elizabeth Taylor with contemporary figures such as Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, and Nicki Minaj.

At [44:17], Vincent observes, "Taylor Swift has built her career and personality around... a total idea of her art, which seems to be very much under control." This contrasts with earlier divas who were often portrayed as more chaotic and unpredictable.

Michael adds at [45:36], "With Nicki Minaj, she is constantly in feuds and being messy, like taking her beef to social media... So I don't know. I do think there's a line that people can cross, but it's constantly shifting." This underscores the evolving nature of what society deems acceptable or characteristic of a diva.

Gender Dynamics and the Label "Diva"

A significant portion of the conversation addresses the gendered implications of the term "diva." Michael articulates at [34:34], "When you call someone a diva, maybe it's like a female CEO... you're labeling behavior that if a man did it would be celebrated."

This critique highlights the misogynistic undertones often associated with the label, suggesting that powerful women are unfairly branded as difficult or demanding compared to their male counterparts.

Fan Engagement and Cultural Impact

The discussion also touches on the relationship between divas and their fan bases, particularly the strong support from the LGBTQ+ community. Michael references a 2015 The Atlantic piece, stating, "The queer infatuation with broken women isn't so much schadenfreude as it is a complicated mixture of identification and disidentification" ([35:20]).

Vinson adds at [48:32], "There is a key characteristic, Michael, which is like, not only fandom and worship, but often it has been accompanied with the idea of this is a woman who is feted specifically by gay male fans," emphasizing the unique bond between divas and their admirers.

The Future of the Diva Archetype

In contemplating the relevance of divas today, the hosts ponder whether the traditional diva still holds sway or if the archetype is evolving. Michael suggests at [43:19], "I don't think we'll ever stop being drawn to larger than life characters living messy, larger than life personal lives," yet notes that modern divas often exhibit more disciplined public personas.

Vinson concludes at [48:32], "What we love about it is the transcendence... It has to be a constant relationship of nourishment from artist to audience," indicating that the essence of the diva—exceptional talent and the ability to connect deeply with audiences—remains intact, even as the outward behaviors associated with divas change.

Conclusion

Critics at Large provides a comprehensive exploration of the "diva" archetype, anchored by Michael Shulman's insightful profile of Patti LuPone. The episode navigates the delicate balance between exceptional talent and demanding behavior, the gendered implications of the term, and the evolving expectations of modern divas. As the conversation unfolds, it becomes evident that while the portrayal of divas may shift with cultural changes, the fundamental allure of these larger-than-life figures continues to captivate and inspire audiences.

Notable Quotes:

• Michael Shulman [05:30]: "Finally, I get the appeal of team sports that has eluded me my entire life. You just have to show up with a Broadway diva and have her scream things at the players."

• Patti LuPone [38:06]: "For as long as I have worked in the theater, I've spoken my mind and never apologized. That is changing today."

• Vinson Cunningham [48:32]: "What we love about it is the transcendence... It has to be a constant relationship of nourishment from artist to audience."

This episode offers a nuanced examination of the diva phenomenon, making it an essential listen for those interested in the intersection of talent, personality, and cultural impact within the arts.