Gloss Angeles Episode Summary: "What Was Really Going on With Those Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy Set Photos"

Release Date: June 24, 2025
Hosts: Kirbie Johnson and Sara Tan

Introduction: Unboxing the Labubu Surprise

[00:38] Kirbie:

• Kirbie and Sara kick off the episode with a playful unboxing of a mysterious "labubu" package Sara has procured.
• Sara teases Kirbie to close her eyes, building suspense about the surprise inside.
• Upon unveiling, Kirbie humorously exclaims, “Oh, my God. It's all a boob” ([00:51]) indicating a humorous or perhaps unexpected item.

[02:32] Kirbie:

• The duo delves into their initial reactions, discussing the quirky design reminiscent of "Where the Wild Things Are" and the Cheshire Cat, sparking Kirbie’s playful discomfort and eventual fondness for the item.

Notable Quote:
Sara: “It's like a little monster ready to attack at any time. It still makes me feel queasy.” [02:05]

Deep Dive: Kosas Product Masterclass

[04:34] Transition:

• After the unboxing fun, Kirbie and Sara transition to discussing beauty products they’re excited about, highlighting their continuous exploration in makeup and skincare.

[04:43] Kirbie:

• Kirbie shares her experience attending a Kosas masterclass at their headquarters, where they were the first to test a new product launch.
• Reflects on her evolving relationship with Kosas products, particularly the BB Burst, initially finding it cumbersome but later appreciating its blend of coverage and hydration when applied correctly.

[06:25] Sara:

• Sara reminisces about the early days of BB creams and their application challenges, drawing parallels to her current experience with Kosas’s products.

[07:23] Kirbie:

• Discusses the brand founder Sheena’s wellness-oriented approach, emphasizing the spiritual influence on product names like Soulgazer Eyeliners.
• Announces the upcoming Kosas Soulgazer Mascara, detailing its unique silicone brush and non-tubing formula designed for length and volume without clumping.

Notable Quote:
Kirbie: “Once you get past the idea that it's not gonna instantly just, like, rub in, you have to really work it in. You kind of have to mix both the actual coverage with the hydrator that's within it.” [05:24]

[11:23] Kirbie:

• Explains the transition from their previous mascara, Big Clean, to the new Soulgazer Mascara, highlighting improvements in formula and application experience.

[13:27] Sara:

• Shifts focus to lip products, discussing the Violette FR Lip Nectar and ColorPop's Hydra Glossy Lip Stain, comparing their hydrating qualities and staying power.

Notable Quote:
Sara: “These experts need to come out and defend him. I know they're busy though, and they don't.” [24:19]

Breaking Down the Buzz: Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy Set Photos

[17:55] Transition:

• Kirbie and Sara pivot to discussing the viral photos from Ryan Murphy's upcoming series featuring Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy and JFK Jr., analyzing public reactions and industry insights.

[18:09] Sara:

• Sara introduces the topic by mentioning the leaked stills from a lighting test that sparked widespread critique, particularly targeting Carolyn’s attire and hair styling.

[19:21] Kirby:

• Kirbie expresses initial frustration with the photos, describing Carolyn’s outfit—a silk miniskirt, blazer, and Chuck Taylors—as incongruent with her sophisticated image.

[21:32] Sarah:

• References expert opinions, including Amy Odell’s newsletter insights revealing that Carolyn did indeed wear Converse in her early career, clarifying misconceptions about the leaked images.

[22:44] Sarah:

• Notes Ryan Murphy’s transparency in interviews, where he confirms that the criticized looks were from pre-JFK days and not representative of Carolyn’s iconic style.

[23:34] Kirby:

• Highlights Murphy’s strategic release of photos to deter paparazzi but acknowledges the misstep in sharing unfinished set images, leading to public misinterpretation.

[24:52] Kirby:

• Reflects on regret over prematurely forming opinions without full context, emphasizing the importance of understanding production intricacies before critiquing.

Notable Quote:
Kirbie: “We are not running these productions. We don't work on set. I'm actually embarrassed that I didn't wait to form an opinion before getting more information.” [24:42]

[27:32] Sarah:

• Sara discusses consistency in the portrayal of Carolyn’s hair and attire, debunking initial negative reactions by referencing Lauren Sherman’s confirmation that the looks were accurate for specific scenes.

[29:02] Kirby:

• Kirbie commends Ryan Murphy for his honesty and the meticulous effort in sourcing authentic looks, likening Carolyn’s attention to style to legendary fashion icons like the Olsen twins.

[31:50] Sara:

• Concludes the segment by humorously narrowing down current concerns to "Labubus and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy's hair," highlighting their focus areas amidst broader discussions.

Final Thoughts: Embracing the Chaos with Humor

[31:55] Kirby & Sara:

• The hosts wrap up with light-hearted banter about focusing on their quirky unboxing and the in-depth analysis of the Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy photos, maintaining their signature blend of humor and insightful commentary.

Notable Quote:
Kirbie: “Nothing else matters. World War 3. Hard pass.” [31:56]

Key Takeaways

1. Product Insights:

   • Kosas Soulgazer Mascara emerges as a standout product with its innovative silicone brush and non-clumping formula.
   • Violette FR Lip Nectar and ColorPop’s Hydra Glossy Lip Stain are highlighted for their hydrating and long-lasting properties.

2. Industry Analysis:

   • The premature release of set photos by Ryan Murphy sparked unnecessary backlash, underscoring the importance of context in media releases.
   • Expert opinions and insider information can significantly alter public perception and clarify misunderstandings.

3. Host Dynamics:

   • Kirbie and Sara demonstrate a dynamic rapport, balancing humor with professional insights, making the content engaging for both regular listeners and newcomers.

Overall Conclusion:
In this episode of Gloss Angeles, Kirbie Johnson and Sara Tan skillfully blend their passion for beauty with an insightful critique of a trending media event. Their discussion offers listeners a nuanced perspective on product launches and the intricacies of television production, all while maintaining an entertaining and relatable conversation.