Welcome to the Actor's Guide to the End of the World Podcast, episode 66!
Vertical dramas are here, and they're not going anywhere. E-Kan and Rían talk about the $26 billion industry — but now, Kim Kardashian, Ashton Kutcher, and Taye Diggs are all in, as well as Netflix and TikTok building their own vertical dramas platforms. SAG-Aftra just put out a signatory contract so they can get in on it too. Will it be enough or will these mostly non-union dramas take over Hollywood? And should actors do them? We break down the money, the risks, and a little tip SAG-Aftra actors can use to flip a non-union production.

(The podcast covered vertical dramas back in Episode 36 last July, and let’s just say, things have escalated. If you want more of the nuts and bolts you can check that out.)

Meanwhile, Odessa A'zion just turned down an A24 movie — and the reason might surprise you. And you'll find out why the current "It" Girl just got cooler in E-Kan's eyes. The guys also revisit the Kevin O'Leary debate from last week, and how a friend's observation might make you rethink O'Leary's performance.

Plus, we pay tribute to Catherine O'Hara with a quote that every actor needs to hear. RIP to a legend.

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https://variety.com/2026/film/news/odessa-azion-drops-out-deep-cuts-a24-1236644176/

https://variety.com/2025/tv/news/global-microdrama-boom-1236560947/

https://deadline.com/2025/10/miramax-bill-block-gammatime-1236595530/

https://variety.com/2026/tv/news/taye-diggs-vertical-drama-romance-candyjar-1236632447/

https://petapixel.com/2026/01/29/following-tiktok-and-instagram-netflix-is-set-to-roll-out-vertical-videos/

Catherine O'Hara video-

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DUJWM6siPVG/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==

Time Stamps:

(00:00) Intro

(01:15) Odessa A'zion drops out of A24 movie

(03:50) Follow up on Kevin O'Leary's performance in Marty Supreme

(08:55) Vertical Dramas are taking over Hollywood

(12:30) How much do vertical drama actors get paid?

(14:00) Taye Diggs and other stars are getting in

(20:00) How the tech world was smarter than Hollywood

(24:15) Tribute to Catherine O'Hara

(26:30) Hidden Gems