The Run-Through with Vogue: Episode Summary
Episode Title: Met Gala Co-Chairs Pharrell, A$AP Rocky, Colman Domingo, and Lewis Hamilton are Vogue’s May Cover Stars!
Release Date: April 17, 2025
Hosts: Chioma Nnadi, Chloe Mao, Nicole Phelps
Guests: Marlee Marius (Features Editor), Leah Faye Cooper (Style Director)
Introduction
In this vibrant episode of The Run-Through with Vogue, hosts Chioma Nnadi and Chloe Mao delve into the excitement surrounding Vogue's May issue, which features a rare quartet of cover stars tied to the upcoming Met Gala. The episode not only highlights the distinguished personalities gracing the covers—Pharrell Williams, A$AP Rocky, Colman Domingo, and Lewis Hamilton—but also explores exclusive behind-the-scenes stories from Vogue editors Marlee Marius and Leah Faye Cooper.
Billie Eilish Cover Highlight
Before diving into the main topic, Chloe and Chioma reminisce about the recent coverage of Billie Eilish, who graced the cover of Vogue.
Chioma Nnadi shares, “We had the divine Billie Eilish on our cover shot by Johnny Defore. It was a really fun shoot with her friends like Ariana Grande, SZA, and Nicki Minaj submitting questions.”
A memorable moment was when Michaela Cole asked Billie about her dental hygiene routine:
Leah Faye Cooper remarks at [01:46], “Michaela Cole was asking whether she flosses or uses mouthwash first or something. It was so interesting.”
WNBA Draft Insights
Marlee Marius provides a detailed overview of the recent WNBA draft, highlighting star player Paige Beckers’ journey from UConn to the national championship and her standout performance at the draft event.
Marlee Marius states at [02:15], “Paige wore a black Louis Vuitton suit with a bunch of diamond necklaces, which looked really elegant. There was a lot of cool suiting moments.”
Coachella Chronicles
The conversation shifts to the vibrant atmosphere of Coachella, where Chioma recounts her first experience attending the festival. The hosts discuss celebrity sightings and memorable performances, including Pharrell’s historic show at Louis Vuitton HQ.
Chloe Mao shares at [04:07], “I'm excited to see what weekend two will bring, especially with Timothee Chalamet’s unique style choices like a trucker hat and an enormous travel backpack.”
May Issue: Met Gala Cover Stars
The core of the episode revolves around Vogue’s May issue, celebrating four influential Met Gala co-chairs:
- Pharrell Williams
- A$AP Rocky
- Colman Domingo
- Lewis Hamilton
Pharrell Williams:
Chioma provides an intimate glimpse into Pharrell’s creative world.
Chioma Nnadi shares at [09:49], “I walked into his office and heard him composing a song for John Legend. It was incredible to see his everyday life and how he balances music with his creative endeavors.”
A notable quote from Pharrell during their interview:
Pharrell Williams [10:16]: “I need to give my kids constructive struggle so they understand the value of hard work.”
A$AP Rocky:
Marlee narrates her engaging encounter with A$AP Rocky during a photoshoot at Langston Hughes' former residence. The anecdote includes playful interactions and a spontaneous game of Krazy Eights, showcasing Rocky’s personable nature.
Marlee Marius recounts at [14:22], “We ended up playing Krazy Eights on the pool table, and it was amazing to see how relaxed and friendly he is.”
Colman Domingo:
Leah Faye Cooper discusses her enriching lunch interview with Colman Domingo at the Chelsea Hotel. The conversation highlighted Domingo’s comedic talents and his heartfelt reflections on his career and personal life.
Leah Faye Cooper mentions at [23:31], “He was extremely funny and really carried himself with a purposeful energy. It felt more like hanging out with a friend than a formal interview.”
Lewis Hamilton:
Marlee shares her insightful Zoom conversation with Lewis Hamilton, delving into his journey in Formula 1 racing and his influence on fashion within the sport.
Marlee Marius explains at [29:01], “He talked about his humble beginnings and how he pushed against the strict F1 dress codes to bring personal style to the forefront, positively impacting the sport’s culture.”
Behind the Scenes: Personal Anecdotes
The episode is rich with personal stories that humanize these high-profile figures:
- A$AP Rocky's fondness for his grandmother, Kathy, and his playful nature at public events.
- Colman Domingo's close relationship with his late mother and his thoughtful approach to fatherhood.
- Lewis Hamilton's dedication to maintaining his authentic style despite the rigid norms of Formula 1.
Chioma Nnadi shares a touching moment where A$AP Rocky reflects on past Fashion Week parties and his enduring friendships:
“At [34:26], Marlee narrates, ‘A$AP Rocky reminded me of a party we attended during Fashion Week. It was wild to realize how connected we've been all along.’”
Fashion Trends and eBay Finds
Interspersed throughout the episode, Arden Fanning Andrews, Vogue's Beauty Editor at Large, discusses the resurgence of 80s opulence and glamour, emphasizing the allure of vintage fashion finds on eBay.
Arden Fanning Andrews comments at [38:56], “There’s a huge push for 80s glamour returning, and finding pieces like a Chloe blazer from the 80s or Dior boots on eBay feels like tapping into timeless elegance.”
Conclusion
The episode culminates with reflections on the cohesive theme of the May issue, celebrating the Met Gala and black excellence through its diverse and influential cover stars. The hosts express their excitement for the upcoming Met Gala and anticipate the impactful contributions of Pharrell, A$AP Rocky, Colman Domingo, and Lewis Hamilton to this iconic fashion event.
Chloe Mao wraps up at [38:56], “Mazel Tov on four fantastic cover stories. The Run Through will be back in a moment.”
Notable Quotes
- Leah Faye Cooper [01:46]: “Michaela Cole was asking whether she flosses or uses mouthwash first or something. It was so interesting.”
- Marlee Marius [14:22]: “We ended up playing Krazy Eights on the pool table, and it was amazing to see how relaxed and friendly he is.”
- Pharrell Williams [10:16]: “I need to give my kids constructive struggle so they understand the value of hard work.”
- Chloe Mao [38:56]: “Mazel Tov on four fantastic cover stories.”
Key Takeaways
- Vogue’s May Issue: A landmark edition featuring four Met Gala co-chairs as cover stars, each bringing a unique influence to the fashion and cultural landscape.
- Behind-the-Scenes Insights: Personal anecdotes from Vogue editors showcase the multifaceted personalities of the cover stars, highlighting their dedication, creativity, and authenticity.
- Fashion Trends: A spotlight on the comeback of 80s opulence and the role of vintage fashion in contemporary trend forecasting.
- Celebrating Diversity: Emphasis on black excellence and the significant contributions of the cover stars to their respective fields and the broader cultural dialogue.
This episode of The Run-Through with Vogue offers an enriching exploration of fashion, culture, and the personal narratives that shape iconic figures, making it an essential listen for fashion enthusiasts and Vogue readers alike.