Podcast Summary: The Viall Files - Episode E925: Going Deeper with JoJo Siwa
Release Date: April 30, 2025
Introduction
In episode E925 of The Viall Files, host Nick Viall welcomes back renowned entertainer and philanthropist JoJo Siwa for an in-depth conversation. Joining them is Chris, a recent participant from the reality show Big Brother UK (referred to as Love Island UK in the transcript), who shares his unique experiences and addresses rumors surrounding his friendship with JoJo Siwa. The episode delves into themes of friendship, personal growth, sexuality, and the impact of reality television on personal lives.
Reconnecting with JoJo Siwa
The episode opens with Nick warmly welcoming JoJo back to the show:
Nick Viall [03:45]: "JoJo. Welcome, welcome, welcome back, welcome back."
Chris [03:45]: "Hi, Nick. Natalie. How are we?"
This sets a friendly and engaging tone for the conversation, emphasizing the familiarity and camaraderie between the guests.
Chris’s Reality TV Journey and Initial Impressions
Chris discusses his journey on Big Brother UK and his initial interactions within the house:
Chris [04:21]: "The producers and production were saying about the show. They were like, we've never seen an impact like this one... I just love doing something that's different. And I think it'd be crazy to say no to something like Big Brother."
Nick Viall [08:07]: "I haven't done Big Brother, but I have done Forces with you... there's a literal survival element to Forces..."
Chris [08:07]: "Big Brother is meant to have fun... Forces is grueling, right? It's tiring. It's exhausting."
Chris contrasts his previous experience on Forces with his time on Big Brother UK, highlighting the differences in stress levels and personal introspection required by each show.
Navigating Friendship and Addressing Rumors
A significant portion of the episode focuses on the rumors circulating about Chris and JoJo's friendship, addressing misconceptions and clarifying their platonic relationship.
Chris [12:00]: "He was just bizarre. He's a character. Like, what is he doing?"
Nick Viall [17:16]: "It did seem like after Chris talked to him, is he ignorant or is he just..."
Chris [17:16]: "He's messed up as a child, and I can have sympathy for him being a hurt man while also not condoning his behavior."
Chris reflects on his complex friendship with Mickey (a fellow housemate), emphasizing understanding and empathy while maintaining boundaries.
Personal Reflections and Growth
The conversation shifts to personal growth, self-realization, and the impact of reality TV on personal identity.
Chris [37:06]: "Looking at that photo, what did you come to, like, the conclusion of that? Like, why weren't you happy?"
Chris [37:06]: "I remember looking at the photo and being like, okay, what's... What is this thought? And then that opened a cage of a few different areas of my life..."
Chris shares a poignant moment of self-reflection triggered by a photo, leading to deeper introspection about his life and personal happiness.
Sexuality and Identity Exploration
A candid discussion unfolds about Chris's journey in understanding his sexuality, addressing public perceptions, and embracing fluidity in sexual identity.
Nick Viall [55:49]: "Do you want to talk about your comments about not being a lesbian anymore?"
Chris [55:49]: "Sexuality is fluid... I don't care if you're dating the love of your life. They're not in those photos... I just think it's crazy that people jump to conclusions about sexuality."
Chris emphasizes the fluid nature of sexuality, advocating for self-expression without societal constraints or judgments.
Addressing Speculation and Clarifying Relationships
Chris addresses the speculation around his relationship with JoJo, reinforcing the platonic nature of their friendship despite public misconceptions.
Nick Viall [75:30]: "But if there is anyone out there who is listening to this interview and just says, I know I saw with my own eyes. I saw what I saw. You guys have something special..."
Chris [75:43]: "Chris and I are very tight. We have this very beautiful bond... It's a special friendship that just is one of the last things I said to him on the show. Like, you were meant to be in my life."
Chris acknowledges the public's misconceptions but reaffirms the genuine and platonic foundation of his friendship with Nick.
Future Endeavors and Personal Aspirations
The episode concludes with discussions about future plans, both personal and professional, highlighting Chris's commitment to authentic expression and JoJo's continued impact.
Chris [72:03]: "My next song coming out is actually... It's about not being bulletproof. The video is purely dance, and that's what makes me happy."
Nick Viall [77:23]: "That's amazing. It's a good place to end it."
The conversation wraps up on a positive note, celebrating personal growth, genuine relationships, and the pursuit of happiness beyond public scrutiny.
Notable Quotes
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Chris on Self-Realization [37:06]: "Whenever I was occupied with doing something, I was so fine, so happy... The second that I had time to think, my brain just started to run with so many things that I have been okay with, I have tolerated that nobody should."
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Chris on Sexuality [56:07]: "Sexuality is fluid. Gender identity is fluid... I can have open eyes and an open heart and walk with one foot in front of the other."
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Chris on Friendship with Nick [77:25]: "Life is life. You never know where life's gonna take you. But Chris and I are gonna play tennis and go for a roast... enjoy it and be people in each other's lives for hopefully ever."
Conclusion
Episode E925 of The Viall Files offers listeners an intimate look into Chris's experiences on reality TV, his evolving understanding of personal identity, and the strength of his platonic friendship with JoJo Siwa. Through honest dialogue and personal anecdotes, the episode emphasizes the importance of self-discovery, empathy, and maintaining genuine connections amidst public scrutiny.
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