This is Gavin Newsom: Episode Summary Featuring Ryan Murphy

Episode Title: And, This is Ryan Murphy On The Menendez Brothers, The Kennedys, and Kim Kardashian
Release Date: July 21, 2025
Host: Gavin Newsom
Guest: Ryan Murphy, Prolific Writer, Producer, and Director

In this engaging episode of "This is Gavin Newsom," Governor Gavin Newsom sits down with renowned television creator and producer Ryan Murphy to delve into the intricacies of his latest projects, including "The Menendez Brothers," discussions surrounding The Kennedys, and collaborations with high-profile personalities like Kim Kardashian. The conversation offers listeners a behind-the-scenes look at Murphy's creative process, the challenges of producing content that resonates with diverse audiences, and the personal growth he has experienced throughout his illustrious career.

Emmy Nominations and Industry Insights

Gavin Newsom opens the discussion by inquiring about Ryan Murphy's experiences with Emmy nominations, drawing parallels between the award ceremonies and major sporting events.

Gavin Newsom (03:07): "Where do you even hang out on an Emmy nomination day? Or are you just acting humble, saying it's the work?"

Ryan Murphy reflects on his journey from early nominations to leading a company now boasting its 350th Emmy nomination, expressing both humility and a lingering competitive spirit.

Ryan Murphy (03:31): "I found that out later, but it put it in perspective. It’s all a blessing, but I'm oddly very competitive. It is."

He likens the Emmys, Oscars, and Grammys to his personal athletic events, emphasizing the relentless drive that fuels his success.

Ryan Murphy (05:22): "The Oscars and the Emmys and the Grammys were my Super Bowl, my World Series."

Balancing Volume and Quality in Production

Gavin probes into the pressures Ryan Murphy faces in managing multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining creative quality.

Gavin Newsom (08:19): "How do you balance the creative, the artists at the same time, the commercial with everything?"

Ryan Murphy discusses the challenges of operating a volume-based business, where not every project can be a hit, and the emotional toll of seeing some endeavors fall short.

Ryan Murphy (08:19): "You can't realize everything can be a hit. Some things aren't going to work and they're going to break your heart."

Despite these challenges, Murphy highlights his strategic approach to project management, delegating certain successful franchises to trusted collaborators.

Deep Dive into "The Menendez Brothers" and The Kennedys

A significant portion of the conversation centers around "The Menendez Brothers," a project that garnered substantial global attention upon its release. Gavin Newsom and Ryan Murphy explore the complexities of portraying true crime stories with sensitivity and depth.

Ryan Murphy (27:00): "I was very surprised initially that the brothers spoke out so vociferously against it."

Murphy elaborates on the unexpected backlash and subsequent support from the Menendez brothers, illustrating the unpredictable nature of public reception.

Ryan Murphy (27:54): "I was very surprised that I flipped, that you flipped, and I really did flip."

The discussion extends to the broader implications of representing historical tragedies, with Murphy contemplating the ethical responsibilities of storytellers in shaping public perception.

Influence of Personal Beliefs and Growth

Their dialogue also touches upon Ryan Murphy's personal evolution, particularly his shift in perspective regarding the parole of the Menendez brothers. Influenced by conversations with advocates like Kim Kardashian, Murphy reveals how his views have transformed through open dialogue and increased awareness of mental health issues.

Ryan Murphy (39:26): "If they can come out of prison and actually serve some good, I think that's a powerful thing."

Gavin Newsom shares his own challenges and responsibilities as a public figure involved in the parole process, discussing the delicate balance between public sentiment and judicial criteria.

Gavin Newsom (40:48): "Why has society benefited with them being released?"

Navigating Controversies and Public Opinion

The episode delves into how Ryan Murphy handles criticism and backlash, particularly when tackling sensitive subjects. He emphasizes the importance of listening to diverse viewpoints and adapting projects based on constructive feedback.

Ryan Murphy (15:37): "I'm thankful for the criticism because if you're smart, you listen to critical voices and you say, okay, let's fix it."

Murphy reflects on the importance of authenticity and the challenges of staying true to one's vision amidst external pressures.

Future Projects and Creative Vision

Looking ahead, Ryan Murphy shares insights into his upcoming slate of projects, including the highly anticipated "Monsters Season 3" featuring Ed Gein and collaborations with Kim Kardashian on mental health advocacy. He highlights his continuous quest to explore new genres and narratives, driven by a passion for storytelling that challenges and engages audiences.

Ryan Murphy (34:04): "It's a point of view, like, trying to relax here."

Conclusion

In this thought-provoking episode, Gavin Newsom and Ryan Murphy engage in a candid conversation that not only sheds light on the complexities of producing impactful television but also underscores the importance of resilience, adaptability, and empathy in both personal and professional realms. Listeners gain a deeper appreciation for the art of storytelling and the nuanced considerations that shape meaningful narratives in today's media landscape.

Notable Quotes:

• Ryan Murphy (03:31): "I was thrilled for people like Javier Bardem, who's a legend... it's a dopamine buzz."
• Ryan Murphy (08:19): "You can't realize everything can be a hit. Some things aren't going to work and they're going to break your heart."
• Ryan Murphy (27:54): "I was very surprised that I flipped, that you flipped, and I really did flip."
• Gavin Newsom (40:48): "Why has society benefited with them being released?"
• Ryan Murphy (15:37): "I'm thankful for the criticism because if you're smart, you listen to critical voices and you say, okay, let's fix it."

This episode offers a compelling blend of personal anecdotes, professional insights, and reflective discussions, making it a must-listen for fans interested in the intersection of politics, entertainment, and social issues.