Variety and iHeartPodcasts have launched the second season of the popular true crime podcast “Variety Confidential,” which depicts not just true crime but the dark side of fame. “Variety Confidential: The Life and Legend of River Phoenix” is available now on the iHeartRadio app and on Variety.com, as well as on other major podcast platforms.
Season two takes listeners through the extraordinary life of one of Hollywood’s most celebrated stars. River Phoenix’s name still resonates with cinephiles and casual moviegoers alike, nearly three decades after his untimely death. The season is a four-part examination of youthful ambition, artistic integrity and the burden of celebrity.
Hosted by Variety’s Tatiana Siegel, the season includes exclusive interviews with River’s co-stars and friends, including Corey Feldman and Samantha Mathis, who shed light on who River really was off camera. Industry insiders like Dr. Drew Pinsky are also interviewed for the podcast. Additionally, Variety’s experts and correspondents explore the complexity of River’s life and career.
The podcast was created by Variety’s Chief Operating and Marketing Officer Dea Lawrence and former Variety Executive Editor Steven Gaydos and is produced by Karen Mizoguchi.
“River Phoenix captivated a generation and his passing sent shockwaves across the country,” said Lawrence. “For the second season of this successful series, we provide an in-depth examination of who he was and the factors that led to his untimely demise.”
Season one of “Variety Confidential” delved into subjects like Errol Flynn, Roman Polanski, Alexander Pantages and more.
Subscribe now to Variety Confidential wherever you get your podcasts. “Variety Confidential: The Life and Legend of River Phoenix,” distributed by iHeartPodcasts, will follow with a weekly release of the remaining three episodes. Listen here: Variety Confidential.