The following podcast contains explicit language.

I'm Stephen Medcalf, and this is the Slate Culture Gab Fest, Twilight of the Idols edition.

On today's program, we're going to talk about the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Seth Rogan in his new film Pineapple Express, and the death of Bernie Mac.

Joining me is Slate Associate Editor Josh Levine.

Hey, Josh.

Hey, what's up?

You're coming to us remotely from Washington, D.C., and this is your first time on the program.

Welcome.

A long-time listener, first-time caller.

Thank you.

And our film critic, Mad Dog Dana Stevens.

Dana, hi.

Hi.

Hi. Happy to be here, as always.

Josh, let's start with the Olympics.

One of the interesting storylines here is the so-called redeem team.

Why don't you tell us where that nickname came from and why this appears to be our most popular

cultural export in this specific Olympic Games?

Yeah, I mean, one thing I've been surprised by sort of watching the Olympics religiously is the

fact that in Beijing, this American basketball team seems to be by far sort of the most popular group.

Like even maybe I'm exaggerating a little bit, but even including the Chinese athletes.

Like when Kobe Bryant and LeBron James walk through, you know, an arena or when they were at the opening ceremony,

...