Episode Details

Germain Lussier of Gizmodo joins Dave Weekley on Hotline to unpack one of the strangest pop-culture reactions in recent memory — the belief among some fans that Stranger Things’ finale was fake, sparking elaborate conspiracy theories and online sleuthing dubbed “ConformityGate.” Germain explains why the ending was definitive, what Netflix actually has planned next, and how fandom expectations spiral in the streaming era. The conversation shifts to the most anticipated films of 2026, including Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey, Avengers: Doomsday, and mysterious projects from J.J. Abrams, before closing with analysis of Warner Bros.’ uncertain future and why Netflix may ultimately be the smartest landing spot. A sharp, informed look at hype, backlash, and the business forces shaping Hollywood’s next phase.