Neal Justin

Critic / Reporter | Culture

Phone: 612-673-7431

Neal Justin is the pop-culture critic, covering how Minnesotans spend their entertainment time. He also reviews stand-up comedy. Justin previously served as TV and music critic for the paper. He is the co-founder of JCamp, a non-profit program for high-school journalists, and works on many fronts to further diversity in newsrooms.

Neal Justin is the pop-culture critic, covering how Minnesotans spend their entertainment time. He also reviews stand-up comedy. Justin previously served as TV and music critic for the paper. Before coming to Minnesota, he was a crime reporter for the Rockford Register Star and graduated from Northwestern University. He is the co-founder of JCamp, a non-profit program for high-school journalists, and works on many fronts to further diversity in newsrooms. He is the former president of UNITY and former governing board member for the Asian American Journalists Association. He is an adjunct professor at the University of St. Thomas.

Justin: Minnesota libraries offer a treasure trove for pop culture hunters

You might be stunned at what you find beyond the bookshelves.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated September 17, 2024 — 10:04am

Russell Peters, performing in his 2020 special "Deported" will be at Treasure Island Casino in November.

Comedian Russell Peters can't afford to take a vacation

His Treasure Island Casino appearance is part of his never-ending quest to pay the bills and get respect.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated September 13, 2024 — 6:35am

Actor, comedian and podcast host Kumail Nanjiani in Griffith Park in Los Angeles, April 17, 2017. Nanjiani and his wife, Emily Gordon, co-wrote the ro

Top 10 comedy performances in Minnesota you have to see this fall

Both established favorites and promising newcomers are making stops in the Twin Cities.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated September 13, 2024 — 6:35am

Sydney Adamu (Ayo Edebiri) whips up an omelet in season two of "The Bear."

TV dinners: Try these recipes from your favorite shows

Win over your boss with Ted Lasso biscuits, impress like Julia Child and whip up the omelet from "The Bear."

Article by Neal Justin, Nicole Hvidsten

Updated September 11, 2024 — 7:00am

PBS North's Patricia Mester has been with the station for seven years.

The Minnesota Interview: PBS North President Patricia Mester wants 'Antiques Roadshow' in Duluth

The station celebrates its 60th anniversary this weekend with a free concert.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated September 10, 2024 — 3:24pm

Sam Bondhus performs in the Funniest Person contest Tuesday at Gambit Brewing in St. Paul. Bondhus won the competition.

Amateur Minnesota comics take big leap forward by winning stand-up contests

Acme Comedy Co. and Gambit Brewing Co. showcase impressive new talent.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated September 5, 2024 — 8:55am

The Minnesota Interview: Alix Kendall's next stop might be Hollywood

The longtime morning anchor is working on a screenplay about her family.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated September 3, 2024 — 8:00am

Nate Bargatze from his stand-up special "Hello World."

Review: Nate Bargatze should become a State Fair tradition

The red-hot comic performed in front of a sold-out audience in the grandstand.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated August 24, 2024 — 11:15pm

John Legend and Sheila E. perform on the third night of the Democratic National convention on Wednesday, Aug. 21, 2024 in Chicago.

John Legend leads a Prince tribute before Gov. Tim Walz speaks at the DNC

The Grammy winner and Sheila E. performed "Let's Go Crazy."

Article by Neal Justin

Updated August 21, 2024 — 10:35pm

Ellen DeGeneres in her 2018 Netflix special, "Relatable."

Oprah Winfrey and Gayle King attend Ellen DeGeneres' historic show in Minneapolis

Saturday's performance at the Orpheum Theatre was supposedly the last of DeGeneres' stand-up career.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated August 18, 2024 — 12:08pm

"Homicide: Life on the Street" chronicles a fictional version of the work by Baltimore Police Department's homicide unit.

TV this week: 'Homicide: Life on the Street' is finally available for streaming

What TV critic Neal Justin is watching this week.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated August 16, 2024 — 8:00am

Anna Sawai and Hiroyuki Sanada are riding into the Emmys as favorites to win.

Neal Justin: 'Shogun' will dominate the upcoming Emmy Awards

Our TV critic predicts who will come out on top during TV's biggest night.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated August 15, 2024 — 8:00am

Tonia Haddix shares a moment with her best friend Tonka in HBO's "Chimp Crazy."

TV review: 'Chimp Crazy' may be even more bananas than 'Tiger King'

The HBO docuseries spotlights pet owners who go overboard to show their love.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated August 14, 2024 — 8:00am

Minnesota comics honor Ellen DeGeneres before she says farewell to stand-up in Minneapolis

The three shows Thursday through Saturday at the Orpheum Theatre are being recorded for a Netflix special.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated August 13, 2024 — 6:45am

Boyd Huppert walks outdoors whenever he can, here on the trails at at Bredesen Park, Monday, Jan. 3, 2022, Edina, Minn. ] GLEN STUBBE • glen.stub

Boyd Huppert takes another leave of absence from KARE 11 to battle cancer

The award-winning reporter is expected to be off the air for the rest of the summer.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated August 2, 2024 — 10:15am

Melanie Martinez, who performed at New York's Madison Square Garden in May, will take the stage Sunday at Lollapalooza 2024 in Chicago’s Grant Park.

What to watch: How to enjoy Lollapalooza from the comfort of your home

What TV critic Neal Justin is checking out this week.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated August 2, 2024 — 8:00am

The Dark Knight returns in "Batman: Caped Crusader."

Neal Justin: Batman returns, and we're thrilled

"Batman: Caped Crusader" proves the character still has a place in pop culture.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated August 1, 2024 — 1:48pm

Elizabeth Taylor bares it all in the new HBO documentary, "Elizabeth Taylor: The Lost Tapes."

TV review: Elizabeth Taylor critiques her own career in revealing HBO documentary

"Elizabeth Taylor: The Lost Tapes" gives the late actor a chance to reflect on her life in her own words.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated July 31, 2024 — 8:00am

Nick Swardson catered to a home town crowd with homages to living as a transplant on the west coast, the torment of being a Minnesota sports fan and m

What to watch: Minnesota comic Nick Swardson proves he's the king of diarrhea jokes in new special

What TV critic Neal Justin is checking out this week.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated July 26, 2024 — 8:00am

Lisa Kudrow is Penelope in a new adaptation of "Time Bandits."

Neal Justin: 'Time Bandits' TV series takes another silly walk through history

The Apple TV+ adventure stars "Friends" favorite Lisa Kudrow.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated July 25, 2024 — 8:00am

The Fox and the Badger try to reignite relationships with old friends in "Brambletown."

TV review: Minnesota's Okee Dokee Brothers transform tunes into ponderous cartoon

The special on PBS will be followed by a Minneapolis concert.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated July 24, 2024 — 8:00am

In this handout photo courtesy of Solters & Digney PR, actress Julia Duffy, left, and actor Bob Newhart listen during an interview with the cast of th

Bob Newhart believed Minneapolis played a pivotal role in his comedy career

WCCO Radio helped put the comic on the map.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated July 19, 2024 — 8:43am

Gertrude Ederle (Daisy Ridley) is prepared for a long, cold swim in "Young Woman and the Sea."

What to watch: 'Star Wars' favorite Daisy Ridley is a force to be reckoned with in 'Young Woman and the Sea'

What TV critic Neal Justin is checking out this week.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated July 19, 2024 — 8:00am

Pete Rose lives up to his hustle reputation in more ways than one in HBO's "Charlie Hustle & the Matter of Pete Rose."

Neal Justin: Pete Rose documentary isn't just for sports fans

"Charlie Hustle & the Matter of Pete Rose" probably won't do much to help the superstar get into Cooperstown.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated July 18, 2024 — 8:00am

Daredevil Angela Nikolau, who has made a career out of scaling some of the world’s tallest buildings, in "Skywalkers: A Love Story."

TV review: 'Skywalkers' will make your heart pound and your stomach churn

The documentary is one of the most visually arresting films you'll see this year.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated July 17, 2024 — 8:00am

The "English" class bone up on their lessons in a fast-paced exercise. From left to right, Nikki Massoud, Shadee Vossoughi, Pej Vahdat and Roxanna Hop

'English' gives Guthrie Theater audiences a different sort of immigrant story

The Pulitzer Prize-winning play offers challenging perspectives on the pluses and minuses of the American dream.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated July 16, 2024 — 7:00am

Garrison Keillor, who performed with singer-songwriter Heather Masse at Nashville's Ryman Auditorium in 2016, took the stage with her Friday night dur

Review: Garrison Keillor's marathon show in St. Paul suggests he can perform for another decade

The host looked upbeat, shared anecdotes and serenaded classics he has performed with past guests at the "50th Anniversary of Prairie Home Companion."

Article by Neal Justin

Updated July 13, 2024 — 8:19am

Comedian Chad Daniels of Fergus Falls enjoys trudging through the snow on wintry days in rural Minnesota.

TV shows to watch: Minnesota's Chad Daniels gets his first Netflix special

What TV critic Neal Justin is watching this week.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated July 12, 2024 — 8:00am

Hiroyuki Sanada plays the skilled military and political strategist Lord Yoshii Toranaga in “Shōgun.”

Neal Justin: The best TV shows of 2024 (so far)

Andrew Scott, Jessica Lange and Jean Smart are among those who turned in memorable performances.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated July 11, 2024 — 8:00am

Performer Fred Newman rehearses at the State Theatre.

Garrison Keillor's sound-effects wiz reflects on 'A Prairie Home Companion' ahead of St. Paul shows

Fred Newman shares anecdotes about his early collaborations with stars including Justin Timberlake, "Doonesbury" creator Garry Trudeau and Muppets mastermind Jim Henson.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated July 11, 2024 — 7:30am

Malia Baker, left, and Kylie Cantrall team up for "The Descendants: Rise of the Red."

TV review: Disney fans deserve better than 'Descendants: The Rise of Red'

The latest edition of the popular franchise is far from a fairy tale.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated July 10, 2024 — 11:01pm

Bill Maher says he has the goods to make people laugh with his points of view even when he turns 80.

Bill Maher explains why upcoming Orpheum Theatre show may be his last in Minnesota

HBO's "Real Time" host calls his book "What This Comedian Said Will Shock You" a labor of love.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated July 9, 2024 — 7:00am

Sha'Carri Richardson celebrates her win in the wins women's 100-meter run final during the U.S. Track and Field Olympic Team Trials in Eugene, Ore., o

What to watch: 'Sprint' is required viewing to prepare for 2024 Olympics

What TV critic Neal Justin is watching this week.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated July 5, 2024 — 8:00am

Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson often attends Timberwolves games, as he did on April 20 during the playoffs.

Neal Justin: Netflix's 'Receiver' opens a window into the private life of Justin Jefferson

The series is the latest attempt to sharpen the public images of pro athletes.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated July 4, 2024 — 8:00am

Eddie Murphy tries explaining himself in "Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F."

What to watch: The heat is off in 'Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F'

Eddie Murphy is getting too old for this stuff in new Netflix movie.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated July 3, 2024 — 8:00am

The St. Anthony Main Theatre and nearby restaurant.bestmn2012 bestmn2012

'Good Morning America' spotlights 'St. Anthony Main neighborhood' in Mpls.

The "Main Street USA" segment included some colorful characters from Minneapolis.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated July 2, 2024 — 5:01pm

The Minnesota All-Stars take on the Philadelphia squad at Roy Wilkins Auditorium in 2017.

What to watch: 'Minnesota Mean' will bowl over roller derby fans

What TV critic Neal Justin is watching this week.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated June 28, 2024 — 8:00am

Carmy (Jeremy Allen White) cooks up words to live by in "The Bear."

TV review: 'The Bear' dishes out more love to restaurants in Season Three

New episodes of the Emmy-winning series are now streaming on Hulu.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated June 27, 2024 — 8:00am

KARE's Jason Hackett flashes a smile on "Sunrise," the show he co-anchors. In May, Hackett dedicated two minutes of airtime to telling viewers that he

KARE anchor Jason Hackett wanted to come out on air. Minnesota felt like the right place to do it.

In a viral moment, the morning anchor told "Sunrise" viewers he was gay: "I just wanted to be my authentic self."

Article by Neal Justin

Updated June 27, 2024 — 7:00am

Comedian Hannah Berner tries controlling a case of the giggles while hosting "Dream Date," a new TikTok series shot in Minneapolis.

In new TikTok series, Caribou Coffee and comic Hannah Berner help Minnesotans find love

"Dream Date: A Sip at Love," which features 12 Minnesota singles, debuts this week.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated June 26, 2024 — 8:00am

KARE 11's Randy Shaver tests a golf cart that was being given away during his June golf fundraiser in Maple Grove. Shaver retires this month after fou

Randy Shaver tees off on his profession as he retires from KARE

During his charity golf tournament, the longtime anchor and host of "Prep Sports Extra" reflected on his 41 years in the Twin Cities market. He leaves this week.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated June 24, 2024 — 7:00am

The new documentary "Power of the Dream" tells the story of WNBA players, including Atlanta Dream guard Renee Montgomery, who left the WNBA to be a fu

What to watch: 'Power of the Dream' doc makes the case that WNBA players are the toughest athletes around

What TV critic Neal Justin is watching this week.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated June 21, 2024 — 8:00am

Let's Dance Gala emcees, myTalk 107.1's Julia Cobbs and Lori Barghini.

How MyTalk's 'Lori & Julia' show made its mark on Twin Cities radio

Devoted fans are saying goodbye to the popular radio program after two decades: "They've been a constant in my life."

Article by Neal Justin

Updated June 20, 2024 — 8:00am

Minneapolis comic Ali Sultan gets ready to show off his soccer skills in "Roots of Comedy With Jesus Trejo."

Minneapolis comic Ali Sultan kicks off PBS series on the secrets behind stand-up

The new show "Roots of Comedy With Jesus Trejo" will introduce you to talent from across the country, starting in Minnesota.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated June 19, 2024 — 8:00am

Author Dan Buettner, center, Afianes Wines founder Nikos Afianes, right, and his son Konstantinos Afianes drink to their health in Ikaria, Greece, in

St. Paul musician wins Emmy for his work on Netflix's 'Live to 100′

Steve Gernes had been nominated three times in the past.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated June 14, 2024 — 4:29pm

Prince Daemon Targaryen (Matt Smith) is just as depressed as his flying buddy in "House of the Dragon."

TV shows to watch: 'House of the Dragon' won't fire you up

What TV critic Neal Justin is watching this week.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated June 14, 2024 — 8:00am

Mallory Weggemann, paralympic swimmer, gold medalist and Minnesotan, described what it means to her to be swimming back at the University of Minnesota

Eagan's Mallory Weggemann prepares to be first Paralympian to host NBC's Olympics coverage

The gold medalist is also continuing her swimming career.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated June 13, 2024 — 11:33am

Rusty Sabich (Jake Gyllenhaal) pleads his case in the TV series "Presumed Innocent."

TV review: 'Presumed Innocent' is guilty of being wildly different from the movie

Jake Gyllenhaal fills in for Harrison Ford in the limited Apple TV+ series.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated June 12, 2024 — 8:00am

Adria Arjona and Glen Powell steam up the screen in "Hit Man."

What to watch: 'Hit Man' is the sexiest movie of the month

What TV critic Neal Justin is watching this week.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated June 7, 2024 — 8:00am

Sterlin Harjo, co-creator and showrunner of "Reservation Dogs," will be at Walker Art Center Wednesday.

'Reservation Dogs' director: 'I can feel the change in Native communities'

Acclaimed director Sterlin Harjo will talk about his career at Walker Art Center in Minneapolis.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated June 6, 2024 — 8:00am

Mae (Amandla Stenberg) gets ready for battle in "The Acolyte."

Review: 'Star Wars' shows like 'The Acolyte' need to take a hiatus from the TV galaxy

The latest saga is proof that the Force is no longer with the franchise.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated June 5, 2024 — 8:00am

Kendall Mark and Jason Matheson prep for "The Jason Show" last year at the Fox 9 studio in Eden Prairie.

Kendall Mark leaves 'The Jason Show' to help take over the 'Lori & Julia' radio show

The Fox 9 traffic reporter will be teaming up with Brittany Arneson on MyTalk.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated June 4, 2024 — 3:55pm

Bisi Onile-Ere said her six and a half years at Fox 9 "had gone by so fast."

Bisi Onile-Ere has left the anchor desk at Fox 9

The Minneapolis native had been at the station since 2017.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated June 3, 2024 — 3:51pm

At the height of the disco era, fans gathered in nightclubs such as Studio 54, which was the place to be and to be seen. Studio 54 is featured in "Dis

TV to watch: Disco's good times are remembered in new PBS documentary

What TV critic Neal Justin is watching this week.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated June 1, 2024 — 12:33pm

Jane Seymour buckles up for another wild ride in Acorn TV's "Harry Wild."

Jane Seymour desperately wants to bring back Dr. Quinn

The star of "Harry Wild" looks back at a stellar career.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated May 30, 2024 — 7:00am

FILE - Host Ellen Degeneres appears at a taping of "The Ellen DeGeneres Show" in Burbank on Oct. 13, 2016. DeGeneres says the 19th and final season of

Ellen DeGeneres plans to end her stand-up career in Minneapolis

The former talk show will hit a 27-city tour with "Ellen's Last Stand...Up."

Article by Neal Justin

Updated May 29, 2024 — 2:48pm

Jessica Lange takes a well-deserved bow in "The Great Lillian Hall."

TV review: 'Lillian Hall' confirms that Jessica Lange is the greatest Minnesota actor of all time

The former Stillwater resident shines in new HBO movie.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated May 29, 2024 — 8:00am

The new Disney+ documentary on The Beach Boys includes stories about their humble family beginnings.

What to watch: Beach Boys documentary is fun, fun, fun

What TV critic Neal Justin is watching this week.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated May 24, 2024 — 8:00am

Laura Jarrett and Poppy Harlow promoted their new children's book on the "Today" show earlier this month.

Minnesota's Poppy Harlow follows her CNN exit with a plea for love

The former morning show host's new children's book celebrates how love comes in different colors and forms.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated May 23, 2024 — 8:00am

Shay Mitchell is dressed for drinking in "Thirst With Shay Mitchell."

TV review: Shay Mitchell's cocktail series doesn't have enough punch

"Thirst With Shay Mitchell" debuts on Max Thursday.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated May 22, 2024 — 8:00am

Minneapolis native Roxanne Rosedale on "Beat the Clock."

Twin Cities native Dolores Rosedale, glamorous '50s TV model and actress, dies at 95

The Minnesota native also had a memorable scene in "The Seven Year Itch" and had a doll named after her.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated May 18, 2024 — 7:33pm

Rob Schneider shared his take on life and love in his 2020 Netflix comedy special, "Rob Schneider: Asian Momma, Mexican Kids."

Review: Rob Schneider shows Mystic Lake crowd there's humor outside the liberal bubble

The "Saturday Night Live" alum lived up to his controversial reputation.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated May 18, 2024 — 8:52am

Mary Lucia in 89.3 the Current's studio.

Former Current DJ Mary Lucia joins Radio K team

Lucia will serve as a program adviser for the University of Minnesota station.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated May 16, 2024 — 2:32pm

Emily Saliers, left, and Amy Ray look back at their musical contributions in "Indigo Girls: It's Only Life After All."

TV review: Indigo Girls get joy from their music, and Minnesota, in new documentary

Amy Ray and Emily Saliers reflect on their career and impact.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated May 8, 2024 — 8:00am

Melissa McCarthy and Jerry Seinfeld are both employees at Kellogg's in the comedy "Unfrosted."

TV to watch: 'Unfrosted,' Jerry Seinfeld's cereal-war comedy, needs more snap, crackle and pop

What TV critic Neal Justin is watching this week.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated May 3, 2024 — 8:00am

Hannah Einbinder and Jean Smart tee up for a new season of "Hacks."

Neal Justin: 'Hacks' is TV's best buddy sitcom

The Emmy-winning series returns after a nearly two-year break.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated May 2, 2024 — 8:00am

TV review: 'The Contestant' peels curtain back on the worst reality show of all time

The Hulu film exposes secrets behind a horrible hit.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated May 1, 2024 — 8:00am

Poppy Harlow and her daughter, Sienna, on Lake Minnetonka.

Minneapolis native Poppy Harlow parts ways with CNN

She was a former co-host of the network's morning show.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated April 26, 2024 — 3:43pm

Frank Marshall's documentary on Dan Rather, which first premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival last June, will land Wednesday on Netflix.

TV to watch: Dan Rather documentary is second-rate journalism

What TV critic Neal Justin is checking out this week.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated April 26, 2024 — 8:00am

Paul Blume (left) and his daughter, Beatrice, alongside Lou Raguse and his daughter, Violet, after their team won a championship.

Caitlin Clark helps KARE 11 and Fox 9 reporters bond with their daughters

Lou Raguse and Paul Blume teamed up to coach a winning basketball team.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated April 25, 2024 — 8:00am

"Thank You, Goodnight: The Bon Jovi Story" follows the band's 40-year journey and the frontman shares his most vulnerable moments.

TV review: Bon Jovi documentary goes down in a blaze of boredom

The four-part docuseries never digs deep enough.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated April 24, 2024 — 8:00am

Fred Armisen will almost certainly show off his drumming skills when he performs Sunday at Fillmore Minneapolis.

Some of comedy's biggest names converge on the Twin Cities this weekend

National headliners will hit theaters, clubs and casinos throughout the metro area.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated April 23, 2024 — 11:00am

Daniel Whitney, better known as Larry the Cable Guy, said he was once doing 287 shows a year but it is now down to under 25.

Larry the Cable Guy would rather hang out on his Midwest farm

The "Git-R-Done" comedian performs Saturday at Treasure Island Casino.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated April 23, 2024 — 7:00am

Rick Harrison, left, enjoys beer and pizza at St. Paul Brewing with Corey Harrison and Austin "Chumlee" Russell for an episode of "Pawn Stars Do Ameri

Bob Dylan and Kirby Puckett collectibles pop up when 'Pawn Stars' do Minneapolis

The History Channel series also visited the Minnesota State Fair and Matt's Bar during its local shoot.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated April 22, 2024 — 9:49pm

Real estate scion Robert Durst stands trial in "The Jinx 2."

What to watch: 'Jinx 2′ assumes we haven't had enough of convicted murderer Robert Durst

What TV critic Neal Justin is watching this week.

Article by Neal Justin

Updated April 19, 2024 — 8:00am

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Neal Justin