Instant Insight
30-Second Take
- NPR’s Wait Wait… Don’t Tell Me! aired a live Chicago episode featuring Superman director James Gunn
- Gunn participated in the “Not My Job” segment answering questions about t-shirt guns
- Panelists Paula Poundstone, Adam Burke, and Bobcat Goldthwait tackled Shakespeare discoveries and voting age debates
+ Dive Deeper
Quick Brief
2-Minute Digest
Essential Context
NPR’s weekly news quiz show Wait Wait… Don’t Tell Me! delivered its July 19, 2025 episode live from Chicago. Host Peter Sagal led the program featuring filmmaker James Gunn, known for Guardians of the Galaxy and Superman, as the special guest. The episode blended humor with current events through signature segments like “Bluff the Listener” and “Not My Job.”
Core Players
- Peter Sagal – Host and creator of Wait Wait
- James Gunn – Director of Superman and Guardians of the Galaxy
- Paula Poundstone – Comedian and regular panelist
- Adam Burke – Stand-up comedian and panelist
- Bobcat Goldthwait – Actor/comedian and panelist
- Bill Kurtis – Judge and scorekeeper
Key Numbers
- 2025 – Year of this special Chicago recording
- 3 – Panelists participating in the episode
- 1 – Special guest (James Gunn)
- 3 – Questions in Gunn’s “Not My Job” segment
+ Full Analysis
Full Depth
Complete Coverage
The Catalyst
The episode featured a live Chicago audience and a mix of news-based comedy segments. Gunn’s participation highlighted the show’s tradition of inviting high-profile guests to engage in humorous challenges.
Inside Forces
The “Bluff the Listener” segment focused on a fictional Shakespeare discovery, with panelists presenting outlandish theories. This format tests audience knowledge while maintaining the show’s lighthearted tone.
Power Dynamics
Gunn’s “Not My Job” segment involved answering questions about t-shirt guns – a playful contrast to his work in superhero blockbusters. This format allows guests to demonstrate their humor and adaptability.
Outside Impact
The show’s live recording in Chicago reflects NPR’s strategy to engage local audiences through in-person events. The episode’s availability on Apple Podcasts and NPR platforms ensures broad accessibility.
Future Forces
Upcoming episodes may continue featuring diverse guests from entertainment and politics. The show’s format remains consistent, blending current events with comedy through established segments.
Data Points
- July 19, 2025 – Air date
- Chicago – Recording location
- 3 – Questions in Gunn’s segment
- 1 – Special guest
- 3 – Panelists
This episode exemplifies Wait Wait‘s enduring appeal through its blend of news literacy and comedy. By featuring high-profile guests like James Gunn, the show maintains relevance while staying true to its core format.
