What makes Seinfeld feel more alive in 2026 than half the shows made today? In this episode, Jason Alexander and Peter Tilden sit down with Jennifer Keishin Armstrong (author of Seinfeldia) to unpack why the showâs jokes, catchphrases, and âno one learns anythingâ mandate still shape comedyâand culture. They dig into the streaming afterlife, the wild ratings era (including the infamous 78 million finale), and how characters like George Costanza and Kramer became modern archetypes.
Jennifer shares behind-the-scenes reporting from writers and guest stars, including how icons like the Soup Nazi became permanent fandom fixtures, plus the unusual way ideas were pitchedâsometimes literally in hallways.
The conversation also gets real about the showâs controversies (Puerto Rican Day Parade, representation, jokes âof their timeâ) and why Seinfeld may have paved the road for TVâs anti-hero era.
If youâve ever quoted âno soup for youâ or wondered why the show still hits without smartphones, this oneâs for you.