Backstage With Gentry Thomas

In this soulful and inspiring episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, Grammy-winning rock icon Melissa Etheridge joins Gentry to talk about her Raised on Radio Tour with Wynonna Judd. The tour brings together two powerhouse voices for a night of hits, stories, and the kind of music that shaped generations of radio listeners.Fans can find tour dates and buy tickets here: Melissa Etheridge Tour 2026 Melissa also talks about her new album, Rise, released through Sun Records. The album features heartfelt, triumphant songs produced by Shooter Jennings and Melissa Etheridge at Sunset Sound in Los Angeles, including “Don’t You Want a Woman,” “Bein’ Alive,” “Call You,” and “The Other Side of Blue,” featuring Chris Stapleton.Fans can shop or stream Rise here: Melissa Etheridge Store Gentry and Melissa dive into what it means to be raised in the radio era, how radio helped shape her as an artist, and what it’s like touring with Wynonna Judd. Melissa reflects on working with the legendary Sun Records, writing songs with deep emotional weight, and the craft behind performing with feeling, including her method of playing guitar without relying on a metronome. The conversation also turns personal as Melissa talks about coming out in 1993, what that moment meant at the time, and how honesty, courage, and authenticity have guided her life and music ever since. From radio roots and raw songwriting to touring, truth, and resilience, this episode is full of heart, wisdom, and the unmistakable voice of Melissa Etheridge.

In this powerful and fascinating episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, actor, filmmaker, martial artist, and action icon Dolph Lundgren joins Gentry to talk about his new HISTORY Channel series, History’s Greatest Machines with Dolph Lundgren. The show follows Dolph as he explores the engineering, innovation, and impact behind some of the most important machines ever built, from military technology and spy planes to rockets, helicopters, and inventions that changed the course of history. The series premieres Monday, June 1 at 10/9c on HISTORY, with episodes available through HISTORY and participating TV providers. Fans can watch episodes and learn more here:History's Greatest Machines With Dolph Lundgren Dolph also opens up about his personal battle with cancer and what it took to keep fighting through one of the toughest chapters of his life. He shares insight into his workout and training regimen, the discipline that has carried him through decades of action roles, and how he continues to stay strong physically and mentally. Of course, the conversation goes back to one of his most iconic roles: Ivan Drago in Rocky IV. Dolph tells Gentry what it was like stepping onto that legendary set, preparing for the role, and even meeting James Brown during the making of the film. The interview also touches on Dolph’s vodka business with his wife, his life outside of Hollywood, and the drive that keeps him curious, creative, and constantly evolving. From action movies and machines to survival, reinvention, and real-life grit, this episode delivers a rare look at Dolph Lundgren beyond the screen.

In this inspiring and high-energy episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, Maria Menounos joins Gentry to talk about her new Hulu series, Designed to Last. The show brings together teams of architects, engineers, and inventors as they compete in intense build challenges, creating homes designed to stand up against the worst Mother Nature can throw at them, including wind, water, snow, ice, and fire. Fans can watch Designed to Last on Hulu here:Designed to Last on Hulu Maria gives Gentry a behind-the-scenes look at the wild production of the show, including the damage, destruction, and chaos that made filming so much fun. She talks about the excitement of watching these builds get pushed to the limit and how the series blends entertainment, science, design, and real-world preparedness. The conversation also turns deeply personal as Maria opens up about surviving hardship, learning to roll with life’s punches, and becoming the CEO of her own health. She discusses how she discovered she had a brain tumor, the lessons she learned through that experience, and why resetting the nervous system has become such an important part of her healing and wellness journey. Maria and Gentry also talk about her incredible career, from interviewing multiple U.S. presidents to growing up as an 80s and 90s kid, and the mindset that has helped her keep moving forward through every challenge. From Hollywood stories to health wisdom and the chaos of a destructive design competition, this episode is full of heart, humor, resilience, and ins

In this fun and animated episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, comedy legend Cedric the Entertainer joins Gentry to talk about his new Netflix animated movie, Swapped. The film is a body-swap animated adventure featuring a stacked voice cast that includes Michael B. Jordan, Juno Temple, Tracy Morgan, Cedric the Entertainer, Justina Machado, and more. Watch Swapped on Netflix here: Netflix - Swapped  Cedric talks about what it’s like stepping into the world of animation, how voice acting differs from live-action comedy, and the challenge of bringing a character to life using only your voice. He also reflects on the different animated projects he’s been part of throughout his career and why animation allows performers to stretch in a completely different way. Gentry and Cedric also have some fun with the movie’s body-swap concept, including who Cedric would swap bodies with if he could choose anyone, alive or dead. The conversation also dives into his hit CBS show The Neighborhood, his current work on Broadway, and how he continues to evolve as a performer across stand-up, television, film, animation, and theater. From Netflix animation to sitcom success and Broadway lights, this episode is full of laughs, wisdom, and classic Cedric charm.

In this high-energy episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, we sit down with Wes Scantlin, frontman of Puddle of Mudd, to talk about the band’s brand-new album Kiss the Machine. Wes opens up about the inspiration behind the record, the evolution of their sound, and what fans can expect from this latest chapter in their rock journey. He also shares details about upcoming tour dates, what life on the road looks like today, and how performing live continues to fuel his passion for music. Fans can check out tour dates, merch, and more at: Puddle of Mudd Want to hear the latest music? Watch the new single “Free” here: Puddle Of Mudd - Free Wes and Gentry dive into everything from the roots of rock music to Wes’s upbringing and how being “country at heart” shaped his style. He reflects on learning guitar in a time before YouTube, where passion, repetition, and raw dedication were the only tools, and how that old-school grind still influences his approach today. From the rise of Puddle of Mudd to the future of rock, this episode is packed with stories, attitude, and authenticity. Don’t miss it.

In this hilarious and high-energy episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, comedian, actor, and writer Marlon Wayans joins Gentry to talk about everything from stand-up comedy to the return of one of the most iconic parody franchises ever made. Marlon is currently on the road with his Wild Child Tour, bringing his fearless comedy and storytelling to audiences around the country. Fans can find tour dates and grab tickets here: https://www.marlonwayans.com/live-shows The conversation also dives into the highly anticipated Scary Movie 6, which Marlon helped bring to life alongside the legendary Wayans comedy legacy. He shares what it was like writing and developing the new film, how the creative process works behind the scenes, and why fans of the original films are going to love what’s coming next. Scary Movie 6 is scheduled to hit theaters on June 5, 2026, and fans will be able to watch it in theaters upon release. Marlon and Gentry also geek out over their favorite horror movies, talk about the shows and sitcoms the Wayans family grew up loving, and discuss the grind and excitement of life on the road performing stand-up night after night. Along the way, Marlon even opens up about his golf game, life lessons from comedy, and how staying creative keeps him energized. From behind-the-scenes movie stories to wild stand-up tour moments, this episode is packed with laughs, insight, and classic Marlon Wayans energy. Don’t miss it.

In this laugh-filled episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, comedian Matt Rife sits down with Gentry to talk about life, laughter, and what it really means to pursue comedy full throttle. Matt is currently out on his Stay Golden tour, bringing his sharp wit and electric stage presence to audiences everywhere. Want to catch him live? Get tour dates and tickets here: Stay Golden Tour  Matt opens up about what touring life is like — the highs, the travel, the crowds, and the unexpected moments that keep him energized show after show. He also shares his honest perspective on growing up and performing, including how he didn’t peak in high school (despite what anyone might’ve thought) and how that shaped his drive to succeed. The conversation turns heartfelt as Matt talks about his connection with the late Ralphie May, one of comedy’s most beloved and influential performers, and how that friendship and mentorship helped him grow both as a comedian and a person. Matt’s love for comedy shines throughout, as he reflects on what keeps him passionate about performing, writing new material, and connecting with audiences night after night. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to his work, this episode offers laughs, inspiration, and a deeper look at one of comedy’s brightest voices on the rise.

In this laugh-packed episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, legendary comedian Bert Kreischer joins Gentry to talk about his brand-new Netflix comedy series Free Bert a wildly entertaining look at Bert’s life on the road, his family, and the absurd, hilarious moments that make him one of the most beloved voices in comedy today. Check out Free Bert on Netflix here: Free Bert Bert and Gentry dig into some of the most memorable stories from his journey to stand-up success, including how Rolling Stone famously “discovered” him while he was a student at Florida State long before comedy became his full-time hustle. They also talk about Bert’s unexpected and hilarious friendship with Rob Lowe, how that relationship came to be, and how it continues to surprise him. Along the way, Bert reflects on what made him fall in love with stand-up comedy, how he hones his craft, and why storytelling even the outrageous stories is at the heart of what he does. From wild college tales to life on tour, this episode is equal parts hilarious, heartfelt, and totally Bert perfect for comedy fans and curious listeners alike.

In this powerful and deeply inspiring episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, actress, author, and longtime advocate Marlo Thomas sits down with Gentry to talk about her life’s work with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital — the Memphis‑based pediatric research and treatment center that’s changing the face of childhood cancer care. Marlo shares why St. Jude is so close to her heart and how the hospital’s mission — ensuring that families never receive a bill for treatment, travel, housing, or food — continues to give children a real chance to survive and thrive against life‑threatening illnesses. She discusses breakthroughs in research, the importance of compassionate care, and how the legacy of her father, entertainer Danny Thomas, continues to drive progress and hope for families around the world. St. Jude+1 Throughout the conversation, Marlo and Gentry also talk about her own creative life — from her early entertainment work to her advocacy, the ways music and family shaped her, and unforgettable moments that shaped her commitment to service. If you’re moved by Marlo’s story and want to make a difference, you can support St. Jude’s lifesaving mission here: Donate to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital: https://www.stjude.org/give.html. Your contribution helps advance pediatric cancer research, provide top‑notch care at no cost to families, and give hope to children fighting for their lives. St. Jude This episode is a celebration of compassion, courage, and the joy of helping families face the toughest battles — and one you won’t want to miss.

In this wide-ranging episode, American political commentator, retired talk-show host, and author Chris Matthews joins Gentry to discuss his new book, Lessons from Bobby: Ten Reasons Robert F. Kennedy Still Matters. Matthews lays out why RFK’s moral courage, coalition-building, and willingness to risk political capital still resonate—and what those lessons mean for the country now. Grab the book here: Buy Lessons from Bobby. Simon & Schuster Beyond the book, Chris shares a remarkable story from his younger years hitchhiking across Africa, then pivots to an unflinching conversation about the Kennedy legacy—with a special focus on Bobby. He and Gentry also unpack today’s political flashpoints: the new New York mayor and Assembly member Zohran Mamdani, the evolving crises between the U.S., Israel, and Palestine, and the brutal realities of the Russia–Ukraine war. It’s candid, timely, and steeped in history—an essential listen for anyone who cares about American politics and the ideas that still shape it.

In this incisive episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, CNN anchor Abby Phillip joins us to discuss her powerful new book, A Dream Deferred: Jesse Jackson and the Fight for Black Political Power. Dive deep into the extraordinary story of civil‑rights leader Jesse Jackson, his historic presidential campaigns in the 1980s, and how his vision reshaped American politics. Buy the book here: A Dream Deferred: Jesse Jackson and the Fight for Black Political Power Abby and Gentry explore how Jackson’s strategies—and his underrated influence—mirror present‑day dynamics with figures across the political spectrum. They analyze how extremists and politicians alike believe they’re right in their missions, and why understanding that truth is critical. The conversation also tackles one of the most critical issues of our time: evolving diplomacy between the U.S., Israel and Palestine, and the high‑stakes role debate and the free press still play in democracy. Abby reflects on her role at CNN, the responsibility of journalism in today’s polarized climate, and how the integrity of the story matters now more than ever. Tune in for an in‑depth, thought‑provoking discussion on power, politics, race, and media—only on Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas.

In this riveting episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, veteran journalist and CNN anchor Jake Tapper joins Gentry to discuss his powerful new book, Race Against Terror: Chasing an Al Qaeda Killer at the Dawn of the Forever War. This gripping true story follows the incredible global hunt for a terrorist who confessed to killing American soldiers—and how the justice system scrambled to respond. Get your copy here: Buy Race Against Terror Jake and Gentry dive into the evolution of counter‑terrorism strategy, analyzing how different U.S. presidents have confronted extremist threats and why every radical believes their mission is justified. They also discuss what it’s like to moderate presidential debates and the heavy responsibility of journalism in today’s polarized media culture. Tune in for an intense, thoughtful conversation on global security, democracy, and the critical role of a free press in safeguarding our future.

In this heartfelt episode, Kathie Lee Gifford joins Gentry Thomas to talk about her new song, “I Knew It Would Be You,” written as a tribute for the movie Reagan. She opens up about how the song came to life, what it means to her, and how music has shaped her through every phase of her life. They also discuss her deep friendship and on‑air chemistry with Regis Philbin, how she believes a dramatic moment in her life was saved with the help of Donald Trump, and her lifelong relationship with faith, storytelling, and the power of melody. Listen to “I Knew It Would Be You” here:Listen on streaming platforms / buy the song — check your favorite music service for availability. This is a warm, intimate look at a life lived in song, faith, love, and persistence.