Watch The Shop

The Shop is a talk show that premiered on the MTV channel in 2018. The show is executive produced by LeBron James and Maverick Carter, the CEO of the SpringHill Company. It features a group of celebs and athletes engaging in unscripted and unfiltered conversations in a barbershop setting.

The show has a unique take on the late-night talk show format, as the guests sit in a barber chair while discussing various topics ranging from sports to music to politics. The set design is intentionally stripped down, and the guests are dressed in casual attire, creating a relaxed atmosphere where genuine conversations can take place.

The guests are a diverse mix of personalities from different walks of life. In season one, the show featured entertainers like Snoop Dogg, Jon Stewart, and Drake, as well as athletes like Odell Beckham Jr., Candace Parker, and Vince Staples. The show's second season continued with more high profile guests, including Megan Rapinoe, Kevin Hart, and Patrick Mahomes.

One of the show's highlights is the candor of the conversations. The guests rarely shy away from sharing their personal experiences, and offer thoughtful insights on a range of topics. For example, in season one, LeBron James spoke candidly about the challenges he faced early in his NBA career, including the pressures of being a prominent African American athlete. Meanwhile, in season two, Megan Rapinoe opened up about the challenges of being an out LGBTQ athlete.

The show is also notable for its commitment to showcasing the experiences of marginalized communities. The guests often discuss issues related to social justice, and the conversation is always led by those who have personal experience with the challenges of discrimination. For example, in season one, Snoop Dogg and Jon Stewart joined the discussion about the state of policing in Black communities. In season two, WNBA player A'ja Wilson discussed the pay disparities between men's and women's sports.

Another aspect of the show that sets it apart is its inclusion of music. The Shop frequently features musicians, and the guests often discuss the impact of music on their lives. For example, in season one, rapper Nas spoke about working with legendary producer Kanye West, while in season two, Lil Nas X discussed the success of his hit song "Old Town Road." The show also often showcases performances from up and coming artists.

Overall, The Shop is a refreshing addition to the talk show genre. By creating a laid-back environment and encouraging genuine conversation, LeBron James and Maverick Carter have created a show that feels authentic and engaging. Each episode feels like a window into the lives of a diverse group of people who are passionate about their work and their communities. The show's commitment to exploring topics related to social justice and inclusion has also helped distinguish it from other talk shows, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in contemporary culture.

The Shop is a series that is currently running and has 5 seasons (25 episodes). The series first aired on February 2, 1996.