Dropout, the digital media company known for its irreverent take on pop culture, has announced a brand‑new scripted series titled MP3 that promises to satirize the classic MTV music video countdown format. The show will feature comedian Jeremy Culhane alongside the beloved actor and writer Paul F. Tompkins, who together will riff on the tropes of shows like TRL while delivering fresh, absurd humor.
MP3 will air on Dropout’s own streaming platform and is slated to run for a single season of ten 30‑minute episodes. Each episode will play out as a faux countdown, complete with dramatic host introductions, over‑the‑top music video clips, and a running commentary that pokes fun at the original show’s earnestness. The series’ premise is to blend nostalgic references with contemporary satire, appealing to both older fans of the original format and a new generation of viewers.
The creative team behind MP3 includes Dropout founder and CEO Michael O’Rourke, who has previously produced the critically acclaimed mock‑documentary series The Dropout Show. O’Rourke described the new series as “a love letter to the music video era, but with a twist that only Dropout can deliver. ” He added that the show will also incorporate interactive elements, allowing viewers to vote on which music video gets the “worst” rating in real time.
Jeremy Culhane, known for his work on The Daily Show and his own podcast, said he was excited to bring his improvisational skills to the series. “I’ve always loved the absurdity of music videos, and what better way to celebrate that than by turning it into a comedy show that pokes fun at the whole spectacle? ” he told reporters.
Paul F. Tompkins, who has a long history of satirizing pop culture on his shows like The Paul F. Tompkins Show, added that the collaboration with Culhane creates a perfect comedic dynamic.
“We’re both obsessed with pop culture, and this is a chance to riff on it in a way that feels fresh and irreverent. ” Dropout plans to premiere MP3 in early 2027, with a marketing push that includes behind‑the‑scenes footage, teaser trailers, and an interactive website that lets fans remix music videos in the style of the show. The series is expected to tap into nostalgia while also offering a new comedic lens on the legacy of music video countdowns, potentially setting a new trend for parody‑driven content on streaming platforms.