Ep 10. Mike and the Mad Dog
- TV-G
- July 13, 2017
- 50 min
Mike and the Mad Dog is the tenth episode of the fourth season of ESPN's critically acclaimed documentary series 30 For 30. The episode chronicles the rise and fall of one of the most influential sports radio shows in history - Mike and the Mad Dog. The show ran on New York's WFAN radio station from 1989 to 2008 and revolutionized sports talk radio in the process.
The episode explores the unlikely partnership between Mike Francesa and Chris "Mad Dog" Russo. The two men came from different backgrounds and had vastly different personalities, but their chemistry on air was undeniable. Mike was the straight-laced, knowledgeable sports guru who would methodically break down the day's sports news, while Chris was the brash, opinionated wildcard who would often fly off the handle and ruffle feathers in the process. Together, they created a show that was equal parts entertaining and informative.
The documentary takes viewers through the early days of the show, when it was just a small blip on the radar of New York sports fans. Through hard work and dedication, Mike and the Mad Dog slowly but surely built a devoted following. They tackled controversial topics head-on and weren't afraid to speak their minds, even if it meant offending some listeners.
As the popularity of the show grew, so did the egos of Mike and Chris. The two hosts began to clash both on and off the air, with each wanting more control over the show's direction. The tension between the two would eventually lead to Chris leaving the show in 2008, leaving Mike to host the show solo.
The episode features interviews with Mike, Chris, and other key players involved in the show's creation and eventual demise. Viewers will also see archival footage of some of the most memorable moments from the show's run, including several heated arguments between Mike and Chris.
Overall, Mike and the Mad Dog is a fascinating look at the world of sports talk radio and the impact that one show can have on an entire industry. It's a must-watch for anyone who has an interest in sports or broadcasting, and a reminder of just how powerful the medium of radio can be.
