Why do we choose to watch ‘bad’ things?

From Twilight to the new War of the Worlds offering from Amazon and every bit of slop (AI or human) served up on social media, we're devouring it — but why? Hannah's joined by writer and film critic Jared Richards to try to understand why we can't look away from the unsavoury content being delivered up by our algorithms. Are we seeking it out for the feeling of superiority, the draw of the grotesque or simply the communal bonding experience of viewing and commenting on the obscure? Also, we sidebar on the Emmy Awards winners, snubs and highlights this year. Get in touch: write or send a voice memo to stopeverything@abc.net.au Show notes: Kirbpiemayo mixes chicken with ice cream: The Princess Ayesha instagram:

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Why do we choose to watch ‘bad’ things? is an episode from Stop Everything!.

This episode is 0:37:20 long.

This episode was published on Sep 17, 2025.

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