Low Key

In this episode we explore Netflix's Mucho Mucho Amor: The Legend of Walter Mercado, about a Puerto Rican TV astrologer who rose from humble beginnings to become a sequin-caped inspiration to millions.

With his distinctive look, aura of mystery — especially about his sexuality — and ability to blend many religious beliefs into a medley of optimism, Walter Mercado gave hope to the hopeless — until an ugly legal dispute yanked him from the air and cost him control of his own carefully cultivated image.

:45: Our late-night infomercial memories

3:00: Is the Michael Jordan-approved The Last Dance real journalism? Is Walter Mercado getting the Michael Jordan treatment?

5:45: "Celebrities nowadays are derivatives of celebrities back in the day."

5:50: How Walter Mercado was like Michael Jackson and Prince

7:05: About that psychic phone line...

7:50: How is Walter Mercado different from a televangelist?

8:50: "You just can't swindle a swindler"

10:00: Let's talk about Walter Mercado and his manager's relationship

11:45: Zodiac signs

12:40: "What's the difference between a Walter Mercado and a Tony Robbins?"

15:00: Tim has the same religious beliefs as Walter Mercado: "No one has a monopoly on God"

18:00: "He had a much better life than most people have"

24:00: A Billy Dee Williams story (and here's the background on the gender-fluid story)

27:00: Another excellent famous-person story

30:55: "The only person I ever saw solve racism was Prince"

31:50: "Netflix, again, coming through on the diversity point before it was fucking cool. ... They've been on this train."

33:15: Netflix's $120 million donation to HCBUs

36:00: "I have an appreciation for any man that dresses up like a wizard"

Mucho Mucho Amor: The Legend of Walter Mercado is now streaming on Netflix.