Reneé Rapp Joins NPR’s “Wait Wait… Don’t Tell Me” as Guest Panelist

Lead: Pop star and actor Reneé Rapp appeared on NPR’s news quiz show Wait Wait… Don’t Tell Me in Chicago today, sharing her earliest stage memories and confessing a crush on Mark Cuban.

Nut Graf: Rapp’s appearance underscores her rising profile beyond Broadway and pop music, offering fans a fresh glimpse of her humor and personality in a live radio setting.

Key Highlights

  • Show Debut: Rapp joined panelists Alonzo Bodden, Shane O’Neill and Amy Dickinson on the September 6 broadcast in Chicago.
  • Stage Memories: She recalled performing dress rehearsals at age six, describing the thrill of her first ovation.
  • Mark Cuban Crush: Rapp quipped that billionaire entrepreneur Mark Cuban is “totally crush-worthy,” sparking playful banter among hosts.
  • Social Media Buzz: The hashtag #ReneeRapp trended on X after a fan post joked “sorry renee rapp possessed me,” illustrating her growing cultural influence.

Details in Descending Importance

Rapp’s NPR debut featured her trademark wit as she navigated rapid-fire news questions and shared anecdotes from her rise in musical theatre. Producers noted her on-mic ease matched seasoned comedians.

During a lightning round, she described transforming stage fright into excitement by picturing audience members as dancing squirrels, a strategy that drew laughter and applause.

Following the show, Rapp thanked listeners on X, inviting them to catch her upcoming “Bite Me” tour dates.

Rapp’s crossover into radio entertainment highlights her versatility and cements her status as a multitalented performer.