MP3 Stars Paul F. Tompkins, Skye Townsend, and Aparna Nancherla Talk Improv, TRL, and Kisses

Dropout Premieres ‘MP3’, Its First Scripted Series in Seven Years

Dropout, the independent comedy platform widely recognized for unscripted and improvisational hits such as Game Changer, Dimension 20, and Very Important People, has officially broken from its established routine. With the debut of MP3—short for Music Presentation 3—the streaming service has introduced its first fully scripted television show in seven years. The series serves as an energetic send-up of classic countdown programs, paying homage to and satirizing the cultural footprint of MTV’s long-canceled flagship show, Total Request Live.

The premise of MP3 revolves around chaotic video jockeys and showcases three brand-new, original music videos in every episode. Headlining the studio is Saturday Night Live cast member Jeremy Culhane, who plays Dane Cartel, a former boy band star navigating his career as an MP3 host. He is joined on the broadcast desk by two newly assigned VJs: Dr. Muse-Tina, portrayed by Skye Townsend, and Chia, played by Aparna Nancherla. Dane’s friction over sharing screen time is complicated by internal network politics, as his director—and father—is Thomas Cartel, brought to life by veteran comedy star Paul F. Tompkins.

Original Music and Star-Studded Cameos

At the creative core of the series are creators Zach Reino and Jess McKenna, who wrote the original comedy songs featured in the fictional countdown. As showcased in the promotional trailer, the program highlights a rotation of eccentric fictional bands including Truth Summons, Boys Who Read, Sheepish, and Every Place I Cry. These musical segments feature a wide ensemble of fan favorites from across the Dropout talent roster, including Anna Garcia, Lily Du, Jacob Wysocki, Katie Marovitch, and Dropout founder Sam Reich.

In a recent installment of Say More, Entertainment Editor Kristy Puchko discussed the show’s development with Skye Townsend, Aparna Nancherla, and Paul F. Tompkins. The cast explored the balance between the tightly scripted format and their background in improv, while addressing hints of potential crossovers within the Dropout universe. With a mention of Fanoli in the premiere and a teaser suggesting the appearance of Princess Emily of Maroon 5, questions arose about whether Tompkins might reprise his role as midnight louse David Hoyle Jr. from Very Important People.

Why This Matters

For nearly a decade, Dropout’s core business model has relied on cost-effective, high-yield unscripted programming, establishing a rare, profitable footprint in independent subscription streaming. Pivoting toward scripted television marks a major developmental milestone for the service. Producing scripted musical comedy requires higher narrative overhead, original songwriting, and distinct studio sets, signaling that Dropout is prepared to diversify its programming portfolio and expand its creative boundaries without sacrificing its signature improv-driven ensemble.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the release schedule for ‘MP3’?

The first episode of MP3 is currently streaming on Dropout. Following the premiere, new episodes will be released every two weeks, with the season finale scheduled to stream on December 2.

Who created and stars in the series?

MP3 was created by musical comedy duo Zach Reino and Jess McKenna. The core broadcast cast features Jeremy Culhane as Dane Cartel, Skye Townsend as Dr. Muse-Tina, Aparna Nancherla as Chia, and Paul F. Tompkins as director Thomas Cartel.

What does the title ‘MP3’ stand for?

Within the narrative of the series, MP3 is short for Music Presentation 3, referencing both classic digital audio formats and the show’s format of debuting three musical tracks per episode.