#56 Zardulu

The '#56 Zardulu' episode of the 'Reply All' podcast explores the enigmatic figure of Zardulu, a performance artist who orchestrates viral hoaxes to create a sense of wonder and myth in New York City. The episode begins with the story of Eric Yearwood, an actor who, in his pursuit of a career in New York, becomes involved with Zardulu. Eric recounts how he was hired by Zardulu to participate in a staged viral video involving a rat taking a selfie with his phone on the subway. The incident, known as 'Selfie Rat,' gains significant attention and is believed by the public to be a spontaneous occurrence, much like the earlier 'Pizza Rat' phenomenon.

As the narrative unfolds, the hosts of 'Reply All,' PJ Vogt and Alex Goldman, delve into the possibility that Zardulu might also be behind the 'Pizza Rat' video, despite the original filmer, Matt Little, denying any staging. The connection between Eric and Matt through the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre fuels speculation, but no conclusive evidence is found. The episode also touches on another viral rat-related video, 'Pita Rat,' which emerges amidst the controversy, further blurring the lines between reality and Zardulu's fabrications.

Zardulu's identity and motives remain shrouded in mystery throughout the episode. Her cryptic online presence and the statement she issues, which suggests a disdain for the mundanity of reality, only add to the intrigue. The podcast paints a picture of a city where the mundane is interspersed with the magical, where trained rats can become internet celebrities, and where the boundary between fact and fiction is constantly in flux.