Introduction
Last October, eyebrows were raised when Vice President Kamala Harris participated in an interview with Alex Cooper, the host of the popular podcast “Call Her Daddy.”
Known for its candid and often explicit discussions surrounding sex and relationships, the podcast has garnered a significant following, but it also raises questions about the appropriateness of its content for a political figure of Harris’s stature.
As a serious presidential candidate approaching a crucial election, many skeptics questioned whether this platform was the right choice for her to convey her message and connect with voters, highlighting the ongoing debate about the intersection of politics and popular culture in contemporary media.
Even among those who genuinely appreciate Cooper’s work—affectionately dubbed the “Daddy Gang” by the host herself—there was a sense of astonishment following a recent episode. Historically, Cooper has steered clear of political discussions on her podcast, which has garnered a diverse audience spanning various political ideologies.
However, after the episode aired, she staunchly defended her decision to engage in political discourse and further elaborated on her stance in a new two-part docuseries titled “Call Her Alex,” now available on Hulu.
In her defense, she asserts, “I’m not CNN, I’m not Fox News,” emphasizing that her platform, “Call Her Daddy,” is dedicated to conversations surrounding women’s rights, thereby positioning her podcast as a space for advocacy rather than traditional news reporting.
Directed by Ry Russo-Young, known for her work on “Nuclear Family,” “Call Her Alex” showcases Cooper, a 30-year-old innovator who serves as an inspiration for young women embracing their sexuality.
Since its inception in 2018, the podcast has transformed from offering oral sex tutorials to engaging in meaningful dialogues with prominent figures such as Hailey Bieber and Chappell Roan. In 2024, it emerged as one of Spotify’s leading titles, ranking just behind “The Joe Rogan Experience.”
While discussions about sex remain a central theme, Cooper skillfully guides her guests toward topics of female empowerment, which likely serves as a significant attraction for the Harris campaign.
“Call Her Alex” effectively highlights Cooper’s business acumen, primarily focusing on her preparations for a seven-city tour set in 2023. However, the narrative falls short of delving into the deeper aspects that contribute to her allure as a media figure.
While it showcases her strategic planning and organizational skills, it misses an opportunity to explore the unique qualities and experiences that resonate with her audience, leaving a gap in understanding what truly makes her a captivating personality in the media landscape.
Sexual appeal can certainly attract attention, but it does not guarantee success or elevate one to the forefront of public discourse. Moreover, it does not provide the credibility necessary to engage in serious political interviews, such as those with presidential candidates.
The question arises: what unique aspects of Cooper’s life and experiences have allowed her to cultivate a genuine connection with her devoted audience, known as the Daddy Gang? What factors have contributed to her reputation as a quintessential “girl’s girl,” a term her fans frequently use to describe her? Understanding the elements that have shaped her persona reveals the depth of her authenticity and the reasons behind her enduring popularity.
Listeners often express to Russo-Young that engaging with “Call Her Daddy” feels akin to spending time with a close friend, whereas watching “Call Her Alex” resembles the experience of attending a networking event.
This distinction highlights a fundamental difference in approach; while “Call Her Daddy” embraces the raw and unfiltered aspects of personal storytelling, “Call Her Alex” opts to streamline the narrative by omitting the more complicated elements.
Instead, it focuses on crafting a narrative that is not only uplifting but also more commercially appealing, prioritizing a polished and inspirational storyline over the authenticity of life’s messier realities.
The narrative unfolds in Newtown, Pennsylvania, during Cooper’s formative years, a time marked by her experiences of bullying due to her distinctive red hair. This adversity made her school life particularly challenging, leading her to seek solace and a sense of belonging in organized sports, where she found camaraderie among her encouraging female teammates.
It was within this supportive environment that she forged her most meaningful friendships, particularly with a small group of girls who shared her passion for creativity.
Together, they engaged in writing whimsical skits, capturing their performances on video, and immersing themselves in the editing process, which not only strengthened their bonds but also provided an outlet for their artistic expression.
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