In this latest Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias interview, Elias reunites with Max Burkholder and Giorgia Whigham to talk all about TED Season 2. Nearly two years after their last conversation, the pair return to break down where Johnny and Blair are emotionally this season, how their relationships continue to evolve, and why the show still works so well when it mixes raunchy comedy with surprisingly heartfelt moments.

Johnny Is Still Figuring Himself Out

Max Burkholder explains that while Johnny may be older in Season 2, he’s still emotionally in a very familiar place. He’s navigating a new chapter as a senior in high school, but not necessarily a completely new mindset. That continuity is part of what makes the character feel honest.

Rather than turning Johnny into someone completely different, the series lets him keep stumbling through life in the way fans have come to expect. For Max, that makes the character’s long-term arc feel all the more believable.

Blair’s Role in Johnny and Ted’s World

Giorgia Whigham describes Blair as someone who genuinely wants the best for both Johnny and Ted. She may be blunt, confident, and occasionally convinced she knows best, but her intentions come from a real place of care. Blair is the kind of character who will absolutely call someone out — but only because she wants to push them in a better direction.

Johnny and Ted Still Operate as Equals

One of the more interesting takeaways from the conversation is Max’s view of Johnny and Ted’s bond. While Ted may be more headstrong and louder in the room, Max makes it clear that Johnny is not simply following orders. Their friendship works because both characters bring something equal to the dynamic, even when their decisions are questionable.

That balance helps keep the show grounded, even when the situations spiral into complete absurdity. It also makes Johnny’s personal journey feel distinct from Ted’s, rather than just existing in his shadow.

Blair Says What Everyone Else Is Thinking

Giorgia also talks about how much fun it is to play Blair’s confidence, especially because she isn’t someone who backs down from speaking her mind. In high-stress moments, Blair tends to say what others might avoid, and that gives her a unique energy within the ensemble.

Season 2 Doubles Down

As the interview wraps, both actors emphasize that Season 2 commits even harder to what fans loved about the first season. The jokes are bigger, the situations get wilder, and the show still finds room for emotional beats that hit when you least expect them.

Max also shares that one of the most meaningful responses after Season 1 came from fans who said the show helped them through a rough time. That emotional connection is something he hopes continues with the new season.