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If you’ve ever ridden the New York City subway, you know that avoiding eye contact is almost a sport. Amidst commuters buried in books and headphones, comedian Kareem Rahma flips the script by approaching both everyday riders and high-profile celebrities with a single, conversation-sparking question: “What’s your take?” The resulting interviews, shared to SubwayTakes’ Instagram and TikTok accounts, have racked up millions of views, cementing the project as a viral internet phenomenon and earning it a spot on PEOPLE’s 100 Reasons to Love America.
Let’s dive into some of the most memorable celebrity hot takes that have kept social media buzzing. From Cate Blanchett’s war on leaf blowers to Charli XCX’s musings on music itself, these opinions invite viewers to agree, disagree, or just marvel at the range of perspectives the NYC subway can deliver.
Kareem Rahma’s SubwayTakes isn’t just another street interview show. By attaching a microphone to a MetroCard and keeping conversations raw and unscripted, Rahma has attracted an impressive roster of A-listers — including Cate Blanchett and Charli XCX — in addition to everyday New Yorkers. According to Rahma, the show’s appeal lies in its authenticity and its focus on unique voices rather than just big names. In a discussion on YouTube, Rahma explained that high-profile guests often seek out SubwayTakes as part of their press stops, attracted by its blend of street-level culture and high-profile reach.
“Someone like Cate Blanchett probably sees the caliber of talent we put on…there’s a caliber that people want to be associated with on the show.” — Kareem Rahma (YouTube interview)
Watch clips of these memorable moments on SubwayTakes’ Instagram Reels or browse more hot takes on TikTok.
Cate Blanchett:
The Oscar-winning actress does not mince words: she hates leaf blowers, calling them noisy, polluting, and ineffective. Blanchett’s crusade to “eradicate leaf blowers from the face of the earth” is loaded with evidence — and, judging by social media, plenty of supporters. Catch her giving her take in this viral clip.
Verdict: Hard to argue — those things are loud.
Alex Consani:
Model Alex Consani fully condones sliding into DMs as a legitimate way to make new connections. To Consani, “communication is communication,” whether digital or in-person.
Verdict: Agree — some friendships begin with a simple message.
Lil Nas X:
The pop star suggests couples should have separate bedrooms, questioning the practicality of sharing a room when living together to save on space.
Verdict: Disagree — spare room could be better used for an office or hobby space.
Hasan Minhaj:
No more singing “Happy Birthday” in restaurants, urges Hasan Minhaj. “It’s embarrassing for everyone,” says the comedian.
Verdict: Agree — let’s retire the off-key public serenade.
Charli XCX:
Charli XCX caused a stir by claiming “music is not important,” arguing instead that a musician’s cultural impact matters more. While the sentiment stirred debate, even her critics agree that artistry and scene-building matter — though it all starts with a strong song.
Verdict: Disagree — artistry thrives on a foundation of music.
Ramy Youssef:
Youssef’s hot take? “Everyone is a good person, just infected.” It’s a hopeful spin on the nature-vs-nurture debate.
Verdict: Agree (with hope for humanity).
A’ja Wilson:
The WNBA MVP thinks sports journalists should have played the game they cover. However, host Kareem Rahma counters that expertise can come from passion, not just experience.
Verdict: Disagree — analysis requires curiosity and dedication, on and off the field.
Halsey:
The pop star, referencing her own struggles, says “tragedy makes people funny.” It’s a view echoed by many comedians who use humor to process pain.
Verdict: Agree — laughter can be a powerful coping tool.
Paul W. Downs:
Downs insists every café should offer half-and-half or lose its coffee license, a view not shared by the lactose-intolerant among us.
Verdict: Disagree — options are great, but it’s not a dealbreaker for most.
Ego Nwodim:
The SNL star states that food quality should matter more than ambiance at a restaurant. Diners are there to eat, after all.
Verdict: Agree — “vibe” can’t cover up bad food.
SubwayTakes’ blend of civilian and celebrity interviews is a reminder that everyone has an opinion — and that debating those opinions is half the fun of public life. The show continues to thrive on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, and fans still dissect each viral take long after the original post.
For a deeper dive into the culture of viral street interviews and how New York’s underground has become the stage for some of pop culture’s most debated opinions, check out this feature in People. To view more from SubwayTakes or argue your own hot take, visit Subway Takes on Instagram or explore trending clips and commentary on Subway Takes’ official TikTok page.