Defector Funbag Debunks Red Wine Myth, Mourns Tommy John, and Addresses Tony Romo’s CBS Future
Drew Magary’s latest Defector Funbag addresses reader questions on red wine health claims, the legacy of pitcher Tommy John, and the potential replacement of Tony Romo by J.J. Watt on CBS Sports. Magary clarifies that while resveratrol offers mild benefits, alcohol remains a toxin, and he notes that Romo’s lack of preparation may lead to his permanent removal from the booth. The column also touches on the terror of liminal spaces in 'Backrooms' and the practicalities of cochlear implants.
Key points
- Magary refutes the 'red wine extends life' urban legend, noting that while resveratrol has mild benefits, alcohol is a proven toxin and moderation is key.
- The column acknowledges the recent death of baseball pitcher Tommy John, focusing on his iconic dad hat rather than his playing days, as Magary was too young to recall his prime.
- Magary suggests CBS may replace Tony Romo with J.J. Watt due to Romo’s lack of preparation and past DUI issues, despite Romo’s energetic commentary style.
- The piece explains why Gen Z finds 'Backrooms' terrifying, linking it to the existential dread of being trapped in office spaces without phones.
- Magary shares personal experiences with cochlear implants, noting that modern processors like the MED-EL Rondo use magnets and do not require earpieces, making them less intrusive than hearing aids.
Background
This column continues the Defector Funbag series, a weekly Q&A format where Drew Magary answers reader inquiries on sports, pop culture, and lifestyle topics. Previous columns have covered topics such as concussion protocols and TV house rankings, maintaining a tone that blends humor with critical analysis of media and sports figures.
Why it matters
The column highlights the ongoing debate over the health impacts of alcohol, the shifting dynamics in NFL broadcasting due to player-contractor conduct, and the generational differences in how horror media is perceived. It also provides practical insights into assistive technology for hearing loss, addressing common misconceptions about cochlear implants.
What to watch
Readers may expect further discussion on the potential permanent replacement of Tony Romo by J.J. Watt in the upcoming NFL season. The column also invites continued engagement on topics like sports league structures and celebrity encounters, as Magary encourages readers to submit questions for future Funbag editions.
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