Neal Justin
Critic / Reporter
Culture Neal Justin is the pop-culture critic, covering how Minnesotans spend their entertainment time. He also reviews stand-up comedy. Justin previously served as TV and music critic for the paper. Before coming to Minnesota, he was a crime reporter for the Rockford Register Star and graduated from Northwestern University. He is the co-founder of JCamp, a non-profit program for high-school journalists, and works on many fronts to further diversity in newsrooms. He is the former president of UNITY and former governing board member for the Asian American Journalists Association. He is an adjunct professor at the University of St. Thomas.
Latest from Neal Justin
KARE names new anchor to join Julie Nelson on air
Kevin Holmes is making the move from Kansas City.
February 3, 2026
Dave Chappelle announces St. Paul show with red-hot musical opener
The Grammy-winning duo Clipse will join the comedian at Grand Casino Arena.
February 2, 2026
Paul Allen returns to KFAN airwaves after controversial comments
The Vikings broadcaster addressed blowback to his thoughts about “paid protesters” at the end of his show.
February 2, 2026
Netflix offers new chance to fete Herb Brooks and Miracle on Ice
“Miracle: The Boys of ‘80″ presents a deeper look at the Minnesota players who helped pull off one of sports’ greatest upsets.
February 1, 2026
‘Mike & Molly’ star Billy Gardell performs in Burnsville after 170-pound weight loss
The sitcom veteran opens up about his unexpected return to stand-up comedy.
January 31, 2026
How Charlie Berens and other comics build fan bases via podcasts
Podcasts have become pivotal for comedians, whether you’re Joe Rogan or Joe Schmo.
January 28, 2026
KFAN’s Paul Allen apologizes for on-air comments about ‘paid protesters’
The longtime Vikings announcer is taking a few days off after facing national criticism.
January 26, 2026
Billie Eilish, Nicki Minaj react to Twin Cities chaos
Many well-known entertainers have used social media and stages to share their thoughts on the ICE surge in Minnesota.
January 21, 2026
‘Saturday Night Live’ tribute to Minnesotans gets zapped at last minute
NBC has made Tommy Brennan’s editorial available online.
January 21, 2026
Iowa’s historic Surf Ballroom offers a new reason to make the trip
“Not Fade Away” exhibit will take center stage during Clear Lake’s annual Winter Dance Party.
January 21, 2026
Social media account keeps Somali community informed, connected during challenging time
The Somalisnaps account, which posts to Instagram, TiKTok and Snapchat, started as an online gathering place for Somalis. Now it’s a vital source of information amid an immigration crackdown in Minnesota.
January 20, 2026
Jacob Frey, Liz Collin raise national profile through TV news
News outlets are turning to local personalities in the wake of the ICE shooting.
January 18, 2026
