Kareem Rahma, the lively host of the acclaimed social media series ‘Subway Takes’, has opened up about the unique challenges and memorable moments encountered during the production of his show. Speaking to PEOPLE at the YouTube Brandcast red carpet event, he offered a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes dynamics, showcasing the blend of celebrity interactions and public discourse that the series facilitates.
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The premise of ‘Subway Takes’ invites guests, ranging from well-known faces to everyday New Yorkers, to share their most controversial opinions while travelling through the bustling subway system. The show has become a social media sensation, racking up an impressive 1.3 million followers on TikTok alone. Guests have expressed diverse views, with notable highlights including actress Cate Blanchett’s vehement disdain for leafblowers, which she insists should be “eradicated from the face of the earth,” and basketball star A’ja Wilson’s assertion that reporters ought to have firsthand experience playing the sports they cover.
Amid the lively exchanges and spirited debates, Rahma has noted that he often encounters a rather awkward situation when guests present what he deems to be less than stellar opinions. He candidly explained, “Sometimes people have really bad takes and I have to encourage them to get a better take.” This moment of honesty can prove challenging, especially during live recordings. Rahma finds himself tactfully advising guests, sometimes saying outright that their takes are “not good,” which can lead to uncomfortable yet humorous exchanges when guests remain convinced of their opinions.
Filming in the vibrant, unpredictable environment of New York City adds another layer of complexity to the production process. Although Rahma emphasised that they largely avoid major disruptions, he shared a chaotic incident involving a stranger who forcibly knocked a fan’s phone out of their hand while capturing footage of the Subway Takes crew. Despite the occasional upheaval, Rahma described the overall atmosphere during filming as filled with “nothing but love,” highlighting the positive interactions they tend to have in the busy city.
When asked about potential guests Rahma hopes to feature in future editions of Subway Takes, the name Ben Affleck quickly emerged. With enthusiasm and flattery, Rahma expressed, “I think you’re the most underrated and under-respected actor of our time. I would love to interview you on Subway Takes.” His earnest admiration for Affleck demonstrated the blend of professionalism and genuine fandom that characterises his approach as a host.
In addition to his subway adventures, Rahma recently announced an exciting new venture. He is set to premiere a fresh full-length series titled ‘Keep the Meter Running’, which will be exclusively available on YouTube starting May 13. This new show takes him into the iconic yellow cabs of New York City, where he engages drivers in conversations about their favourite locations, encouraging them to “keep the meter running” as they chat about their lives and experiences. Rahma was inspired by his own father, who worked as a cab driver, adding a personal touch to the project.
Through ‘Subway Takes’, Rahma is committed to not only entertaining but also encouraging an open dialogue among his guests and the audience. With his distinctive approach to interviews, where he places a microphone on a MetroCard, Rahma manages to elicit genuine and often provocative responses, captivating audiences across platforms including Instagram and TikTok.
As his reach continues to expand, Kareem Rahma remains dedicated to fostering conversations that facilitate a mix of humour and serious discourse. With interviews featuring diversity in thought and opinion from figures such as Colin Jost and Charli XCX, it’s clear that Rahma has no intention of slowing down any time soon. Indeed, his engaging approach ensures that Subway Takes will diligently challenge and entertain, encouraging both celebrities and civilians alike to share their unfiltered takes in the heart of New York City.