# Dropout's MP3: Comedians Share Secrets

> Paul F. Tompkins, Skye Townsend, and Aparna Nancherla reveal how Dropout's new show MP3 blends improv with 2000s nostalgia.
- Title: Dropout's MP3: Comedians Share Secrets · Mashable | Shortify
- Summary: Paul F. Tompkins, Skye Townsend, and Aparna Nancherla reveal how Dropout's new show MP3 blends improv with 2000s nostalgia. Dropout's new comedy series MP3…
- Keywords: mp3, dropout, paul f tompkins, skye townsend, aparna nancherla, comedy, improv, 2000s nostalgia, total request live, Mashable
- Source: Mashable — https://mashable.com/entertainment/mp3-paul-f-tompkins-aparna-nancherla-skye-townsend
- Author: Kristy Puchko
- Published: 2026-11-05T00:00:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: mp3, dropout, paul f tompkins, skye townsend, aparna nancherla, comedy, improv, 2000s nostalgia, total request live, technology, culture
## MP3 drops on Dropout
Dropout's new comedy series MP3 features Paul F. Tompkins, Skye Townsend, and Aparna Nancherla with 2000s nostalgia and improv.
## MP3's premise
MP3 centers around Dane Cartel, a former boy band member, and his father Thomas Cartel, who directs music presentations.
## Improv style
Paul F. Tompkins described MP3 as shot 'Curb Your Enthusiasm style' with improv room within a script outline.

> We shot it sort of Curb Your Enthusiasm style
## Dr. Muse-Tina's look
Skye Townsend created Dr. Muse-Tina's chaotic look through mood boards, including baby bangs and bleached eyebrows.

> I love to do mood boards
## Chia's character
Aparna Nancherla drew Chia from her own wardrobe, blending personal style with improv to explore identity.

> A lot of the wardrobe was, like, from my own wardrobe
## Thomas Cartel's role
Paul F. Tompkins plays Thomas Cartel, a stern father to a nepo baby ex-boy bander who makes casting decisions on Hinge dates.
## MP3's creative process
MP3's creators allowed cast members creative input, resulting in chaotic characters and on-set shenanigans.

> Everybody brought on board was brought on board with trust, and they just let us play
## Key takeaway

Dropout's new comedy series MP3 features Paul F. Tompkins as Thomas Cartel, Skye Townsend as Dr. Muse-Tina, and Aparna Nancherla as Chia, with heavy 2000s nostalgia and improv.