The past few months have marked a major turning point for Cailin Russo. What started as a nostalgic resurgence of one of her older songs has quickly evolved into the launch of an entirely new musical era—complete with a fresh EP, renewed attention from fans, and a cultural moment tied to the breakout TV drama Heated Rivalry. In this episode of The Popdust Podcast with Demi Ramos, Cailin reflects on personal and artistic growth, the importance of taking creative risks, and the perseverance required to evolve in the industry.

Russo’s sultry track “Bad Things” originally appeared on her 2018 album House with a Pool. But years later, the song found a second life when it was featured in the climactic “drive to the cottage” scene in Heated Rivalry. The series—an intensely romantic hockey drama centered on rival players whose relationship evolves, has built a passionate global fandom. For Russo, the surge wasn’t just a nostalgic comeback—it became the catalyst for something bigger.

Riding the wave of renewed attention, Russo stepped into a new phase of her career with her EP “DON’T,” released in March 2026. The project’s lead single, “I Can’t Help You Now,” signals a shift in tone and maturity. With a new EP, a growing fanbase, and the cultural tailwind of Heated Rivalry, Cailin Russo is building the next phase of her sucsess. If the reaction to “Bad Things” is any indication, audiences are more than ready to follow where she goes next.