You may not have to drive to public transportation right now, but if you’re one of the many workers still commuting in New York City (or if you’re someone like me who’s fantasizing about their old commute) now have a some new talent for famous voices to keep your company on your bus or subway ride, the Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) announced Friday.
Normal announcements for transportation can easily fade into the back of your mind. They are too engulfed to be understood, or you have heard them so many times that they do not even register. But it could be different if, for example, Whoopi Goldberg is the one who reminds you to wear a mask in the bus.
At the very least, it’s a theoretical benefit from the new announcements from the MTA released today, in collaboration with director and Instagram star Nicolas Heller (@newyorknico). There are 25 ‘iconic New Yorkers’ talking about the intercom during transportation in New York, so if Whoopi is not your speed, Jerry Seinfeld also reads some announcements, just like Ilana Glazer and Abbi Jacobson of Broad city, Edie Falco van The Sopranos, rappers Cam’ron and Jadakiss, and someone who recently had the last time, Fran Lebowitz.
Reminding celebrities to wear masks and social distances may not be the best use of the MTA’s resources or time, but according to what Heller told the New York Post, “There was no budget for this.” Whether it’s a charming distraction or another reason to put on your headphones, at least Awkwafina reminded you to wear a mask, costing taxpayers nothing. In fact, the project produced some real gems:
Look, it’s Harlem’s own Killa Cam. Look – I do not care if you are from the city center, Harlem, Switzerland, wherever you are. I do not care if you’re a chicken or a duck. And you know what? Covid doesn’t care either. Are you wearing a mask? Yes, does it cover your mouth and nose? Then well, you’re fine. Remember that it is not just the law to wear a mask; It is the right thing to do.