I miss Ash. So I was happy to read Dread Central's report that Chad Lindbergh is going to be a guest investigator on this week's "Ghost Adventures" on the Travel Channel.
If you miss it tonight, check the schedule. It looks like a show that airs several repeats. Also, click the link above for the press release and some photos and videos as a sneak peek.
Showing posts with label guest stars. Show all posts
Showing posts with label guest stars. Show all posts
Friday, April 6, 2012
Friday, March 30, 2012
Supernatural's "Party on, Garth" and SQUEE Surprise!!!
THEN
Wow, I feel stupid. I never connected DJ Quall's awesome Garth with the "how are you still alive" hunter from "Weekend at Bobby's." Man, I love seeing Bobby, even in flashback.
NOW
This campfire thing reminds me a little of "Wendigo" even though they didn't do campfire ghost stories. (Coincidentally, That Haley Girl from "Wendigo" was on tonight's episode of Fringe!)
Anyone who saw the previews knows what's coming. Wasted Trevor sees/hears something in the woods. He runs off, and when his brother goes after him, he finds a gruesome scene. Nice touch with the down from his vest floating around.
Oh, yeah, Garth appears to Bell Biv Devoe's "Poison," which somehow fits him very well. He approaches two of the women from the campfire, who dis him until he throws his badge and gets amusingly sudden respect. I love when dorks rule! They tell Garth about the real Jenny Greentree. He salts and burns her: "You've been Garthed." Bell Biv Devoe come back, while Garth hits himself in the face with his jacket when he tosses it over his shoulder, and the small grave fire gets bigger and bigger. Love it!
Trevor's brother is getting drunk in the woods now. You don't have to have seen the preview to know something bad is going to happen. Do you think he has salt rounds in his shotgun? Oh, wait, I think that's a rifle. He's "hunting" his brother's killer, but he gets hunted.
Garth "hearts you more"--Number One (my oldest daughter) thinks he was talking to Becky. What do you think? Garth hears about Trevor's brother and is angry. "I Garthed her!"
Finally, we get to Sam and Dean. Dean's getting an update from the bitch Meg. Apparently, Cas is still catatonic or something close. Dean asks Sam how his custard is. Sam says it's getting better, but he feels guilty for passing on the crazy. Dean's phone interrupts him, and it's Garth. How did I know Dean wouldn't remember him right away?
Fed Dean and Fed Sam show up at the morgue, and Corporal Brown--James Brown, ha!--is there to pay respects to his cousin, but clearly doesn't know the victims were brothers. An exasperated Sam takes over, checking the files and doing quick research. Dean asks if he's allergic to a suit, but Garth just looks good in a uniform. Doesn't everyone?
Dean gets EMF when Garth hadn't, but the details point to monster chow rather than ghost. A witness says it was invisible, so Dean goes with invisible ghost werewolf. Sam finds Thighslapper Ale (beverage for douchebags), and the owner is the father to the dead brothers. Dean assures Sam that Garth grows on ya. (He does, Sam! Give him a chance!)
The manager of the brewery is the sister. The place is run by two guys, with a third partner recently dead. I'm going to quickly encapsulate the storyline here so I can get to the good stuff. Sam, Dean, and Garth trace clues and family intricacies to learn that:
Three partners in the business, two want to sell to a giant distributor, one doesn't, he committed suicide a couple of months ago. But he gave them a gift "that would show them I forgive them," a saki bottle from Japan containing an alcohol spirit that was programmed to go after the kids of the ousting partners. I don't know why it kills the wife/mother instead of the little girl who accidentally drank from her mother's screwdriver, but probably they had the girl witness the trauma instead of dying herself because they know my husband's rule about quitting shows that do harm to kids.
I love that Sam and Dean consult, what, a sushi chef? He reads the curse on the box (and Dean very nicely pays him for his time) and later helps Dean bless a samurai sword with spring water poured from a plastic bottle. Dirty, but it works! Garth, who's not as hapless as he seems, figures out that Ray's son is the company janitor. He also saves Sam and Dean by tazing Ray when he discovers Sam and Dean drunk in the office, watching security footage of the spirit being set free.
Garth goes to the company (drunk on mini bar bottles) and sees the spirit stalking the unrecognized son. Sam, who's been getting drunk while watching out for the older sister, has to take a cab to the company. Dean meets them there with the sword, but he's the only one sober enough to fight the thing, but too sober to see it. (Sam to Dean when they got drunk in the office: "Can you even get drunk anymore? It's kind of like drinking a vitamin." Another good line: Drunk Sam saying the spirit followed the kid to the place with all the thingies. Dean thought that was smart. I love drunk Dean!)
Garth gets drunk on one bottle of beer. "Party on Garth." He doesn't usually drink beer because it messes with his depth perception, especially when he skinny dips. LOL He gets the young daughter's story out of her with a sock puppet, Mr. Fizzles. He also figures out that Bobby's old flask set off the EMF meter.
And that's the stuff that's REALLY good. Garth thinks Bobby might be haunting them. Sam admits that after the beer disappeared, he used a talking board to try to contact Bobby. It didn't work, or he'd have told Dean. But during the battle, the spirit throws Garth through a wall (again) and Sam against a wall (knocking him out) and knocks the sword from Dean's hand. Dean's a bit desperate, with Sam knocked out, the kid useless, and the sword five feet away...until it slides across the floor, right into his hand.
Dean's convinced now. He thinks he's alone and begs Bobby to do something. God, Jenson does tortured well. Sam, however, still needs a haircut. I mean, Sam hears Dean, but nothing happens. Later, after they say goodbye to Garth (I love the hugs...and the music!), we have this huge buildup of anticipation as Sam confronts Dean about the Bobby thing. Dean tries to blow it off, calling it his imagination, but Sam pushes. Dean catalogs the sword, the beer, the page, the book. But Sam thinks regular people see people they've lost all the time, too. They're actually close to normal.
I'm dying here!
Dean says "who knows more about being a ghost than Bobby?" Of course Bobby would let them know. They leave the motel room...come on come on come on...the camera pans over...
BOBBBYYYYYY!!!!!!!!!
Dean goes back inside, and kills us by glancing around, landing his eyes on something, and saying "there you are." Bobby thinks he sees him, but Dean just came back for the flask.
"I'm right here, ya idjit!" A gray-looking, heartbroken Bobby ends with "Balls!"
GAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!
But OMG, that preview! I can't believe we have to wait three more friggin' weeks!
I love being unspoiled. I don't know if there were hints in any of the interviews I avoided, but I had no clue he'd actually show up and prove right those of us who called "he chose to stay" from the last fadeout on "Death's Door."
As a classic episode, I liked this one. I like Garth (which means we'll get three episodes with him next season and then he'll die) and the new spirit and the down-and-dirty blessing ritual and even the way figuring out what was happening was kind of like an episode of Castle or something, with all the family intrigues and unseen connections.
But as a Bobby reveal, it was even better. I made some strangled screaming noises when it happened. I think my family was ready to perform CPR on me (or make me Cas's roommate).
After this next hiatus, we should get the last five episodes all in a row. Which is nice, but it makes me sad that it's almost over when it feels like it just started.
What did you think?
Wow, I feel stupid. I never connected DJ Quall's awesome Garth with the "how are you still alive" hunter from "Weekend at Bobby's." Man, I love seeing Bobby, even in flashback.
NOW
This campfire thing reminds me a little of "Wendigo" even though they didn't do campfire ghost stories. (Coincidentally, That Haley Girl from "Wendigo" was on tonight's episode of Fringe!)
Anyone who saw the previews knows what's coming. Wasted Trevor sees/hears something in the woods. He runs off, and when his brother goes after him, he finds a gruesome scene. Nice touch with the down from his vest floating around.
Oh, yeah, Garth appears to Bell Biv Devoe's "Poison," which somehow fits him very well. He approaches two of the women from the campfire, who dis him until he throws his badge and gets amusingly sudden respect. I love when dorks rule! They tell Garth about the real Jenny Greentree. He salts and burns her: "You've been Garthed." Bell Biv Devoe come back, while Garth hits himself in the face with his jacket when he tosses it over his shoulder, and the small grave fire gets bigger and bigger. Love it!
Trevor's brother is getting drunk in the woods now. You don't have to have seen the preview to know something bad is going to happen. Do you think he has salt rounds in his shotgun? Oh, wait, I think that's a rifle. He's "hunting" his brother's killer, but he gets hunted.
Garth "hearts you more"--Number One (my oldest daughter) thinks he was talking to Becky. What do you think? Garth hears about Trevor's brother and is angry. "I Garthed her!"
Finally, we get to Sam and Dean. Dean's getting an update from the bitch Meg. Apparently, Cas is still catatonic or something close. Dean asks Sam how his custard is. Sam says it's getting better, but he feels guilty for passing on the crazy. Dean's phone interrupts him, and it's Garth. How did I know Dean wouldn't remember him right away?
Fed Dean and Fed Sam show up at the morgue, and Corporal Brown--James Brown, ha!--is there to pay respects to his cousin, but clearly doesn't know the victims were brothers. An exasperated Sam takes over, checking the files and doing quick research. Dean asks if he's allergic to a suit, but Garth just looks good in a uniform. Doesn't everyone?
Dean gets EMF when Garth hadn't, but the details point to monster chow rather than ghost. A witness says it was invisible, so Dean goes with invisible ghost werewolf. Sam finds Thighslapper Ale (beverage for douchebags), and the owner is the father to the dead brothers. Dean assures Sam that Garth grows on ya. (He does, Sam! Give him a chance!)
The manager of the brewery is the sister. The place is run by two guys, with a third partner recently dead. I'm going to quickly encapsulate the storyline here so I can get to the good stuff. Sam, Dean, and Garth trace clues and family intricacies to learn that:
Three partners in the business, two want to sell to a giant distributor, one doesn't, he committed suicide a couple of months ago. But he gave them a gift "that would show them I forgive them," a saki bottle from Japan containing an alcohol spirit that was programmed to go after the kids of the ousting partners. I don't know why it kills the wife/mother instead of the little girl who accidentally drank from her mother's screwdriver, but probably they had the girl witness the trauma instead of dying herself because they know my husband's rule about quitting shows that do harm to kids.
I love that Sam and Dean consult, what, a sushi chef? He reads the curse on the box (and Dean very nicely pays him for his time) and later helps Dean bless a samurai sword with spring water poured from a plastic bottle. Dirty, but it works! Garth, who's not as hapless as he seems, figures out that Ray's son is the company janitor. He also saves Sam and Dean by tazing Ray when he discovers Sam and Dean drunk in the office, watching security footage of the spirit being set free.
Garth goes to the company (drunk on mini bar bottles) and sees the spirit stalking the unrecognized son. Sam, who's been getting drunk while watching out for the older sister, has to take a cab to the company. Dean meets them there with the sword, but he's the only one sober enough to fight the thing, but too sober to see it. (Sam to Dean when they got drunk in the office: "Can you even get drunk anymore? It's kind of like drinking a vitamin." Another good line: Drunk Sam saying the spirit followed the kid to the place with all the thingies. Dean thought that was smart. I love drunk Dean!)
Garth gets drunk on one bottle of beer. "Party on Garth." He doesn't usually drink beer because it messes with his depth perception, especially when he skinny dips. LOL He gets the young daughter's story out of her with a sock puppet, Mr. Fizzles. He also figures out that Bobby's old flask set off the EMF meter.
And that's the stuff that's REALLY good. Garth thinks Bobby might be haunting them. Sam admits that after the beer disappeared, he used a talking board to try to contact Bobby. It didn't work, or he'd have told Dean. But during the battle, the spirit throws Garth through a wall (again) and Sam against a wall (knocking him out) and knocks the sword from Dean's hand. Dean's a bit desperate, with Sam knocked out, the kid useless, and the sword five feet away...until it slides across the floor, right into his hand.
Dean's convinced now. He thinks he's alone and begs Bobby to do something. God, Jenson does tortured well. Sam, however, still needs a haircut. I mean, Sam hears Dean, but nothing happens. Later, after they say goodbye to Garth (I love the hugs...and the music!), we have this huge buildup of anticipation as Sam confronts Dean about the Bobby thing. Dean tries to blow it off, calling it his imagination, but Sam pushes. Dean catalogs the sword, the beer, the page, the book. But Sam thinks regular people see people they've lost all the time, too. They're actually close to normal.
I'm dying here!
Dean says "who knows more about being a ghost than Bobby?" Of course Bobby would let them know. They leave the motel room...come on come on come on...the camera pans over...
BOBBBYYYYYY!!!!!!!!!
Dean goes back inside, and kills us by glancing around, landing his eyes on something, and saying "there you are." Bobby thinks he sees him, but Dean just came back for the flask.
"I'm right here, ya idjit!" A gray-looking, heartbroken Bobby ends with "Balls!"
GAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!
But OMG, that preview! I can't believe we have to wait three more friggin' weeks!
I love being unspoiled. I don't know if there were hints in any of the interviews I avoided, but I had no clue he'd actually show up and prove right those of us who called "he chose to stay" from the last fadeout on "Death's Door."
As a classic episode, I liked this one. I like Garth (which means we'll get three episodes with him next season and then he'll die) and the new spirit and the down-and-dirty blessing ritual and even the way figuring out what was happening was kind of like an episode of Castle or something, with all the family intrigues and unseen connections.
But as a Bobby reveal, it was even better. I made some strangled screaming noises when it happened. I think my family was ready to perform CPR on me (or make me Cas's roommate).
After this next hiatus, we should get the last five episodes all in a row. Which is nice, but it makes me sad that it's almost over when it feels like it just started.
What did you think?
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
Have we Talked about Felicia Day?
Before the Google alerts filled up with "It's a Boy!" links, they were full of "Geek Cred" stories about Felicia Day's upcoming appearance on the show.
Many of of, of course, love Felicia for many reasons. Buffy. Dr. Horrible. Dollhouse. Eureka. The Guild. Dragon Age. Some of us also love her because she's a reader of popular fiction and loves to tweet about books. :)
Felicia is reported to be playing a hacker named Charlie in the awesomely named episode "The Girl with the Dungeons and Dragons Tattoo."
Thoughts?
Many of of, of course, love Felicia for many reasons. Buffy. Dr. Horrible. Dollhouse. Eureka. The Guild. Dragon Age. Some of us also love her because she's a reader of popular fiction and loves to tweet about books. :)
Felicia is reported to be playing a hacker named Charlie in the awesomely named episode "The Girl with the Dungeons and Dragons Tattoo."
Thoughts?
Sunday, March 11, 2012
The Rest of the Season Approaches...
All of the episode titles for the rest of the season have been revealed. Of course, that doesn't mean they're not subject to change, but here's what we have right now:
“Out With The Old” (March 16)
“The Born-Again Identity” (March 23)
“Party On, Garth” (March 30)
“Of Grave Importance” (7.19)
“The Girl With The Dungeons And Dragons Tattoo" (7.20)
“Reading Is Fundamental” (7.21)
“There Will Be Blood” (7.22)
“Get Dick” (7.23/season finale)
I love all the plays-on-words. I have, as usual, been avoiding spoilers, but I've caught some of the returning character/actor buzz. We'll be getting Castiel, Garth (DJ Qualls), and Meg back. Who else would you like to see? I'd love to see the professor who had the dragon-killing blade. And, of course, BOBBY. Do you think they'd be able to keep that one hush-hush? Jim Beaver could be exaggerating the length of the shoot for the AbomSno movie he's doing.
Of course, they could be teasing us with the beer and Greek paper stuff. That would kill me if they were just teasing us.
No word yet on season 8. How many of you think we'll get it?
“Out With The Old” (March 16)
“The Born-Again Identity” (March 23)
“Party On, Garth” (March 30)
“Of Grave Importance” (7.19)
“The Girl With The Dungeons And Dragons Tattoo" (7.20)
“Reading Is Fundamental” (7.21)
“There Will Be Blood” (7.22)
“Get Dick” (7.23/season finale)
I love all the plays-on-words. I have, as usual, been avoiding spoilers, but I've caught some of the returning character/actor buzz. We'll be getting Castiel, Garth (DJ Qualls), and Meg back. Who else would you like to see? I'd love to see the professor who had the dragon-killing blade. And, of course, BOBBY. Do you think they'd be able to keep that one hush-hush? Jim Beaver could be exaggerating the length of the shoot for the AbomSno movie he's doing.
Of course, they could be teasing us with the beer and Greek paper stuff. That would kill me if they were just teasing us.
No word yet on season 8. How many of you think we'll get it?
Friday, January 27, 2012
Author Interviews Emily Perkins, Supernatural's Becky
Monday, January 9, 2012
Guest Star Bingo
Seriously, we should set it up. I bet someone else has, though. Anyone got a link? :)
Okay, here are some places I recently saw Supernatural guest stars:
An episode of Entourage from the last season, the one where Vince buys the dinosaur head. The actress who played Sarah in "Provenance" was in a similar role in the auction house.
Last week's episode of Leverage (two Sundays ago) had Todd Stashwick and the actress who played Casey in "Sin City."
I know there were others but I failed to write them down and my brain is starting to malfunction from hunger. I'm going to go make dinner--you tell me more in the comments!
Okay, here are some places I recently saw Supernatural guest stars:
An episode of Entourage from the last season, the one where Vince buys the dinosaur head. The actress who played Sarah in "Provenance" was in a similar role in the auction house.
Last week's episode of Leverage (two Sundays ago) had Todd Stashwick and the actress who played Casey in "Sin City."
I know there were others but I failed to write them down and my brain is starting to malfunction from hunger. I'm going to go make dinner--you tell me more in the comments!
Monday, October 24, 2011
"Shut Up, Dr. Phil"
We had some technical difficulties, so we apologize for not having our usual timely, amusing, insightful recap and review of the most recent episode. :(
I'm sliding rapidly into the semi-conscious blur that comes with having two books coming out one day apart (Behind the Scenes on 10/31 and Under the Moon on 11/1! /plug), so this is just an impression review rather than a full recap.
This episode has the long-awaited featured guests Charisma Carpenter and James Marsters, formerly of Buffy and Angel fame. They played husband and wife witches having a little feud. Don Stark stepped out on Maggie, who is punishing him by murdering everyone connected to his affair—the woman he slept with, the guy who introduced them, someone who covered for him. Don retaliates by killing Maggie's best friend and ruining the art she's so passionate about. But, as the boys point out in an under-duress counseling session near the end, there must still be love there, because they're not trying to kill each other.
This wasn't a high-emotion, high-intensity, high-mythology, high-anything episode, but as I break it down, I really liked it. The boys engaged in true sleuthing-style investigation, following clues and conducting interviews like someone from a non-paranormal crime drama or something. They worked really well together, despite New!Sam irritating the hell out of Same!Old!Dean, and Dean getting even further into the bottle (I wonder when that's gonna come to a head?).
Bobby's presence on the show was so solid I have to keep reminding myself he never was actually there. I loved how Maggie knew the boys were hunters from the get-go, and Don was actually a pretty quiet character, so different from his flamboyant Spike, while Maggie could have been the original high-school Cordelia all grown up.
A show this old starts to struggle with freshness. But I thought they altered the familiar just enough. They offered great, gruesome new deaths (frying under a hair dryer, nail gun through the eyes, little tiny beating hearts in cupcakes and literally coughing up a lung). We've had witches before, but these are old married witches with no grand agenda, no evil plans, just a typical, personal battle taken a little (lot!) too far.
Probably my only quibble with the whole thing was that Dean killed Amy when her motivation had been pure, when she'd worked hard not to kill in the first place, and now he didn't seem to try hard enough to kill the Starks. Yes, they are extremely powerful witches who totally outmatched the boys, and they haven't actually defeated witches before, but they seemed to give up too easily against people who killed innocents without compunction.
On the other hand, Don Stark putting a spell on the Leviathan and saving the boys from his wife was kind of cool, and left things open for them both to return, which I'm fully in favor of.
So what did you think? Love or hate the episode? Did the guest stars make the show, or was their cult standing too distracting? Do you want to see them again? Weigh in in the comments!
I'm sliding rapidly into the semi-conscious blur that comes with having two books coming out one day apart (Behind the Scenes on 10/31 and Under the Moon on 11/1! /plug), so this is just an impression review rather than a full recap.
This wasn't a high-emotion, high-intensity, high-mythology, high-anything episode, but as I break it down, I really liked it. The boys engaged in true sleuthing-style investigation, following clues and conducting interviews like someone from a non-paranormal crime drama or something. They worked really well together, despite New!Sam irritating the hell out of Same!Old!Dean, and Dean getting even further into the bottle (I wonder when that's gonna come to a head?).
Bobby's presence on the show was so solid I have to keep reminding myself he never was actually there. I loved how Maggie knew the boys were hunters from the get-go, and Don was actually a pretty quiet character, so different from his flamboyant Spike, while Maggie could have been the original high-school Cordelia all grown up.
A show this old starts to struggle with freshness. But I thought they altered the familiar just enough. They offered great, gruesome new deaths (frying under a hair dryer, nail gun through the eyes, little tiny beating hearts in cupcakes and literally coughing up a lung). We've had witches before, but these are old married witches with no grand agenda, no evil plans, just a typical, personal battle taken a little (lot!) too far.
On the other hand, Don Stark putting a spell on the Leviathan and saving the boys from his wife was kind of cool, and left things open for them both to return, which I'm fully in favor of.
So what did you think? Love or hate the episode? Did the guest stars make the show, or was their cult standing too distracting? Do you want to see them again? Weigh in in the comments!
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Supernatural/Whedon Crossover!
Some of these surprised me, some humbled me because I should have recognized them! See how many you get!
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Interviews and Videos and News and Stuff
The best news this week?
Supernatural got an extra episode! The CW ordered 23, which will either extend the season a week or make one of the hellatuses shorter. New CW president
href="http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/article/20110809/ENTERTAINMENT08/108090303/Some-CW-shows-get-23-episodes?odyssey=mod%7Cnewswell%7Ctext%7CFRONTPAGE%7Cs" target="_blank">Mark Pedowicz says it's part of an attempt to keep out of the ratings black hole they fall into during those breaks.
Bunches of interviews out! I'll mark the ones I know contain spoilers, but I didn't watch the videos, so proceed with caution.
Jim Beaver talks about Bobby and the boys in season 7 (spoilers!).
Buzz Focus interviews Jensen. And Jim.
Mo Ryan interviewed Misha at TCA.
If you're a Vampire Diaries fan, another SPN recurring actor will be showing up over there. Sebastian Roche has been cast as a "mysterious vampire hunter."
Last week's "Supernatural Thursdays" post at Daemon's TV was the show's most quotable lines. I don't care how many times I see posts like that, or watch the show's themselves, I love reading them. Check it out! :)
Supernatural got an extra episode! The CW ordered 23, which will either extend the season a week or make one of the hellatuses shorter. New CW president
href="http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/article/20110809/ENTERTAINMENT08/108090303/Some-CW-shows-get-23-episodes?odyssey=mod%7Cnewswell%7Ctext%7CFRONTPAGE%7Cs" target="_blank">Mark Pedowicz says it's part of an attempt to keep out of the ratings black hole they fall into during those breaks.
Bunches of interviews out! I'll mark the ones I know contain spoilers, but I didn't watch the videos, so proceed with caution.
Jim Beaver talks about Bobby and the boys in season 7 (spoilers!).
Buzz Focus interviews Jensen. And Jim.
Mo Ryan interviewed Misha at TCA.
If you're a Vampire Diaries fan, another SPN recurring actor will be showing up over there. Sebastian Roche has been cast as a "mysterious vampire hunter."
Last week's "Supernatural Thursdays" post at Daemon's TV was the show's most quotable lines. I don't care how many times I see posts like that, or watch the show's themselves, I love reading them. Check it out! :)
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Bringing Back God...or Chuck
In a recent article, Rob Benedict talked about the difficulty of bringing his character back. "It’s so self-conscious…" he says. "It’s kind of hard to just have him walk through the door and be like ‘Hey, how’s it going'?"
I don't think it's hard at all! You just have to love Chuck and Rob Benedict enough to be motivated to find the solution. :)
I think Chuck was not meant to be God from the beginning of his story thread. I just can't buy that God would sit alone in a ratty bathrobe and dial up porn while drinking bad whiskey. Yes, he took on a role to hide his true identity from the boys, but when they weren't around, who was he playing for?
Therefore, I think Kripke came up with that very fitting closure to his tenure as showrunner well into the season. It made "early Chuck as God" a little unbelievable, but now it makes bringing Chuck back super easy.
I don't think they have to bring Chuck back as God, or bring the "real" God onto the show at all. So far, God's presence—except for that one episode in the final moments of the Big Battle—has been off screen. He's done incredible things, like bringing Cas back (twice, really, and geez, this is how Cas repays him?!), but all from afar. Gentle nudging of events, not direct interference. Cas isn't the first being to declare himself lord and master, so God really doesn't have to change his behavior. If he wasn't going to jump in to prevent the apocalypse, he's not likely to show up for this poser.
Sam and Dean don't know that Chuck was "God." As far as we've seen, they haven't tried to find or contact him since Sam went into the pit. They can do a quick explainer, of course. Dean saying, "Dude, I tried to call you like fifty times." Or they can just admit to having been so wrapped up in their own issues they didn't think about him.
But what do Sam and Dean think happened to Chuck? (Rhetorical question.) If God only took Chuck's role for a short time, where did Chuck go during that? Maybe he was sleeping some real, awesome, dreamless sleep while God took over his prophet duties. Maybe, when he woke up, he realized he could have his life back. Or actually have a life. He wrote a new book, all his own ideas, and sold it and became a bestseller. In the meantime, he worked in a toilet paper factory (because it takes a long time to get from Page One to NY Times Bestseller list).
Okay, that established, what kind of storyline could draw Chuck back to the screen for us? Throw out some ideas!
I don't think it's hard at all! You just have to love Chuck and Rob Benedict enough to be motivated to find the solution. :)
I think Chuck was not meant to be God from the beginning of his story thread. I just can't buy that God would sit alone in a ratty bathrobe and dial up porn while drinking bad whiskey. Yes, he took on a role to hide his true identity from the boys, but when they weren't around, who was he playing for?
Therefore, I think Kripke came up with that very fitting closure to his tenure as showrunner well into the season. It made "early Chuck as God" a little unbelievable, but now it makes bringing Chuck back super easy.
I don't think they have to bring Chuck back as God, or bring the "real" God onto the show at all. So far, God's presence—except for that one episode in the final moments of the Big Battle—has been off screen. He's done incredible things, like bringing Cas back (twice, really, and geez, this is how Cas repays him?!), but all from afar. Gentle nudging of events, not direct interference. Cas isn't the first being to declare himself lord and master, so God really doesn't have to change his behavior. If he wasn't going to jump in to prevent the apocalypse, he's not likely to show up for this poser.
Sam and Dean don't know that Chuck was "God." As far as we've seen, they haven't tried to find or contact him since Sam went into the pit. They can do a quick explainer, of course. Dean saying, "Dude, I tried to call you like fifty times." Or they can just admit to having been so wrapped up in their own issues they didn't think about him.
But what do Sam and Dean think happened to Chuck? (Rhetorical question.) If God only took Chuck's role for a short time, where did Chuck go during that? Maybe he was sleeping some real, awesome, dreamless sleep while God took over his prophet duties. Maybe, when he woke up, he realized he could have his life back. Or actually have a life. He wrote a new book, all his own ideas, and sold it and became a bestseller. In the meantime, he worked in a toilet paper factory (because it takes a long time to get from Page One to NY Times Bestseller list).
Okay, that established, what kind of storyline could draw Chuck back to the screen for us? Throw out some ideas!
Monday, July 11, 2011
SPN News as Shooting for Season 7 Begins
Slow trickle of news at this time of year. It should pick up now that they're filming again, though! :)
Are you one of the fans upset or cautiously optimistic about Misha Collins' role as Castiel in season 7? Laura Prudom of AOL TV went to Haiti with Misha and Random Acts, and took the opportunity to ask him about it. Mild spoilers.
Alona Tal tweeted (in a vague kind of way) that she'll be back on the show in some capacity in season 7. You can read an analysis here.
In other casting news, Kim Rhodes (Bobby's Sheriff Millsannounced at the NJ Salute to Supernatural that she'll be back this season, too—filming right after Comic-Con.
My two favorite shows collide yet again! Yesterday my Google alert included links to an article confirming that Jewel Staite will be guest-starring in the episode Jensen is directing! Set photos can be found here, taken by a fan. You can't see Jewel's face in either shot, but die-hard fans may recognize body language and head shape. LOL
At Comic-Con's preview night on July 20th, Warner Bros. will be sneak-peaking the anime series. (Details here.
Speaking of Comic-Con... If you're going, you're in for a treat. Warner Bros. is putting Supernatural in Hall H! The panel will be Sunday from 11:15 to 12:15. Be warned: It's followed by the Doctor Who panel. There's a lot of overlap in fandoms, so that might work out nicely, but still take the huge Doctor Who following into account in your planning. (Remember when the Twihards filled the hall early so the Avatar people couldn't get in?)
Anyone hear any other news?
Are you one of the fans upset or cautiously optimistic about Misha Collins' role as Castiel in season 7? Laura Prudom of AOL TV went to Haiti with Misha and Random Acts, and took the opportunity to ask him about it. Mild spoilers.
Alona Tal tweeted (in a vague kind of way) that she'll be back on the show in some capacity in season 7. You can read an analysis here.
In other casting news, Kim Rhodes (Bobby's Sheriff Millsannounced at the NJ Salute to Supernatural that she'll be back this season, too—filming right after Comic-Con.
My two favorite shows collide yet again! Yesterday my Google alert included links to an article confirming that Jewel Staite will be guest-starring in the episode Jensen is directing! Set photos can be found here, taken by a fan. You can't see Jewel's face in either shot, but die-hard fans may recognize body language and head shape. LOL
At Comic-Con's preview night on July 20th, Warner Bros. will be sneak-peaking the anime series. (Details here.
Speaking of Comic-Con... If you're going, you're in for a treat. Warner Bros. is putting Supernatural in Hall H! The panel will be Sunday from 11:15 to 12:15. Be warned: It's followed by the Doctor Who panel. There's a lot of overlap in fandoms, so that might work out nicely, but still take the huge Doctor Who following into account in your planning. (Remember when the Twihards filled the hall early so the Avatar people couldn't get in?)
Anyone hear any other news?
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Monday News (and Eye Candy)
The New York Post had an article about CW network boss Dawn Ostroff leaving in June, and the network interviewing candidates to replace her. On the plus side, Ostroff will pick the fall shows before leaving, which bodes well for Supernatural. On the minus side, the parent companies seem to be undecided about the future of the network overall.
Want to see Jared and Jensen introduce a few of the Supernatural Anime episodes?Awkward video here.
After Elton has the details and pictures of a Misha/Jared prank exchange (that was also tweeted by Misha).
Trish mentioned in last week's news comments that Adrienne Palicki, aka Jessica, has been cast as the new Wonder Woman in the upcoming TV series. Chad Lindberg has been seen on Criminal Minds and The Cape, and yesterday, my husband was watching a werewolf movie anachronistically named Ginger Snaps Back, and I recognized Emily Perkins, Supernatural's Becky. That's an old movie, but when I recognized her, my husband said, "Geez, is it six degrees of Supernatural now?" Yes, dear, now and always. :)
To finish off on a sweet (as in suh-weet), TV Overmind did a slideshow of Winchester hotness. Not news, of course, but it might help tide us over during the stupid hellatus.
ETA, thanks to MJ: Supernatural is up for Best in Show at Hulu!
Anything else I'm missing?
Want to see Jared and Jensen introduce a few of the Supernatural Anime episodes?Awkward video here.
After Elton has the details and pictures of a Misha/Jared prank exchange (that was also tweeted by Misha).
Trish mentioned in last week's news comments that Adrienne Palicki, aka Jessica, has been cast as the new Wonder Woman in the upcoming TV series. Chad Lindberg has been seen on Criminal Minds and The Cape, and yesterday, my husband was watching a werewolf movie anachronistically named Ginger Snaps Back, and I recognized Emily Perkins, Supernatural's Becky. That's an old movie, but when I recognized her, my husband said, "Geez, is it six degrees of Supernatural now?" Yes, dear, now and always. :)
To finish off on a sweet (as in suh-weet), TV Overmind did a slideshow of Winchester hotness. Not news, of course, but it might help tide us over during the stupid hellatus.
ETA, thanks to MJ: Supernatural is up for Best in Show at Hulu!
Anything else I'm missing?
Sunday, January 30, 2011
News for the Week of Thank God the Show is Back...Oh, Wait
Originally, I said "Yay, it's back! But I'm already sad." Now I'm doubly sad, as (according to EW) due to pre-emptions in Chicago and Baltimore and Vampire Diaries going up against American Idol for the first time, the return of Smallville and Supernatural got pushed back so the CW could air VD and Nikita in rerun. This article talks about how well that worked out (or didn't).
While I prepared this post last week, I ignored all the articles about "Like a Virgin," because it was supposed to have aired by now. Suffice to say it sounds AWESOME, exactly what we've been craving all season, and supposedly we'll have a new appreciation for Jared Padalecki's first-half performance. I can't wait.
The new episodes were scheduled to last through February 25th, with a new hellatus for the entire month of March (now possibly altered due to this push-back). CW's schedule here. SPN-centric list of episode titles here.
Sera Gamble did an interview with The Winchester Family Business. I didn't want to read it, as it contains spoilers, but I couldn't help myself. I particularly loved this general comment:
WFB: Is the brotherly relationship ready to go back to the path of healing, or does that road still have a lot of bumps ahead?
SG: There are always bumps. It’s Supernatural. But they’re not feed-you-to-vampire sized bumps.
She did another interview with Maureen Ryan that I did not read.
TV Line (Michael Ausiello's new site) has a newrenewal scorecard that lists Supernatural as a sure thing for next season. Yay!
Actors are always asked if they'll return to Supernatural, and always say that on this show, anything can happen. It came up re: Mark Pellegrino last week. He's now on Being Human.
Missing Jeffrey Dean Morgan? To further ensure he'll have no time for an encore appearance on Supernatural, he's soon to be starring in a new drama on Starz (unless those final negotiations fail).
In casting news, Sonya Salomaa (Watchmen) will play a tough angel in a potentially recurring role. Also, Death will be returning (like we couldn't guess that) as will...ELLEN!
While I prepared this post last week, I ignored all the articles about "Like a Virgin," because it was supposed to have aired by now. Suffice to say it sounds AWESOME, exactly what we've been craving all season, and supposedly we'll have a new appreciation for Jared Padalecki's first-half performance. I can't wait.
The new episodes were scheduled to last through February 25th, with a new hellatus for the entire month of March (now possibly altered due to this push-back). CW's schedule here. SPN-centric list of episode titles here.
Sera Gamble did an interview with The Winchester Family Business. I didn't want to read it, as it contains spoilers, but I couldn't help myself. I particularly loved this general comment:
WFB: Is the brotherly relationship ready to go back to the path of healing, or does that road still have a lot of bumps ahead?
SG: There are always bumps. It’s Supernatural. But they’re not feed-you-to-vampire sized bumps.
She did another interview with Maureen Ryan that I did not read.
TV Line (Michael Ausiello's new site) has a newrenewal scorecard that lists Supernatural as a sure thing for next season. Yay!
Actors are always asked if they'll return to Supernatural, and always say that on this show, anything can happen. It came up re: Mark Pellegrino last week. He's now on Being Human.
Missing Jeffrey Dean Morgan? To further ensure he'll have no time for an encore appearance on Supernatural, he's soon to be starring in a new drama on Starz (unless those final negotiations fail).
In casting news, Sonya Salomaa (Watchmen) will play a tough angel in a potentially recurring role. Also, Death will be returning (like we couldn't guess that) as will...ELLEN!
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Monday News for Thanksgiving Week
There is no other way to start this post than to say I am thankful for Supernatural. I know, total cliché. Sorry. Moving on.
First, the bad news, which I discovered as I started preparing this last Wednesday but by now those who watched the preview at the end of the last episode will have discovered: no new Supernatural next week! What, they think people don't watch TV gorged with turkey leftovers and exhausted from doorbuster shopping? Crazy.
Worse news? Hellatus begins after the December 10th episode, as mentioned in this EW interview with Sera Gamble. What she says (SPOILER ALERT) may be encouraging. Or not. And we thought Kripke was evil!
Get your holiday gift list ready: The Supernatural Season Five Official Companion is out!
Don't forget to vote in the People's Choice Awards. Supernatural made the finals for "Favorite Sci-Fi/Fantasy Show."
I saw lots of spoilers in the news (this is why I delete all my Google alerts when I'm not responsible for News Monday!):
Upcoming guest star; TV Guide Preview; Episode 10 photos (possibly a duplicate from the guest star link); Interview with Misha. Here's another, slightly older, interview with Misha. More spoiler tidbits from Sera Gamble.
And a new interview with Jensen and Jared. It's a new post, but it was conducted before the premiere, so their hints are amusing now that we know the truth about things. There's only one thing that could be considered a spoiler, about the necklace.
Here's a Misha Collins property that's way too entertaining for its description. Warning: last ten seconds not safe for anyone under, like, 18.
Anyone watch Castle a couple of weeks ago? The actor who played Jesse, the AntiChrist, was an abducted child. His mother was played by Ever Carradine, who played his mother on Supernatural, too! What guest-star spottings have you made recently?
First, the bad news, which I discovered as I started preparing this last Wednesday but by now those who watched the preview at the end of the last episode will have discovered: no new Supernatural next week! What, they think people don't watch TV gorged with turkey leftovers and exhausted from doorbuster shopping? Crazy.
Worse news? Hellatus begins after the December 10th episode, as mentioned in this EW interview with Sera Gamble. What she says (SPOILER ALERT) may be encouraging. Or not. And we thought Kripke was evil!
Get your holiday gift list ready: The Supernatural Season Five Official Companion is out!
Don't forget to vote in the People's Choice Awards. Supernatural made the finals for "Favorite Sci-Fi/Fantasy Show."
I saw lots of spoilers in the news (this is why I delete all my Google alerts when I'm not responsible for News Monday!):
Upcoming guest star; TV Guide Preview; Episode 10 photos (possibly a duplicate from the guest star link); Interview with Misha. Here's another, slightly older, interview with Misha. More spoiler tidbits from Sera Gamble.
And a new interview with Jensen and Jared. It's a new post, but it was conducted before the premiere, so their hints are amusing now that we know the truth about things. There's only one thing that could be considered a spoiler, about the necklace.
Here's a Misha Collins property that's way too entertaining for its description. Warning: last ten seconds not safe for anyone under, like, 18.
Anyone watch Castle a couple of weeks ago? The actor who played Jesse, the AntiChrist, was an abducted child. His mother was played by Ever Carradine, who played his mother on Supernatural, too! What guest-star spottings have you made recently?
Sunday, August 8, 2010
News for T-minus Seven Weeks and Counting...
In The Ausiello Files CW report from the recent press tour, Dawn Ostroff says she hopes Supernatural will go on for more than one more season.
Various sources, including here announce Sebastian Roché (Fringe) as a guest star on Supernatural. (He tweeted that he was in Vancouver doing the show.)
Wanna wallow in envy? Check out the teaser trailer for "Supernatural: The Animation" at Warner Bros.' Japanese site for the project. Click the "Trailer" box on the right. They did a great job with Sam and Dean! I wish this wasn't only being released in Japan...
Portrait Magazine (scroll down a little and look on the right, "September Cover") has a poll to see who we want featured on the September cover. Tom Welling is way ahead of Jensen Ackles, and Jared Padalecki doesn't seem to have a chance. Voting goes to August 15.
While casing some Torchwood news, I discovered that John Shiban, writer for such great Supernatural episodes as "Tall Tales" and "Folsom Prison Blues," will be writing some Torchwood eps in the upcoming season.
Check out Matt Cohen's Playboy Fragrances ad campaign. Click to play, then click "Cast of Characters" to watch him talk about seduction. :) (Safe for work!)
Zap2it has an in-depth article about Jason Manns and how his friendship with Jensen has affected his music and movie career. No new info for those of us who follow Jason for his own sake, but some interesting quotes nonetheless. :)
We'll close with a cute vid of Jim, Misha, and Jensen:
Various sources, including here announce Sebastian Roché (Fringe) as a guest star on Supernatural. (He tweeted that he was in Vancouver doing the show.)
Wanna wallow in envy? Check out the teaser trailer for "Supernatural: The Animation" at Warner Bros.' Japanese site for the project. Click the "Trailer" box on the right. They did a great job with Sam and Dean! I wish this wasn't only being released in Japan...
Portrait Magazine (scroll down a little and look on the right, "September Cover") has a poll to see who we want featured on the September cover. Tom Welling is way ahead of Jensen Ackles, and Jared Padalecki doesn't seem to have a chance. Voting goes to August 15.
While casing some Torchwood news, I discovered that John Shiban, writer for such great Supernatural episodes as "Tall Tales" and "Folsom Prison Blues," will be writing some Torchwood eps in the upcoming season.
Check out Matt Cohen's Playboy Fragrances ad campaign. Click to play, then click "Cast of Characters" to watch him talk about seduction. :) (Safe for work!)
Zap2it has an in-depth article about Jason Manns and how his friendship with Jensen has affected his music and movie career. No new info for those of us who follow Jason for his own sake, but some interesting quotes nonetheless. :)
We'll close with a cute vid of Jim, Misha, and Jensen:
Thursday, July 15, 2010
2010 Parsippany Salute to Supernatural
If you've been reading this blog for a while, you may recall that in March 2009 I got to go to the Creation Entertainment Salute to Supernatural (link is to my post last year) in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. Jared was supposed to go and canceled at the last minute, but in my report, I called it the best weekend of my life (amended to top five, because...you know).
Number One (my oldest daughter, turning 15 tomorrow) and I saved up the money for tickets, but we weren't going to go this year unless Jared and/or Jensen was going to be there. Except she really wanted to go anyway, and it was a week before her birthday, so I was prone to saying yes. When they announced ticket sales and the only guests were the Ghostfacers, we (me and Lori and Megan, my compatriots from last year) were on the fence. But we wanted the Gold Package, we wanted row C, so we caved and bought tickets.
Then they announced Misha. And slowly, over the next several months, Richard (Trickster), Alona (Jo), Samantha Smith (Mary), Aldis (Jake), Rob (Chuck), and Katherine (the last Lilith). So that was cool. Not thrilling, but cool. Then one of the Ghostfacers backed out—Ed, I think. No, Harry. No, Ed. Oh, who cares? It meant one Ghostfacer. We were hoping for Jason Manns again, but we got Steve Carlson. Who was fine! I don't want to offend Steve Carlson fans. :) But I like Jason better. Over the next seven months, we had several bitter conversations about how Jared and Jensen hate us, and then they started filming and would have canceled at the last minute anyway. I don't know which would be worse. It was a lot of money for no Js.
Then Richard and the other Ghostfacer backed out two days before the convention, and I was muy disappointed. They added Matt Cohen (Young John Winchester) and Fredric Lehne (Yellow Eyes), which was cool. But honestly, last week, I wasn't excited. I looked forward to a trip away, and time with my friends, and a unique experience with my daughter, but the rest...meh.
So guess what happened?
It was better than last year.
I'm going to do the same thing I did last year: post my personal experiences, instead of reiterating stuff that's been all over the web for a week already. I don't have a lot of pictures to post, because we were too far from the stage and they mostly came out dark or blurry or you can barely tell who they are. Kayleigh from last year (with her sister Mallory) was right up front and posted some great photos and notes.
The Highlights
In case some of our readers don't troll the web or have Google alerts set up, I have to tell you that Fred is going to be back on Supernatural! He teased it on Friday, and credited us (the fans) for making it possible, then said flat out on Saturday that he was filming this week. So he'll be showing up early in the season.
I suggest everyone over 18 Google "Fred Lehne hamster pile Twister."
And check out reports of Misha's first stage session, especially.
Matt Cohen gave free hugs for two days. He gives good hugs.
Observations from Stage Time
Everyone was great. Funny, sweet, engaging. They all seemed really happy to be there. You could tell who had done this a lot (Misha) and who was new (Katherine). The new people were a little more guarded, though not in a "hold back" kind of way, more in a "what are they going to do to me" kind of way.
I loved Matt Cohen as Young John (or Baby John, as Megan calls him), but wasn't that fussed about him. He's about a million times cuter and more charismatic in person. Even if you think he's adorable or hot or whatever...until you meet him, you have no idea. Hooooooo, boy!
I was surprised how many of the actors are from NJ originally. Fred,Mary Samantha, and Aldis, and maybe one other person, I'm not sure.
There were a lot more people there this year, right from the beginning, and more guys (probably due to there being more female guests). We saw tons of familiar faces. The most obnoxious people weren't there (we had a new one, but I won't talk about her...). I'm still bad at social interaction, but managed to muddle my way through a few conversations. *waves at Kayleigh and Mallory*
The One-on-Ones
We actually had a lot less one-on-one time with the stars this year. But somehow, that didn't make it less of an experience. The karaoke party was more official, and Alona and Matt emceed and sang with some of the brave souls. Number One took too long to pick a song, though, and she got called up on stage two songs after they left. :(
Lori's husband's club membership got us rooms on the top floor, which is of course where the celebrities stayed. I had three encounters with them:
Encounter One
Random Man Walking Down the Hall with Woman Who Dropped a Piece of Paper: Hey. How ya doin'?
Me: *polite smile* "Great, thanks. How are you?"
Man: *smiles back, friendly* "I'm awesome."
*beat*
Me: *OMGTHAT'SFRED* "You were great today!"
Fred (over his shoulder): "Thanks!"
Me: "No, thank you!"
Encounter Two
Steve Carlson Passing Me in the Hall: "Hey."
Me: "Hey."
Encounter Three
Saturday night, very late, Lori, Number One, and I caught a 1.345-second glimpse of Matt crossing the hall from one room to another. Megan had walked in the other direction and our whispered screams for her attention didn't reach that far. No dialogue on that one.
I reiterate my assertion from last year: The Gold Package is the only way to go! Dessert Party, Concert, Breakfast, AND a far shorter wait time for autographs.
So here were my one-on-one experiences:
Misha Collins
In his first Q&A session, he didn't give a single straight answer to anyone. It was all craziness. SO different from last year! At the autographing, I asked at what point (between last year's con and this one) he went insane. He said it was always there, but latent. We talked a little about how it's more fun, etc., and he agreed that it curbs the boredom of the same questions over and over again. He went a little straighter on the second day. It must have been the tie.
I hardly remember what Misha talked to us about at the dessert party, besides the awfulness of the pie. Oh, yeah, he commented on how the four of us seem to belong together. LOL Then he left his pie at our table.
We won't say any more about that.
Matt Cohen
Matt is one of those guys who is so good-looking, and who works so hard at maintaining his hotness, that he's very obviously aware of it and his effect on people. But he also managed to seem sincerely appreciative of our appreciation and was even slightly red a couple of the times he claimed to be blushing.
When someone at the mike said she was nervous, he got all up in her face, teasing her, then hugged her in consolation/comfort. So then the next person said she was nervous, so he hugged her, and then he said he thought we needed more hugs in the world, so he hugged every person who came up to ask a question, every person who got a photo op, and every person at the dessert party. When he came to our table, I asked if he regretted it yet, and he said no, his arms weren't tired, his chest didn't hurt. I said, "Yeah, but three or four conventions from now..." and he said "Maybe it will just be a New Jersey thing."
So you know what that means. Put July 8-10, 2011, on your calendars right now. :)
Matt charmed us so much we all pitched in for a second photo op and all got in the picture. We bought two ops, plus the jpegs, and Chris, the photographer I mentioned last year who's so freakin' cool, made extra prints for us on site. The second photo was a little more candid and a brilliant reminder of the awesome weekend.
Aldis Hodge
Poor Aldis. He finished filming in Portland at 3:00 a.m. Saturday and flew to Jersey to be on stage and then in the photo ops and autographing, then he was at the dessert party until 12:30. I asked him around 6 if he'd slept all day, and he hadn't. Number One started to tell him, as he signed her poster, that she hadn't been watching Leverage but was about to start, but she pronounced it LEE-verage out of habit, and he teased her. :)
I can't remember what he talked about at our table. Not having time for TV, I think, because I said "well what are you doing, cool stuff like inventing watches and building violins?"
Yes, I am lame.
Samantha and Katherine
They were at the breakfast on Sunday, and I was so intimidated by Samantha's beauty and grace and so taken by Katherine's sweetness that once again, I can't remember what we talked about with them! Megan will remember, as she carried the conversations, as she always does.
I have a very hard time not calling Samantha Mary.
We didn't get one on one with Alona, except for Number One, who got a photo op with her, then endured many comments that they could be sisters. She was told to dress like Jo for the costume contest next year. :)
I'm going to wrap it up there, leaving you with my favorite fan vid of the weekend. The creator won a prize with it, as well as with a pop-up book she created for the centerpiece contest. It had a winged Castiel, the Impala, and a column of light (really lit!) in the convent. She's very talented. :)
So you all must join us next year! Okay, I don't know if I'm going yet, it depends. I have absolutely no hope Jared or Jensen will decide the Northeast is worth their presence, but now I know Creation and the guests they do get will guarantee us a good time.
Number One (my oldest daughter, turning 15 tomorrow) and I saved up the money for tickets, but we weren't going to go this year unless Jared and/or Jensen was going to be there. Except she really wanted to go anyway, and it was a week before her birthday, so I was prone to saying yes. When they announced ticket sales and the only guests were the Ghostfacers, we (me and Lori and Megan, my compatriots from last year) were on the fence. But we wanted the Gold Package, we wanted row C, so we caved and bought tickets.
Then they announced Misha. And slowly, over the next several months, Richard (Trickster), Alona (Jo), Samantha Smith (Mary), Aldis (Jake), Rob (Chuck), and Katherine (the last Lilith). So that was cool. Not thrilling, but cool. Then one of the Ghostfacers backed out—Ed, I think. No, Harry. No, Ed. Oh, who cares? It meant one Ghostfacer. We were hoping for Jason Manns again, but we got Steve Carlson. Who was fine! I don't want to offend Steve Carlson fans. :) But I like Jason better. Over the next seven months, we had several bitter conversations about how Jared and Jensen hate us, and then they started filming and would have canceled at the last minute anyway. I don't know which would be worse. It was a lot of money for no Js.
Then Richard and the other Ghostfacer backed out two days before the convention, and I was muy disappointed. They added Matt Cohen (Young John Winchester) and Fredric Lehne (Yellow Eyes), which was cool. But honestly, last week, I wasn't excited. I looked forward to a trip away, and time with my friends, and a unique experience with my daughter, but the rest...meh.
So guess what happened?
It was better than last year.
I'm going to do the same thing I did last year: post my personal experiences, instead of reiterating stuff that's been all over the web for a week already. I don't have a lot of pictures to post, because we were too far from the stage and they mostly came out dark or blurry or you can barely tell who they are. Kayleigh from last year (with her sister Mallory) was right up front and posted some great photos and notes.
The Highlights
In case some of our readers don't troll the web or have Google alerts set up, I have to tell you that Fred is going to be back on Supernatural! He teased it on Friday, and credited us (the fans) for making it possible, then said flat out on Saturday that he was filming this week. So he'll be showing up early in the season.
I suggest everyone over 18 Google "Fred Lehne hamster pile Twister."
And check out reports of Misha's first stage session, especially.
Matt Cohen gave free hugs for two days. He gives good hugs.
Observations from Stage Time
Everyone was great. Funny, sweet, engaging. They all seemed really happy to be there. You could tell who had done this a lot (Misha) and who was new (Katherine). The new people were a little more guarded, though not in a "hold back" kind of way, more in a "what are they going to do to me" kind of way.
I loved Matt Cohen as Young John (or Baby John, as Megan calls him), but wasn't that fussed about him. He's about a million times cuter and more charismatic in person. Even if you think he's adorable or hot or whatever...until you meet him, you have no idea. Hooooooo, boy!
I was surprised how many of the actors are from NJ originally. Fred,
There were a lot more people there this year, right from the beginning, and more guys (probably due to there being more female guests). We saw tons of familiar faces. The most obnoxious people weren't there (we had a new one, but I won't talk about her...). I'm still bad at social interaction, but managed to muddle my way through a few conversations. *waves at Kayleigh and Mallory*
The One-on-Ones
We actually had a lot less one-on-one time with the stars this year. But somehow, that didn't make it less of an experience. The karaoke party was more official, and Alona and Matt emceed and sang with some of the brave souls. Number One took too long to pick a song, though, and she got called up on stage two songs after they left. :(
Lori's husband's club membership got us rooms on the top floor, which is of course where the celebrities stayed. I had three encounters with them:
Encounter One
Random Man Walking Down the Hall with Woman Who Dropped a Piece of Paper: Hey. How ya doin'?
Me: *polite smile* "Great, thanks. How are you?"
Man: *smiles back, friendly* "I'm awesome."
*beat*
Me: *OMGTHAT'SFRED* "You were great today!"
Fred (over his shoulder): "Thanks!"
Me: "No, thank you!"
Encounter Two
Steve Carlson Passing Me in the Hall: "Hey."
Me: "Hey."
Encounter Three
Saturday night, very late, Lori, Number One, and I caught a 1.345-second glimpse of Matt crossing the hall from one room to another. Megan had walked in the other direction and our whispered screams for her attention didn't reach that far. No dialogue on that one.
I reiterate my assertion from last year: The Gold Package is the only way to go! Dessert Party, Concert, Breakfast, AND a far shorter wait time for autographs.
So here were my one-on-one experiences:
Misha Collins
In his first Q&A session, he didn't give a single straight answer to anyone. It was all craziness. SO different from last year! At the autographing, I asked at what point (between last year's con and this one) he went insane. He said it was always there, but latent. We talked a little about how it's more fun, etc., and he agreed that it curbs the boredom of the same questions over and over again. He went a little straighter on the second day. It must have been the tie.
I hardly remember what Misha talked to us about at the dessert party, besides the awfulness of the pie. Oh, yeah, he commented on how the four of us seem to belong together. LOL Then he left his pie at our table.
We won't say any more about that.
Matt Cohen
Matt is one of those guys who is so good-looking, and who works so hard at maintaining his hotness, that he's very obviously aware of it and his effect on people. But he also managed to seem sincerely appreciative of our appreciation and was even slightly red a couple of the times he claimed to be blushing.
When someone at the mike said she was nervous, he got all up in her face, teasing her, then hugged her in consolation/comfort. So then the next person said she was nervous, so he hugged her, and then he said he thought we needed more hugs in the world, so he hugged every person who came up to ask a question, every person who got a photo op, and every person at the dessert party. When he came to our table, I asked if he regretted it yet, and he said no, his arms weren't tired, his chest didn't hurt. I said, "Yeah, but three or four conventions from now..." and he said "Maybe it will just be a New Jersey thing."
So you know what that means. Put July 8-10, 2011, on your calendars right now. :)
Matt charmed us so much we all pitched in for a second photo op and all got in the picture. We bought two ops, plus the jpegs, and Chris, the photographer I mentioned last year who's so freakin' cool, made extra prints for us on site. The second photo was a little more candid and a brilliant reminder of the awesome weekend.
Aldis Hodge
Poor Aldis. He finished filming in Portland at 3:00 a.m. Saturday and flew to Jersey to be on stage and then in the photo ops and autographing, then he was at the dessert party until 12:30. I asked him around 6 if he'd slept all day, and he hadn't. Number One started to tell him, as he signed her poster, that she hadn't been watching Leverage but was about to start, but she pronounced it LEE-verage out of habit, and he teased her. :)
I can't remember what he talked about at our table. Not having time for TV, I think, because I said "well what are you doing, cool stuff like inventing watches and building violins?"
Yes, I am lame.
Samantha and Katherine
They were at the breakfast on Sunday, and I was so intimidated by Samantha's beauty and grace and so taken by Katherine's sweetness that once again, I can't remember what we talked about with them! Megan will remember, as she carried the conversations, as she always does.
I have a very hard time not calling Samantha Mary.
We didn't get one on one with Alona, except for Number One, who got a photo op with her, then endured many comments that they could be sisters. She was told to dress like Jo for the costume contest next year. :)
I'm going to wrap it up there, leaving you with my favorite fan vid of the weekend. The creator won a prize with it, as well as with a pop-up book she created for the centerpiece contest. It had a winged Castiel, the Impala, and a column of light (really lit!) in the convent. She's very talented. :)
So you all must join us next year! Okay, I don't know if I'm going yet, it depends. I have absolutely no hope Jared or Jensen will decide the Northeast is worth their presence, but now I know Creation and the guests they do get will guarantee us a good time.
Monday, July 5, 2010
SPN News: 8 weeks down, 11 to go
The end is near!
Well, of course not really. On the show, the end was averted. And IRL, we still have months and months to go before the season premiere. Until September 24th to be exact! The CW was the first network to announce premiere dates, and unfortunately, our beloved show is the last one on the schedule.
But up in Vancouver, they're already shooting. Jim Beaver tweeted that they were beginning filming of Jensen Ackles' directorial debut on June 30. Whether that's episode 3 or episode 4 seems open to debate. Ausiello and Jim Beaver say it's ep 4, but other sources (including Jensen Ackles) said it's ep 3.
Does it really matter? :)
They're filming this episode first so Jensen can have his prep time without interference from or in the episodes that come before his. You can find details of the episode, titled "Weekend at Bobby's," here.
Is it September yet?
In other news...
Mark Pellegrino tells Fearnet (article via Digital Spy) that he would love to return to the show.
The Complete First Season of Supernatural was released on Blu-Ray (finally!) last month, so if you're a Blu-Ray user looking to complete your collection, now you can!
Spoiler TV has amalgamated some casting and behind-the-scenes spoilers about potential guest stars and the episode Jensen is directing at the beginning of the season.
Sun Valley Magazine has a article about "The Perfect Winter Wedding." The focus is on Genevieve, a Sun Valley native, but it has some beautiful photos of the wedding.
Ausiello announces the official word on Mitch Pileggi's return, with other casting news. Minor spoilery.
Going to Comic-Con? Warner Bros. announced their lineup, and the Supernatural screening and Q&A will be on Sunday, July 25, from 11:15 to 12:15. Eric, Ben, and Sera will join unnamed actors to present a sneak peak of season 5 DVD extras as well as season 6.
The CW Sourcies (fan awards) are currently being conducted. Keep track of them here and vote on Most Heartbreaking Moment, Best Villian, etc. Voting time frame for each category is short-lived, so check back often!
Well, of course not really. On the show, the end was averted. And IRL, we still have months and months to go before the season premiere. Until September 24th to be exact! The CW was the first network to announce premiere dates, and unfortunately, our beloved show is the last one on the schedule.
But up in Vancouver, they're already shooting. Jim Beaver tweeted that they were beginning filming of Jensen Ackles' directorial debut on June 30. Whether that's episode 3 or episode 4 seems open to debate. Ausiello and Jim Beaver say it's ep 4, but other sources (including Jensen Ackles) said it's ep 3.
Does it really matter? :)
They're filming this episode first so Jensen can have his prep time without interference from or in the episodes that come before his. You can find details of the episode, titled "Weekend at Bobby's," here.
Is it September yet?
In other news...
Mark Pellegrino tells Fearnet (article via Digital Spy) that he would love to return to the show.
The Complete First Season of Supernatural was released on Blu-Ray (finally!) last month, so if you're a Blu-Ray user looking to complete your collection, now you can!
Spoiler TV has amalgamated some casting and behind-the-scenes spoilers about potential guest stars and the episode Jensen is directing at the beginning of the season.
Sun Valley Magazine has a article about "The Perfect Winter Wedding." The focus is on Genevieve, a Sun Valley native, but it has some beautiful photos of the wedding.
Ausiello announces the official word on Mitch Pileggi's return, with other casting news. Minor spoilery.
Going to Comic-Con? Warner Bros. announced their lineup, and the Supernatural screening and Q&A will be on Sunday, July 25, from 11:15 to 12:15. Eric, Ben, and Sera will join unnamed actors to present a sneak peak of season 5 DVD extras as well as season 6.
The CW Sourcies (fan awards) are currently being conducted. Keep track of them here and vote on Most Heartbreaking Moment, Best Villian, etc. Voting time frame for each category is short-lived, so check back often!
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Stonehenge Apocalypse
Random thoughts and questions inspired by the SyFy movie. If you've seen it, you'll know what I'm talking about. If you haven't, well, this is what you missed...1. Here we are at Stonehenge with a random tour group. The earth is shaking. Quaking, one might say. Does anyone move away from those towering stones that would crush you if they fell, as things are wont to do in an earthquake? No.
2. When said giant stones start sliding around, which is the better action:
a. Run away so you don't get crushed between stones or knocked over by ripped-up sod, or
b. Stand still and scream. I guess it doesn't matter, since we've already overlooked the fact that Stonehenge has been off limits to the general public for a very long time.
3. Why is Misha's character Jacob and his friend Joseph? Why not Jake and Joe?
4. That random hazmat person who just got fried? Kinda deserved it. Duh, you knew the thing burned up seven people. Maybe you should RUN.
5. Misha...I mean, Jacob...just emerged from the woods in the morning. Where was he all night, after being chased by security? Hanging in the woods? Yuck.
6. Um...if a signal is reducing itself every time it cycles, isn't it by definition counting down?
7. Jacob has a bit of the Dean vibe, with his layered shirts and the pendant.
8. How exactly did Jacob "pick up" an electromagnetic surge over a distance of x miles and an ocean, anyway?
9. Okay, the first death was inevitable. The second a justifiable mistake. But once something happens twice, you have no one to blame but yourself for letting it happen a third time.
10. Of COURSE the military thinks demolition is the right move! Do they never watch movies or TV? That never ends well.
11. They keep asking how these stones move, but they haven't tried to dig down a little bit to find the tracks they're obviously moving ON.
12. These people don't read comic books. That's Dr. X's symbol on that Mediterranean artifact that Jacob thinks is a key!
13. Yay, no one died during this new Event! Well, not in England, anyway. That blast in Mexico looks pretty deadly. So...why electricity in England and "volcanoes" in the Yucatan and Indonesia? (I use the quotation marks because it looks more like a Michael Bay event than a volcano.)
14. I can't wait to see how long it takes Jacob and the real scientist to get to New York and back! :) They've only got 30 hours.
15. Well, ridiculous science and plot developments aside, I think the idea of re-terraforming the planet is kind of cool.
16. Oh, what a coincidence, the artifact goes EM just as they arrive at the museum. Trigger? None. How convenient to prove Jacob right!
17. Plot twist! Who are those armed whatever they ares bent on getting the artifact for themselves? Uh...Joseph?
18. Commence exchange of catch phrases between former best friends who are now on extremely opposite sides...catch phrases that would indicate insanity if they weren't so overused.
19. Ow. ETA: I can't remember what happened that made me say that.
20. Stones are moving again. How can they be digging up new sod when they're following the same tracks?
21. I'm so glad Joseph's "Chosen Ones" laugh like Beavis and Butthead. Future of the human race, indeed.
22. Wow, the artifact/key thing got clean and shiny.
23. Hey, the bad guy died with half an hour left to go. Good thing he wasn't superfluous or anything.
24. Nice redemptive moment for the clueless scientist/government guy in charge...
25. I hope someone gave Misha/Jacob a GPS, so he doesn't take a wrong turn during his race against the clock/nuclear bomb.
26. Four minutes left, and poor Jacob gets shot feet from his goal! Oh, the tension! I can't tell where the second bullet hit. He's probably not dead.
27. Say it with me now: "It was a ROBOT HEAD."
28. That was the lamest ending EVER.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Convention Dreams
I had a great idea for a topic for today. Did I write it down? No. Do I remember it? Not a chance. I nearly forgot to post...twice. So pleeeaaassseee forgive me if this post is, well, kinda lame.Creation Entertainment is doing a Salute to Supernatural in New Jersey again this year. My friends and I held off on committing to it at first, because Jared and Jensen aren't booked. Two months after they first opened to ticket sales, we can probably safely stop hoping. My theory is that the Js won't commit because it's not selling out, and it's not selling out because the Js won't commit. Northeasterners are practical and frugal, you know.
So we gambled and bought tickets and are only three rows back from the stage. I'm bringing Number One (my daughter), so it will be a fun trip no matter what. But we want it to be the MOST fun we can have without our heads exploding (aka "meeting Jared and Jensen").
So far, they have the following people attending:
AJ Buckley and Travis Wester, the Ghostfacers
Misha Collins and Richard Speight Jr., the Ones We Really Wanted to Come
Alona Tal (Jo)
ETA:This morning when I went to the website, I saw that Rob Benedict, who plays Chuck, has been added. (It was NOT there when I wrote this, even though it says it was updated Feb. 1. :) )
If we can't get the Js, they'd better pack the ticket with good people. Jim Beaver and Todd Stashwick would be great to see again, as would Gabe Tigerman, and I really, really want Jason Manns for the musical entertainment. But who else?
I won't start listing potential guest stars they could invite. I want to hear who YOU'D want to meet! Out of all the people associated with Supernatural, who's worth a weekend getaway?
Personally, I wish they'd book a writer or two. Now, THEM, I'd have questions for!
How about you?
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Supernatural Sisters Presents...Richard Speight, Jr!
After his tremendous performance in "Changing Channels," I contacted Richard Speight, Jr.'s manager to ask for an interview. A fan favorite and definitely my favorite Supernatural guest star, Richard is gracious, intelligent and funny. So without further ado...
Richard, thank you for agreeing to do this interview for the Supernatural Sisters! First, let me join the cacophony of praise for your performance in "Changing Channels." The show keeps telling us angels don't feel emotion, but Gabriel's pretty torn up over his family's situation, and you portrayed it beautifully.
Thanks a lot. That’s nice of you to say.
So, what was it like going back to the show? What did you think when they asked you back, and when you saw the script? Did you have any inkling at the time of your past appearances that there would be a revelation of such magnitude about your character?
I was thrilled to be asked back. I had no idea I’d be a part of such a big revelation until I read the script. I was blown away. I thought the “Changing Channels” script was outstanding. And it gave me some fantastic turns to make as an actor – which is rare when you’re guesting on a show.
This revelation seems to open up greater possibilities for a return, maybe for the expected big showdown at the end of the season. Is there anything you can say about that, or any thoughts you might have?
Here is some fascinating inside information: I have no idea. Seems I’m always the last to know if/when I’m going to be on the show and what exactly I’ll be doing. Even some of the fans find out before I do. I need to get a better agent. (Just kidding, Sheree).
What have you been working on between your Supernatural appearances? What can we look forward to seeing you in? (Especially, do you have any pending TV appearances?)
I just completed shooting what should be a funny scene in an otherwise very dark film called “Crave.” And I am a recurring character in the upcoming Showtime series “Look” set to air in early 2010.
I had the great pleasure of meeting you at the Salute to Supernatural in New Jersey earlier this year. If my memory is correct, you said that of all the things you do (writing, acting, music), you like writing best. Does writing take a back seat because you've been so successful with acting? What are you writing now (if you don't mind telling us)?
I do write a lot and I love it. I have a few projects in development right now. I don’t like to discuss them in detail because so much can go wrong before a project goes into full production. I don’t want to jinx it, nor do I want to look like a goon by talking about something like it’s a sure thing only to have it collapse. As of now, acting is what pays the bills. Eventually, I hope acting and writing split that duty.
You've talked about how you got your start in show business as a dancer. Do you still do any tap or ballet? How about performing with the/a band?
Good news for the dancing community – I don’t dance anymore. I stopped tapping when I was around 13. Truth is I wish I’d stuck with it. I love to watch great dancers, especially tap. If I had stayed with it, I’d probably be pretty decent by now.
I don’t perform with a band regularly anymore. I don’t want my weekends taken up playing music and not playing with my kids. I still play guitar for them all the time, though. There are the rare occasions when I get to play with a band. For example, the TV show “Life” had a band made up of Damian Lewis (the lead actor and an old friend from “Band of Brothers”) and some crew folks. They were playing a few songs in a bar in Culver City and needed someone to sit in on lead guitar, so Damian asked me. That was a blast. I was hoping to play with them again, but “Life” got canceled and Damian moved back to England. So much for rock stardom.
Preference: Movies or TV? Why?
Movies – although TV has gotten significantly better over the last ten years. Why Movies? I like watching one story – from beginning to end – in one sitting. I don’t watch enough TV to be able to enjoy shows with long arcs. It means I miss out on some good stuff, but that kind of TV just doesn’t fit my lifestyle right now.
For your (arguably) three highest-profile roles (Trickster/Gabriel on Supernatural, Bill on Jericho, Skip on Band of Brothers), what is the biggest element each has brought to your life and career?
“Supernatural” has brought me a relationship with fans unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. The cons, on line… even this interview – all things completely foreign to me until I worked on “Supernatural.” I love the reception my characters get. Actors work in a bubble. You shoot, you go home, you watch it or not, you go on to the next gig. The ongoing experience my role on this show is creating for me is amazing. I love it.
“Band of Brothers” brought me some of my closest friends in LA. More importantly, it instilled in me a greater appreciation of what it means to be free, to be an American, and to be a man. I hope I can impart a fraction of what I’ve learned from “Band of Brothers” to my sons.
“Jericho” made me realize that no matter how hard I try, I look like crap in a tan Deputy Sheriff’s uniform.
You do regular updates on your Facebook page, and get tons of comments on your Wall there. Social networking gives fans unprecedented access to our favorite celebrities--we see that as a good thing. What's it like from a celebrity/working actor perspective, and do you think it's good, bad, or a mix?
I think it is awesome. For years, I had a website where fans could check out my stuff and post comments. But it wasn’t like Facebook. On my Fan Page, I can chat with folks, comment on stuff – I feel like I am a part of the dialogue. And I’m able to answer fan questions in a timely fashion. I really enjoy being able to do that. The fact that I have “fans” trips me out. I feel like if someone takes the time to join my page and post something, then I need to read it/look at it/answer it. It is the least I can do.
By the way, anyone wishing to visit my Facebook Fan Page, it is listed as Richard Speight Jr.
Before last week's episode, your appearances on Supernatural were limited in terms of screen time. Yet the impact is pretty powerful, considering it's drawn you to live appearances all over the country well after the episodes originally aired. Is this insane, or gratifying?
Insanely gratifying.
Speaking of conventions...can we hope to see you at any over the next year? Like, say, oh, maybe Parsippany, New Jersey, in July?
I certainly hope so. I had great time in New Jersey last year. If I am invited and it works out with scheduling, etc., I’ll be there.
And for a touch of silliness:
Would you survive the Zombpocalypse? Why or why not?
Yes I would. I’m pretty pale, so they’d think I was already dead and leave me alone.
Soda or pop?
Neither. I’m from the South. We call everything “Coke.”
Typical conversation heard at a restaurant in the South:
Guy
You thirsty?
Gal
Yeah.
Guy
Wanna Coke?
Gal
Sure.
Guy
What kind?
Gal
Sprite.
Guy
Got it.
Y'all or you guys?
“You guys.” Not all Southerners say “Y’all.” But we do all say “Coke.”
Favorite NFL team? (In anticipation of your answer, this Patriots fan would like to offer an apology for 10/18. If I'm anticipating incorrectly...never mind.)
No apology necessary. I don’t really care about the NFL. If I had to answer, I’d say the New Orleans Saints because of Reggie Bush. Truth is, I only watch college ball. I’m a big fan of the USC Trojans – and a proud alumnus. Fight on!
Chips or fries?
Chips.
Broccoli or Brussels sprouts?
Both – diced up and crammed into a casserole.
Most recent book you read:
I’m just about done with Bright Shiny Morning by James Frey. Great book.
Most recent TV show that you got hooked on:
Ironically, “Supernatural.” I watched a bunch of recent episodes on DVD to prepare for “Changing Channels.” It’s a damn good show! Now I TiVo it. I’m a little behind, but I’ve got 'em saved.
Most fervent hope for the future (that you're willing to share with strangers):
A strong health care plan with a public option that covers all Americans and doesn’t add to the deficit.
Thank you so much, Richard, for doing this interview! I hope it wasn't torturous, and we look forward to seeing you on our screens for a long, long time to come.
Are you kidding? It was my pleasure!
Richard, thank you for agreeing to do this interview for the Supernatural Sisters! First, let me join the cacophony of praise for your performance in "Changing Channels." The show keeps telling us angels don't feel emotion, but Gabriel's pretty torn up over his family's situation, and you portrayed it beautifully.
Thanks a lot. That’s nice of you to say.
So, what was it like going back to the show? What did you think when they asked you back, and when you saw the script? Did you have any inkling at the time of your past appearances that there would be a revelation of such magnitude about your character?
I was thrilled to be asked back. I had no idea I’d be a part of such a big revelation until I read the script. I was blown away. I thought the “Changing Channels” script was outstanding. And it gave me some fantastic turns to make as an actor – which is rare when you’re guesting on a show.
This revelation seems to open up greater possibilities for a return, maybe for the expected big showdown at the end of the season. Is there anything you can say about that, or any thoughts you might have?
Here is some fascinating inside information: I have no idea. Seems I’m always the last to know if/when I’m going to be on the show and what exactly I’ll be doing. Even some of the fans find out before I do. I need to get a better agent. (Just kidding, Sheree).
What have you been working on between your Supernatural appearances? What can we look forward to seeing you in? (Especially, do you have any pending TV appearances?)
I just completed shooting what should be a funny scene in an otherwise very dark film called “Crave.” And I am a recurring character in the upcoming Showtime series “Look” set to air in early 2010.
I had the great pleasure of meeting you at the Salute to Supernatural in New Jersey earlier this year. If my memory is correct, you said that of all the things you do (writing, acting, music), you like writing best. Does writing take a back seat because you've been so successful with acting? What are you writing now (if you don't mind telling us)?
I do write a lot and I love it. I have a few projects in development right now. I don’t like to discuss them in detail because so much can go wrong before a project goes into full production. I don’t want to jinx it, nor do I want to look like a goon by talking about something like it’s a sure thing only to have it collapse. As of now, acting is what pays the bills. Eventually, I hope acting and writing split that duty.
You've talked about how you got your start in show business as a dancer. Do you still do any tap or ballet? How about performing with the/a band?
Good news for the dancing community – I don’t dance anymore. I stopped tapping when I was around 13. Truth is I wish I’d stuck with it. I love to watch great dancers, especially tap. If I had stayed with it, I’d probably be pretty decent by now.
I don’t perform with a band regularly anymore. I don’t want my weekends taken up playing music and not playing with my kids. I still play guitar for them all the time, though. There are the rare occasions when I get to play with a band. For example, the TV show “Life” had a band made up of Damian Lewis (the lead actor and an old friend from “Band of Brothers”) and some crew folks. They were playing a few songs in a bar in Culver City and needed someone to sit in on lead guitar, so Damian asked me. That was a blast. I was hoping to play with them again, but “Life” got canceled and Damian moved back to England. So much for rock stardom.
Preference: Movies or TV? Why?
Movies – although TV has gotten significantly better over the last ten years. Why Movies? I like watching one story – from beginning to end – in one sitting. I don’t watch enough TV to be able to enjoy shows with long arcs. It means I miss out on some good stuff, but that kind of TV just doesn’t fit my lifestyle right now.
For your (arguably) three highest-profile roles (Trickster/Gabriel on Supernatural, Bill on Jericho, Skip on Band of Brothers), what is the biggest element each has brought to your life and career?
“Supernatural” has brought me a relationship with fans unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. The cons, on line… even this interview – all things completely foreign to me until I worked on “Supernatural.” I love the reception my characters get. Actors work in a bubble. You shoot, you go home, you watch it or not, you go on to the next gig. The ongoing experience my role on this show is creating for me is amazing. I love it.
“Band of Brothers” brought me some of my closest friends in LA. More importantly, it instilled in me a greater appreciation of what it means to be free, to be an American, and to be a man. I hope I can impart a fraction of what I’ve learned from “Band of Brothers” to my sons.
“Jericho” made me realize that no matter how hard I try, I look like crap in a tan Deputy Sheriff’s uniform.
You do regular updates on your Facebook page, and get tons of comments on your Wall there. Social networking gives fans unprecedented access to our favorite celebrities--we see that as a good thing. What's it like from a celebrity/working actor perspective, and do you think it's good, bad, or a mix?
I think it is awesome. For years, I had a website where fans could check out my stuff and post comments. But it wasn’t like Facebook. On my Fan Page, I can chat with folks, comment on stuff – I feel like I am a part of the dialogue. And I’m able to answer fan questions in a timely fashion. I really enjoy being able to do that. The fact that I have “fans” trips me out. I feel like if someone takes the time to join my page and post something, then I need to read it/look at it/answer it. It is the least I can do.
By the way, anyone wishing to visit my Facebook Fan Page, it is listed as Richard Speight Jr.
Before last week's episode, your appearances on Supernatural were limited in terms of screen time. Yet the impact is pretty powerful, considering it's drawn you to live appearances all over the country well after the episodes originally aired. Is this insane, or gratifying?
Insanely gratifying.
Speaking of conventions...can we hope to see you at any over the next year? Like, say, oh, maybe Parsippany, New Jersey, in July?
I certainly hope so. I had great time in New Jersey last year. If I am invited and it works out with scheduling, etc., I’ll be there.
And for a touch of silliness:
Would you survive the Zombpocalypse? Why or why not?
Yes I would. I’m pretty pale, so they’d think I was already dead and leave me alone.
Soda or pop?
Neither. I’m from the South. We call everything “Coke.”
Typical conversation heard at a restaurant in the South:
Guy
You thirsty?
Gal
Yeah.
Guy
Wanna Coke?
Gal
Sure.
Guy
What kind?
Gal
Sprite.
Guy
Got it.
Y'all or you guys?
“You guys.” Not all Southerners say “Y’all.” But we do all say “Coke.”
Favorite NFL team? (In anticipation of your answer, this Patriots fan would like to offer an apology for 10/18. If I'm anticipating incorrectly...never mind.)
No apology necessary. I don’t really care about the NFL. If I had to answer, I’d say the New Orleans Saints because of Reggie Bush. Truth is, I only watch college ball. I’m a big fan of the USC Trojans – and a proud alumnus. Fight on!
Chips or fries?
Chips.
Broccoli or Brussels sprouts?
Both – diced up and crammed into a casserole.
Most recent book you read:
I’m just about done with Bright Shiny Morning by James Frey. Great book.
Most recent TV show that you got hooked on:
Ironically, “Supernatural.” I watched a bunch of recent episodes on DVD to prepare for “Changing Channels.” It’s a damn good show! Now I TiVo it. I’m a little behind, but I’ve got 'em saved.
Most fervent hope for the future (that you're willing to share with strangers):
A strong health care plan with a public option that covers all Americans and doesn’t add to the deficit.
Thank you so much, Richard, for doing this interview! I hope it wasn't torturous, and we look forward to seeing you on our screens for a long, long time to come.
Are you kidding? It was my pleasure!
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