Dirk Manning at Motor City Comic Con 2018

Fan Expo returns to Chicago August 14-16. As always, I will be "On the Beat" all weekend meeting all sorts of creators and celebrities.

Over the years, some of the creators have become friends. Dirk Manning is at the top of that list.

With an interesting booth and his face half-covered, Dirk knows how to draw people to his booth. He drew me to his booth about 15 years ago and I stop by every time we're at the same convention.

Dirk is a comics-creator, although he also wrote a very successful 'how-to" book on writing. More recently, he started doing graphic novels for wrestlers. That just shows his talent and versatility.

I have interviewed Dirk many times and he always delivers. He even revealed his favorite ice cream spot (Jeni's, and he was right), which is appreciated given his appreciation of ice cream.

Dirk is a great guy. If you see him at a convention, stop and check out his work. Also, take a minute to chat with him. He's full of interesting stories.

Go to MotorCityComicCon.com for more info and follow MCCC on Facebook for more frequent updates. Also, go to DirkManning.com for more info on him.

Dirk Manning and me in Novi, MI-May 2018.

Rachael Adams at Motor City Comic Con 2013

Rachael Adams was one of my first interviews at Motor City Comic Con. A model, actress, spokesperson and more, Rachael was Ms. Michigan America 2015.

Full of positive energy and very engaging Rachael was a great comic con guest and perfect for an interview. I was a bit green, but Rachael was smooth and carried it. 

I saw Rachael a couple more times, but that has been it. I probably haven't seen her since 2015 or so. I have looked for her online. I don't see much. Maybe she opted for a quieter life outside the spotlight.

To me though, Rachael is one of the cool memories, especially from my early days of covering events. She easily could have snubbed me, but she gave me plenty of her time. As a local celebrity, Rachael was very popular at MCCC.

Experiences like those with Rachael gave me the confidence to keep going. Those interviews, although shaky on my part, allowed me to gat comfortable and learn. I will always be grateful to Rachael for her kindness and patience.

Wherever she is, I hope she is doing well. If Rachael happens to see this or if anyone knows of her, please send an update. I would love to know what she is doing these days.

The next MCCC is May 15-17. Go to MotorCityComicCon.com for more info and follow MCCC on Facebook for more frequent updates.

Rachael Adams and me in Novi, MI-May 2013.

Amy "Lita" Dumas At Motor City Comic Con 2017

Motor City Comic Con returns October 8-10. Held in Novi, just west of Detroit, MCCC was the first out-of-state convention I covered and it remains one of the best.

One of the great secrets of MCCC is it usually has a couple wrestlers. Because it is not a wrestling con, the lines are usually shorter and the prices usually less for wrestlers at MCCC. I have met so many wrestlers over the years at MCCC.

One such wrestling is Amy "Lita" Dumas. Although her in-ring career was mainly 1999-2006, Dumas is regarded as one of the all-time greats. Part of that is because she was excel;lent in the ring, as both a technical wrestler and an innovator or high-risk moves. She was also solid on the mic. Since retiring, she has made a few returns, but always for the WWE.

I have met Dumas several times, including a few times at MCCC. She is very nice and always willing to spend a little extra time with fans. She makes sure each is a special moment.

One time, I asked if I could get a selfie with her and her bestie and booth neighbor Trish Stratus. Without hesitation, she agreed and asked Stratus, who also agreed. Stratus wanted to finish her line of VIP's almost near the end and Dumas just stood there talking to us as we waited a few minutes. The next day, when I returned with a different friend, she remembered me by name. Stuff like that is impressive, considering she meets hundreds daily at those cons.

The guest list for MCCC 2024 hasn't been announced yet, but I know it will be full of great celebrities. It always is. Side not: there are a lot of great hotels right there. Extra hint: To avoid some of the traffic, when you drive to the convention center, you'll see a long line of cars. Bypass that, make a U-turn and enter from the other side. That has saved me hours over the years.

Go to MotorCityComicCon.com for more info and follow MCCC on Facebook for more frequent updates.

Cuzz Gekas, Amy Dumas and me in Novi, MI-May 2017.

Thomas Ian Nicholas At Motor City Comic Con 2017

Motor City Comic Con returns to Novi (Detroit) May 17-19. MCCC was one of the first comic cons I attended.

One of my favorite guests there was Thomas Ian Nicholas, although I also enjoy seeing him at Chicago comic cons, because of his connection to the city. TIN starred as young Henry Rowengartner in Rookie of the Year. A regular visitor to Wrigley Field, TIN is beloved by Cubs fans. You'll often see Rowengartner jerseys in the crowd.

I interviewed TIN a few times, enough that he actually remembers me, and he is always gracious with his time and full of good energy and info. Despite having a lengthy resume. I asked him about being known for the role in Rookie of the Year and if the crowds at comic cons differ. As expected, he gets more references at Chicago cons, but there are enough fans and even sports enthusiasts everywhere to ensure he gets some everywhere. Either way, he doesn't mind it. Actually, he embraces it and for great reason. It was an eecellent movie and he did a great job.

On a side note, TIN also dabble in music with his band TIN. I don't think he has visions of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, but the band is quite good.

Go to MotorCityComicCon.com for all of the info, including the celebrity guest list and scheduling. You can also find Motor City Comic Con on Facebook and other social media platforms.

Thomas Ian Nicholas and me in Novi, MI-May 2017.

Diamond Dallas Page at Motor City Comic Con 2018

The Motor City Comic Con is just four months away, running May 17-19. It's not too early to make your plans to go to Novi (just west of Detroit).

One of my favorite gests from previous years is Diamond Dallas Page. A retired wrestler, Page has kept busy with his fitness programs. Page has had an interesting career. He started wrestling at an older age than most, but worked hard and eventually became a multi-time champ.

He developed DDP Yoga and other fitness programs to help others. The man was in amazing shape. I saw him do things people half his age couldn't do. Along with helping the general public, Page saved the lives of at least two wrestlers.

Scott Hall and Jake "the Snake" Roberts had long histories of substance abuse. Page took each under his wing and eventually turned around their lives. Unfortunately, Hall later passed, but Page had helped him clean up and live better.

MCCC usually has a few wrestlers on their guest list. This year's lineup hasn;t been announced in full, but already listed are Giancarlo Esposito and Felicia Day. There will be at least another 25 or so added, along with dozens of creators. 

Go to MotorCityComicCon.com for more info and follow MCCC on Facebook for more frequent updates. Check my interview with DDP at On the Beat with Diamond Dallas Page. and all of my interviews from MCCC on the Johngy's Beat MCCC Playlist on YouTube.

Diamond Dallas Page and me in Novi, MI-May 2018.

Jordan Trovillion At Motor City Comic Con 2017

Motor City Comic Con is just over six months away. It's not too early to make your plans to be there. I know I am.

Jordan Trovillion is one of my all-time favorite celebrity guests at the Motor City Comic Con.  She is an actress, singer, model, artist and probably more.  It seems every time I see her, she has added more to her already lengthy resume.  Also, every time I see her, she is always smiling.

Jordan isn't above having some lighthearted fun at her own expense.  She once had a sign which read "Don't be afraid to ask who I am."  That brought many laughs.  Most people attending the MCCC knew Jordan, of course.

Over the years, I have interviewed Jordan a few times and talked to her several more.  She is always a delight and she is always into several new projects.  Interviewing Jordan is never dull.

Every comic con has several celebrity guests who I always like seeing and for the MCCC, Jordan is at the top of that list.  I am hoping she will be there again this year and I will try to get an update interview. 

Go to JordanTrovillion.net to learn more about her.  You can check out my interview with Jordan, along with all of my interviews from the MCCC, at the Johngy's Beat Motor City Comic Con playlist on YouTube.  You can also get all of the info about MCCC 2024 at MotorCityComicCon.com.  It runs May 17-19 in Novi, Michigan.

Jordan Trovillion and me in Novi, MI-May 2017.

Larry B. Scott on Baseball and Nerds

Several years ago, I met Larry B. Scott at Motor City Comic Con. Probably best known for his role in the Revenge of the Nerds film franchise, Scott caught my eye years earlier when he played Gerald LeFlore, father of Ron LeFlore in One In a Million: The Ron LeFlore Story.

Ron went from prison to playing nine seasons in Major League Baseball, including seven season with his hometown Detroit tigers and one season with my Chicago White Sox. He finished with one season with the Montreal Expos in 1982. LeFlore battled issues on and off, but seems to have been on the right track.

I might have been the only person to bring up that role to Scott when we met him. Of course, I also talked to him about his more famous role. Scott was a great guy, granting us an interview with no prior knowledge of us. Scott gave a fun interview, which has gotten one of the biggest responses of any interview I have done. For the rest of the weekend, Scott greeted us enthusiastically every time we walked near hi booth. Before we left, I made sure to thank him for his time and energy. He was really great.

My interview with Scott is at On the Beat With Larry B. Scott. If you watch it, please leave a comment and subscribe to my YouTube page.

Go to MotorCityComicCon.com for more info and follow MCCC on Facebook for more frequent updates.

Larry B. Scott, Cuzz Gekas and me in Novi, MI-May 2018.

John Morrison and Melina at Motor City Comic Con 2012

Motor City Comic Con returns November 10-12. While I will not be "On the Beat" there, I still support the con as one of the best.

I used to go every year, but the scheduling as distance proved to be obstacles for me. It's not for lack of desire though.

Sometimes, celebrity pairings make for odd pictures years later. Such was the case when wrestler John Morrison (Johnny Nitro etc.) was there with his then-girlfriend wrestler Melina. Sur all was great then. They were a happy couple. Some time later, they broke up. 

Morrison is now with Taya Valkyrie. I'm not sure what Melina's relation status is. So there Jason and I are, picture with a couple that is no more. It's not a huge deal. It's not like they will call me and ask me to destroy the photo. I don't know, but I am guessing they are okay with each other, but either way, it doesn't really matter much.

The only time this would ever really come up is if I brought this picture to either to sign. Would they sign it? Again, I don't know, but I don't care. I am not trying to get their autographs, but if I was, I have since gotten solo photos with each. 

This year's MCCC does present a unique opportunity. Wrestler Danhausen will be there, as will his creator father Brian Danhausen. Getting a dual photo with them would probably be hard, but this is a rare opportunity when it might be possible.

Go to MotorCityComicCon.com for more info and follow MCCC on Facebook for more frequent updates.

Jason Fleigel, John Morrison, Melina and me in Novi, MI-May 2012.

Scott Steiner and StarrCast

Big Poppa Pump is coming to StarrCast VI. Scott Steiner and a roster of wrestling stars and legends will be appearing at StarrCast VI tomorrow through Sunday at the Hyatt in Schamburg, Illinois. Of course, Ill be "On the Beat" all weekend.

Steiner was one of the best singles stars to emerge from a successful tag team. His brother Rick broke into wrestling first and was on the rise as a singles star. Younger brother Scott joined him a few years later and they formed the Steiner Brothers tag team. Collegiate stars at the University of Michigan, the Steiners were one of the most dominate teams of their era. They could have become one of the best ever (if not THE best), but Scott was destined for individual stardom.

Slowly changing his look and his moveset, the athletic Scott morphed into the powerhouse Big Poppa Pump. While never great on the mic, he became one of the most successful wrestlers in the (Now-defunct)) WCW.

After the WWE bought WCW, Scott had a bit of a run with the company, but ultimately didn't stay with the WWE. He has remained active on the indie scene as well as a con guest.

He will certainly be one of the most popular guests at StarrCast, but he'll have plenty of competition. StarrCast VI is loaded with wrestling talent. Of course, there will also be panels, events, vendors and more. It is the largest wrestling convention and I cannot wait to be immersed in the world of pro wrestling all weekend.

For more info, go to StarrCast.com. Check back here for my recaps and coverage.

Scott Steiner and me in Novi, MI-May 2015.

Terry Huddleston At Motor City Comic Con

Terry Huddleston was one of the first artists I ever started to follow, after meeting him at Motor City Comic Con more than a decade ago. Terry's wall of superhero art caught my eye.

Although I was new to the comic con scene, I already learned Aquaman was vastly under-represented by all. When I saw Terry's art, I asked about Aquaman, thinking I'd get the same negative answer as several artists already gave me. Terry isn't your average artist though. He quickly pulled out one of his Aquaman works and I immediately bought it. 

MCCC returns to Novi November 10-12. Go to MotorCityComicCon.com for more info and follow MCCC on Facebook for more frequent updates. Also, check out Terry's great work at TerryHuddlestonArt.com.

Terry Huddleston and me in Novi, MI-May 2017.

Nicole Marie Jean at Motor City Comic Con 2018

Motor City Comic Con returns to Novi, MI May 13-15. I will not be there this year, but MCCC is one of the best comic cons.

When I first started going to comic cons 20 years ago, a few people dressed in costume. Over the years, that number increased dramatically and became known as cosplaying. Now cosplay is such a  big par of comic cons, it often has a separate section at the events. There are even professional cosplayers.

Nicole Jean Marie is one of the first pro cosplayers I ever met. Based in Las Vegas, she is also an artist, sculptor and entertainer. She has traveled all over the world. She has been in contests and has judged contests.

At MCCC 2018. Nicole had one of the most consistently long lines. It seemed everyone wanted to meet her. She was as nice as could be.

Cosplayers dress as characters, famous people or cultural icons. They can also create original costumes. The costumes can be simple or very elaborate. This si all fun, but it is very serious business. It's a lot of fun seeing all of these creative folks. I only wish I would see mor Aquaman representation.

Since then, I have met many more cosplayers, but Nicole remains one of the best. 

For more info on this great cosplayer, go to NicoleMarieJean.com. Go to MotorCityComicCon.com for more info and follow MCCC on Facebook for more frequent updates.

Nicole Marie Jean and me in Novi, MI-May 2018.

Gavin Smith At Motor City Comic Con 2017

Based in Indianapolis, Indiana, Gavin Smith is a freelance artist. He is the artist for The Accelerators, Ghost in the Shell, and Gregory Graves. He has also a ton of other work, including creating and self publishing his own comic book Human City.

I have met Smith several times, including at Motor City Comic Con in 2017. Unfortunately I have never had the chance to talk to him about his enthusiasm for corgis, the generally happy little pups. I'd like to ask if he every incorporated corgis in his work and if not, will he ever do so. It would be cool to see the cheerful dogs mixed with his illustrations.

Check out Gavin Smith's website to learn more about him and his work. Go to MotorCityComicCon.com for more info and follow MCCC on Facebook for more frequent updates. 

Gavin Smith and me in Novi, MI-May 2017.

Terry Huddleston at Motor City Comic Con 2018

Terry Huddleston was one of the first artists I ever met at Motor City Comic Con. Over the years, I bug, I mean visit him at any comic con we both attend.

Of course, the first question I ever asked him was if he had any old school Aquaman art, which of course he did. He pretty much has most every superhero in his portfolio. Along with his first Aquaman, he added a new version, which is beautiful, even though I prefer the old school version.

Terry's creations go beyond superheros though. He covers the world of pop culture and fiction.I have always said he should venture into the world of wrestling. His colors and style are bold and larger than life, like the wrestlers. I would love to see what he could do with Rowdy Roddy Piper, The Undertaker and the rest of the gang.

Terry is a great guy. He's always willing to talk art or anything else. It's creators like Terry who are such a vital part of comic cons. I realy feel for these folks who had so much taken away last year. I know they are creative and found other avenues to sell and promote their work, but I really hope comic cons return soon for them and for me, of course. I miss seeing my friends like Terry.

Check out TerryHuddlestonArt.com to see all of his fantastic art work. Go to MotorCityComicCon.com for more info and follow MCCC on Facebook for more frequent updates. 

Terry Huddleston and me in Novi, MI-May 2018.

Donald Gibb at Motor City Comic Con 2018

Like most everything else, the Motor City Comic Con was cancelled this year. A yearly staple on my convention list, I am hoping things settle down so MCCC can return in May 2021.

Oddly, I went all the way to Novi, MI for the MCCC and met actor Donald Gibb, only to see him at my health club a fwew weeks later. Of course, I did not recognize him, but my friend Jim did. We approached him and talked a bit, but I did not bother him for a picture there on his personal time. I did mention meeting him at MCCC, not expecting him to remember, because fo all of the people he meets.

Gibb had small roles in Stripes and Conan the Barbarian, before landing his most notable role in Revenge of the Nerds. Gibb embraced that role and even marketed Ogre Beer, although I am unsure if it still exists.

Gibb was just as pleasant at the health club as he was at MCCC. We didn't bother him too long at either place and he seemed genuinely appreciative of his fans.

Nothing has been announced yet for MCCC 2021, but I am hoping for the May return. Until then, go to MotorCityComicCon.com for more info and follow MCCC on Facebook for more frequent updates. 

Donald Gibb, Cuzz Gekas and me in Novi, MI-May 2018.

Happy Birthday Cuzz!

Today I celebrate the birthday of my longtime friend Cuzz.
Cuzz is "Cuzz" becuzz our gang already had a "Chuck" Gekas. He soon became "Cuzz" to us and he eagerly embraced the moniker. Born out of necessity (or at least clarity and convenience), "Cuzz" actually fits him well. He is Cuzz.
In all seriousness, by either name, Cuzz is a great friend and human. I've been fortunate to call him a friend for more than 20 years. He have traveled the country, seen dozens of sports events, started a BackUp Catcher Hall of Fame and have had a lot of fun.
Part of that fun happens at comic cons. Cuzz has been a huge help to me at cons over the years, but more importantly, I enjoy his company on these trips.
I did put him to extra work a few years back when I asked him to interview former boxer Jack O'Halloran. A boxing aficionado, Cuzz was the perfect person to handle the interview and he did a great job with it. That interview is at On the Beat With Jack O'Halloran.
Cuzz is a man of deep faith and I appreciate his insight and ear. I have learned a lot through Cuzz and I hope it has made me a better person and believer.
Happy birthday to Cuzz. I hope your day is awesome and I am looking forward to celebrating with you soon.

Jack O'Halloran , Cuzz Gekas and me in Novi, MI-May 2018.

Checking In With Sara Richard

It's been a little while since I gave an update on Sara Richard, one of my favorite artists. As always, she has been very busy.

The Royal Book of Oz is the fifteenth book in the Oz series. It is the first book in the Oz series written by Ruth Plumly Thompson. Clover Press created a new edition with updated artwork by Sara Richard and an afterword by Eisner Winner, Eric Shanower.

The book is produced in its original size and is a beautiful piece to add to any book collection. Sara's fantastic art is certainly a highlight.

Sara also revealed her GI Joe cover. Sara was "So excited to have drawn my girl, Baroness." It is a credit to the GI Joe franchise to have Sara now be a part of it.

I have met and interviewed Sara several times. I have a few pieces of her wonderful artwork hanging in my place, including her take on the Johngy character. Sara is massively talented and one of the coolest people I know.

Check out SaraRichard.com for more info. For more freuent updates and other cool stuff, you can follow Sara at The Art of Sara Richard on Facebook. 

Sara Richard and me in Novi, MI-May 2015.

Monique Dupree at Motor City Comic Con 2008

The Motor City Comic Con was supposed to be this weekend, but it has been postponed due to the pandemic. While I sadly wait for the situation to be resolved and the MCCC to be rescheduled, I am recalling some of my favorite times there.
I met Monique Dupree at one of my first times at MCCC. "Tha Original Gata" is a singer, model, actress and more, including a wrestling personality. Sometimes called the original black scream queen, Monique's resume includes all genres of movies, dating back to her role in Lean On Me.
She is also the sister of actor Tony Todd.
Monique's work in wrestling has mainly been in House of Hardcore, the wrestling events headed by hardcore legend Tommy Dreamer. I was happy to see Monique at Great Lakes Championship Wrestling's Blizzard Brawl (which is a joint effort between Dreamer and Wisconsin promoter and #SuperFriend David Herro) last year and at C2E2 this year. At both events, she wasn't even listed as a celebrity guest, but she was accompanying Dreamer. I was just happy to see her again! I pointed out Monique to a few fans who didn't realize who she was, but were very happy to meet her.
Her combination of acting and wrestling makes her a dual threat at comic cons. She draws fans from both areas of entertainment. Actually, her beauty and personality make her a triple threat, as fans are drawn to her just for being her. She is very sweet and fan-friendly and a great addition to any comic con.
Check MoniqueDupree.com and follow Monique on at @ThaOriginalGata on twitter for more info and updates on Monique. Go to MotorCityComicCon.com for more info and follow MCCC on Facebook for more frequent updates.

Monique Dupree and me in Novi, MI-May 2008.

Jenna Elfman at Motor City Comic Con 2018

The Motor City Comic Con was supposed to be this weekend, but it has been postponed due to the pandemic. While I sadly wait for the situation to be resolved and the MCCC to be rescheduled, I am recalling some of my favorite times there.
When talking about the best celebrity guests, Jenna Elfman would have to rank high. Elfman went above aqnd beyond with every fan at her booth. Despite having one of the longest lines, Elfman made sure to make each interaction as special as could be. She greeted everyone warmly and thanked all for seeing her. She had a decent selection of 8x10s, but it was her personality that was the hit. After taking every picture, she made a point to make sure the fans liked the picture before leaving.
These are all simple things, but they go a long way in attracting and keeping fans. I am sure reports from the first day brought more fans to her the next two days and justifiably so.
Elfman is probably best known for her title role in tv's Dharma & Greg, a role for which she won a Golden Globe award. Elfman met her husband Bodhi at a Sprite commercial audition in 1991. Famed composer Danny Elfman is Bodhi's uncle.
You can follow Jenna at @JennaElfman on twitter. Go to MotorCityComicCon.com for more info and follow MCCC on Facebook for more frequent updates.

Jenna Elfman, Cuzz Gekas and me in Novi, MI-May 2018.

Sarah Wilkinson At Motor City Comic Con 2017

The Motor City Comic Con was supposed to be this weekend, but it has been postponed due to the pandemic. While I sadly wait for the situation to be resolved and the MCCC to be rescheduled, I am recalling some of my favorite times there.

Sarah Wilkinson is an artist who has worked on comic books, trading cards and other projects. In the world of trading cards, Sarah has illustrated for Indiana Jones, Star Trek, My Little Pony, Dr. Who, Bettie Page, Iron Man, Spider-Man, Batman, Wonder Woman and more. Her first job was with Topps when she was only 19 years old.

In addition to her work projects, Sarah also creates her own art. Much of her work was on display when I met her at MCCC a few years back. Sarah had to have one of the most diverse and plentiful selections, among the many talented artists there.

On a side note, Sarah describes herself as a crazy cat lady and a foodie. I describe her as a talented and very nice artist. I hope to see her again this year.

Go to MotorCityComicCon.com for info and scheduling. Also, check out SarahWilkinsonArt.net for info on Sarah.

Sarah Wilkinson and me in Novi, MI-May 2017.

Jay Brant At Motor City Comic Con 2017

The Motor City Comic Con was supposed to be this weekend, but it has been postponed due to the pandemic. While I sadly wait for the situation to be resolved and the MCCC to be rescheduled, I am recalling some of my favorite times there.
Michigan-based Jay Brant is the talented force behind Heads Up Studios. The name is a clever take on his work, which often is the head of various pop culture icons. He is not limited to just illustrating heads, but it is a large part of his portfolio and a very successful part.

I first met Jay many years ago and I was immediately drawn to his wall of heads. Of course, I had to search for my beloved Aquaman and I found one (applause to Jay for this). Jay has multiple sizes of his creations, including trading card sized creations.

Given my previously mentioned search for Aquaman and my never-ending appreciation of Aquaman, you'd think I would feature that illustration here. Since I have done that in previous posts, I selected BatGirl for this one. I particularly like this one, because it is old school BatGirl, like the version portrayed by Yvonne Craig on tv's BatMan.

Jay also does commissions. One day, I will get to do his take on the Johngy character and I will add that to my Wall of Johngy, which isn't quite as impressive as Jay's Heads Up Wall.
I always look forward to seeing Jay and his new creations. He is as friendly as he is talented.
Go to MotorCityComicCon.com for all of the info, including the celebrity guest list and scheduling. You can also find Motor City Comic Con on Facebook and other social media platforms.

Jay Brant and me in Novi, MI-May 2017.