Mad About Paul Reiser and Helen Hunt

Fan Expo Chicago always has a large celebrity guest lineup. This year, as soon as I saw Paul Reiser and Helen Hunt were coming, I set my sights on meeting them.

Both have had great careers on television and in movies, but my favorite role was pairing them on Mad About You. Ordinarily I prefer solo shots with celebrities, but in this case, I wanted both together and was happy when I saw they were doing a joint photo op. '

The time to chat during photo ops is minimal. At best, you hope for an exchange of pleasantries. I am happy to report both Reiser and Hunt were very nice, asking our names and thanking us for coming. It doesn't seem like much, but when they have hundreds of photos to take in a short time span, that is about as good as it gets. If you want more time to chat, it is best to go to their booth for an autograph. Even there, time is obviously limited, but at least you get a couple minutes.

I did not get their autographs, because we left after this photo op, but I hope to get them to sign the picture in the future. Then do I get Tony to sign it, too? LOL.

Thank you to the fine folks at Fan Expo for the hospitality. Go to fanexpohq.com for more info on future shows.

Paul Reiser, Tony, me and Helen Hunt in Rosemont, IL-August 2025.

Dawn McTeigue at Fan Expo 2024

FanExpo returns to Chicago tomorrow. The wait is soon over!

As usual, there are a lot of big name celebrities set to appear. Ewan McGregor, Paul Reiser, Helen Hunt and John Cena are just a handful of the stars.

While I enjoy seeing them, I spend more time in Artist Alley. One of my favorite creators is Dawn McTeigue.

After seeing her artwork many years ago, I checked out her website and was even more impressed. In addition to a lot more of her art, some of her text made me smile.

She uses her maiden name of McTeigue, because it's not as common as her married name. I appreciate that marketing thought. She also included the proper pronunciation of her last name as "McTeg," although she doesn't seem to be bothered by the long "E" alternative. She also lists a lot of other info, which I found equally interesting.

While I do not see McTeigue listed for Artist Alley, I still hope she is there. Sometimes the website list lags behind reality.

For more info on FanExpo go to fanexpohq.com. Go to dawnmcteigue.com to see all of her fantastic art. Also, check here for my recurring coverage.

Dawn McTeigue and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2024.

Friend Encounters: Lou Ferrigno and Jack

Friend Encounters is a weekly series featuring friends meeting celebrities.

FanExpo returns to Chicago (Rosemont) this weekend. Since taking over Wizard World, FanExpo has not missed a beat.

Back in the day though, Wizard World was a lot of fun. They usually held a special press reception prior to the weekend of fun. One of those events featured Lou Ferrigno. My interview with him there is at On the Beat with Lou Ferrigno. Among other topics, I asked him about his role on King of Queens. The next day at Wizard World, we thanked him again for the interview. He was kind enough to take a picture with my photo friend Jack and me again. 

I must also stress how nice Ferrigno has always been to me over many conventions. Ferrigno sometimes gets criticized for not-so-pleasant interactions, but I have never experienced anything less than great ones, even when I wasn't part of the press. Maybe I am just lucky or maybe others are unlucky.

It just goes to prove you never know. Regardless of reputation, if you want to meet the celeb, I highly encourage you to do so. I have met hundreds of celebs and athletes and have had very few bad encounters, despite hearing many stories of problems others have had.

Check fanexpohq.com for more info on their events. Check here for my recurring coverage.

Lou Ferrigno and Jack in Rosemont, IL-August 2016.

Laurie Metcalf at Fan Expo 2024

FanExpo returns to Chicago August 15-17. Of course, I will be "On the Beat" all weekend.

I was never a huge fan of Roseanne, but I did appreciate the work of the actors. One of my favorites was Chicago-area gal Laurie Metcalf.

Winner of numerous awards, Metcalf has an impressive resume of stage and screen credits. I had forgotten about some of her earlier roles in films including Uncle Buck and Pacific Heights.

Last year, I had the opportunity to meet Metcalf. At 60, Metcalf looked great. She was in lively spirits and seemed happy to be meeting fans. Of course, in those situations, there isn't a lot of time for talk, but we did chat a bit about some Chicago stuff.

This year, FanExpo has another packed guest lineup. Ewan McGregor, Orlando Bloom and John Cena lead the list, but there are a lot more celebs and even more creative folks in Artist Alley.

For more info on FanExpo go to fanexpohq.com. Also, check here for my recurring coverage.

Laurie Metcalf and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2024.

Chris Ehnot at Fan Expo

Fan Expo returns to Rosemont August 15-17. As usual, I will be joined by Tony "On the Beat" all weekend.

There are a lot of big name celebrities, such as Ewan McGregor, Orlando Bloom and John Cena. While I will meet several of the celebs, I always enjoy meandering through Artist Alley.

One of my favorite creators is Chris Ehnot. I first met Chris several years ago and was quickly impressed with his work. His booth is now a regular stop on my Artist Alley circuit. A product of Kent University, Chris has won many awards in the art industry. He is also a great person. I always enjoy seeing his new work and chatting a bit.

For more info, check fanexpohq.com. Check chrisehnot.com for more on this talented creator. Also, check back here for my recurring coverage.

Chris Ehont and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2024.

Mario Lopez at Fan Expo

FanExpo returns to Chicago (Rosemont) August 15-17. Of course, I'll be back "On the Beat" as usual.

Last year, Mario Lopez was one of the headline guests. Lopez went from a child actor to a big name in the entertainment business. Although I was familiar with a lot of his work (Saved By the Bell, etc.), Tony also knew him from The Golden Girls. That opened the proverbial door to a bit of extra conversation.

Lopez was extremely nice and engaging. He seemed extra pleased with Tony's Golden Girls reference.

FanExpo took over Wizard World a few years ago. While I was initially curious how it would all work, the transition and aftermath has been smooth. Basically, I really can't see a difference.

This year, Orlando Bloom, Ewan McGregor and John Cena head the big list of celebrities. As usual, I will spend a lot of time in Artist Alley, reconnecting with old favorites and meeting new ones.

Go to fanexpohq.com for more info. Check back here for my recurring coverage.

 Mario Lopez, Tony and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2024.

Danny Reyes and David Vox Mullen at Fan Expo 2024

FanExpo returns to Rosemont (Chicago) in one month. I will be "On the Beat" as always, covering the weekend of pop culture fun.

Last year, one of the special events was a preview of The Herro's Journey. I have written several pieces about this documentary about Wisconsin promoter David Herro. Today, I am focusing on the two main men who made it possible.

David Vox Mullen first told me about this project a couple years ago. Knowing Vox, I knew he was a great choice to produce it. He told me Danny Reyes was directing it. I didn't know Danny as well, but I knew he was massively talented. I knew that team had the knowledge and skills, along with their respect for wrestling to make this a great doc and they did. Actually, they exceeded my hopes.

I talked to both in my recent interview. They gave new insight into the project and David Herro.

I am happy to have covered this project from the start. I am ridiculously giddy my name is in the credits, cementing me in this film (in a small way). That was such a cool gesture for which I am very grateful. 

Go to David Vox Mullen & Danny Reyes Talk The Herro's Journey. For more info on FanExpo go to fanexpohq.com. Also, check here for my recurring coverage.

Danny Reyes, David Vox Mullen and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2024.

Patrick Warburton at Fan Expo 2024

Fan Expo returns to Chicago (Rosemont) August 15-17. Of course, Tony and I will be "On the Beat" all weekend, covering the pop culture fun.

A few years ago, actor Patrick Warburton was scheduled to appear at Wizard World (since bought by Fan Expo). I begged WW PR man Jerry for an interview with him and it seemed a good possibility. Then Covid hit, causing that year's event to be postponed. 

When I saw Warburton was returning at last year's Fn Expo, I immediate tried to get the interview. Unfortunately, it did not happen, but I did have a great experience with him. I brought an old picture of us from when he was Guest of Honor at a Global Traveler function about 12 years ago. He actually remembered me and details about the event. We chatted for several minutes before taking the pic below.

While I failed again to get that interview, I got more than expected. It's a great memory, one of my best from my years of covering Wizard World/Fan Expo.

For more info on Fan Expo go to fanexpohq.com. Also, check here for my recurring coverage.

Patrick Warburton, Tony and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2024.

Dave and Kal Herro at Fan Expo

Fan Expo returns to Chicago (Rosemont) August 15-17. As always, I will be "On the Beat" all weekend.

Last year, a special attraction was a preview of The Herro's Journey, the documentary about Wisconsin wrestling promoter David Herro. It's a story about a man and his son, with wrestling as the backdrop, but you don't have to be a wrestling fan to enjoy it.

David and his son Kal were there, as were director Danny Reyes and producer David Vox Mullen. Also there were many friends I met through wrestling, like Sandra. The preview was followed by a Q&A. The crowd applauded all throughout the short preview and after the event ended. Despite it being only a sneak look, it still triggered emotions and chills as we saw David in a new light.

After the event, we chatted in several different groups. We were all excited about seeing it come to fruition, which it recently did. I interviewed Daid a few weeks ago about the whole process.

To watch o\my interview with David, go to On the Beat with David Herro. For more info on FanExpo go to fanexpohq.com. Also, check here for my recurring coverage.

Kal, David, Sandra and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2024.

Elizabeth Berkley at Fan Expo

Running August 13-15, Fan Expo Chicago is now exactly two months away. Of course, I will be "On the Beat" all weekend, along with my pal and photog Tony.

Last year, we met Elizabeth Berkley, who rose to fame on television's Saved By the Bell. While a bit silly, the show was just fun Saturday morning entertainment. Most of the actors on the show have gone on to solid careers.

Berkley originally auditioned for another part on Saved By the Bell, but ultimately the producers were so impressed they created the role of Jessie just for her. She was a strong, young female character, a good role model for other teenage girls. Of course, she also later starred in Showgirls, which a bit controversial at the time, has become a cult classic. 

Last year at Fan Expo, Berkley was so very sweet. We expected our standard few minutes with her, but she initiated more conversation (much to the dismay of the guy behind us). We discussed her career and Chicago. I also gave her my card, hoping for an interview later. She took it and even took a picture of it to make sure she didn't lose it. Unfortunately, I never got the interview, but I really didn't expect it. Still it was a great several minutes with her (even if the guy behind us didn't agree).

Up close, Berkley is stunning  At 51, she looks naturally beautiful.

Fan Expo Chicago will have many new celebrities this year and Tony and I will meet many of them. There is also a huge Artist Alley full of creators of all sorts. Vendors and events round out the fun-filled weekend.

For more info, go to fanexpohq.com. Chec back here for my updates.

Elizabeth Berkley, Tony and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2024.

Marisa Tomei at Fan Expo

Marisa Tomei doesn't seem to age. My proof is in the picture below. Tomei is 59 in that picture. Even better, she was as sweet as could be when Tony and I met her last year at Fan Expo.

Fan Expo Chicago runs August 15-17 and Tony and I will be covering it as always. It's too ealry to have a full celebrity lineup announced yet, but Alicia Silverstone is listed.

I surprised Tomei by mentioning her season on A Different World in 1987. Most people mention her bigger roles, and rightly so, but I remember her first from that tv role. Her episode on Seinfeld is another great tv role, but that one is more well-known.

Tomei is the type of awesome celebrities found at Fan Expo. It's three days of celebs, vendors, panels, creators and all around pop culture fun. Fan Expo took over Wizard World and hasn't missed a beat and I have covered it for almost two decades.

For more info, go to fanexpohq.com. Also, check here for my updates.

Marisa Tomei, Tony and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2024.

Victor Dandridge at Fan Expo

Fan Expo Chicago is exactly three months away. Running August 13-15, it is a three-day celebration of pop culture fun. As the Fan Engagement Specialist, my longtime buddy Victor Dandridge is on hand making sure it is fun.

I first met Victor when he had a booth promoting his 8bit art. Although that was really cool and I have a Johngy 8bit tshirt to prove it, Dandridge would go on to bigger things. In fact, he's gone on to many bigger things.

The man is called "the hardest working man in comics" for good reason. He's also one of the coolest folks I know. Part of his platform is aimed at youngsters to grow the comics hobby and to pass it on for future generations. You can learn all about his work from my interview at Talking Travel with Victor Dandridge.

Of course Dandridge isn't the only reason to attend Fan Expo. Many celebrities, hundreds of vendors and creators, panels, photo-ops and more are part of the engagement Dandridge and the Fan Expo crew offer. It really is a three-day pop culture celebration. 

For more info on Victor and his work, go to VantageInhouse.com. Also, check fanexpohq.com for scheduling and more.

Victor Dandridge Jr. and me in Rosemont, IL-October 2021.

Friend Encounters: Scott Blair and Noah

Friend Encounters is a weekly series featuring friends meeting celebrities.

Today's post is bittersweet. It brings a great memory and a sad reality.

I go to the throwback machine to recall when my then-little cousin Noah joined me "On the Beat" at Wizard World (now Fan Expo). It was fun seeing young teen Noah mix it up with the creators in Artist Alley. Noah did a few interviews. With really little prep, Noah handled the interviews like a pro. I was so impressed.

Noah was a good kid and is now a great young man. I don't see him often, but I follow him on social media. He's got a great future. I hope he looks back on these experiences and smiles like I do.

Now the sad part. The artist here is Scott Blair. Sadly, Scott died last year. He was a tremendous talent and just an awesome person. I think of Scott every time I walk through Artist Alleys now. Scott is missed by all/

Noah and Scott Blair in Rosemont, IL-August 2013.

Jamie Koala's Dreamscape

Jamie Koala is a dark artist and designer. Among her many projects is Dreamscape: A Book of Artwork and Short Stories.

Dreamscape features artwork and short stories based on dreams and nightmares by artist Jamie and author A.K. Kubica. It is a fantastic book of Jamie's beautiful art with the short stories as an added bonus. There is a Kickstarter campaign loaded with extra perks for various pledge levels. 

In addition to her fabulous art, Jamie has an amazing story. She has battled health issues, but remains such a positive person. I love following her on social media. She shows her art and other projects in a fun way. 

I have not interviewed Jamie and I probably never will, although I haven't given up hope. I just want to share her story with all.

For more info on Jamie and her work, go to jamiekoala.com. To learn more about her Kickstarter campaign, go to Jamie's Dreamscape Kickstarter.

Jamie Koala and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2022.

Gigi Edgley at Fan Expo

Gigi Edgley is an Australian singer, songwriter, actress and more. She is perhaps best known for her role on television's Farscape.

I had been a fan of hers for a while, when I unexpectedly met her at Fan Expo Chicago last year. Somehow I missed her on the guest list, but when I saw her booth, I immediately shot over there.

Edgley took some fun photos with me, giving much more than the average celebrity. It was a memorable and fun encounter.

Before I left her, I talked a bit about Talking Travel, my interview series on Global Traveler. As an Australian and a successful entertainer, she'd be an interesting guest. She showed interest and even texted me that night. Since the series had just started, I had a bunch already lined up, because I wanted to be sure to have enough. I texted Edgley it might take a bit to get back to her. 

Unfortunately, when I texted her a couple weeks later, I did not get a response. I tired a couple more times with no response.

I am putting this out, hoping Edgley sees it and might still be willing to do an interview. It's an open-ended offer if she is ever interested. If not, I will still follow her career and be a fan.

Go to FanExpoHQ for more news and scheduling. Also, check GigiEdgley.com for more on this talented woman.

Gigi Edgley and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2023.

Guy Gilchrist at Fan Expo

Writer, artist, musician Guy Gilchrist might be best known for the comic strip Nancy. As iconic as that character and strip is, Gilchrist's creations go well beyond that.

In addition to Nancy, he produced a Muppets comic strip for several years with his brother. He also designed logos for Minor League Baseball teams, including the Portland Sea Dogs, New Britain Rock Cats and Norwich Navigators. He also worked with the Pink Panther, Tom & Jerry, Looney Tunes, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Minnie Mouse. He has also written many children's books.

Gilchrist is one of the more popular guests at Fan Expo events. With his varied accomplishments, he appeals to a wide range of fans, including me. I first met him years ago and was so excited.

While I lament the decline of newspapers and comic strips therein, I cherish the memories of reading them even as an adult. Nancy is iconic and Gilchrist was a huge part of its legacy for more than 20 years.

Fan Expo hosts several conventions across the country. The next one March 15-17 in Toronto. Go to FanExpoHQ.com for more info, guest lists and schedules.

 Guy Gilchrist and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2024.

Scott Beaderstadt at Fan Expo

When Fan Expo took over Wizard World, comic con fans were a tad worried, but that fear has been squashed. Fan Expo is everything Wizard World was and more.

One of my favorite creators at Fan Expo is Scott Beaderstadt. Perhaps best known for his self-published TROLLORDS, he also has done work for Marvel, DC, Archie Comics, and the Thank You Walt Disney Foundation.

His beautiful artwork features vibrant colors capturing a variety of subjects from Prince to a toucan to Bona Lisa, a zombie version of the famous painting. He also does commissions, specializing in zombies.

It's always fun catching up with Scott, especially at Fan Expo Chicago in his hometown. He's another artist whose booth keeps me entranced for lengthy bits of time.

Fan Expo holds several events every year. The next one is February 17-19 in Portl;and, Oregon.

Go to FanExpoHQ.com for more news and scheduling. Go to ScottyB.site for more info on Scott.

Scott Beaderstadt and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2022.

Mira Sorvino's Second Convention Fan

Fan Expo Chicago  is only 7 month away. Running August 16-18, it is one of the biggest comic cons in the country.

Last year, Tony and I covered Fan Expo and met actress Mira Sorvino. As part of the press, we usually don't get line cuts, but the handler there decided we should get to meet her first. That is significant, because Mira informed us we were the first fans she ever met at a convention. Okay, technically Tony was first and I was second (a fact he will never let me forget). I just say we were first.

The daughter of the late Paul Sorvino, Mira has been active in the entertainment world for about 40 years. She has won an Academy Award and a Golden Globe. She is quite accomplished. She has a long list of accolades and she was nervous at the convention.

She freely admitted to being nervous that her line of fans would be short (it was very long) and and meeting fans in general. Tony and I calmed her fears, knowing she would have a continually long line throughout the convention (and she did). We joked or a bit. When it came time for pictures, Mira had a light set up and knew the angles for best pictures (and she was right. Despite this picture being across her table, it is one of my favorites.

She thanked us for being easy on her as her first fans. We thanked her for being so sweet. It was a great encounter and we are even bigger fans now.

While Fan Expo Chicago is seven months away, Fan Expo's next event is MegaCon in Orlando, February 1-4. With a name like that, you know it is a big one. Fan Expo holds about 15 cons during the year. Check FanExpoHQ.com for more info.

Mira Sorvino and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2023.

Johnny (Wild) Meets Johngy

My friends know I am terrible at recognizing people. That includes people I know. At Chicago Fan Expo 2023, that statement was proven a few times.

While roaming Artist Alley, a man came up and greeted me. I had no idea who he was, but he apparently knew me (and not just recognized me from my articles etc.). I was honest and simply admitted I didn't recognize him. I did quickly add that I usually don't recognize people, so as not to offend him.

As soon as he said who he was, I remembered him. It was Johnny Wild, a man I met many years ago, when he was a manager on the Chicago independent wrestling scene.In my defense this time, Johnny lost some weight, wasn't dressed in his usual wrestling attire and it had been about a decade since I saw him. Of course, Johnny understood and we had a fun time catching up a bit.

Johnny was an entertaining manager back in the day. He has worked since then, but not much the last few years, although I think mostly it has been his choice. Either way, he would be a great addition to any wrestling company. He knew how to work a match. He new the psychology. He knew how to engage with the crowd. You knew if Johnny was involved, it would be entertaining.

It was fun seeing Johnny. It brought back good times from my early years of covering wrestling. It was fun to reconnect with an old friend among the thousands of folks at Fan Expo.

Johnny Wild and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2023.

Friend Encounters: Lisa Marie Varon and Glen and Alicia Rylko

Friend Encounters is a weekly series featuring friends who have met celebrities.

I have featured my pal Glen many times. A longtime pal from conventions and wrestling, Glen passed away a few years ago and I miss him. I use this to keep his memory alive.

Glen, his wife Alicia and son Patrick were always very kind to me. We caught up at various events, but Glen and I would often text each other our complaints, laughs or just checkups. He really was a great guy.

I saw him and Alicia take many pictures with celebrities. One of the last ones was with former wrestler and Chicagoan Lisa Marie Varon. Glen and I had similar favorites and Lisa was definitely one of our favorites.

These pictures are always bittersweet. I miss my pal, but I remember so many fun times. Rest in Peace, Glen.

Glen, Lisa Marie Varon and Alicia in Rosemont, IL-August 2019.