Finally, we’re seeing things pick-up again in Toronto! Exciting times! With the conclusion of Awards Season, we were so lucky to ran into legendary Academy Award-winning Actress Michelle Yeoh out and about. She just presented at the Oscars and throughout her stay in Toronto filming upcoming feature STAR TREK: SECTION 31, where she is reprising the role of Emperor Philippa Georgiou. Among the hotspots Yeoh‘s been seen at are Lao Lao Bar, Kiss My Pans and more, paying tribute to the flavours of her native Southeast Asia. We were wondering if we were ever going to be graced by her presence, and so glad we did. She is just absolutely gracious and stunning, a perfect human being!
Academy Award and five-time GRAMMY-winning Singer-Songwriter JON BATISTE resumed his UNEASY TOUR in Toronto at Massey Hall, to a sold-out crowd, fresh off his performance of “It Never Went Away” at the Oscars this past weekend. The song had garnered a nomination, heard in the Netflix Documentary AMERICAN SYMPHONY. Playing a sold-out show, Batiste wowed the audience, even doing an impromptu performance up in the balcony! He is so amazing and kind!
You all know how much I love Colman Domingo. The Academy Award-nominated Actor had a phenomenal 2024 starring in THE COLOR PURPLE and RUSTIN, which garnered him the nod. But perhaps his crowning achievement is SING SING which premiered at TIFF ’23 and will be released this year via A24 and Elevation Pictures. He also can be seen currently in DRIVE-AWAY DOLLS. He is absolutely lovely and always giving to fans. He’s working on TV Series THE MADNESS, filming locally which has him starring as a powerful media figure who is accused of murder. Another meaty role!
I adore SNL and one of the recent additions to the Cast is Sarah Sherman aka Sarah Squirm, who is absolutely quirkly and brilliant. She’s here for an undisclosed project, which we have an inkling what it might be. She joined the Cast in SNL and is getting lots of screen time, which we are here for! She filmed Adam Sandler‘s You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah in the City a couple years back!
(Photo/video credit: Mr. Will Wong)
Paramount+ today announced that production has begun in Toronto on STAR TREK: SECTION 31, an original movie event starring Academy Award® winner Michelle Yeoh. In STAR TREK: SECTION 31, Yeoh will reprise her fan-favorite role as Emperor Philippa Georgiou – a character she played in STAR TREK: DISCOVERY’s first season – who joins a secret division of Starfleet. Tasked with protecting the United Federation of Planets, she also must face the sins of her past.
In addition, it was announced that Omari Hardwick (Power), Vancouver born Kacey Rohl (Hannibal), Emmy® winner Sam Richardson (Ted Lasso), Sven Ruygrok (One Piece), Robert Kazinsky (Pacific Rim), Canadian Humberly Gonzalez (Ginny & Georgia) and James Hiroyuki Liao (Barry) have joined the cast of the original movie event.
Hardwick is best known for his lead role of James ‘Ghost’ St. Patrick in the hit series Power, which earned him critical acclaim and back-to-back Image Awards (NAACP) for Outstanding Actor in a Drama Series. Following his success in Power, Hardwick starred opposite Jennifer Lopez in the thriller The Mother. Hardwick also starred in the limited series Pieces of Her and Zack Snyder’s Army of the Dead. Next, Hardwick will star in Xeno, from Kevin Hart’s Heartbeat production company. In addition to acting, Hardwick founded the film and production company Bravelife in 2010. A talented actor, Hardwick also is a poet and musical artist; his debut album “Concrete & Whiskey” is on the horizon.
Rohl’s first on-screen appearance was in 2010 in the reboot of the series V. She’s best known for her role of Abigail Hobbs in Hannibal and as Sterling Fitch in The Killing. She played Prudence in the 2011 Warner Bros feature Red Riding Hood, opposite Amanda Seyfried, and portrayed Kerry Campbell in Wayward Pines, Alena in Arrow and Marina in The Magicians. After starring in the series Fortunate Son, she led the cast of the Toronto Film Festival’s buzzy White Lie, which garnered her a spot among TIFF’s Rising Stars platform in 2019.
Richardson is best known for his standout role as Richard Splett on Veep. He most recently earned two Emmy nominations for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series, winning his first Emmy for his role in Ted Lasso. His diverse career includes starring in The Afterparty, Hocus Pocus 2 and Velma and voicing Uncle Brill in DreamWorks’ Ruby Gillman: Teenage Kraken. His notable filmography includes Good Boys, Game Over Man, Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates, Neighbors 2, Senior Year, The Tomorrow War, Werewolves Within, Superintelligence, Detroiters, and Office Christmas Party. On television, he’s been seen in The Office, New Girl, Arrested Development and I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson. Richardson is an alumnus of Second City Chicago MainStage.
Ruygrok is a dynamic South African actor who is well-known for his role as Rambo in the Spud film franchise alongside John Cleese, Troye Sivan and Caspar Lee. His other films include City of Violence, The Empty Man, Bring It On and Inside Man: Most Wanted. His most recent works include lead roles in The Good Life and Breathing In (in post-production), and he can be seen as Cabaji in the hit TV series One Piece.
Kazinsky can be seen in the Russo Brothers-directed film The Gray Man, starring Ryan Gosling, Chris Evans and Ana de Armas, and in the drama Second Chance. He starred opposite Brie Larson and Samuel L. Jackson in Captain Marvel; opposite Reese Witherspoon and Sofia Vergara in Hot Pursuit, directed by Anne Fletcher; and opposite Alexander Skarsgård and Paul Rudd in Mute for director Duncan Jones and Liberty Films. Kazinsky also appeared in the feature Warcraft for Jones. Previously, Kazinsky starred in Guillermo del Toro’s film Pacific Rim, opposite Charlie Hunnam and Idris Elba, and was the mysterious love interest to Anna Paquin in True Blood.
Gonzalez next will play a lead in the feature Horrorscope. She stars in the new Star Wars video game Star Wars: Outlaws, stars in the hit series Ginny & Georgia and was recently seen in Jupiter’s Legacy. She starred in Nobody, opposite Bob Odenkirk and Connie Nielson; Slumberland, opposite Jason Momoa; and the indie A Hundred Lies. She played the lead role in the mini-series Utopia Falls and recurred on the series Nurses. Last year, Humberly played the fan-favorite role of Vanessa on the series In the Dark. Her previous credits include Orphan Black, Saving Hope, Workin’ Moms and The Detail. Humberly is a graduate of the prestigious CFC Conservatory program in Toronto and the National Theatre School in Montreal.
Liao, a Juilliard-trained character actor, is known for his roles as Edmond Ku in the award-winning series The Dropout and Albert Nguyen in the Emmy-winning series Barry. He is set to appear in the upcoming limited series Presumed Innocent and the first season of Orphan Black: Echoes and continues his recurring role of Lt. Fleming in the new season of Blue Bloods. Liao’s recent credits include Cowboy Bebop, opposite John Cho, and Paramount Pictures’ Snake Eyes with Henry Golding. Other notable roles include Michael Pak in the film Lost Girls and voicing Toshiaki in Tim Burton’s animated film Frankenweenie. Liao has a diverse range; he’s tackled everything from battling aliens in Battle Los Angeles to displaying his comedic skills in Management with Jennifer Aniston, Woody Harrelson and Steve Zahn. His television presence includes recurring roles in Paramount+’s SEAL TEAM, Prison Break, CSI and 24, along with guest appearances on shows like Manifest, Iron Fist and Law & Order.
Written by Craig Sweeny and directed by Olatunde Osunsanmi, STAR TREK: SECTION 31 is executive produced by Alex Kurtzman, Craig Sweeny, Aaron Baiers, Olatunde Osunsanmi, Frank Siracusa, John Weber, Rod Roddenberry, Trevor Roth and Michelle Yeoh and is produced by CBS Studios in association with Secret Hideout and Roddenberry Entertainment.
STAR TREK: SECTION 31 will be available to stream exclusively on Paramount+ in the U.S. and in all international markets where the service is available. The movie is distributed by Paramount Global Content Distribution.
Ahead of #StarTrekDay on September 8, Pluto TV is expanding its ever-growing content library with a brand-new channel dedicated to the iconic Star Trek series, streaming now in Canada. The Star Trek channel revisits the mission of the U.S.S. Enterprise with two classic series from one of Sci-Fi’s most beloved franchises, including all three seasons of the original series Star Trek and all seven seasons Star Trek: The Next Generation.
Star Trek kickstarted the cultural phenomenon nearly 60 years ago with a vision that has remained innovative and iconoclastic to this day.
Under the command of Captain James T. Kirk (played by William Shatner), the series depicts the adventures of the crew of the Starship Enterprise and its five-year mission “to boldly go where no man has gone before.” Airing for three seasons from 1966 to 1969 and delivering episodes that stand the test of time, the original series Star Trek stars William Shatner, Leonard Nimoy, DeForest Kelley, James Doohan, Nichelle Nichols, George Takei, and Walter Koenig.
The most watched show in the franchise, Star Trek: The Next Generation, is the second live-action series of the Star Trek universe, featuring over seven intergalactic seasons, which aired from September 1987 to May 1994. Set in the 24th century, nearly 100 years after James Kirk, a new crew of intrepid explorers takes the helm, this time on the U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701-D. With its continuing mission of boundary-pushing exploration, it featured a new cast of characters starring Sir Patrick Stewart, Jonathan Frakes, LeVar Burton, Michael Dorn, Gates McFadden, Marina Sirtis, and Brent Spiner.
In addition to the new Star Trek channel, Pluto TV celebrates Star Trek Day on September 8 with a marathon of programming on the Pluto TV Documentaries channel. Travel the country with former Star Trek: The Next Generation actress Denise Crosby and get to know the Universes’ most fervent fans in Trekkies; join host William Shatner, the original Enterprise captain, James T. Kirk., as he takes viewers inside the creation of Star Trek: The Next Generation in Chaos on The Bridge; and get up close and personal with actors who have portrayed the role of Enterprise Captain in the feature, The Captains, followed by the five-part series The Captains: Close Up focusing in on William Shatner, Sir Patrick Stewart, Avery Brooks, Kate Mulgrew, and Scott Bakula.
“Star Trek has stood the test of time for nearly six decades as one of the most popular television franchises in history. We’re thrilled to offer the all-new dedicated Star Trek channel on Pluto TV, bringing the first two live-action series to Canada’s legions of fans,”said Katrina Kowalski, Vice President of Content, Pluto TV and Paramount+ in Canada.
As announced in July, Paramount+ is Canada’s streaming home of the iconic Star Trek catalogue featuring over 800 episodes of binge-worthy episodes and 12 feature films. Star Trek on Paramount+ includes but is not limited to one of Canada’s most streamed series* Star Trek: Strange New Worlds all seasons of Star Trek: Discovery, Star Trek: Picard, and the animated series Star Trek: Lower Decks. In addition, the service is currently home to all the Star Trek feature films, including Star Trek: The Director’s Cut.
Pluto TV is available for free, with no registration or subscription required. Canadian users can watch Pluto TV via web at www.pluto.tv, via the Pluto TV app for Apple, Amazon Fire TV, Roku, Android TV, Samsung, LG, Tizen, Hisense, and Xbox devices, and via mobile apps on the App Store and Google Play. Visit Pluto TV Canada on Instagram @plutotvca to get started on your free streaming journey.
Mr. Will Wong wants to give readers a chance to celebrate STAR TREK Day with a special screening of STAR TREK: LOWER DECKS! Get ready for an event jam-packed with sneak peeks and surprises, free concessions, giveaways, and more. The screenings will take place Friday, September 8, 2023 as follows:
Synopsis:
STAR TREK: LOWER DECKS is Star Trek’s first comedy series and focuses on the support crew serving on one of Starfleet’s least important ships, the U.S.S. Cerritos. Ensigns Mariner, Boimler, Rutherford, and Tendi have to keep up with their duties and their social lives, often while the ship is being rocked by a multitude of sci-fi anomalies, both familiar and outlandish. Star Trek: Lower Decks is Star Trek as you’ve never seen it before.
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— MR. WILL WONG 📸 (@mrwillw) September 1, 2023
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STAR TREK: LOWER DECKS Season Four arrives September 7, 2023 on Paramount+.
(Photo/video credit: Paramount Pictures Canada)
Join Paramount+, CBS Studios and fans from around the world for the annual “Star Trek Day” global celebration on Friday, September 8, 2023. This year’s special program is hosted by STAR TREK: LOWER DECKS’ Jerry O’Connell on Paramount+ and features special STAR TREK: LOWER DECKS screenings across the U.S., the UK and Canada in anticipation of the upcoming fourth season.
Additional information on “Star Trek Day” programming and initiatives can be found at StarTrek.com/Day.
On September 8, 1966, STAR TREK debuted for the first time on television with “The Man Trap.” On that day, STAR TREK creator Gene Roddenberry introduced audiences to a world that championed diversity, inclusion, acceptance and hope. Fifty-seven years later, Paramount honors this important day and the franchise’s enduring legacy by providing fans with memorable ways to enjoy and celebrate all things STAR TREK.
Additional information on Paramount’s “Star Trek Day” global celebration and initiatives is below:
“STAR TREK DAY” SPECIAL PROGRAM, HOSTED BY JERRY O’CONNELL
On September 8, fans worldwide can watch the “Star Trek Day” special program, hosted by STAR TREK: LOWER DECKS’ Commander Jack Ransom, himself, Jerry O’Connell. A salute to the franchise, the special program will include segments that look back at memorable moments over the past 57 years; commemorate 50 years of STAR TREK animation; pay tribute to STAR TREK: DISCOVERY, ahead of its final season; provide an exclusive sneak-peek clip from the upcoming fourth season of STAR TREK: LOWER DECKS; and commemorate many other moments that highlight STAR TREK’s legacy.
The “Star Trek Day” special will be available to watch for free globally on StarTrek.com/Day, YouTube (Paramount+ and STAR TREK Official pages), Twitch (ParamountPlus) and Facebook (@StarTrekOnPPlus and @StarTrek).
“STAR TREK: THE ANIMATED CELEBRATION” – STAR TREK: LOWER DECKS SPECIAL SCREENINGS
The animated universe of STAR TREK began 50 years ago on September 8, with STAR TREK: THE ANIMATED SERIES. This “Star Trek Day” commemorates the 50th anniversary with an evening of cartoon comedy, including four specially selected episodes of the hit animated series STAR TREK: LOWER DECKS. Fans can attend these exclusive, free promotional screenings and experience the brand-new season of STAR TREK: LOWER DECKS on the big screen. The day is jam-packed with sneak peeks and surprises, free concessions, giveaways and more! This is a can’t-miss event for long-time fans of STAR TREK and adult animation across the U.S., Canada and the UK.
All screenings are free to attend, and fans can register at STAR TREK ANIMATED CELEBRATION SCREENINGS on Thursday, August 24, at 9 a.m. PT / 12 p.m. ET. The special STAR TREK: LOWER DECKS fan screenings will take place in Canadian cities Vancouver and Calgary, as well as in Columbus, Dallas, Denver, Philadelphia, Phoenix, San Diego, St. Louis, Washington D.C. and London.
SPECIAL “STAR TREK DAY” MERCHANDISE AND SALE
On September 8, fans can use the code STARTREKDAY for 25 percent off sitewide at https://shop.StarTrek.com, which includes curated “Star Trek Day” and STAR TREK: THE ANIMATED SERIES collections.
Paramount+ announced today that the service is now Canada’s streaming home of the iconic STAR TREK catalogue featuring over 800 episodes of binge-worthy episodes and 12 feature films. Kicking off today, season 1 and the current season to date of STAR TREK: STRANGE NEW WORLDS is available to stream on Paramount+, and the library will continue to build throughout the month with STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION available on August 8, 2023. STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE on August 15, 2023 and more. These iconic series join STAR TREK: DISCOVERY and STAR TREK: PICARD, already streaming on the service.
The full content rollout schedule is below.
As announced earlier this month at San Diego Comic-Con, the highly anticipated STAR TREK: STRANGE NEW WORLDS and STAR TREK: LOWER DECKS crossover episode is available to stream today. Additionally, the current season of STAR TREK: STRANGE NEW WORLDS will feature the first-ever STAR TREK musical episode “Subspace Rhapsody.” The episode features 10 original songs, plus a “Subspace Rhapsody” version of the series’ main title, with music and lyrics by Kay Hanley (Letters to Cleo) and Tom Polce (Letters to Cleo, Crazy Ex-Girlfriend). This special episode will be available to stream on Thursday, August 3, 2023.
Fans can view the trailer:
With today’s announcement, Paramount+ is now the home to STAR TREK series and episodes, including but not limited to Canada’s most streamed series* STAR TREK: STRANGE NEW WORLDS and all seasons of STAR TREK: DISCOVERY, STAR TREK: PICARD, the animated series STAR TREK: LOWER DECKS. In addition, the service is currently home to all the STAR TREK feature films, with STAR: TREK: THE DIRECTOR’S CUT returning to the platform on September 5, 2023.
In Canada, Paramount+ will also be the proud streaming home of the all-new original series STAR TREK: STARFLEET ACADEMY and the movie event STAR TREK: SECTION 31, starring Michelle Yeoh. Both will be produced by CBS Studios.
“STAR TREK is one of the most iconic TV brands in the world,” said Katrina Kowalski, Vice President, Content, Paramount+ and Pluto TV Canada. “In the decades since the first series premiered in 1966, the franchise has evolved, growing and inspiring its audience with expansive storytelling and a diverse cast of characters. We are so thrilled Paramount+ is now the Canadian streaming destination for the catalogue.”
STAR TREK Series catalogue rollout on Paramount+ in Canada:
Currently on P+ Canada: STAR TREK: DISCOVERY and STAR TREK: PICARD
August 1, 2023 – STAR TREK: STRANGE NEW WORLDS (Seasons 1 & 2)
August 8, 2023 – STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION (Seasons 1 – 7)
August 15, 2023 – STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE (Seasons 1 – 7)
August 22, 2023 – STAR TREK VOYAGER (Seasons 1 – 7)
August 29, 2023 – STAR TREK ENTERPRISE (Seasons 1 – 4)
September 5, 2023 – STAR TREK: THE ANIMATED SERIES (Seasons 1 & 2) and STAR TREK: THE ORIGINAL SERIES (Seasons 1 – 3)
To help celebrate Paramount+ in Canada as the streaming home of STAR TREK, fans can engage with the STAR TREK: STRANGE NEW WORLDS activation at Toronto’s FAN EXPO Aug. 24 to 27 and Vancouver and Calgary fans should stay tuned for details on exclusive screenings on STAR TREK Day, Sept. 8, 2023.
For nearly seven decades, the fan-favourite STAR TREK brand has been pushing boundaries with its ever-evolving and sought-after catalogue. The series’ cultural influence has been acknowledged for including one of the first multiracial casts on US television; was awarded its own internationally recognized day, STAR TREK Day, celebrated annually on September 8; has garnered hundreds of award nominations for cast and crew; and expanded the imagination of TV viewers around the world. The STAR TREK catalogue includes over 20 series and films. The STAR TREK series are distributed by Paramount Global Content Distribution.
The STAR TREK universe joins the already enormous library of P+ exclusive originals, hit series, marquee franchises and popular movies from the Paramount family of world-renowned brands, including series from the Taylor Sheridan universe (1883, 1923, YELLOWSTONE, TULSA KING and SPECIAL OPS: LIONESS), RABBIT HOLE, FATAL ATTRACTION, MAYOR OF KINGSTOWN, THE OFFER, HALO, SEAL TEAM and EVIL, as well as films including TOP GUN, ON THE COME UP, A QUIET PLACE, SCREAM VI, AWAY FROM HER and PAW: PATROL: THE MOVIE.
Productions are back in full swing in Toronto and we couldn’t be happier!
One of the latest projects to film in Toronto is The CW Pilot GOTHAM KNIGHTS, which begins production next week. The Series imagines a Batman-less Gotham and the heroes who step-in to save it from danger.
Synopsis:
In the wake of Bruce Wayne’s murder, his rebellious adopted son forges an unlikely alliance with the children of Batman’s enemies when they are all framed for killing the Caped Crusader. And as the city’s most wanted criminals, this renegade band of misfits must fight to clear their names. But in a Gotham with no Dark Knight to protect it, the city descends into the most dangerous it’s ever been. However, hope comes from the most unexpected of places as this team of mismatched fugitives will become its next generation of saviors known as the Gotham Knights.
Olivia Rose Keegan has landed the role of Duela Dent in the Pilot, and is already in town to being work. You might recognize her for her work as Lily in High School Musical: The Musical: The Series on Disney+. She also won a Daytime Emmy in 2020 for Outstanding Younger Performer, recognizing her work as Claire Brady on Days of our Lives. Big things are ahead as Keegan stars alongside Riley Keough in DAISY JONES & THE SIX, and also popular HBO Max series MINX.
Above this, we also spotted her Co-Star, the amazing MISHA COLLINS whom you loved in SUPERNATURAL. Just last year he was seen in TIFF ’21 selection ENCOUNTER starring alongside eventual Oscar winner Riz Ahmed. Collins is such a kind soul, taking a moment to stop for pictures with fans despite being held back for a while after landing. He stars in GOTHAM KNIGHTS as villain Harvey Dent.
Mckenna Grace ‘s star continues to rise fast. Yes, that was her starring in Box Office-topping GHOSTBUSTERS: AFTERLIFE, and yes, that was her as young Tonya Harding in Oscar-nominated I, TONYA. And yup, just checked, that was also her in TV hits FULLER HOUSE and YOUNG SHELDON. The sweet Grace was spotted back in the City to do work on acclaimed THE HANDMAID’S TALE as Esther Keyes, but of course not without her adorable Yorkie named Gizmo!
Also in-town is REBECCA ROMIJN, whom also was a victim of delays upon arriving, but still managing to look super-chic, sporting a Gucci x The North Face collabo bag. She’s back in-town filming STAR TREK: STRANGE NEW WORLDS which premieres on Paramount+ this May. She reprises her role as Una Chin-Riley from STAR TREK: DISCOVERY.
You know how much we love Netflix‘s OZARK. How amazing is it that we got to meet JASON BUTLER HARNER, who stars as FBI Agent Roy Petty in the first two seasons, hot on Marty Byrde‘s (Jason Bateman) trail? He wouldn’t quite disclose what he’s in-town filming but nonetheless was so amazingly-nice!
Overjoyed to see these smiling faces in our City and we can’t wait to see what’s next and coming!
(Photo credit: Mr. Will Wong)
It was a gruelling weekend temperature-wise in Toronto but these lucky stars escaped the humidity, appearing at San Diego Comic-Con! Like all good things, the fun must come to an end and they returned back to the City to continue work on their respective projects.
Amazon Prime‘s THE BOYS comes out of Comic-Con with a lot of buzz and while the first season still hasn’t premiered on the streaming service, it already has been green-lit for a second season in Toronto. Production already began in June and wraps this November. We spotted several of its stars including Chace Crawford, Karl Urban, Antony Starr, Erin Moriarty, Tomer Capon and Nathan Mitchell. The Series premieres July 26, 2019.
Chace Crawford
Antony Starr
Karl Urban
Erin Moriarty
Nate Mitchell
Tomer Capon
Wynonna Earp‘s Kat Barrell also was spotted returning back to Toronto, along with Star Trek: Discovery’s lead actress, Sonequa Martin-Green. The Series wraps production February 2020.
Kat Barrell
Sonequa Green-Martin
Rachael Harris, who has had turns on New Girl and The Good Wife, returns to Toronto to work on the ninth and final season of SUITS. Filming wraps late August.
Rachael Harris
Also seen was Mad Men‘s John Slattery, who is in-town filming F/X Mini-Series Mrs. America, directed by and starring Academy Award winner Cate Blanchett. It wraps in November.
John Slattery
(Photo credit: Mr. Will Wong)
By David Baldwin, Siobhán Rich x Mr. Will Wong
Now in its 24th year, FAN EXPO CANADA has stamped itself as the premier celebration of fandom in Toronto year after year uniting connoisseurs of Comics, Sci-Fi, Horror, Anime and Gaming together for a four-day extravaganza. Once again taking over Metro Toronto Convention Centre, the event was highlighted by a reunion of BACK TO THE FUTURE stars Canadian Michael J. Fox, Lea Thompson, Christopher Lloyd and Tom Wilson. For the first time ever also, FAN EXPO CANADA hosted WWE® Night with stars of the sport: Triple H®, A.J. Styles™, The Miz® and Charlotte Flair®. Others appearing at the affair were favourites William Shatner, Steven Ogg, Evangline Lilly, Lucy Lawless, Robin Lord Taylor, Jason Momoa, Rob Schneider, Paul Wesley, Ian Somerhalder, Karen Gillan, Cary Elwes, Sonequa Martin-Green, Doug Jones, Anthony Rapp, Billy Zane, Emma Dumont and many more!
Purveyor of Pop Culture vinyl collectibles, FUNKO caused quite a stir this year with a pop-up at the Festival giving some lucky fans timed session tickets and a chance to purchase some exclusive goods. Harry Potter and Doctor Who-themed Escape Rooms, the Dragonball North America Tour 2018, a Degrassi Reunion, plus a Photo Op with the Jurassic Park Jeep were big draws also this weekend.
Funko Pop-Up
Dragonball North American Tour 2018
Our Team had the pleasure of attending FAN EXPO CANADA and sitting-in on some of the hottest ticket panels! More on that below:
AN EVENING WITH THE CAST OF “BACK TO THE FUTURE”
The weekend is just starting, but Fan Expo staged one of the biggest highlights of this year’s convention tonight — An Evening with the Cast of Back to the Future. On hand were Tom Wilson, Lea Thompson, Christopher Lloyd and Canada’s own Michael J. Fox. The ticketed event had fans lining up for over two hours to attend the packed panel. While there was no audience Q&A portion of the 40-minute event, the audience was not left disappointed.
RALPH BREAKS THE INTERNET (EXCLUSIVE FOOTAGE)
Disney fans at Fan Expo Toronto were treated to some behind the scenes and early clips of the upcoming Ralph Breaks the Internet. Hosted by Richard Crouse and the Film’s producer, Clark Spencer, the crowd was shown behind the scenes animated LOLCats and also told about new character Yesss, voiced by Taraji P. Henson. We were then walked through clips that introduced the basic plot including the important role Gal Gadot will be playing as race car driver, Shank.
Perhaps the most anticipated and well received scene was an extended look of the all the Disney Princesses meeting our favourite glitch, Vanelope (Sarah Silverman).
The Movie centers around the friendship between Vanelope and Ralph (John C. Reilly). As the Movie opens, Vanelope‘s future is in jeopardy after her video game is damaged and the owner of Litwak’s Arcade isn’t sure he can afford to fix it. The best friends decide to take maters into their own hands and head into the Internet in search of eBay.
The much anticipated sequel looks fantastic. Ralph Breaks the Internet hits theatre on Friday, November 21, 2018 via Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures Canada.
EVANGELINE LILLY & RODRIGO BASTOS DIDIER ON “THE SQUICKERWONKERS“
Evangeline Lilly (Ant-Man and the Wasp, Lost) took the stage at Fan Expo Canada today to discuss her Book Series, The Squickerwonkers. She started writing the planned eight-part Series as a way to create new content to read to her son, as she felt reading the same books over and over again “sucks”. The self-proclaimed “intense perfectionist” has written two of the Books so far, telling the audience that she “did a panic edit before bringing the new book to the cons.” She was also proud to note about the series that “If we start with a female protagonist, that’s a great place to start today.”
We also learned about The Squickerwonkers‘ Illustrator, Rodrigo Bastos Didier. Lilly first noticed the artist after he posted artwork on her Facebook page, and the two got into contact after meeting at a Brazilian comic convention. Didier‘s connections helped Lilly get her first publishing deal, after she struggled with self-publishing. “He had such a soft and loving energy. I just wanted to work with him,” she says.
STAR TREK: DISCOVERY PANEL
And if that was not exciting enough, Space Channel brought the crew of the USS Discovery to discuss the much anticipated Second Season of Star Trek: Discovery. On hand for the panel were Sonequa Martin-Green (Michael Burnham), Doug Jones (Saru), Mary Wiseman (Sylvia Tilly), Anthony Rapp (Paul Stamets), Shazad Latif (Voq/Ash Tyler) and Anson Mount (Christopher Pike). The group spoke at length about their excitement with the thrilling first season and the fan reactions they have experienced since.
Martin-Green says that she was delighted and in awe of the fans of the show, saying they had “so much love and respect in welcoming us” into the Star Trek family. “There’s nothing to prepare you in life for someone who dresses up as you,” Wiseman says with a laugh. “I don’t know why she resonates with people. Tilly is me, and her enthusiasm is unrivaled,” she says. Jones tells the audience that he initially had difficulty deciding how to play his alien character Saru, noting that after 32 years of playing costumed creatures, “How do you make this one different? The makeup you wear helps you to inform the character.” But what Jones is really thrilled about is how the fans he has spoken to have told him how important that character is to them, saying Saru is “Inspiring people to get over their own fears” as his characters works through his.
LUCY LAWLESS x RENÉE O’CONNOR PANEL
Amid jokes of a new comedic show which would unite all the key members of the Cast of XENA: WARRIOR PRINCESS (including Bruce Campbell and Ted Raimi) and trips down memory lane regarding late cast member Kevin Smith (Ares), the famously-friendly pair discussed craft services, the #MeToo movement, and the dangers of being Renée O’Connor‘s stunt double.
The two Actress were asked, whether a remake would turn the Xena/Gabrielle relationship from subtext into text?
Lucy: “Absolutely”.
Renée: “People say they loved the relationship – the friendship – that it was so deep.”.
Lucy also was asked about her first impression of Renée:
Lucy: “She was exactly like Gabrielle that first episode.”
Renée: “I was fascinated by her.”
The duo were asked about Gabrielle‘s evolution on the Series.
Lucy: “They saw what Renée could do and said, ‘Let’s write to that!'”.
See some Snaps from the weekend. Hover cursor or click left and right to navigate slideshow on each album:
Team Mr. Will and our Photo Ops:
Missed all the fun? Start planning now for next year! More here on tickets, guests and events.
(Photo/video credit: Mr. Will Wong/Siobhán Rich/David Baldwin)
By Mr. Will Wong, Siobhán Rich and Justin Waldman
Now in its 23rd year, FAN EXPO returned once again to Toronto this weekend at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre celebrating fandom and bringing fans close to their idols of past and future. The extravaganza continues to pull-in upwards of 129,000 people from around the world with panels, exhibits, signings and photo ops galore. There’s even Speed-Dating for the geek-minded.
Cosplayers were out in full festive force with several paying tribute to the likes of The Joker, Harley Quinn, Wonder Woman and Doctor Who.
A major highlight this year was the reunion of the original ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW Cast including a seldom-seen Tim Curry, who was available for photo ops and also pre-signed memorabilia. His Castmates Meat Loaf, Nell Campbell, Barry Bostwick and Patricia Quinn also made their way to Fan Expo.
A hot ticket item this weekend, selling-out, was photo ops for the Cast of STRANGER THINGS including Finn Wolfhard, Caleb McLaughlin and Gaten Matarazzo. The former also appeared with his fellow Castmates from another production in which he stars, hotly-anticipated Stephen King Remake IT, out next week.
This year, Fan Expo‘s Guest List was heavy on talent filming in the City including Cast members from STAR TREK: DISCOVERY, which sees a premiere on CBS this September including Sonequa Martin-Green, Anthony Rapp and Doug Jones.
Meanwhile, returning favourites Norman Reedus (The Walking Dead), John Barrowman (Arrow), Nathan Fillion (Castle), Stephen Amell (Arrow), Anthony Daniels (Star Wars) and Matt Smith (Doctor Who) also proved popular.
THOR: RAGNAROK EXHIBIT
Among the several dazzling displays and exhibits at Fan Expo Canada this year was an exhibit for eagerly-awaited THOR: RAGNAROK from Marvel, giving fans get an exclusive first look at the costumes and pieces seen in the Movie.
In this third Thor Movie, our hero faces his toughest villain yet, Hela played by Cate Blanchett, and her costume makes the villain even more daunting. A black and green costume with a 3D printed headpiece that resembles something similar to a creature from nightmares it truly is a sight to behold. As well the headpiece was never actually worn in the film but rather carried afterwards in very careful placement to fit the Film.
Next is Karl Urban’s Skurge and without giving away too much information about the character he seems to be a forced to be reckoned with as well. A double-sided axe that is truly remarkable accompanies his costume. As well his costume is made of actual steel and fabric, making it one of the more impressive costumes.
Loki’s (Tom Hiddleston) costume takes its final form in this third Film. There are little tidbits of goodies in the costume as well, if we remember the first Avengers Film, the necklace Loki wears has a small piece in his costume this time around as an ode to that other appearance.
Next we have hotly-anticipated Jeff Goldblum’s The Grandmaster whose fabric costume is so much more impressive in person that anyone could have ever imagined. The layers of fabric and costume it self really stands out and boasts the character.
Two really cool props from Ragnarok are from the Hulk Vs Thor scenes where we get a first up close look at Hulk’s sword and hammer that he uses in the fight. These props are massive and certainly a dream come true for fans to be able to see these props up close and personal.
One of the most impressive pieces at Fan Expo’s exhibit this year was Thor’s costume itself, as it is a mish-mash of different pieces. While he is away from Asgard and fighting, he acquires different pieces of his costume and writing on his costume that shows his journey. However the most interesting piece for fans would be Thor’s helmet, which many fans have dreamed of seeing since the first Movie came out.
Photos from the THOR: RAGNAROK Exhibit. Hover cursor left and right below to navigate.
This gorgeous star of X-Men, Taken, The Wolverine, The Blacklist, How to Get Away with Murder, The Blacklist and Hemlock Grove, the latter filmed right in our City, returns to Toronto again once again. She tells her fans at her panel about her experience working with Hugh Jackman who would go on to be in the widely-acclaimed LOGAN. “It’s impossible to envision anyone else playing that role”, she says about her Co-Star. “I’m grateful to have worked with him.”.
On Game of Thrones’ Sophie Turner playing a role she helped shape in upcoming X-Men: Dark Phoenix, she says “I think she’s amazing. She reached out to me when she got cast as Jean Grey and asked what pointers I had for her and I told her she’s amazing and to just follow your gut and that’s what she did.”.
TIM CURRY
You know you’re iconic when your Films are remade and your roles are reprised. This iconic star of Rocky Horror Picture Show and the original Pennywise in Stephen King’s IT, which is projected to make a huge splash next weekend at the Box Office, made a rare appearance at this year’s Fan Expo treating fans to an intimate panel.
On which of his projects he considers his favourites, Curry says “Well, I guess one of them is Clue where my part was as big as the Bible. I also love Muppet Treasure Island.“.
On his phenomenal voicework in Animation, he says “I love it. I’ve never been a contortionist. The day is young and one day I hope to be.”.
While he is the idol of many who attended his panel, he cites Alec Guinness as being someone he looks up to.
JOHN BARROWMAN
This star of Doctor Who, Desperate Housewives, Torchwood, Legends of Tomorrow and of course Arrow is loved by many a fan. He reflects on the fun he has had on the latter. “A lot of things happened and part of what I like to do is making people crack-up by doing something from across of them. Stephen (Amell) is really easy to crack-up”.
In what will be the most talked-about moment of Fan Expo Canada 2017, Barrowman was asked by a fan at his panel whom his best on-screen kiss was with. A fan who went by the name Montana then rushed the stage to the shock of the crowd and Barrowman, and the two embraced in a kiss which had the fan going shirtless. The crowd went ecstatic. David Tennant, his Doctor Who Co-Star was his favourite kiss, by the way!
The best kind of audience participation at @JohnBarrowman‘s @FANEXPOCANADA panel. #FXC17 pic.twitter.com/Ls81n9x934
— MsTypo (@Typo_eh) September 1, 2017
KATHLEEN TURNER
Those of us who grew-up in the ’80s have fond memories of Turner‘s work in classics like Who Framed Roger Rabbit, Peggy Sue Got Married, Romancing the Stone and The Jewel of the Nile. Turner reflected on her beginnings as an actress with her fans. She claims “I didn’t see many films. I always felt like Film happened to me.”. “Most of my imagination was satisfied by reading. This is how I always thought I wanted to be an actor”, she says. “This is my 40th year in my profession and it is still absolutely thrilling to be doing it. I am now entering my fourth profession and I will be doing Cabaret. I can sing.”.
MATT SMITH
In addition to its presence being felt largely this year with several fans dressed as Dr. Who, Matt Smith returned to Fan Expo once again this year. On his eventual exit from the beloved Series, Smith says “Yeah, I always knew I was going to stay for another year. Maybe I would’ve stayed on for another year. But then I thought I couldn’t get too comfortable. It’s a difficult show to leave because it’s such a brilliant character but as an actor you have to continue to do things that frighten you and make you uncomfortable.”.
Smith currently can be seen in Netflix‘s acclaimed The Crown as Philip.
See some Snaps from Fan Expo Canada 2017. Navigate by hovering cursor over left and right of gallery.
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Missed it this year? Learn more about FAN EXPO CANADA right here and come next year!
(Photo credit: Mr. Will Wong/Siobhán Rich/Justin Waldman)
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