Discussion: Remembering Fan Conventions

Remember conventions? Remember when we could go to them? Remember San Diego Comic-Con? Remember hearing all those BIG announcements?  Those were the days.

This week, FTN contributors Tiffany Ojeda, Mia Dallas and Nathan Chick join Scott to discuss their convention memories. They'll talk about memorable moments that stand out for the right and wrong reasons, as well as funny stories, celebrity meetings and future hopes (once we can go back).

COVID-19 Forced Fan Conventions to Close Their Doors
Once the pandemic took hold, people were no longer able to gather at in-person events. Everything from Star Wars Celebration to San Diego Comic-Con were cancelled, and many events went virtual. Even with hopes for things to get better in 2021, some conventions (like the New York Toy Fair) have already cancelled plans for this year.

In previous episodes of the podcast, FTN contributors likeElise Baughman shared some advantages to virtual conventions (like accessibility), and Scott talked about finally getting to meet celebrities like Jane Badler and Frank Ashmore (from 'V') through a virtual event.

Nonetheless, nerds are waiting with bated breath to see if any conventions will re-open their doors sometime in 2021.

Memories Prove the Impact of In-Person Conventions
It wasn't difficult for anyone to discuss memories in today's podcast.

• Scott mentioned an exciting revelation Hayley Atwell shared with him in Houston
• Tiffany, Mia and Nathan talked about the experience meeting Mass Effect guests
• Scott talked funny moments from Star Wars Celebration II
• Tiffany and Mia share a story about a Harry Potter panel that might as well have been cursed
• Nathan shared a funny story about his daughter's cosplay and a fan
• Scott told a story about his first interaction with the late Jeremy Bulloch

Along with the memories and stories, everyone shared their passion for getting back to fan convention normalcy.

Fandoms Applied to other Aspects of Life
Anyone who's known Scott for awhile knows he often ties real-life things to movie and television scenes. So, when he was tasked with tying pop culture characters to his Master's Degree, he couldn't wait to jump on it.

The assignment was to pick characters from television and movies who demonstrate leadership and highlight their behaviors. He not only had to pick characters, but pick scenes that compliment the selections.  His first choice (of three ) was James T. Kirk who's leadership style includes not believing in a no-win situation.