Matinee Heroes

Star Wars Puppeteers Mike Quinn and David Barclay – Dec 2019 – CONversations with Craig

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 50:02 — 34.9MB)

Recorded live at EmpireCon 2019 in Los Angeles, this episode of Conversations with Craig dives deep into the foam, felt, and freakishly fun world of movie puppetry with two absolute legends: Mike Quinn and David Barclay. These are the guys who’ve literally had their hands inside Yoda—yes, literally—and helped bring the most beloved alien puppet in cinema history to life. From The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi to The Dark Crystal and Little Shop of Horrors, Mike and David have been at the heart of some of the biggest (and weirdest) creatures ever to hit the screen—and yes, they even pulled out a Yoda puppet mid-panel. You’ve never seen a conversation get this real.

• The Secret Life of Yoda: Mark Hamill helped launch David’s career after meeting him in a London toy store, while Mike snuck onto The Muppet Show set using cigarettes and chocolate.
• Audrey II’s Gym Routine: It took eight weeks—and some torn muscles—to shoot one song for Little Shop of Horrors with the massive Audrey II puppet.
• Live at the Hollywood Bowl: Performing Muppets live is no joke—just ask Mike, who once took a couch to the head mid-show.

“Yoda in Return of the Jedi? That was me. Just the right hand. But hey, sometimes that’s all you need.” – Mike Quinn

Want more exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes stories from the people who bring your favorite characters to life? Subscribe to our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or on your favorite podcasting platform for more behind-the-scenes stories and exclusive interviews.

The Cast of Star Wars Animation – July 2024 – CONversations with Craig

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 46:45 — 32.7MB)

Get ready to jump into the world of Star Wars animation with some of the most legendary voice actors in the galaxy! Recorded live at Retro Expo 2024 in Plano, Texas, this unforgettable panel reunited the cast of The Clone Wars and Rebels for a conversation full of laughs, surprises, and incredible behind-the-scenes stories. From Ahsoka Tano to Obi-Wan Kenobi, Anakin Skywalker to Hera Syndulla, these voice actors have brought some of the most beloved Star Wars characters to life, shaping the animated universe in ways fans will never forget.

• Clone Wars and Rebels’ Impact: The actors reflected on how the animated series expanded the Star Wars universe and why they still hold a special place in fans’ hearts.
  
  
• Steve Blum Surprise Call: When one Rebels cast member was missing, they took matters into their own hands and called Steve Blum live during the panel!
  
  
• Behind-the-Scenes Bloopers: The cast revealed hilarious stories from the recording booth, including moments where they couldn’t stop laughing during emotional scenes.

“Oh, you think Rebels was chaotic? Try sitting on a stage with all of us!” – Tiya Sircar

Want more exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes stories from the people who bring your favorite characters to life? Subscribe to our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or on your favorite podcasting platform for more behind-the-scenes stories and exclusive interviews.

Vincent D’Onofrio – Sept 2022 – CONversations with Craig

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 46:47 — 32.7MB)

Get ready to dive into the world of one of the most dynamic and beloved actors in Hollywood – Vincent D’Onofrio! From his role as the iconic Kingpin in Daredevil to his unforgettable turn as Edgar the bug in Men in Black, D’Onofrio has brought a unique charm and depth to every character he plays. At FanX Salt Lake 2022, Vincent D’Onofrio’s Journey Through Film:, he graced the stage for a fun and insightful panel, giving fans a behind-the-scenes look at his legendary career.

• Vincent D’Onofrio’s Journey Through Film:: D’Onofrio reflects on his early career, including his unforgettable role in Full Metal Jacket.
• Kingpin and the Marvel Universe: D’Onofrio opened up about the depth of the character, calling him a “hot mess” with raw emotion, and reprising the role in the upcoming Daredevil: Born Again
• Interactive Q&A: Fans ask about everything from D’Onofrio’s favorite scenes in Hawkeye to his love for working alongside actors like Charlie Cox.

“It’s either going to be the most horrible thing ever, or it’s going to be great.” – Vincent D’Onofrio

Want more behind-the-scenes stories, exclusive interviews, and a deeper dive into D’Onofrio’s career? Subscribe to our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or on your favorite podcasting platform for more behind-the-scenes stories and exclusive interviews.

Maggie Lawson and Timothy Omundson – Sept 2022 – CONversations with Craig

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 46:44 — 32.6MB)

Get ready to laugh, cheer, and relive the excitement of the Psych panel from FanX Salt Lake in 2022! Featuring Maggie Lawson and Timothy Omundson, this unforgettable event celebrated the wit, charm, and camaraderie that make Psych a fan-favorite show. Dive into behind-the-scenes stories, hilarious moments, and a lively Q&A with fans.

• Maggie Lawson’s First Fan Convention: Hear her heartfelt reaction to the warm welcome from fans at FanX.
• Interactive Q&A: Fans bring their best questions, with the cast responding in their signature playful and witty style.
• Behind-the-Scenes Humor: Insightful and hilarious anecdotes from the set of Psych.

“You know, this is my very first con, so thank you so much for the warm welcome!” – Maggie Lawson

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The Cast of Twin Peaks – March 2020 – CONversations with Craig

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:03:22 — 44.1MB)

Dive into the world of Twin Peaks with this March 2020 panel from the Fayetteville Comic Show featuring cast members Sheryl Lee, Dana Ashbrook, Eric Da Re, and more. From behind-the-scenes anecdotes to heartfelt fan stories, this discussion is packed with humor, nostalgia, and the enduring magic of Twin Peaks.

• Behind-the-Scenes Secrets: Cheryl Lee reflects on her transformation from “the dead girl” to an iconic character, while Dana Ashbrook talks about Bobby Briggs’ redemption arc in Season 3.
• David Lynch Stories: Hear cast members share their impressions of David Lynch’s unique directing style and iconic quotes.
• Cultural Legacy: Discover how Twin Peaks continues to resonate with fans and shape popular culture decades later.

“David Lynch told me, ‘Whatever you want it to mean.’ That’s Twin Peaks in a nutshell.” – Sheryl Lee

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Introducing Matinee Heroes presents CONversations with Craig

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:40 — 1.6MB)

Hey listeners! We have a new monthly episode for you to enjoy starting in February.

Every unforgettable moment on-screen has a story to tell and you can hear it straight from the people who made it happen.

Matinee Heroes presents Conversations with Craig is a chance to revisit those unforgettable panels, uncovering stories you might not expect, and sharing those moments that only happen live in front of an audience. It’s not just about celebrity interviews; it’s about real conversations that reveal the creativity, humor, and humanity behind the entertainment we all love.

Ever wonder how Vincent D’Onofrio crafted Edgar’s bizarre movements in Men in Black? Or what it was like for Kevin Conroy to be roommates with Robin Williams? And hear Christopher Eccleston reflect on rebuilding his confidence after leaving Doctor Who? That’s just a taste of what’s coming up.

If you’ve ever wanted to go behind the scenes of your favorite movies, TV shows, or animated classics—or if you just love the energy of a great convention panel—this podcast is for you.

New episodes drop on the first Monday of every month. You can find Conversations with Craig on in this feed or you can subscribe separately at your podcast player of choice

Matinee Heroes presents Conversations with Craig—where behind the curtain comes center stage.