Fans worldwide gathered at Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, Texas June 7-9, 2024 to enjoy a multitude of entertainment options offered by FAN EXPO Dallas. Television entertainment was certainly represented, including fan favorites such as Doctor Who, Hannibal, and Stranger Things. Movie lovers enjoyed a variety of panels including: “Helen Hunt: A Journey Through Film and Television”, “Staying with Your Bestie: A Spotlight on Geena Davis and Susan Sarandon”, and “Spotlight on Marisa Tomei: A Career in Film”.
The red carpet was rolled out for cosplayers as well, allowing them to show off their characters to the delight of other convention attendees who were seen asking for pictures throughout the weekend. At any given time, lightsaber battles were happening in hallways and other available spaces showing off some pretty epic moves. Comic fans could buy their favorite comics, talk with comic artists, and even watch some artists draw live.
Many of the celebrities commented on how great it is to meet and talk with fans. Catherine Tate said it best, observing that fan conventions are a safe space to enjoy things without fear of judgment. Panels of all varieties were offered to entice fans of anime, gaming, film and television, and cosplay. The vendor room offered a variety of wares for fans of all genres, maintaining an inclusive atmosphere for all. There was a dedicated space for young fans to go and play as well, helping parents to relax as their small children ran and played out their excitement.
Star Wars fans enjoyed the “Building the Galaxy: Insights From the Cast of Star Wars” panel where cast members Giancarlo Esposito, Emily Swallow, Natasha Liu Bordizzo, Alan Tudyk, and Jen Markham discussed their time in the Star Wars universe.
Helen Hunt joked at her panel that she is often told by fans that they started chasing tornadoes because of her, to which she said she would like to apologize to their mothers.
Marisa Tomei talked about what a wonderful actor Tom Holland is, having just seen him perform at the West End in London. She also said she really didn’t know what she was getting into when it came to taking the role of Aunt May in the MCU.
Geena Davis spoke about her time filming A League of Their Own and when someone asked how she caught the fastball that Rosie O’Donnell threw at her, she said the secret was that it was a squish ball.
Of course, Susan Sarandon was asked about The Rocky Horror Picture Show to which she said she has been to some midnight showings and even brought a costar along a couple of times including Molly Ringwald and Natalie Portman).
FAN EXPO Dallas presented a wide variety of interests for fans to enjoy and the passion and excitement throughout the weekend was clear. Fans of all ages joined in on the fun from the vast amount of entertainment that was represented.
