Spooky Empire is always a great convention. They like to call themselves “The Dark Side of the Con”. Guests range from Horror to Hollywood movie and TV stars, as well as a KISS member like me. I think these conventions are special for all in attendance…but I am also a fan of many of the guests. Two of the special guests at the show I am particularly fond of and have the fortune to spend time with I wanted to share my experience with them.
Doug Jones has a huge resume that includes Horror films, Academy Award winning, Marvel films and even the Star Trek universe. These credits include Hocus Pocus, Pan’s Labyrinth, The Shape of Water, Hellboy, Batman Returns, Star Trek Discovery as “Saru” and more impress me! His physicality infuses into his brilliant acting ability making him a very unique actor. He’s super kind to the fans, and having him and his rep invite Lisa and I to dinner Friday night was a joy. We shared so many stories about my life as a musician, and the journey of his career in so many different roles. Anytime I can get a chance to spend quality time with an entertainer that is NOT a musician is special for me. The inner fanboy Bruce comes out…that’s a fact!
Another icon in the industry who is connected to KISS in the early days, is Sid Krofft. Along with his brother Marty, the Krofft’s children’s shows entertained millions. Here’s some of the shows: H.R. Pufnstuf, Land of the Lost, Sigmund and the Sea Monsters. Sid is 95 years old and an incredible person. His face lights up talking to the fans with the joy it brings him. Lisa and I love this gentle human, who entertained children in a unique and creative way! Iconic characters were born from his show, but there is a KISS connection too. Paul Lynde’s Halloween Special in 1976 included many of Sid’s characters, and KISS was on the same TV Special along side of “Witchiepoo”. He kept telling Lisa and I about the thrill of them appearing on that show. When we said goodbye, I told him to stay healthy and please come to more shows. He said to me joyfully and with a twinkle in his eyes “To Be Continued”. He totally floored me with that comment.
Many other stars mingled with Lisa and I, and it’s always a thrill at to chat with them in the “green room” where you can grab some food and drink. I want to thank all my fans for coming to meet me, and Peter Cory from KLA for his help. Pete the promoter of Spooky Empire is a huge KISS fan, and he personally did my Q + A which I enjoyed very much. Good times in Orlando FL, and I hope to meet more fans in the futures, at conventions like these.
