Sci-Fi Talk

When Don Mancini brought his iconic killer doll to television, horror fans braced themselves for a new chapter in the Child's Play legacy. Premiering on SyFy in 2021, Chucky transformed the long-running film franchise into a serialized story that ran for three seasons through 2024. With Brad Dourif once again supplying the chilling voice of Chucky and his daughter Fiona Dourif joining the cast, the series blended nostalgia with fresh blood—literally and figuratively. In this episode of Rewind, we revisit Season One, exploring how Mancini adapted his cinematic universe for TV, weaving in themes of identity, trauma, and transformation while keeping the dark humor and slasher thrills intact. We'll look at how the show expanded the mythology, introduced new teen protagonists, and balanced legacy characters with fresh faces.

What happens when the King of Wakanda must confront not only an army of undead but also the ghosts of his own past? In Black Panther: Sins of the Father, T'Challa strives to embody excellence—as a fair and worthy king, a global citizen, and an Avenger. But when Wakanda faces its most chilling threat yet, The Black Panther turns to his long-lost father in a battle against forces that test his leadership, his legacy, and his humanity. In this episode, we sit down with acclaimed author Tananarive Due to explore how she brought this gripping Marvel story to life. A former journalist turned award-winning novelist, Due is celebrated for her African Immortals and Tennyson Hardwick series, and has been honored with the American Book Award, Carl Brandon Award, Theodore Sturgeon Memorial Award, and multiple Bram Stoker Awards. Her work blends horror, history, and Afrofuturism to illuminate the human condition through genre storytelling. You'll also hear excerpts from the audio adaptation, performed by The Good Place's William Jackson Harper, who voices every character with electrifying depth. On Plus, A Black Friday Special

A cantankerous alien, a found family, and a war that changes everything. In this episode, I zoomed with actor and voice legend Gary Anthony Williams, who brings the complex and beloved character Rovender to life in Apple TV+'s animated sci-fi series WondLa. From his gruff wisdom to his unexpected tenderness, Rovender is more than just Eva's alien companion—he's a symbol of survival, transformation, and reluctant hope.

The Back To The Future star looks back at playing different versions of McFlys. 

In this special episode, we journey back to the beginning of Amazon Prime Video's The Wheel of Time, revisiting the emotional stakes, character awakenings, and epic world-building that launched the series. Featuring interviews with Zoë Robins, Madeleine Madden, Josha Stradowski, and Marcus Rutherford, we explore how Season One set the tone for a saga of destiny, power, and transformation.

Now a monthly edition with news on sci-fi, fantasy, horror, and comics this November has the following Reviews From The Running Man Frankenstein Crafting A Tale Eternal Exhibit Pluribus with star and showrunner Colin Farrell on Penguin Season Two Welcome To Derry had challenges after strikes Changes To Fallout Season Two New Documentary on Exorcist: The Hertic This month's list : Best Time Travel TV Shows And More..... Start Your Free One Year Trial On Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today - A Black Friday Special  

In this episode of Game Changers, a compilation of interviews with the legendary Kevin Conroy, the definitive voice of Batman for generations of fans. From his formative years at Juilliard—where he shared classrooms and unforgettable memories with Robin Williams—to his groundbreaking career in animation and video games, Conroy reflects on the path that led him to embody Gotham's greatest hero. Listeners will hear how his classical training shaped his craft, how friendships forged in those early days influenced his artistry, and how he found his way into the role that would define his career. With warmth, humor, and honesty, Conroy shares the story of becoming the voice behind the mask, and why Batman continues to resonate so deeply with audiences worldwide.

This week on Trek Tuesday, Tony welcomed Armin Shimerman, the iconic actor behind Quark from Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. In a deeply personal and wide-ranging conversation, Armin reflects on his wife's courageous and successful battle against pancreatic cancer. The episode also dives into Armin's earliest days in the Star Trek universe, from his first appearance as a Ferengi in The Next Generation to the evolution of Quark on Deep Space Nine. With humor and insight. Check Out My Black Friday Special For Plus Pan Can

In this exclusive Plus preview, Tony dives into the minds of today's leading paranormal investigators to uncover what drives them to explore the unknown. Featuring insights from Ghost Adventures' Zak Bagans, Portals to Hell's Katrina Weidman and Jack Osbourne, and The Ghosts of Devil's Perch's Dave Schrader and psychic medium Cindy Kaza, this episode explores the methods, motivations, and mysteries behind their work. From haunted prisons to cursed mining towns, these investigators share how they choose their cases, what tools they trust, and the personal experiences that fuel their search for answers. Whether guided by intuition, technology, or spiritual connection, each voice reveals a different path into the paranormal.

In this episode of Byte, Tony takes you behind the curtain of Wicked: One Wonderful Night, the electrifying live special that celebrates the world of Oz like never before. Featuring interviews with Ethan Slater, Bowen Yang, Marissa Bode, Jeff Goldblum, and director Jon M. Chu, this episode explores how the cast and crew brought magic to the stage—while Jon was still deep in post-production on the Wicked film. From live vocals and choreography to elaborate staging and character moments, the special is a love letter to musical theater, fandom, and the enduring spell of Wicked. 

In this episode of Byte On, Tony goes deep into the making of Predator: Badlands with stars Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi and Elle Fanning, alongside director Dan Trachtenberg. What begins as a survival story quickly evolves into a buddy movie with teeth—literally. The trio unpack how character chemistry, predator mythology, and linguistic world-building came together to create a fresh take on the iconic franchise. With audio supplied by 20th Century Fox, listeners get a behind-the-scenes look at how the team reimagined the predator's language, built emotional stakes into the action, and honored the legacy of the hunt while pushing it into new terrain.

Tony chats with five-time Grammy-nominated composer David Arkenstone to explore the sonic landscapes of Music Inspired by Middle Earth. From the rolling hills of the Shire to the shadowed depths of Mordor, Arkenstone shares how he wove Celtic, orchestral, and ambient textures into a tapestry that evokes Tolkien's world without directly quoting it. With musical samples threaded throughout the conversation, listeners are invited to experience the emotional resonance and mythic scale of Arkenstone's compositions. The blend of styles—Celtic flutes, tribal percussion, sweeping strings—that create a timeless fantasy soundscape Reflections on the emotional core of Tolkien's world: longing, courage, and transformation Behind-the-scenes insights into the recording process and instrumentation choices Check out my Black Friday Special For Plus

In this episode, I chatted with Mac Whiting, Supervising Animation Director at Warner Bros. Animation, for a deep dive into the artistry and precision behind rotoscoping, character performance, and the magic of collaboration. From his work on The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special to his broader philosophy on animation, Mac shares insights that blend technical mastery with creative intuition. Rotoscoping Realism Mac talks the rotoscoping process used to animate live-action performances, especially in the Guardians Holiday Special. Working with James Gunn Mac shares what it's like collaborating with director James Gunn, describing him as “a storyteller who understands animation's emotional potential.” Check Out my Black Friday Special

In this exclusive preview of Paranormal, host Tony takes us deep into the shadows of America's most infamous haunted sites—where history, trauma, and the unexplained collide. Featuring chilling commentary from top investigators Zak Bagans, Jack Osbourne, Katrina Weidman, and Dave Schrader, this episode sets the stage for a series that explores the emotional and supernatural echoes left behind.

In this hauntingly intimate conversation, we revisit a standout moment with actor and producer Lauren Ashley Carter as she unpacks the eerie elegance of her film Imitation Girl. A sci-fi parable wrapped in quiet surrealism, the film follows a woman who comes face to face with an exact replica of herself—an alien imitation that forces both versions to confront what it means to be human.

In this spellbinding episode, director Jane Clark joins us to discuss her latest film, Witchy Ways—a genre-bending tale of transformation, mystery, and magic. From the first flicker of inspiration to the final frame, Jane takes us deep into the creative cauldron behind the film.

In this  sit-down , Byte goes behind the scenes of Paramount Pictures' electrifying reimagining of The Running Man. With audio direct from the studio, we dive deep into the minds of the cast and director as they unpack the film's dystopian spectacle, its emotional core, and the cultural pulse it's tapping into.

Step into the neon-lit chaos of The Running Man as Byte hits the red carpet at New York Comic Con, where Paramount Pictures unveiled its bold reimagining of the cult classic. This episode features exclusive interviews with the creative minds and stars behind the film, offering a glimpse into the adrenaline-fueled spectacle and the deeper themes pulsing beneath the surface.

In this episode, Tony sits down with Pixar animator Gario Cuevas to explore his haunting independent film Hazard — a supernatural thriller that trades jump scares for psychological unease. Known for his work in animation, Cuevas steps into live-action with a story that's as emotionally charged as it is chilling. Hazard follows Jane (Joanna Kay), whose car breaks down on the edge of a quiet town. While waiting for help, she's dared to summon a local ghost — a challenge that spirals into a disturbing encounter with the lingering presence of a mass shooter. What begins as a dare becomes a reckoning with trauma, memory, and the unseen forces that haunt forgotten places.

In this episode, Tony chatted with director Eduardo Rodriguez to sink his teeth into Fright Night 2: New Blood, a stylish reimagining of the cult classic with a seductive twist. Filmed in the shadowy corners of Romania, this American indie horror follows high schooler Charley Brewster and his friends on a study abroad trip gone terrifyingly wrong. Their professor, the alluring Gerri Dandridge — played with icy charm by Defiance's Jaime Murray — isn't just grading papers… she's hunting prey.

In this haunting throwback episode, we revisit the Tribeca Film Festival premiere of Honeymoon, the chilling debut feature from director Leigh Janiak. Joining her is star Harry Treadaway (Penny Dreadful, Mr. Mercedes), whose performance as Paul anchors the film's descent into psychological horror. Set in a remote lakeside cabin, Honeymoon follows newlyweds Bea and Paul as their idyllic retreat spirals into dread. After a night of strange events, Paul finds Bea disoriented in the woods. What follows is a slow unraveling of identity, intimacy, and trust — a terrifying meditation on the fear that the person you love may no longer be who they seem. Start Your Free One Year Trial Today On Plus

In this special throwback episode, we sit down with the ever-compelling William Fichtner to explore the craft behind some of his most memorable roles. From covert ops to cosmic wonder, Fichtner brings a quiet intensity to every performance—and in this conversation, we unpack how he does it.

In this episode, Tony dives into the psychological horror series The Expecting with star AnnaSophia Robb and director Mary Harron. The story follows a young woman whose unexpected pregnancy spirals into a surreal and terrifying ordeal — blending body horror, paranoia, and questions of identity.

In this special sit-down, Byte welcomes powerhouse performers Mary Elizabeth Winstead and Maika Monroe to talk about their roles in the bold new reimagining of The Hand That Rocks the Cradle. With sharp insight and infectious chemistry, the duo opens up about what drew them to this psychological thriller and how it reclaims the original's legacy for a new generation.

In this episode of Byte, we sit down with visionary director Michelle Garza Cervera to talk about her bold and haunting reimagining of The Hand That Rocks the Cradle. Known for her genre-defying work in horror and psychological drama, Cervera brings a fresh, feminist lens to the 2025 revival of the 1992 cult classic.

In this special double-feature episode, we revisit two vintage conversations with the incomparable Christopher Judge — the voice and soul behind Teal'c, Stargate SG-1's stoic warrior with a heart of gold. Across these candid interviews, Judge opens up about his time on the iconic sci-fi series, sharing behind-the-scenes memories, favorite episodes, and the deep camaraderie that defined the cast. From the early days of SG-1 to the emotional weight of The Ark of Truth, Judge reflects on the evolution of Teal'c, the show's enduring fanbase, and the creative choices that made Stargate a genre-defining phenomenon. Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering the series anew, this episode offers a heartfelt look at the legacy of Stargate through the eyes of one of its most beloved stars. Start Your Free One Year Trial Today

In this special Rewind episode, we journey back to New York Comic Con for an electrifying conversation with 12 Monkeys co-executive producers Travis Fickett and Terry Matalas, joined by the unforgettable Emily Hampshire, who brings Jennifer Goines to life with chaotic brilliance. Season One of 12 Monkeys reimagines the cult classic film into a sprawling, time-twisting saga — and this episode dives deep into the creative process, character evolution, and the show's bold narrative risks. From unraveling paradoxes to crafting emotionally grounded sci-fi, Fickett and Matalas share how they built a world where time isn't just a backdrop — it's a weapon. Emily Hampshire reflects on embodying Jennifer's fractured genius and how the role challenged and transformed her as a performer. 

Recorded live at San Diego Comic-Con 2012, this episode of Rewind drops you into the heart of the action with an roundtable conversation featuring the cast and executive producers of Falling Skies. As Season Two unfolded with new revelations and shifting alliances, we sat down with the creative minds and faces behind the resistance to unpack the emotional and narrative stakes of the series.

In this episode, Tony sits down with Eric Bromberg, the visionary head of Dust Studios, to explore the birth of a cinematic universe dedicated to science fiction shorts and features. Recorded in 2018, this conversation captures the early momentum behind DUST—a platform that would go on to redefine how audiences discover and engage with speculative storytelling. Eric shares the origin story of DUST, from its mission to spotlight emerging sci-fi filmmakers to its ambition to become the go-to destination for short-form genre content. He discusses the studio's curatorial approach, the emotional and philosophical themes that drive their selections, and how DUST bridges the gap between indie creators and global audiences hungry for new worlds. Start Your Free One Year Trial Of Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today  

In this installment of Exploring Humanity Through Sci-Fi, I dive into the uncanny valley of artificial intelligence and the human psyche with the host of Suspicious Minds, Sean King O'Grady . From chatbot roleplay to AI-induced delusions, this episode explores the psychological terrain where machine learning meets mental health—and where reality begins to blur.

In this red carpet edition of Byte, we step into the haunting elegance of The Hand That Rocks the Cradle, Hulu's latest psychological thriller that reimagines maternal fear, power, and control.

In this episode of Byte, sit down interviews with the creative minds and rising stars behind Black Phone 2 to explore how horror and science fiction continue to reveal the deepest corners of the human experience.

In this episode, we beam back to 1951 to explore the enduring legacy of The Day The Earth Stood Still, a sci-fi landmark that fused Cold War anxiety with cosmic diplomacy. From the casting of Michael Rennie as the enigmatic Klaatu to the cryptic command that launched a thousand theories—“Klaatu barada nikto”—we unpack the film's cultural resonance and behind-the-scenes revelations. Tony dives into the film's production secrets, including the surprising contributor behind Professor Barnhardt's blackboard equation, the actor who nearly broke character with laughter, and the unexpected architectural pedigree behind the spaceship's interior. Plus, we examine the Department of Defense's real-world reaction to the film's message and the haunting resurrection of Klaatu—what it meant then, and what it still stirs today.

This week's episode of Explore Weekly dives into the latest buzz from Hollywood and beyond, spotlighting blockbuster updates, heartfelt tributes, and deep creative insights from the stars and creators shaping pop culture. Tron: Ares Box Office Update The third installment in the Tron franchise, Tron: Ares, has pulled in $60.5 million at the box office so far, following its October 10 U.S. release. Directed by Joachim Rønning and starring Jared Leto, the film explores the collision of digital and real worlds with a $180 million budget. The Making of Tron Lightcycles A behind-the-scenes look at how the futuristic Lightcycles were conceptualized and brought to life for Tron: Ares, blending digital artistry with real-world engineering. Zoe Saldana on Motion Capture Mastery Saldana shares her journey mastering motion capture, from Avatar to Guardians of the Galaxy, and how the technology transforms performance. Stranger Things Season 5 Volume 1 Runtimes Get the scoop on how long each episode of Stranger Things Season 5 Volume 1 will run, with fans bracing for extended storytelling in the final chapter.

In this episode, we sit down with legendary make-up designer Donald Mowat, Department Head of Make-up for Tron: Ares, to explore the artistry behind one of the most anticipated sci-fi films of the decade. From crafting the digital-meets-human aesthetic to collaborating with iconic actors and creatives, Donald shares an insider's view of bringing the Grid to life.

Ernest Lilly and Tony Tellado talked with celebrated science fiction author and physicist David Brin, whose works have shaped the genre and challenged readers to think critically about technology, society, and the future. Brin, best known for novels like The Postman, Earth, and Startide Rising, shares insights into the intersection of science and storytelling, the ethical dilemmas posed by emerging technologies, and the role of science fiction in shaping public discourse. Start Your Free Trial For Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today

In this episode, I Zoom with  Alexandra Masangkay, who brings the fierce and enigmatic Paz to life in The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon. Alexandra shares what instantly drew her to the character when she first read the script, and how Paz's complexity and emotional depth made her irresistible to play. We dive into Paz's powerful connection to True Love, exploring the layers of loyalty, vulnerability, and survival that define their bond. Alexandra also opens up about stepping into the iconic Walking Dead universe—what it's like to join such a legendary franchise, and how the gritty, post-apocalyptic world of Daryl Dixon challenged and inspired her as an actor. Plus, a look at the pivotal episode “Contrabando,” where Paz's choices take center stage and the stakes reach a whole new level. 

In this star-studded episode of Byte, we hit the red carpet at the Los Angeles premiere of Black Phone 2 —a bold new chapter from Blumhouse and Universal. With exclusive audio from the event, we dive into the minds behind the movie and explore the risks, artistry, and vision that shaped this thrilling sequel.

Step onto the grid with us in this electrifying episode of Byte, recorded live from the European premiere of Tron Ares. We're bringing you exclusive red carpet audio—courtesy of Disney—and candid insights from the stars and creatives behind the highly anticipated sci-fi epic.

In this concluding episode of Rewind On The Boys, we go full throttle into the heart of Season Two with an all-star Zoom roundtable featuring the powerhouse cast: Jack Quaid (Hughie), Erin Moriarty (Starlight), Karl Urban (Billy Butcher), Laz Alonso (Mother's Milk), Chace Crawford (The Deep), and Jesse T. Usher (A-Train). From behind-the-scenes chaos to character deep dives, this candid conversation pulls back the curtain on the season's biggest twists, emotional gut-punches, and fan-favorite moments. Hear firsthand how the cast navigated the show's wild tone, bonded off-screen, and brought their characters to life in one of the most talked-about seasons of television. Start Your Free One year Trial Today On Sci-Fi Talk Plus

Welcome to Explore Weekly, your cosmic compass for the latest in sci-fi, horror, comics, and fantasy. This week's roundup is bursting with streaming hits, a spooky list, Broadway-bound musicals, and interplanetary intrigue:

In this revealing conversation, we sit down with Michael Emerson during the height of Lost's cultural dominance to unpack the layered, elusive, and often unsettling character of Ben Linus—or was it Henry Gale? From his chilling debut as a mysterious captive to his evolution into one of television's most complex antagonists, Emerson shares insights into the psychological depth, moral ambiguity, and quiet menace that made Ben unforgettable. We explore:

Boldly going where speculation meets celebration, Trek Tuesday has Jeremy Vilmur of Strange New Pod—to explore the final frontier of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds. Recorded during the lead-up to Season 2, each episode was a spirited mix of deep Trek lore, character analysis, and hopeful predictions for what lay ahead.

In this episode, I chat with the multitalented Chris Giarmo—vocalist, performer, and now solo artist behind the  new tracks of Boys Don't Fight, featuring the sci-fi-inspired Megaman. You may know Chris from his standout role in the Broadway production of American Utopia, where his voice helped bring David Byrne's vision to life. But today, we dive into Chris's own creative universe.