Sci-Fi Talk

In this episode of Byte, Anthony Zooms with George Hawkins, one of the breakout stars of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy. Known for his charismatic portrayal of a bold, swagger‑heavy cadet, Hawkins opens up about the layers beneath the bravado, the emotional core of his character's friendship with Jay-Den, and the pivotal storyline involving his leadership failure against the War College.

In this episode, we journey into the emotional and cultural core of the Ms. Marvel universe with acclaimed Pakistani actor Mehwish Hayat, who brings to life the pivotal character Aisha, Kamala Khan's great‑grandmother and the keeper of a legacy that shapes a superhero. Aisha is more than a figure from the past—she is the spark that ignites Kamala's understanding of identity, ancestry, and power. Through Hayat's performance, the series bridges generations, continents, and histories, grounding a Marvel story in the lived experiences of migration, Partition, and family mythology. Why Aisha Matters Aisha's story is a reminder that the extraordinary often begins with the ordinary—mothers, daughters, and the threads of memory that bind them. Her presence in Ms. Marvel reframes heroism as something inherited, lived, and passed down, not just discovered. About Mehwish Hayat A celebrated star of Pakistani cinema and television, Hayat brings depth, nuance, and emotional clarity to every role. Her portrayal of Aisha adds a rare tenderness to the Marvel canon—one rooted in history, identity, and the quiet bravery of women whose stories often go untold. SAVE 17% ON PLUS  

For this episode, we open the time capsule to a spirited and unforgettable roundtable recorded at New York Comic Con, where the one and only Adam West sat down to reflect on stepping back into the cape for The Return of the Caped Crusaders. Decades after defining Batman for an entire generation, West embraced the chance to revisit the character who made him a global icon. The animated film reunited him with Burt Ward and Julie Newmar, rekindling the bright, mischievous, and delightfully earnest energy of the 1966 series — a tone that still stands apart in the superhero landscape. Beloved for his iconic portrayal of Batman, Adam West brought a singular blend of comedic timing, earnestness, and charisma to the role. The Return of the Caped Crusaders stands as a celebration of his legacy and a final salute to the version of Batman that taught the world how fun a hero could be. SAVE 17% On PLUS  

On Rewind, a sit down with filmmaker, writer, podcaster, and pop‑culture ambassador Kevin Smith to revisit the creation and legacy of his AMC reality series Comic Book Men. Running from 2012 to 2018, the show became a celebration of fandom, friendship, and the magic of the local comic shop — all rooted in Kevin's real‑life store, Jay and Silent Bob's Secret Stash in Red Bank, New Jersey. Recorded at New York Comic-Con, this conversation captures Kevin at his most candid and enthusiastic as he reflects on how a simple idea — turning the everyday life of his comic shop into a TV series — became a six‑season phenomenon. The Origin Story Before it became Comic Book Men, the series was originally titled Secret Stash, named after Kevin's beloved shop. It was a natural fit: Kevin owned the store, the staff were characters in their own right, and the world of comics was exploding into mainstream culture. The timing was perfect. AMC wanted a companion series to follow The Walking Dead, and Kevin's blend of geek culture, humor, and heart made the Stash the ideal setting. The Series at a Glance Premiered: 2012 Original Title: Secret Stash Final Title: Comic Book Men Format Evolution: Season 1: Six one‑hour episodes Season 2: Expanded to sixteen half‑hour episodes Total Run: Six seasons Season 7: Confirmed in 2018 but ultimately cancelled before production Across its run, the show blended Pawn Stars‑style collectibles, comic book history, fan culture, and the unmistakable chemistry of Kevin's longtime friends and Stash staff — Walt Flanagan, Bryan Johnson, Mike Zapcic, and Ming Chen.   SAVE 17%  ON PLUS

In this episode, a sit down with acclaimed costume designer Natalie Bronfman, whose work spans some of the most visually striking and emotionally charged productions of the last decade. From the dystopian iconography of The Handmaid's Tale, to the tactile, world‑building detail of See Season Two, to the stylized tension of the recent Psycho Killer, Bronfman's designs reveal a deep understanding of character, culture, and the power of clothing to shape story. Our conversation was recorded a few years ago at San Diego Comic-Con, where Natalie reflected on the winding, hands-on journey that led her to become one of the most distinctive voices in contemporary costume design. About Natalie Bronfman Natalie's path into costume design wasn't linear — and that's part of what makes her work so layered. She learned the craft from the ground up, absorbing everything from textile knowledge to tailoring, from historical research to the psychology of color and silhouette. That breadth of experience informs her ability to design costumes that feel lived-in, symbolic, and emotionally resonant. Her credits include: The Handmaid's Tale — redefining modern dystopian costuming with garments that became global cultural symbols See (Season Two) — crafting a tactile, post-apocalyptic world built around blindness, texture, and survival Psycho Killer — bringing a sharp, stylized edge to a contemporary thriller SAVE 17% ON SCI-FI TALK PLUS  

Tony Tellado chatted with actor, director, and now novelist Lou Diamond Phillips to explore the sweeping sci‑fi epic at the heart of his book Tinderbox: Soldier of Indira.  At the center of this universe is Everson, a young man who never wanted to be a soldier but was forced into service by his parents. His very first battle goes catastrophically wrong, leaving him stranded on an enemy world where every step could be his last. What follows is a journey of survival, identity, and destiny. SAVE 17% ON PLUS TODAY

Inside the Chaos, Craft, and Creative Fire of Genre Filmmaking Audio courtesy of 20th Century Fox For this special Byte episode, from the red carpet at Beyond Fest, one of the world's most beloved celebrations of genre cinema. From breakout performers to the creative minds shaping the look, feel, and sound of the films, this episode captures the pulse of a festival where horror, sci‑fi, and bold storytelling reign.

Audio courtesy of Starz In this special episode of Byte, Tony brings together the cast of Outlander for a heartfelt, spirited, and often hilarious conversation as they answer fan questions and reflect on the journey to their final season. This isn't just a press stop — it's a gathering of a family looking back on a decade of storytelling, connection, and time‑bending adventure.

In this episode of Exploring Humanity Through Sci‑Fi, we dive into the artistry, engineering, and personal expression behind what we wear in our favorite worlds — from blockbuster cinema to the convention floor. Costume Designer Melissa Bruning and cosplayer, designer, and author Yaya Han join us for a conversation that bridges professional filmmaking and the passionate craft of fandom. Featuring: Melissa Bruning — Costume Designer Melissa Bruning has shaped the look of some of the most visually ambitious genre films of the last decade. Her work includes: Space Jam: A New Legacy War for the Planet of the Apes Dawn of the Planet of the Apes Bosch: Legacy on television Yaya Han — Cosplayer, Designer, Author A pioneer in the modern cosplay movement, Yaya Han discovered cosplay at Anime Expo in 1999 — a moment that changed the trajectory of her life. Since then, she has become: A globally recognized cosplayer and designer A model and entrepreneur Author of Yaya Han's World of Cosplay A featured personality on SyFy's Heroes of Cosplay Creator of the bernette 79 Yaya Han Edition sewing machine SAVE 17% ON PLUS

A Cadet at a Crossroads  In this Trek Tuesday Thursday Special, Tony Zoomed with George Hawkins, the performer behind Darem Reymi on Star Trek: Starfleet Academy. Episode seven marks a turning point for Darem — a moment where the young cadet must confront a life‑altering decision that will shape not only his future, but his place within Starfleet itself.  Inside the Episode Seven Deep Dive George and Tony explore: The internal conflict between personal desire and Starfleet responsibility A Klingon Connection: Jay-Den and the Power of Unlikely Friendships One of the most intriguing threads this season has been Darem's dynamic with his Klingon classmate Jay-Den. War Games, Rivalries, and Leadership Under Pressure George also reflects on the standout episode where Darem unexpectedly leads the cadets in a war game against the War College — a storyline sparked by a series of escalating practical jokes between the two groups. SAVE 17% ON SCI-FI TALK PLUS  

In this episode of Rewind, we return to one of the most pivotal and emotionally charged chapters of The Walking Dead: Season Six. Through rare roundtable conversations recorded at San Diego Comic-Con 2015, we hear directly from the people who helped shape the show's evolving mythology and escalating stakes. Featured voices include: Norman Reedus (Daryl Dixon) Chandler Riggs (Carl Grimes) Lennie James (Morgan Jones) Showrunner Scott M. Gimple Key Events In Season Six  Alexandria Under Siege  Rick's High‑Risk Plan The Wolves Attack  The Wall Collapse  Morgan's Return & Philosophy  The Saviors & the Shadow of Negan  A New Connection: Hilltop Save 17% On Plus

A Rare Glimpse at a Legend Before the Phenomenon In this newly restored 1996 conversation from Tony Tellado's original radio program — co‑hosted with Ernest Lilley — George R.R. Martin joins the show just as A Game of Thrones is beginning its journey into the world. Long before the global phenomenon, before the adaptations and cultural tidal wave, Martin speaks with the candor and enthusiasm of a writer who knows he's building something ambitious but has no idea how far it will reach. This archival episode, now presented on Exploring Humanity Through Sci‑Fi, offers a remarkable snapshot of Martin's creative philosophy at a pivotal moment in his career. Highlights From the Conversation

In this episode of Rewind, we return to the enchanted, mysterious, and emotionally rich world of Once Upon a Time—the series that reimagined fairy tales for a modern audience while grounding them in the very human struggles of identity, destiny, and redemption. Set in the fictional town of Storybrooke, Maine, the show begins with a startling revelation: the residents are actually fairy‑tale characters ripped from their magical realms and cursed to live ordinary lives with no memory of who they once were. Through its signature dual‑timeline storytelling, the series explored the hidden pasts of beloved characters—from Snow White to Rumpelstiltskin—and the ways their fairy‑tale histories shaped their present‑day lives. This episode features conversations with Jennifer Morrison, who brought emotional depth and grit to Emma Swan, and showrunners Adam Horowitz and Edward Kitsis, the creative minds who fused Disney's iconic storybook legacy with bold, serialized fantasy drama. SAVE 17% ON PLUS TODAY  

Actor told me about what he views is the tricky side during Murderbot press day. Part of my Plus exclusive series, My Best Shorts From Youtube. SAVE 17% ON PLUS TODAY      

From Plus, Actor candidly talks how he prepares for a role plus being General Zod in Man Of Steel. This is from my Best From Youtube episode.  SAVE 17% ON PLUS TODAY  

In this episode, Tony sits down with two visionary forces shaping the future of visual storytelling: Rachel Meinerding and Nicole Hendrix Herman, co-founders of the Concept Art Association. Together, they've helped elevate the craft, visibility, and advocacy of concept artists across film, television, and games—championing the people who imagine worlds long before cameras roll. This conversation is a deep dive into creativity, career evolution, and the fight to ensure artists receive the recognition they deserve. Save 17% On Plus Today    

Featuring Eric McCormack on Jack Nash, Alien Viruses, and the Thrill of a Classic Techno‑Thriller I revisit the 2008 mini‑series adaptation of Michael Crichton's The Andromeda Strain — a story that blends hard science, government secrecy, and the terrifying possibility of an extraterrestrial pathogen. This look‑back is built from a press conference at the time of release, featuring Eric McCormack, who stepped into the role of investigative cable‑news reporter Jack Nash. Nash becomes the unlikely first witness to a fallen satellite and the classified alien microorganism known as Andromeda — a discovery that pulls him into a crisis far bigger than any breaking‑news cycle.

In this episode, Tony Tellado Zooms  with the rising stars in London as they step into three of the most beloved characters in modern fantasy: Jaxon Knopf as Harry Potter, Rhys Mulligan as Ron Weasley, and Nina Baker‑Francis as Hermione Granger. Together, they unpack the emotional core of the trio's journey—friendship, fear, growing up, and the quiet moments that shape legends. This conversation goes beyond wands and wizardry. It's about the human story beneath the magic. ✨ Inside the Episode ⚡ Harry & Ron: When Friendship Fractures Jaxon and Rhys open up about portraying the tension between Harry and Ron

A Conversation with the Voices Behind the Galaxy This episode takes us back to the buzzing halls of San Diego Comic-Con, where I sat down with some of the standout performers who brought Star Wars: The Clone Wars to life. It's a chance to revisit the early days of the series, hear candid reflections from the cast, and celebrate the artistry behind one of the most beloved animated chapters in the Star Wars universe. Ashley Eckstein – Ahsoka Tano Ashley shares her journey stepping into the role of Ahsoka, the evolution of the character, and how she approached voicing a young Padawan. Catherine Taber – Padmé Amidala Catherine reflects on giving voice to Padmé's strength, diplomacy, and emotional depth. Tom Kane – Yoda and Narrator Tom brings his trademark warmth and humor as he discusses voicing both the wise Jedi Master and the show's signature newsreel-style narrator. SAVE 17% On Plus Today

In this special episode of Exploring Humanity Through Sci‑Fi, Tony sits down with one of the most influential — and often unsung — figures in modern space exploration: Gentry Lee, Chief Engineer for Planetary Exploration at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and longtime collaborator of Arthur C. Clarke. Lee's fingerprints are on some of humanity's most iconic voyages into the unknown: the Viking missions, which delivered the first close‑up look at Mars But Lee is more than an engineer. He's a storyteller. A philosopher. A bridge between the scientific frontier and the imaginative frontier. His collaborations with Arthur C. Clarke helped define the future before it arrived, and his friendships with figures like Carl Sagan shaped the way we dream about the cosmos. Save 17% On Plus Today

In this episode of Byte, Tony sits down with actor Aleks Paunovic, who brings the legendary Cyclops Polyphemus to life in Percy Jackson and the Olympians. Known for his towering presence and emotional depth, Aleks delivers a performance that's equal parts monstrous, tragic, and unexpectedly human. From the challenges of prosthetics and heat to the delicate balance of myth and emotion, Aleks shares how he approached one of Greek mythology's most iconic figures—and why Polyphemus is more than just a beast. Save 17% On Plus Today  

In this heartfelt and candid conversation, Lynn Collins revisits her experience starring as Dejah Thoris in Disney's John Carter. More than a decade after its release, the film continues to spark passionate debate and enduring fan support. Lynn opens up about the whirlwind of expectations, the challenges of marketing a genre epic, and the emotional journey of portraying a warrior princess on Mars. Save 17% On Plus, Today

Tony talked with actor, voice performer, and entrepreneur Carlos Navarro — a multi‑hyphenate talent whose journey spans blockbuster franchises, hit television, radio, and now his own creative studio. Navarro is best known to The Walking Dead fans as Alvaro, a loyal member of King Ezekiel's army during the Kingdom's pivotal battles. His grounded, human performance helped bring emotional weight to one of the show's most community‑driven storylines. Marvel fans will also recognize him as Enrique, one of the unforgettable Tracksuit Mafia members in Hawkeye. Navarro brings humor, menace, and surprising heart to the role, adding texture to one of the MCU's most memorable street‑level ensembles. Save 17% On Plus Today

This month's Explore Monthly dives into the biggest developments across sci‑fi, fantasy, comics, and horror — from long‑awaited adaptations to surprising industry shifts, bold casting moves, and the strange, delightful corners of genre storytelling that keep fans buzzing.

This episode of Rewind dives into one of the most thoughtful and emotionally resonant sci‑fi dramas of the last decade: Humans, the AMC/Channel 4 series adapted from the Swedish original Real Humans. More than a story about robots, the show became a mirror—reflecting our fears, our hopes, and the fragile boundaries of what we call humanity. Set in a near‑future where lifelike androids known as Synths become part of everyday life, Humans explored the ripple effects of artificial consciousness on families, society, and identity. It asked the questions that linger long after the credits roll: If machines can think and feel, what does that mean for us? What remains uniquely human? Featured Interviews Gemma Chan   Tom Goodman‑Hill   Katherine Parkinson  The late William Hurt  Why Humans Still Matters The series didn't just speculate about AI—it held up a lens to our own behavior. It examined: The ethics of creating life in our image The consequences of outsourcing emotional labor The tension between technological progress and human compassion The fear of being replaced—by machines or by each other At its core, Humans argued that the arrival of artificial beings forces us to confront our own humanity. The Synths may have been designed to serve, but their awakening revealed how easily we overlook the dignity of others when it's convenient. Save 17% On Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today

This installment of Rewind pulls back the curtain on the worldbuilding of Foundation, spotlighting the teams who bring Isaac Asimov's universe to life through groundbreaking visual effects and meticulously crafted costumes. Featuring conversations with Emmy‑nominated VFX Producer Addie Manis, VFX Supervisor Mike Enriquez, Overall VFX Supervisor Chris MacLean, and Costume Designer Jane Petrie, the episode examines how the show's visuals and wardrobe evolve across centuries, planets, and empires.

We chat about a discarded song that was still used as the main theme for Avatar Fire And Ash. Plus what is the future of Avatar with some hints on four and five. Save 17% On Plus Today

I chatted with the actor and director of the movie looking back on the best Star Trek The Next Generation movie. Save 17% On Plus  

✨ A Writer Who Moves Between Worlds In this episode of Byte, Tony sits down with Marc Bernardin — journalist, screenwriter, comic book creator, and author of the acclaimed graphic novel Adora and the Distance. Bernardin's work spans mediums and genres, but at the heart of it all is a storyteller who understands how to build emotional truth inside fantastical worlds. He talks his stint on writing for Star Trek Picard Save 17% on Sci-Fi Talk Plus.

In this episode, Tony talked with the endlessly inventive Matt Frewer, an actor whose career has shaped—and reshaped—multiple corners of sci‑fi, fantasy, and pop culture. From the groundbreaking digital satire of Max Headroom to the myth‑forged world of Olympus, Frewer has built a body of work defined by intelligence, humor, and fearless transformation. Recorded during his run as Daedalus in the ambitious mythological series Olympus, this conversation dives into the craft, curiosity, and creative risks that have made Frewer a genre mainstay for decades. Save 17% On Plus 

In this episode, Tony Tellado dives into The Deal, a gripping near‑future sci‑fi thriller that imagines a world where survival comes at the ultimate cost. In this society, citizens can sign a contract guaranteeing twenty years of food, shelter, and stability — but when the clock runs out, so does their life. It's a chilling, timely exploration of inequality, desperation, and the moral compromises people make when the system leaves them behind. Tony sits down with two of the creative forces behind the film — star and producer Sumalee Montano and legendary producer Dean Devlin (Independence Day, Stargate, Leverage) — to unpack how this haunting story came to life. Save 17% On Plus Now   

Tony sits down with Simon Franglen, the composer shaping the sonic identity of the Avatar saga. From the intimate vocal textures of the Na'vi to the thunderous emotional crescendos that define Fire and Ash, Franglen opens up about the creative decisions, cultural inspirations, and technical innovations behind one of the most ambitious musical universes in modern cinema.

Byte brings you  the red carpet for the highly anticipated launch of Marvel's Wonder Man, now streaming on Disney+, thanks to Marvel Studios for the audio.  Recorded live from the premiere event, this episode features exclusive audio from Disney+ and conversations with the cast and creative team who brought Wonder Man to life. In this special, Tony speaks with:

In this episode of Byte, Tony zooms with Oded Fehr, the commanding presence behind Admiral Charles Vance in the Star Trek universe. With Starfleet Academy opening a bold new era for the franchise, Fehr shares how Vance's journey continues — not as a static authority figure, but as a man shaped by war, mentorship, and the responsibility of guiding the next generation. The full interview is available as part of Trek Tuesday. Save 17% On Sci-Fi Talk Plus  

Season One of The Orville wasn't just the launch of a new sci‑fi series—it was the beginning of a heartfelt, funny, and surprisingly profound exploration of humanity through the lens of a starship crew just trying to figure things out. This Rewind episode takes you back to where it all began, revisiting the themes, characters, and creative spark that made the show stand out from day one. This special edition features conversations recorded at New York Comic Con, where the cast reflected on the early days of the series.

This archival episode reaches all the way back to 1996 for a rare and insightful conversation with Anthony Daniels, the iconic performer behind C‑3PO. At the time, Daniels had just wrapped his work on the Return of the Jedi radio drama, once again lending his unmistakable voice and personality to the galaxy's most anxious protocol droid. Save 17% on Sci-Fi Talk Plus

In this episode, we sit down with legendary comic book artist Alitha Martinez to explore her latest work on OMNI, a graphic novel from Humanoids that blends science fiction, social commentary, and kinetic storytelling. With over two decades in the industry, Alitha brings a wealth of experience and insight to the conversation — from her early days as an assistant to Joe Quesada at Marvel Comics in the 1990s to her groundbreaking contributions across major franchises. Save 17% On Sci-Fi Talk Plus Today

I explore Lab Rat, a taut near‑future sci‑fi thriller where a group of scientists find themselves locked in a room with a chilling revelation: one of them is an AI in disguise — and it has been lying to them. With no way out until they uncover the truth, paranoia rises, alliances fracture, and the line between human and machine blurs in unsettling ways. Tony sits down with the filmmaker to unpack the film's provocative concept, its claustrophobic tension, and the creative journey that led to Lab Rat being selected to premiere on Dust, one of the most influential platforms for boundary‑pushing sci‑fi storytelling. Save 17% on Sci-Fi Talk Plus today  

⚖️ When the Judge Is an Algorithm: Exploring Mercy In this episode of Byte, Tony dives into Mercy, the provocative new Amazon MGM Studios (who provided the audio) thriller that imagines a justice system run not by humans, but by an AI judge — a machine empowered to weigh evidence, determine guilt, and deliver sentences with cold precision. The film raises a question that feels less like science fiction and more like tomorrow's headline: If you remove the human element from justice, do you also remove compassion, fairness… and mercy? Through conversations with the cast and creative team, this episode unpacks the film's tension between efficiency and empathy, certainty and conscience, and the unsettling possibility that “just the facts” may not be enough to define justice.