McHale is ready for some action in the season finale of Community.
David StrickWith hundreds of thousands of people attending San Diego Comic-Con every year and the July 20-24 event quickly approaching, The Hollywood Reporter chatted with the big names in television to discuss their favorite memories and tips for attending the annual event. THR’s Live Feed will talk Comic-Con with actors, writers and producers in the days leading up to the event so check back soon for interviews and the latest news on panels and screenings.
Joel McHale
Geek Cred: The Soup, Community
Comic-Con panel: Community, Saturday, 1-2 p.m., Indigo Ballroom, Hilton San Diego Bayfront
THR: What was your first Comic-Con experience like?
McHale: It was the first time Community had been together on a panel like that there. Not to toot our own horn, but the response was tremendous. They had a hall of 3,000 people and they had to turn away another 600. It was one of those moments where you realize people watch and are passionate about the show. Gillian Jacobs burst out crying. It was just crazy and wonderful and I really enjoyed it.
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THR: What advice do you have for Comic-Con first-timers?
McHale: Don’t let your head get too big. Because actors are in constant need of praise; we’re desperate and really have been all our lives; that’s why we went into this business, so people would tell us they approve. I can’t imagine what it would be like to be Simon Pegg there — he must be like the pope. For new and returning people, just keep moving fast; don’t stop. How great is it that you have to keep moving because people like you? And don’t forget your Orc sword. You never know when an Orc will show up. If you see light or blue, then you know you’re in trouble.
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THR: What questions would you recommend fans not ask at panels?
McHale: I’m not a lady, but the standard question you shouldn’t ask is, “How much weight have you gained?” You probably shouldn’t preface questions like, “Even though your show will most likely be canceled.”
THR: If you were to attend in costume, what would it be?
McHale: I could go in my Jeff Winger costume and wear a lot of the stuff he wears. Or I’d go as Rob Corddry from Children’s Hospital. Or Sean Bean’s character in Game of Thrones. Or anybody from Vampire Diaries; name a character and I’m in.
THR: What have you heard about Community’s upcoming season?
McHale: We’re still a month out and I think the writers got together two or three weeks ago. I probably will hear inklings about it at Comic-Con; I found out about the Spaceballs episode there. I didn’t know what to talk about and the writers just started blathering. Like, “Oh great, I guess there’s a Spaceballs episode.”
Email: Lacey.Rose@THR.com; Twitter: @LaceyVRose
