PASADENA, CA - AUGUST 01: Co-executive producer/writer Jane Espenson accepts the Program of the Year award for "Battlestar Galactica" onstage during the 25th Annual Television Critics Association Awards held at The Langham Huntington Hotel & Spa on August 1, 2009 in Pasadena, California.
Frederick M. Brown/Getty ImagesWith 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.
Jane Espenson
Geek Cred: Torchwood, Warehouse 13, Game of Thrones, Caprica, Dollhouse, Battlestar Galactica, Eureka, Tru Calling, Firefly, Buffy the Vampire Slayer
Upcoming: Starz’s Torchwood: Miracle Day, ABC’s Once Upon a Time (details TBA)
Related Stories
Comic-Con panels: Torchwood: Miracle Day, Friday, July 22, 10 a.m. Ballroom 20; Once Upon a Time, Saturday, July 23
THR: How long have you been attending Comic-Con?
Espenson: I’ve only been to four or five of them. I first went during the run of Buffy, but I haven’t ever gone consistently. I go when I’m invited, when I feel like I have a good reason to be there.
THR: What’s the best thing a fan has said to you at Comic-Con?
Espenson: Sometimes someone gets me confused with someone else, and I’ll get something like, “I loved your episode of Mad Men.” I’m usually pretty far into the thank you before it registers. I don’t know if it’s the “best” thing, but it’s pretty funny.
THR: What’s one thing that stands out from your first Comic-Con?
Espenson: I was overwhelmed! All I remember was the sense of noise and motion and size and crowds. But two years ago I actually bought new shoes nearby since the first pair I brought just were not up to the amount of walking required.
THR: What makes a kick-ass panel?
Espenson: Smile. If I have a good time, I sort of figure the audience will, too.
THR: What questions do you recommend fans not ask at panels?
Espenson: Ones like, “What’s coming up on Torchwood.” I’m happy to tell you about the experience of being involved, but I don’t want to ruin anyone’s experience of watching it unfold.
THR: What tips do you have for Comic-Con first-timers?
Espenson:Wear comfy shoes and don’t over-schedule yourself. Take breaks.
THR: If you were to attend in costume, what would it be?
Espenson: I would love to be done up as one of the aliens from Alien Nation — the big head and such. If someone did a really professional job, I think it would be amazing to look in the mirror and see that.
Email: Lesley.Goldberg@thr.com; Twitter: @Snoodit
