16 May 23rd-May 29th, 2024 phoenixnewtimes.com PHOENIX NEW TIMES | NEWS | FEATURE | FOOD & DRINK | ARTS & CULTURE | MUSIC | CONCERTS | CANNABIS | “Mary Poppins” or during his misadven- tures as eccentric genius Caractacus Potter in “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.” His iconic role as the bumbling but well-meaning Rob Petrie on “The Dick Van Dyke Show” is also the stuff of television legend. It’s his second appearance at Phoenix Fan Fusion and his panel on May 25 will likely be packed, so get there as early as possible. Adam Savage Friday through Sunday, May 24 to May 26 Adam Savage, the mad scientist extraordi- naire, has delighted audiences with his explosive experi- ments and quirky creations. From debunking myths on “MythBusters” to building fantastical contraptions on “Savage Builds,” he’s the ultimate geek hero. During his last appearance at Phoenix Fan Fusion 2019, he dressed as Captain America and interacted with fans while roaming the exhibit hall. Giancarlo Esposito Saturday and Sunday, May 25 and 26 Unless you’ve been living in a meth lab underneath an industrial laundry for more than a decade, you’re aware actor Giancarlo Esposito has become famous playing heavies in “Breaking Bad,” “The Mandalorian” and “The Boys.” Don’t let his character’s fearsome deeds dissuade you from attending his Q&A on May 25 or purchasing an autograph or selfie, since he’s personable and charming. Vico Ortiz Friday through Sunday, May 24 to May 26 Bummed out about Max axing “Our Flag Means Death” earlier this year? You’re not alone. Vico Ortiz, the actor who portrayed the nonbinary pirate Jim Jimenez, posted a bittersweet tribute to the popular streaming series on Instagram. The break- through role is one of many memorable characters from their acting resume, which also includes roles on “Transparent,” “Harley Quinn” and the Cartoon Network movie “Craig Before the Creek.” Gina Torres Saturday and Sunday, May 25 and 26 Actress Gina Torres has graced screens with her formidable presence and unparal- leled talent. From traveling through the galaxy as Zoe Washburne in “Firefly” to reigning over legal dramas in “Suits,” she’s proven her versatility and captivated audi- ences worldwide. Torres’ iconic perfor- mances and commanding presence have solidified her status as a trailblazer in the realm of entertainment. Natasha Liu Bordizzo Saturday and Sunday, May 25 and 26 Natasha Liu Bordizzo’s ascent in Hollywood has been as meteoric as it is mesmerizing. From her debut in “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon: Sword of Destiny” to her compelling portrayal in “The Society,” she’s capti- vated audiences with her grace and depth. One of her most recent roles as Mandalorian warrior Sabine Wren in Disney+ show “Star Wars: Ahsoka,” is arguably her biggest yet. Michael Rooker Saturday and Sunday, May 25 and 26 Michael Rooker’s appearances at Phoenix Fan Fusion have been unforgettable, to say the least. Ask anyone who attended his Q&A sessions in 2013 and 2014, which saw the outspoken actor from the “Guardians of the Galaxy” series and “The Walking Dead” roam the audience and tell wild stories in an animated and over- the-top fashion. Will Rooker’s panel on May 25 be just as memorable? Probably. Dante Basco Friday through Sunday, May 24 to May 26 Your familiarity with Dante Basco depends largely on your age. Older geeks best remember the actor as Rufio, the spiky-haired leader of the Lost Boys in Steven Spielberg’s 1991 fairytale flick “Hook.” Younger folks, though, probably know him from his role voicing the titular character in Disney’s animated series “American Dragon: Jake Long” or as Prince Zuko in Nickelodeon’s “Avatar: The Last Airbender.” ‘X-Men ’97’ voice actors Friday through Sunday, May 24 to May 26 Have you been binge-watching “X-Men ’97” on Disney+ lately, bub? Several voice actors who portray the heroic mutants on the revival of “X-Men: The Animated Series” are scheduled to appear at this year’s Phoenix Fan Fusion. The lineup includes Catherine Disher (Jean Grey), George Buza (Beast), Lenore Zann (Rogue), Adrian Hough (Nightcrawler) and Cal Dodd (Wolverine). Eman Esfandi Saturday and Sunday, May 25 and 26 Eman Esfandi may have looked like Space Jesus while starring as Jedi Ezra Bridger in “Star Wars: Ahsoka,” but he’s more than just intergalactic charisma. With a background in theater and a penchant for immersive roles, Esfandi has also acted in such films as the 2021 biopic “King Richard” and the 2022 military drama “The Inspection.” Celebrity Spotting from p 15 Actor Michael Rooker from “Guardians of the Galaxy” is scheduled to appear at Phoenix Fan Fusion 2024. (Photos by Gage Skidmore/CC BY-SA 2.0/Flickr)
