Seth Gilliam is a talented and versatile actor, best known for his powerful performances across television and film. He has brought to life some of the most memorable characters in pop culture, including: Ellis Carver in HBO’s critically acclaimed The Wire Clayton Hughes in Oz Dr. Alan Deaton in Teen Wolf Father Gabriel Stokes in AMC’s The Walking Dead
Cooper Andrews became a fan favorite as Jerry, the cheerful and loyal right-hand man to King Ezekiel in AMC’s The Walking Dead. He also is known for playing Victor Vásquez in Shazam! (2019) and Shazam! Fury of the Gods (2023) and YO-Yo in Halt and Catch Fire
Okea Eme-Akwari is an American actor best known for his role as Elijah in AMC’s The Walking Dead. His talent has also been showcased in the popular Netflix series Cobra Kai, where he portrays Shawn Payne in Seasons 3, 4, and 6.
Monica Rial has been a prominent voice in the anime industry for over 25 years, bringing life to beloved characters like Tsuyu in My Hero Academia, Bulma in Dragon Ball Super, and Yona in Yona of the Dawn. Her extensive resume includes roles in fan-favorites such as Assassination Classroom, Black Clover, and Soul Eater, as well as collaborations with Rooster Teeth on RWBY and gen:LOCK. Beyond anime, she has voiced characters in video games like Fire Emblem Echoes, Borderlands 3, and Tales of Berseria. With hundreds of credits across anime, games, and animation, Monica is a true icon in the voice acting world.
Kyle Phillips is a Dallas-based anime voice director and actor who has worked with FUNimation Productions since 2008. Starting as an ADR Engineer, Kyle contributed to titles like One Piece, Fairy Tail, and xxxHolic, before stepping behind the mic as a voice actor. His notable roles include Denki Kaminari in My Hero Academia, Marco the Phoenix in One Piece, and Hairo Kineshi in The Disastrous Life of Saiki K. As a director, Kyle has helmed English dubs for Overlord, Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid, Fairy Tail, and many other fan-favorite series, bringing his passion and expertise to anime storytelling.
Christopher Wehkamp is a prolific actor who brings characters to life in anime, original animation, and video games for Netflix, Crunchyroll, Rooster Teeth, Square Enix, Bandai Namco, Gearbox Games, Hi-Rez Studios, Amazon Studios, and more.
Christopher’s popular voice acting roles include Shota ‘Eraserhead’ Aizawa (My Hero Academia), Takehisa Hinawa (Fire Force), Clover (RWBY), Katagawa Jr (Borderlands 3), Cutting Edge Ullr, Sun Wukong Infinite Shift and Trickster Loki (SMITE), Majora (Dragon Ball Super), Miles Edgeworth (Ace Attorney), Susumu Kodai (Star Blazers 2199), Solid Silva (Black Clover), Bastille and Denjiro (One Piece), Isao Shinomiya (Kaiju No. 8), and many more.
Kevin M. Connolly voice-over work includes ADR in anime/live-action, video games, visual novels, documentaries, national commercials, and over 500 educational projects including fiction & non-fiction works (Pre-K through 12), e-learning, full-cast play recordings, and instructional/educational websites.
Some of his voice-over credits include Vladimir in League of Legends, Kain Fuery in Fullmetal Alchemist, Heathcliff in Sword Art Online, Pell in One Piece, Mr. Hat and Behemolt Welcome to Demon School! Iruma-kun, Kastro in Hunter x Hunter, Tomochika Sakyo in Ouran High School Host Club, and Takayuki Narumi in Rumbling Hearts.
With a career spanning over five decades, Michael Bell has brought life to some of the most iconic characters in pop culture history. G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero – Duke, the fearless leader of the Joes Transformers – Prowl, Swoop, and more fan-favorite Autobots The Smurfs,Voltron, Rugrats, Super Friends, Spider-Man — and countless more Michael’s voice has shaped the childhoods of generations of fans. Whether he’s leading the charge, cracking a joke, or voicing a villain, his legendary range and presence are unmatched in the world of animation.
Mary McDonald-Lewis is a highly accomplished voice actress, dialect coach, and director. Best known for her role as Lady Jaye in G.I. Joe, Mary has made significant contributions to the world of animation and beyond with her versatile voice and talent. Mary’s notable roles include: G.I. Joe (as Lady Jaye) Lightyear (as I.V.A.N.) Voltron (as Dayak) Batman: The Animated Series (as Maven) Superman (as Wonder Woman) Grimm (as Frau Pech) Archer (as Veronica Deane) Beyond Animation In addition to her work in animation, Mary McDonald-Lewis is an esteemed dialect coach, having worked on numerous high-profile television shows and films, including: Twilight Falling Skies Grimm She is also the voice of General Motors’ “OnStar” service, providing assistance and navigation to millions of drivers.
Bill Ratner is a renowned voice actor and storyteller, best known for his iconic role as Flint in G.I. Joe. His dynamic voice and versatile performances have made him a beloved figure in the world of animation and beyond. Bill’s impressive career includes roles in: G.I. Joe (as Flint) The Real Ghostbusters Robot Chicken Transformers Mass Effect (as Donnel Udina) Grand Theft Auto V Family Guy Beyond Animation In addition to his work in animation, Bill Ratner is an accomplished storyteller, author, and voice coach. His storytelling has won multiple award. He is also the author of the book Parenting for the Digital Age.
Lisa Raggio, the voice behind Zarana from G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero, talents go far beyond the world of Cobra—Lisa has appeared in some of the most iconic shows and films, including NYPD Blue, ER, Married with Children, The Fabulous Baker Boys, Murphy Brown, Perfect Strangers, and even Monsters, Inc.! She’s also lent her voice to An American Tail: Fievel Goes West and as Betty Rizzo in Grease Live On Broadway!
Gregg Berger is a legend in the world of voice acting, best known for his role as Grimlock in the classic Transformers series and movies as well as Long Haul, Skyfire, Outback, and more. Gregg was also the voice of Spirit in G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero. Gregg was also the voice of an array of iconic roles in the series such as Cutter, Firefly, and Ripcord. Fans also know him as Odie and Orson Pig from Garfield and Friends, Junkyard from Toxic Crusaders, Agent K in Men in Black: The Series, and Kalani in Star Wars Rebels and Star Wars: The Clone Wars. In video games, Gregg has voiced iconic roles like Darth Maul in Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace, The Pain in Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater, Beast in X-Men: The Official Game, Kingpin in Spider-Man: Web of Shadows, and Grimlock in Transformers: Fall of Cybertron. He also voiced Slobber Trap and Magna Charge in Skylanders: Trap Team. On the big screen, Gregg appeared in Police Academy: Mission to Moscow as Lt. Talinsky. With a career spanning animation, video games, and live action, Gregg’s work is a cornerstone of pop culture history. Don’t miss the chance to meet this legendary voice actor at FarleyCon 2025!
Keone Young is a prolific actor and voice artist known for his work across film, television, and animation. Fans will recognize him as the voice of Storm Shadow in G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero. Keone Young’s impressive career spans decades, featuring iconic roles such as Mr. Wu on HBO’s Deadwood, Bohai Lin on FX’s Sons of Anarchy, Mr. Wu in Men in Black 3, and Buck Bokai in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, as well as Hoshi Sato’s father in Star Trek: Enterprise. He portrayed Commander Jun Sato in Star Wars Rebels, Chen Stormstout in World of Warcraft: Mists of Pandaria, Jeong Jeong in Avatar: The Last Airbender, and Grandpa in American Dragon: Jake Long and many more. He also appeared as Silas Sinister in Return to Halloweentown, Dr. Hido Takahashi in HBO’s True Blood, and the Hard Master in G.I. Joe: Renegades, along with voicing Disonasu in Naruto Shippuden.
Charlie Schlatter is best known for his starring role alongside Dick Van Dyke in the hit CBS series Diagnosis Murder and as Ferris Bueller in NBC’s Ferris Bueller. He’s appeared in iconic films like Police Academy: Mission to Moscow, 18 Again! with George Burns, and The Delinquents opposite Kylie Minogue. Schlatter’s animation credits include Kick on Kick Buttowski, Dr. Mindbender on G.I. Joe, The Flash in Superman: The Animated Series, and more. Recently, he lent his voice to Father Carter in The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners – Chapter 2: Retribution. His career spans award-winning roles in television, film, and voice acting, showcasing incredible range and versatility.
FarleyCon Pop Culture & Comic Book Expo is honored to welcome Ron Rudat, sponsored by Sasquatch Toys & Games, to our 10th anniversary event on August 2 & 3, 2025! Ron Rudat is a legend when it comes to GI Joe. He began working for Hasbro in 1971 but It was 1980 when Ron and a very small group were responsible for the rebirth of G.I. Joe. Ron was charged with designing the new 3 and 3/4” Joes and he produced every figure from 1982 through 1987. Ron created over 120 characters during that time as well as several vehicles and logos. Possibly his most recognizable contribution is the iconic symbol for GI Joe’s nemesis: Cobra. This logo, with its striking red cobra emblem, became an iconic representation of the Cobra organization and remains one of the most recognizable symbols in pop culture. Several documentaries and web series have featured Ron Rudat’s story and in 2015 he was inducted into the Toy Collector’s Hall of Fame. Meet Ron in our special JoeNooga section next to Sasquatch Toys & Games , celebrating all things G.I. Joe! Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from one of the creative minds behind the figures and designs that sparked imaginations around the globe. Big thanks to Sasquatch Toys & Games for making Ron’s appearance possible.
Larry Hama is a legendary writer, artist, and editor best known for his groundbreaking work on G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero, where he crafted the rich backstories and personalities of the iconic characters. With a career spanning decades, Hama has also contributed to Marvel titles like Wolverine, The Avengers, and Iron Fist.
Before Transformers became a billion-dollar franchise… before the cartoons, the movies, and the global phenomenon… there was Bob. As a writer, editor, and creative force at Marvel Comics, Bob Budiansky didn’t just work on Transformers — he helped build it from the ground up. He gave names, personalities, and backstories to many of the original Autobots and Decepticons. He wrote some of the most iconic early issues of the Transformers comic book series. He created the character bios that defined a generation’s favorite robots in disguise. Without Bob, there is no Optimus Prime. No Megatron. No Soundwave. No Transformers as we know it. This August, Bob Budiansky comes to Autobot City — aka Chattanooga, TN — for an unforgettable appearance at FarleyCon 2025!.
Jim Shooter is a legendary figure in the comic book industry, known for his influential tenure as Editor-in-Chief of Marvel Comics. Starting his career at just 13 years old writing for Legion of Super-Heroes, Shooter went on to shape iconic storylines for titles like The Avengers, Secret Wars, and Spider-Man. His leadership at Marvel ushered in a golden age of creativity and innovation, expanding the Marvel Universe with timeless characters and epic crossovers. A prolific writer, editor, and visionary, Shooter’s impact on the world of comics is unparalleled.
Known for his legendary work on “Captain America”, “The Punisher”, “G.I. Joe”, and the iconic “Secret Wars”, John Beatty is a true cornerstone of comic book history. Meet him, get your comics signed, and dive into the universe of superheroes and epic stories!.
Brian Shearer is a professional comic book artist and illustrator based in the United States. He has worked on a variety of high-profile comic book titles, including Transformers, G.I. Joe, and Doctor Who, among others. He also writes and illustrates his creator-owned graphic novels, Gunship Thunderpunch and William the Last .
Guy Dorian Sr. is a dynamic artist with over 30 years of experience spanning comic books, toy design, and cinematic artistry. Known for his work with Marvel, DC, IDW, and Storm King Productions, Guy has contributed to titles like The New Warriors, ROM, and GI Joe: A Real American Hero, and co-created the Marvel character Scorch with Dan Slott. In toy design, he’s crafted iconic figures for legends like Randy Savage and Bret Hart, including the beloved Bendable figure line. Guy’s cinematic contributions include work on X-Men Apocalypse and character development for The Silver Surfer. With new TV series, films, and graphic novels on the way, his creative legacy continues to expand.
Michael Watkins is the CEO and Editor-in-Chief of Highburn Studios, where he has worked professionally in comics and illustration for over 20 years. As the creator of the series GUARDIANS and a contributor to titles like Sonic the Hedgehog, Transformers, Iron Man, and Avengers Assemble, his work spans major publishers like Marvel, DC, Image, and Dark Horse. In addition to his comic career, Michael is a voice actor, lending his talents to characters such as Venom, Scorpion, and Magneto for Marvel and Disney. A master martial artist with 38 years of experience, he is a master instructor and owner of the American College of Martial Arts SC, holding multiple high-degree black belts across various styles.
Jesse Leon McCann is an Eisner Award Co-Winner and a New York Times Top Ten Bestselling Children’s Author, whose storytelling magic has captivated audiences for over 25 years. His incredible career spans comic books, children’s literature, and even adult-themed narratives, making him one of the most versatile writers in the industry. At DC Comics, Jesse brought iconic characters like Krypto the Superdog to life, delighting fans with unforgettable adventures. He also wrote beloved stories featuring Scooby-Doo, Pinky & The Brain, Johnny Bravo, Cow & Chicken, and many more. Jesse’s remarkable portfolio doesn’t stop there. He contributed to The Simpsons comics at Bongo Comics, which won the prestigious Eisner Award for Best Comic for Children. With his work on Futurama, Bartman, and even the Radioactive Man series, he’s solidified himself as a creative force in the comic book world.
John Anderson is an actor, comedian, and self-proclaimed professional “Trick Talking Meat” from Birmingham, Alabama. He landed his first major motion picture role as a Hurctarian Ravager in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 and has since built an impressive resume with appearances in Black Panther, Stranger Things, Sleepy Hollow, Spider-Man: Homecoming, Logan Lucky, Pitch Perfect 3, I, Tonya, Jumanji, and many more! John was given his first speaking role by Oprah Winfrey in The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks and was one of 10 Ravagers personally selected by James Gunn to attend a surprise Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 celebration at Comic-Con in 2016, which was filmed and is now airing on CONtv. His likeness is even featured in Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2: The Art of the Movie! When he’s not on screen, John keeps busy as the host of the Trick Talking Meat Podcast on Spotify.
Billy Redden, the unforgettable face behind one of the most iconic moments in film history — the “Dueling Banjos” scene from Deliverance! Handpicked by director John Boorman from his hometown in Georgia, Billy was just a local teen when he was cast in the Oscar-nominated thriller. Boorman saw something unique in him — the perfect country boy look, natural mannerisms, and an authenticity that couldn’t be taught. Though the role was silent, Billy’s performance as the eerie banjo-playing boy left a lasting impression on cinema history. Fun fact: Billy didn’t actually play the banjo — a hand double performed the playing, while Eric Weissberg and Steve Mandell provided the legendary soundtrack. Director Boorman even used clever tricks to draw out Billy’s intense on-screen expressions, resulting in one of the most haunting and memorable scenes of all time. Following Deliverance, Billy stepped away from the spotlight, later working as a tour guide for fans visiting filming locations. He returned to the screen in Blastfighter (1984), and had memorable cameos in Tim Burton’s Big Fish (2003) and Outrage: Born in Terror (2009), always staying close to the role that made him a cult figure. Come meet Billy Redden in person, get a photo, and relive a piece of cinematic legend! This guest appearance is proudly brought to you by KipalieLLC.