Alan Harris-- Bossk from "Star Wars" -- Saying Goodbye.

Alan Harris-- (Actor-- Bossk from "Star Wars")

We are very sad to report the passing of our friend and client, the amazing Alan Harris. 

Alan Harris was known to many as  Bossk from the "Star Wars" movies:  "The Empire Strikes Back" and "Return of the Jedi." And boy did he have some behind the scenes stories to share! We sincerely hope that you got to attend one of his panels at the shows he attended. They were a delight.

In "Empire Strikes Back,"  Alan was already acting as one of the stand ins for  actor Anthony Daniels (C3PO), as well as portraying a Storm Trooper from time to time, when he was tapped to take on the role of the  Trandoshan bounty hunter, Bossk. The character became so popular that it has spawned many stories and comic books of his own, and is featured in the “Bounty Hunter Wars,” trilogy, and other volumes.

In "Return of the Jedi," the character became so "in demand" during that filming, that Alan, again one of the stand ins for Anthony Daniels who was in most of the scenes, sometimes had very little time to go from CP3O mode to getting into and out of his Bossk costume!

Aside from the wildly popular bounty hunting bad boy, Harris had his hand (and actually whole BODY), in other "Star Wars" facts and fun as well:

For example: Alan was engaged for the development of the Boba Fett costume. "Three months before filming started, at the concept stage, they built the Boba Fett costume around me," explains Harris.  "Boba Fett was originally meant to be a Super Trooper and would launch from a space ship using the rocket that can be seen in his back pack, and be able to fire at the enemy on the ground. I was totally unaware of the flame thrower built in the costume. When they tested it, it gave me quite a fright."

He was also the body for "Han Solo in Carbonite."

"When the plaster cast was dry they cut my face out and put Harrison Ford’s in.  Kershner and I were looking at the finished product on set and Harrison came over and said he was thinking of turning one of these into a coffee table. I don’t know if he ever did,” he laughs.

I personally feel so blessed to have been able to spend time with Alan and learn from his wisdom and enjoy the stories of his life.

The last time I saw him was in London late last year. I didn't know he was going to the same restaurant/bar as I one night after a show, and we both ended up there alone.

I waved to him from the door and he came and saved me. We found a little table and talked for hours...about so many things.

I'll remember your advice and your kindness always Alan. 

A true gentleman has left this earth.

--Renee Witterstaetter

Convention Bookings Open--2017--PROS & CONS CELEBRITY BOOKING!

Hey Everyone-- 

We are beginning to accept convention bookings for the 2018 season! And with a range of talent that encompasses writers, artists, editors, directors, film professionals and actors!

Here are just a few of this year's milestones you can promote:

Neil Kaplan:  Voice of Emperor Zarkon.  His Netflix series has just been renewed for a second season as announced at NYCC 2016!

Veronica Taylor: Pokemon Go! and the anniversary of Pokemon has really put Veronica in more demand than ever.  It's easy to find a Pokemon with Veronica in the room!

Alan Harris and Chris Parsons:  Cosplay at a show is always a signal of what's hot.  So:  Star Wars.  Star Wars.  STAR WARS! Alan and Chris can also do "behind the scenes panels" about their famous movie roles. 

Kenn Scott:  Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles is always a fan favorite.  The original Raphael does entertaining Q & A's to rivet the crowd.  Dudes and Dudettes. 

Rikki Simons: Voice of Gir from "Invader Zim," is not only a talented voice actor but artist too.  New books are out this year.

Robert Trebor:  Hercules and Xena fans are always enthralled by Mr. Trebor's industry stories. Most recently you saw him in "Hail Ceasar!"

If  you are interested in inquiring about any of our great talent, please get with me ASAP.

If you are a fan, and would love to see some of these folks at a show near you, be sure to let that venue know.

Looking forward to seeing you in the coming year!

Best,

Renee

R. Witterstaetter

Pros & Cons Celebrity Booking

evaink@aol.com

Check the bios of some of our great creators below:

Alan Harris-- (Actor-- Bossk from "Star Wars")

Alan Harris IS Bossk from the "Star Wars" movies:  "The Empire Strikes Back" and "Return of the Jedi." And does he have some behind the scenes stories to share!

In "Empire Strikes Back,"  Alan was already acting as one of the stand ins for  actor Anthony Daniels (C3PO), as well as portraying a Storm Trooper from time to time, when he was tapped to take on the role of the  Trandoshan bounty hunter, Bossk. The character became so popular that it has spawned many stories and comic books of his own, and is featured in the “Bounty Hunter Wars,” trilogy, and other volumes.

In "Return of the Jedi," the character became so "in demand" during that filming, that Alan, again one of the stand ins for Anthony Daniels who was in most of the scenes, sometimes had very little time to go from CP3O mode to getting into and out of his Bossk costume!

Aside from the wildly popular bounty hunting bad boy, Harris had his hand (and actually whole BODY), in other "Star Wars" facts and fun as well:

For example: Alan was engaged for the development of the Boba Fett costume. "Three months before filming started, at the concept stage, they built the Boba Fett costume around me," explains Harris.  "Boba Fett was originally meant to be a Super Trooper and would launch from a space ship using the rocket that can be seen in his back pack, and be able to fire at the enemy on the ground. I was totally unaware of the flame thrower built in the costume. When they tested it, it gave me quite a fright."

He was also the body for "Han Solo in Carbonite."

"When the plaster cast was dry they cut my face out and put Harrison Ford’s in.  Kershner and I were looking at the finished product on set and Harrison came over and said he was thinking of turning one of these into a coffee table. I don’t know if he ever did,” he laughs.

Programming Notes:  Alan is available for signing, photo ops, and for panels about the making of "Star Wars."  (Specific booking details apply.)

Neil Kaplan-- (Voice Actor/Actor/Comedian-- Optimus Prime, Star Wars, PowerRangers)

Master of many characters, Neil Kaplan, IS Optimus Prime!  AND Emperor Zarkon!  The "Voltron" Netflix series has just been renewed for a second season! 

But his creations give life to numerous other  hot properties as well, including: "Star Wars," "Power Rangers," Marvel Heroes, "Avatar," "Gears of War"… The list goes ON! In fact, his chorus of  resonating heroes and villains touches many a childhood and demographic the world over.

Just to name a few of Neil Kaplan’s characters: - Optimus Prime - The original "Transformers: Robots in Disguise"; "Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen" (VG); Diabolico "Power Rangers: Lightspeed Rescue" (TV); Gluto - "Power Rangers: Time Force" (TV); "Mighty Morphin' Power Rangers" (TV & movie); "Power Rangers Lost Galaxy" (TV); Skadge - "Star Wars the Old Republic" (VG); Governor Adlehard - "Star Wars: Uprising" (VG); Bendak Starkiller - "Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic" (VG); Boss Ganne - "Star Wars: Battlegrounds" (VG); Green Goblin & Norman Osborne - "Spider-Man: Battle for New York" (VG); Venom & Sabretooth - "Marvel Heroes" (VG); Gorilla Grodd - "Justice League Heroes" (VG); Hawkmon - "Digimon" (TV & movie); Tychus Findlay - "StarCraft II" and "Heroes of the Storm"; Madara Uchiha - "Naruto Shippuden" (Anime - TV, movie and VG); Albus Dumbledore & Leader of the G.I. Joe EXTREME - "Robot Chicken"; Kinnect "Disneyland Adventures" (VG);"Avatar: The Game" (VG); "Final Fantasy XIII" (VG); "Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II - Retribution" (VG); "Gears of War 3" (VG); "God of War: Ascension" (VG)--And that's only a partial list!

Programming Notes: Neil is currently available to meet fans, delight crowds and sign autographs at your convention or event. He is open to various types of programming, and meeting fans at his table. 

Chris Parsons-- (Actor, 4-LOM from "Star Wars")

Chris Parsons

Born in London in 1960,  Chris Parsons would soon find himself in the "galaxy far, far, away" via his  involvement in the Star Wars saga of the late 1970's and early 1980's! 

His various work in the trilogy includes:

Star Wars: Episode V - Empire Strikes Back (1980) 
Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi (1983) in which he portrayed: C-3PO (double), K-3PO, E-3PO, R-3PO, a Death Star Droid, a  Stormtrooper, Snowtrooper, a Hoth Rebel soldier and a Hoth Snow Speeder pilot.

All making his stories from the set varied and insightful.

Chris has also been in various other Television and film productions including:  Raiders Of The Lost Ark, Quadrophenia, Superman ll, Yentl, The Shining and James Bond. 

But of all his various work, the one most resonating with Star Wars fans is his portrayal of 4-LOM, the Bounty Hunter. 4-LOM is remembered as the cold, calculating and ambitious LOM-series protocol droid, resembling the insectoid species he was designed to serve,  who overrode his programming and became an intergalactic thief and later a bounty hunter, often working with Grand Findsman Zuckuss. 

Following the Battle of Hoth, 4-LOM was hired by Darth Vader to capture Han Solo, Captain of the Millennium Falcon and hero of the Rebel Alliance. For this, the mechanical teamed up fellow Bounty Hunters Boba Fett, Dengar, Bossk, and IG-88.

Chris Parson's unique part in the Star Wars trilogy allowed him to give life to this unique creature, spawning Legos, trading cards, toys and more!

Programming Notes:  Chris is happy to take part in panels talking about his behind the scenes experiences on the Star Wars set, alone or with other cast members. For Booking information, contact Renee at Pros & Cons Celebrity Booking: evaink@aol.com 


Butch Patrick-- Actor/ Munster Car Display

Butch Patrick

Butch Patrick is synonymous with pop-culture and cars.  After all, he is best known for his character role as Eddie Munster on The Munsters.  Butch continues the Munster’s legacy touring with the Munster Koach and Dragula Tribute Cars.    

Remember that The Munsters is a unique and multi-generational American classic show.  Butch’s presence enhances any gathering.  Promoters gain media attention by his visits; and fans get to see the awesome display and create a cherished memory.

Butch has a huge following of fans worldwide and his fan base alone is a great promotional source.

Butch tours with his Munster Koach and Dracula Tribute Cars, original 1964 Barris/Von Dutch Chain Link Schwinn Stingray Bike, and other Munster props to include Munster Go-Cart, Baseball Bat, Wolf Wolf, Miniature Spot, and Street Signs All Inclusive Display.

(Butch is available with or without the Munster cars, but what a great display! Contact me for more info!  )

HAMID THOMPSON-- (BLUE from "Jurassic World")

Hamid Thompson

“Jurassic World” is one of the top grossing movies of all time. The reason why is simple: DINOSAURS. Meet Hamid Thompson, actor, dancer, stunt person.  Also known as the Rator BLUE from the blockbuster film!

Originally from Ann Arbor Michigan, Hamid Thompson IS Blue in the movie, all the interactions with the main actors, and the creature that drove much of the story, was motion captured with Hamid acting the part! 

In case you haven't seen Golem in "Lord of the Rings," or Hamid's performance in "Jurassic World," Motion-Capture Acting (or MoCap), is a type of acting in which an actor wears markers or sensors on a skintight bodysuit or directly on the skin. Several cameras from different angles record the actor's movements.

Hamid Thompson's other credits include "Jack Reacher: Never Go Back" (2016), "Kenau" (2016) and "Chi-Rag" (2015), among others.

Now is a great opportunity to book Hamid Thompson into your convention or event and hear about his world. 

Programming Notes: New to any conventions, anywhere, not only will Hamid be available for signings and photo ops, but he can also do workshops and even panels about working on one of the biggest movies of recent times, "Jurassic World!"    

Kenn Scott-- (Actor, Director-- Raphael from TMNT)

Kenn Scott is beloved by millions for his well known portrayal of "Raphael" in the world famous "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" films-- One of the most enduring franchises in comics,  film and pop culture history.
 
Aside from the great Turtle connection, Kenn has cross over appeal in other markets as well. He is internationally acclaimed for his starring role in the cult martial arts hit "Showdown," as well as roles in "Sworn to Justice," "Star Hunter," "Shootfighter," "Recoil,"  "Dr. Mordrid"  and much more!
 
Here is a sampling of his audience and participation programming tailored for your event, which could include:

1.  "Breakin' In the Movie Business with Kenn Scott" - Cowabunga dudes and dudettes!  In this 45min-1 hour engaging presentation, Kenn Scott, "Raphael" in the hit films TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES 1 & 2, uses film clips and photographs to share the entertaining and comical story of how a North Carolina boy with dreams of Hollywood, fought his way into the role of a lifetime.

2.  "Ninja Turtle Interactive Theater" - Watch the original TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES film (or #2) with Kenn Scott, the stuntman and actor who portrayed "Raphael."  With control of the remote, Kenn shares behind- the-scenes stories, anecdotes, and fun facts to enlighten and entertain turtle fans of all ages. 

3.  "Turtle for a Day!  Train One on One with Raphael"-- Kids can suit up and share an interactive hour with Kenn as he teaches them some of Raphael's signature moves. A highly popular event! 

Programming Notes: Kenn is available to conduct panels and interactive events for your show. Certain Guarantee and booking details required.

Rikki Simons-- (Voice Actor- Invader Zim, Writer, Artist)

Rikki Simons

Rikki Simons--Voice Actor, writer, and artist, is now available for booking via Eva Ink Artist Group/ Pros & Cons Celebrity Bookings.

You know Rikki as the voice of the robot in a dog suit, GIR from Invader ZIM! And the pop culture scene does too, as fans embrace the chance to meet Rikki in person at his appearances worldwide.

As a writer he is known for the science fiction and fantasy novel Hitherto a Lion.

Original illustrated books and comics that he created with Tavisha-Wolfgarth-Simons include Super Information Hijinks: Reality Check!, Ranklechick and His Three Legged Cat, ShutterBox, and now The Trinkkits.
 
He is also a background painter in animation, most noted for his color design on Invader ZIM.

Programming Notes:  Rikki is available for panels designed for your show, focusing on the art of voice acting, as well as his various writing projects.



  
Veronica Taylor--(Actress/Voiceover Actress--Pokemon, Yu-Gi-Oh, TMNT)

Veronica Taylor

Veronica Taylor is a classically trained actor who has performed in NYC and around the U.S. in contemporary and classical theatre. 

Her voice has been a part of Saturday morning cartoons for some time now. She is probably best known for playing the roles of Ash and May on “Pokemon”, April on “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” and roles in “Cubix”, “Dinosaur King”, “Yu-Gi-Oh!”, “Huntik”, “Tai Chi Chasers”, and more. She can be heard on PBS kids’ “Word World” (Sheep), “Lunch Lab” (Mixiebot), and “Chuck Vanderchuck’s ‘something something’ Explosion!” (Ramona). 

Current projects include Sailor Pluto on “Sailor Moon”, “Mofy” (Mofy, Mogu, Sora), “Astroblast” (Sputnik), and “Welcome to the Wayne (Spy from 8-i).  Some anime favorites include Amelia on “Slayers”, Yukino on “His and Hers Circumstances”, all 7 Nana’s on “Nana Seven of Seven”, and Narue on “World of Narue”, as well as many others. 

She has done numerous voices for animation, video games, audiobooks, commercials, and documentaries. 

Programming Notes: Veronica loves to be at her booth to sign autographs for fans. Inquire as well for various programming opportunities. 



Robert Trebor -- (Actor, Writer--Hercules, Xena)

 
Renowned and versatile Actor, Robert Trebor is known worldwide for his pivotal role as Salmoneus on the “Hercules: The Legendary Journeys” and “Xena: Warrior Princess” television series. 

He is equally as well know for his parts in feature films such as “Purple Rose of Cairo,” “52 Pick Up,” "Universal Soldier," “Making Mr. Right,” “The Shadow,” “My Demon Lover,” “Jiminy Glick in Lalawood,” (among MUCH more) and no doubt for his upcoming role in the much anticipated  Coen Brother’s movie “Hail, Caesar!”

One of his most mesmerizing roles was the role of David Berkowitz in “Out of the Darkness,”  a haunting portrayal that still resonates today. 

On television, in addition to “Herucles” and “Xena,” Mr. Trebor  has appeared on the small screen in “Miami Vice,” “Murphy Brown,” “Empty Nest,” “Young Indiana Jones Chronicles,” “Baywatch,” “Wedding Daze,” “Missing Persons,” and Boomtown.”

A writer, some of Mr. Trebor's credits include stories for the "Xena" comic book for Topps Coomics, as well as "Dear Salmoneus: A Guide to Love and Money," from Eva Ink Publishing / Image Publishing, in addition to an upcoming autobiography.

Program Notes: A versatile actor and comedian, Robert Trebor is available for shows in 2016 to fit around his various filming schedules.  He is open to group panels or solo panels. We can also discuss acting classes or critiques available to a limited number of shows.

++++++++

Okay, let's get the ball rolling! 

I may be adding a few more very exciting talent names before the end of the year.

Looking forward to hearing from you, and discussing your show, gallery event or store appearance.

Best,

Renee

R. Witterstaetter

Pros & Cons Celebrity Booking

evaink@aol.com

SPOTLIGHT ON: CHRIS PARSONS-- 4-LOM The Bounty Hunter from "Star Wars!" Available for Booking!

 

Chris Parsons

Born in London in 1960,  Chris Parsons would soon find himself in the "galaxy far, far, away" via his  involvement in the Star Wars saga of the late 1970's and early 1980's! 

His various work in the trilogy includes:

Star Wars: Episode V - Empire Strikes Back (1980)

Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi (1983) in which he portrayed: C-3PO (double), K-3PO, E-3PO, R-3PO, a Death Star Droid, a  Stormtrooper, Snowtrooper, a Hoth Rebel soldier and a Hoth Snow Speeder pilot.

All making his stories from the set varied and insightful. 

Chris on set with Harrison Ford and Carrie Fisher, as a Rebel Trooper.

Chris has also been in various other Television and film productions including:  Raiders Of The Lost Ark, Quadrophenia, Superman ll, Yentl, The Shining and James Bond.

But of all his various work, the one most resonating with Star Wars fans is his portrayal of 4-LOM, the Bounty Hunter. 

Parsons as 4-LOM the Bounty Hunter

4-LOM is remembered as the cold, calculating and ambitious LOM-series protocol droid, resembling the insectoid species he was designed to serve,  who overrode his programming and became an intergalactic thief and later a bounty hunter, often working with Grand Findsman Zuckuss.

Following the Battle of Hoth, 4-LOM was hired by Darth Vader to capture Han Solo, Captain of the Millennium Falcon and hero of the Rebel Alliance. For this, the mechanical teamed up fellow Bounty Hunters Boba Fett, Dengar, Bossk, and IG-88. ( However, as we know, the bounty on the smuggler's head was instead claimed by the crafty Boba Fett. ) 

Parsons (second on left) as 4-LOM, with Darth Vader and the Bounty Hunters, including Boba Fett and Bossk.

It's also interesting to note, that, as mentioned above, Mr. Parsons was the double for Anthony Daniels as C-3PO, and the costume for 4-LOM was actually made from a variety of different parts of protocol droid costumes originally designed for C-3PO that the set designers of The Empire Strikes Back cobbled together to create the new character. 

Chris "on the board," doubling for Anthony Daniels as C-3PO.

 

Chris Parson's as C-3PO .

Chris Parson's unique part in the Star Wars trilogy allowed him to give life to this unique creature, spawning legos, trading cards, toys and more!

Programming Notes:  Chris is happy to take part in panels talking about his behind the scenes experiences on the Star Wars set, alone or with other cast members. For Booking information, contact Renee at Pros & Cons Celebrity Booking: evaink@aol.com

SPOTLIGHT ON: ALAN HARRIS-- "Star Wars" Bounty Hunter BOSSK-- Available for Booking!

Alan Harris

Alan Harris IS Bossk from the "Star Wars" movies:  "The Empire Strikes Back" and "Return of the Jedi."

And does he have some behind the scenes stories to share!

Alan Harris as the Bounty Hunter, Bossk

Starting out in theatre and the modeling in the mid '60's, Alan decided to segue into the movie business circa 1970 in the hopes that the gigs "would pay more steadily than modeling." It turned out to be a fortuitous move, and Harris immediately landed parts in “Scrooge,” “Space 1999,” “Night of the Generals,” and “Hitler: The Last Ten Days,” with Sir Alec Guiness, among other parts.

But it was to be his casting in something called "Star Wars," that would lead to his most singular adventures. 

In "Empire Strikes Back,"  Alan was already acting as one of the stand ins for  actor Anthony Daniels (C3PO), as well as portraying a Storm Trooper from time to time, when he was tapped to take on the role of the  Trandoshan bounty hunter, Bossk. The character became so popular that it has spawned many stories and comic books of his own, and is featured in the “Bounty Hunter Wars,” trilogy, and other volumes.

In "Return of the Jedi," the character became so "in demand" during that filming, that Alan, again one of the stand ins for Anthony Daniels who was in most of the scenes, sometimes had very little time to go from CP3O mode to getting into and out of his Bossk costume!

"It required some doing," he laughs. 

Aside from the wildly popular bounty hunting bad boy, Harris had his hand (and actually whole BODY), in other "Star Wars" facts and fun as well:

For example: Alan was engaged for the development of the Boba Fett costume. "Three months before filming started, at the concept stage, they built the Boba Fett costume around me," explains Harris.  "Boba Fett was originally meant to be a Super Trooper and would launch from a space ship using the rocket that can be seen in his back pack, and be able to fire at the enemy on the ground. I was totally unaware of the flame thrower built in the costume. When they tested it, it gave me quite a fright."

Here's another gem: Alan was the body double for Han Solo in carbonate!

“Irvin Kershner (the director)  had the idea. We were in the props room when they put a shroud over me and two drinking straw up my nose so I could breathe— very uncomfortable," relates Harris.  "When the plaster cast was dry they cut my face out and put Harrison Ford’s in.  Kershner and I were looking at the finished product on set and Harrison came over and said he was thinking of turning one of these into a coffee table. I don’t know if he ever did,” he laughs.

Results of Harris cast for Han Solo in carbonite.

But "Star Wars" didn't end with the Jedi Return for Harris. Nineteen years later, Alan was tapped to be the double for Terence Stamp (Fiinis Valorum) in “The Phantom Menace.”

“It’s just that I look a bit like him and originally I was his stand-in. But then I also ended up doubling  for him." Most notably in shots with young Anakin and The Queen.

Some of Alan’s other notable screen work includes:

Stand in work for: 
Mel Ferrer in “Branigan,”
Gene Hackman in “Superman 1 & 11,
Christopher Reeve in “Superman 1,”
Frank Oz and half of the puppeteers in “The Great Muppet Caper” and “Dark Crystal,”
Sean Caffrey in “When Dinosaurs Ruled the Earth,”
Peter Hinwood in “Rocky Horror Picture Show,”
Peter Vaughn in “Haunted Honeymoon,”
Various in “Hellraiser,” “Hellbound” and “Night Breed,”
Sir Nigel Hawthorne in the remake of “The Winslow Boy,”
Lead dancer in “The Labyrinth.”  

Other parts included various in:
 “The Saint,” “Danger Man,” “Space 1999,” “Scrooge,” and the part of Hitler’s batman in “Hitler: The Last Ten Days.”

But it is his role as Bossk that has given him "Star Wars" immortality, not only through his screen appearances but subsequent books, comics, toys and pop culture art-- everything from POP! to Lego to Sideshow Collectibles.

“I don’t think that anyone could have foreseen how successful this series would be! And still making films all these years later." A true adventure in a galaxy far far away.

Various Bossk merchandising of the popular character!

Programming Notes:  Alan Harris is a font of information on the  behind the scenes stories from the "Star Wars" movies in which he took part, making for entertaining panels either alone or with former cast members,   and chances for audience Q & A.

For more information on booking Alan Harris, contact Renee at Pros & Cons Celebrity Booking at: evaink@aol.com

Bossk painting by artist Brian Rood.