Like so many of us only last year, life as we knew it had changed and not for the better. In the worst cases, we lost loved ones and for the rest of us – the world was on indefinite hold. While I don’t pretend my situation was any worse than anybody else’s, by September of 2021 I was unemployed for the first time in over 20 years, bored and miserable with no motivation.
It was one of those days in the endless weeks staring into the abyss and avoiding job websites that the phone rang. It was an International number. My first instinct was simply to reject the call but something told me to pick up. A booming voice with a broad US accent greeted me on the line, the kind that raises your spirits when you listen to the radio, for example.
“Hey Martin! Its Jay. How are ‘ya!?”
“Jay? Wow. Hello. To what do I owe the pleasure??
“So Jim and I are thinking of doing a thing at Motor City Comic-Con this year. A little Superman IV reunion.”
“Well. What a fantastic idea. Would you like me to contribute or something?”
“Actually yes – we want you to come over.”
“Come over?”
“Ya! To Detroit for the event. It’ll be great. Jim & I are dying to meet you”
“Are you serious?”
“Absolutely. We want you there. You’re gonna love it”
“Ah…you know I don’t think I’ve ever been so flattered to be asked about anything more. I’m overwhelmed, but…”
“But what?”
“I’m really not a good flier. I don’t like it at all. ironically…”
“Hey, I don’t like it either but what the hell. Talk with your family and let me know by end of day”
“Wow. Are you sure about this??”
“Absolutely. Talk later”
And so months of intense planning ensued, and for my part there was little I could offer but I’ve watched and listened in awe at how Jay & Jim have turned what was planned as a modest celebration into probably the ultimate (and maybe final?) unique gathering of celebrities from the classic Superman Movie series to date. And I will be part of it. In what capacity yet I still don’t really know beyond representing Capedwonder Europe but I’m so honoured to have been asked that it didn’t seem real. Then a few weeks ago, I was sent this –
Which not only made the whole thing real but is also in my opinion, one of the best Reeve tribute videos ever made. Then there’s this –
Where, unbelievably, I get a mention.
I can’t begin to express my gratitude to these guys for everything they’ve given me – both previously with the guest spots on the Capedwonder Podcast and in advance of this event. Its hard to express just how the invite alone back then went a long way to pull me out of the mire and I’m glad to report everything has gotten better for me since then. Hopefully that goes for the rest of you too. Just like the guys say, I can talk about this stuff all day so if you do attend (and you really should!!) come seek me out, it will be my pleasure to speak with you and maybe help do for you what’s already been done for me. I plan to document the whole trip and upload several YouTube videos on my channel but be sure to watch for live coverage during the event. Details are all below and updates will follow but for right now as Jim would say – Stay Super.
– Martin Lakin, Feb 2022.
35 Years after his Final Flight in Superman IV: The Quest For Peace, the Love and Admiration For Christopher Reeve, both on Screen and in Life, are Stronger and more Inspiring than ever!
Jay Towers and Jim Bowers make the BIG announcement! This Spring, Motor City Comic Con and The Caped Wonder Superman Podcast proudly present The Christopher Reeve Legacy Reunion, May 13-15, 2022, in Michigan!
A 3-day celebration with 6 stars from the four Christopher Reeve Superman movies, spanning 1978-1987 – Sarah Douglas, Jack O’Halloran, Aaron Smolinski, Marc McClure, Mark Pillow, and Mariel Hemingway – will unite together for the first time in Detroit to meet fans and promote a Motor City Comic Con exclusive! A LIMITED-EDITION VARIANT COVER of the spectacular Superman ’78, Issue #1 comic book, only available at Motor City Comic Con this coming May…with a portion of proceeds benefiting The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation.
Plus, Superman ’78 comic book series writer Robert Venditti and artist Wilfredo Torres will be at the CapedWonder booths to meet you and sign autographs!
The celebrities, Jay, and Jim are so excited to meet you at The Christopher Reeve Legacy Reunion at Motor City Comic Con, May 13-15, 2022! Make plans to be there! Tickets are available now…click here!
This is the Superman Celebration you’ve been waiting for!
Great post!
Wish I could be there as well.