William Shatner
When we think of generational voices in pop culture, we often think of people like Morgan Freeman and Samuel Jackson, yet William Shatner is perhaps the very first of these,starting out in the 60s with Star Trek. His career spans seven decades, and sat down to discuss his life in detail until his conversation at SXSW 2023. Sitting with Alamo Drafthouse founder, Tim League, Shatner discusses his childhood living on a farm and his entry into the acting business through jokes and lighthearted poking fun at League.
Jaida Essence Hall, Gottmik, and Symone
Ru Paul Drag’s race is one of the most successful reality competition shows of the past two decades, and has produces countless stars through its showing. Three of these stars, Jaida Essence Hall, Gottmik, and Symone sat down with the Senior Vice President of The Trevor Project, Kevin Wong. The iconic winners discussed the increasingly conservative laws in places like Texas, where SXSW takes place, and the impact it’s having on their community. They shared their advice, particularly to avoid desperation within already oppressed LGBTQ+ groups. Some of this includes having a support system and checking in with oneself for care.
Kristen Bell, Dax Sheppard, and Erica Buxton
The ultimate power couple Kristen Bell and Dax Sheppard sat down along with their co-founder Erica Buxton with Sam Sanders to discuss their diaper business, Hello Bello. Although known for being charismatic and funny actors, their side business works to bring affordable and accessible diapers for families in need. Unknown to most, 1 in 3 families are not receiving enough diapers for their families. Hello Bello is also the only independent diaper producer in the country. Very knowledgeable of the racial and class aspects that go into the disparities in accessibility, Bell, Sheppard, and Buxton display awareness and generosity in their discussion.