In this captivating episode of
Around the Galaxy, we welcome back the incredibly talented Greg Grunberg, known to Star Wars fans as Snap Wexley. But Greg is much more than just an X-wing pilot; he's a storyteller, a passionate advocate, and an all-around fantastic guy with stories that extend far beyond the galaxy far, far away.
"Snap" Wexley: Back from the Dead?The episode kicks off with an engaging discussion about Snap Wexley's fate in
The Rise of Skywalker. The conversation immediately dives into one of the most burning questions among Star Wars fans: Is Snap Wexley really dead? Greg, with his usual wit and charm, keeps us all on the edge of our seats. He playfully teases the possibility of his character’s return, highlighting the golden rule of Star Wars: "No one's ever really gone."Greg’s connection to the Star Wars universe is deeply personal. His long-time friendship with director JJ Abrams, which began when they were just five years old, has played a significant role in his Star Wars journey. Greg shares a hilarious anecdote about how JJ casually mentioned that Greg’s character would die in
The Rise of Skywalker. This news sparked a friendly argument between the two, with Greg pushing back against the idea. Their banter, both light-hearted and sincere, offers a glimpse into their decades-long friendship and the deep trust that underpins their collaborations.
Beyond Star Wars: New Projects and Old FriendsWhile Star Wars is a major highlight, Greg also discusses his new project,
Duster, an upcoming show for Max. He hints at some exciting developments in the series but keeps us guessing about his character’s fate. His excitement is palpable as he talks about the creative process and the joy of bringing new stories to life. Greg’s enthusiasm for his work is infectious, reminding us why he’s such a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.The conversation then shifts to Greg’s thoughts on the Star Wars community, particularly the fan base's passion and dedication. He acknowledges the sometimes harsh criticism from fans but also celebrates the strong sense of community that binds them together. Greg’s genuine appreciation for the fans is evident, and he expresses how much it means to him to be part of something that evokes such strong emotions and connections.
The Heart of the Matter: Charity, Community, and Giving BackThis episode is more than just a conversation about Star Wars and entertainment. It’s a celebration of community and the power of giving back. Greg is deeply involved in charitable work, particularly with the Make-A-Wish Foundation. His band, The Action Figures, recently performed at the Make-A-Wish Foundation Gala in LA, an event that Greg describes with immense pride and joy. He praises the organization for its incredible work and shares how honored he feels to be part of their efforts.Make-A-Wish is close to Greg’s heart, and he’s passionate about raising awareness and support for their mission. He emphasizes the importance of every donation, no matter how small, in making a difference in the lives of children with life-changing illnesses. Greg’s words are a powerful reminder that our collective efforts can have a profound impact. If you’re inspired by Greg’s message, you can still donate to Podathon and support Make-A-Wish by visiting ThePodathon.com.
Talk About It: Epilepsy Awareness and the Caregiver SeriesGreg’s advocacy doesn’t stop with Make-A-Wish. He also talks about his personal connection to epilepsy awareness through his podcast,
Talk About It. This project was born out of his experience with his son Jake, who has epilepsy. Greg shares the challenges and triumphs of navigating life with a loved one who has a chronic condition. He speaks candidly about the isolation that families can feel and how important it is to raise awareness and remove the stigma surrounding epilepsy.Through
Talk About It, Greg provides a platform for celebrities, healthcare professionals, and everyday people to share their stories and offer support to those affected by epilepsy. The podcast also serves as an educational resource, offering practical advice on what to do if someone has a seizure. Greg’s dedication to this cause is evident as he discusses the impact that awareness can have in saving lives and providing comfort to those who feel alone.Greg’s latest project,
The Caregiver Series, is another testament to his commitment to helping others. In this series, he travels the country, offering a day of care to caregivers who often neglect their own needs while caring for others. Supported by Jazz Pharmaceuticals, this series shines a spotlight on the unsung heroes who provide care and support to those with chronic conditions. Greg’s compassion and empathy are at the forefront of this project, making it clear that his work is about much more than just raising awareness—it’s about making a real difference in people’s lives.
The Power of FandomThroughout the episode, Greg and the hosts discuss the unique power of fandom, particularly within the Star Wars community. Greg shares his admiration for how fan bases can rally behind causes, leveraging their collective power to make a positive impact. Whether it’s raising funds for Make-A-Wish, supporting epilepsy awareness, or simply coming together to celebrate their love for Star Wars, Greg highlights the incredible things that can happen when passionate people unite.The hosts also reflect on the importance of kindness and respect within the fandom. They remind listeners that while it’s okay to have strong opinions, it’s essential to approach conversations with empathy and understanding. This message of positivity and community spirit resonates throughout the episode, underscoring the importance of creating a supportive environment where everyone feels welcome.
Join the Conversation As the episode draws to a close, the hosts express their deep gratitude to Greg for joining them and sharing his insights. They also invite listeners to continue the conversation by connecting with
Around the Galaxy and the Star Wars community online.Connect with us:
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A Final WordThis episode is a must-listen for any Star Wars fan, but it’s also for anyone who values friendship, community, and the power of giving back. Greg Grunberg’s stories are as heartwarming as they are entertaining, and his dedication to making a difference is truly inspiring. Whether you’re a fan of Snap Wexley, a supporter of Make-A-Wish, or someone interested in learning more about epilepsy and caregiving, this episode offers something for everyone.Don’t miss out on the excitement! Join us as we explore the galaxy together.
You can still donate to Podathon at https://bit.ly/podathon24.(c) 2024 Pete in the Seat Studios
