Interviews
Interview: George Takei (And THAT Voice)
When I found out I was interviewing Georg Takei, I immediately got nervous.
Why, you ask?
Well, since his days as Hikaru Sulu on Star Trek, Takei has become a sort of pop icon on so many different levels. There are the acting accolades. Star Trek, of course. Then there are the other shows such as “Heroes” and “Celebrity Apprentice.” By the way, I stopped watching after he was “fired” by the Donald.
You’ve also seen him in movies ranging from the Star Trek features to the recent “Larry Crowne” with Tom Hanks. I mentioned to Takei that I was one of the critics giving that movie high praise, particularly noting his fantastic supporting role as Tom Hanks’ professor.
Takei said to me (in THAT voice), “Well, Dave, that just shows your high level of sophistication and ability to recognize good talent when you see it. You are one of the few people with good taste and high standards.”
He then laughed (in THAT voice).
I knew right then that we were going to have a blast in our 30-minute conversation.
My interview was scheduled at 12:30pm on a Tuesday afternoon. I patiently waited until 12:29 and 50 seconds to dial Mr. Takei. Yes, my heart was beating at a faster pace because of the excitement.
George: Hello. (again, in THAT voice).
I freaked out-it REALLY was George Takei on the other end of the call, but I didn’t want to reveal my “groupie” side.
Me: Yes, this is Dave Morales . I am calling from Houston, Texas for George Takei.
I’m guessing I sounded professional.
George: Hello, Dave. This is George.
Ok, this is where I lost it.
Me: Mr. Takei, this is a real honor to speak with you. I’ve been a fan for such a long time. Wow- it really is you.
My “groupie” side had been revealed. Takei laughed and said, “It is real good to talk with you, Dave.”
Again, wow.
Me: Well, I have to start with the social networking. I’m one of your millions of followers. I love the comedy you write on Facebook and Twitter. Did you have any idea your following would be so large?
George: I had no idea. It just grew and grew. It really is an honor and a privilege to speak to so many and it is great that I can use it to make a positive impact. You know, humor is a wonderfully collective glue for society.
Me: I agree. And you definitely have spoken your mind when it comes to social issues, specifically when it comes to the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community. How did that start?
George: I was closeted for the longest time. When I finally “came out” I felt it was my responsibility to become a voice for the issues that affect the LGBT community. For example, very recently the state of Tennessee banned the use of the word ‘gay’ in schools. That is irresponsible on behalf of legislators- to actually criminalize a word that defines people. Especially to people that are still trying to explore their own identities. I felt it was my role to give guidance and understanding. So, what did I do? Since my last name is Takei, and it rhymes with gay, I decided that if they were going to outlaw the other word I would just substitute. Complete with a Takei Pride Parade. You see? Humor is a tool.
Me: That’s awesome. Where did you get this drive to become a social force?
George: When I was growing up, my family was “relocated” to Japanese internment camps during World War II. This has had a lasting effect on me. What really surprises me is the number of people that aren’t familiar with this part of our history.
Me: Is that the inspiration for the musical you are working with called “Allegiance?”
George: It certainly is. The show is about the experiences of a Japanese-American family that was “placed” in a camp in Wyoming. Those experiences made these families feel less “American.” It was the most destructive thing to the Japanese-American family. The whole story is based on fact. I felt that I needed to educate people. That is actually where the tweeting and facebooking began. Sci-fi fans, issues oriented people started following. The way that it has grown has really surprised me.
Me: I can’t wait to see it. Do you ever get to watch the old Star Trek episodes?
George: No, I don’t as a matter of fact. My schedule is so crazy. So many chores. I travel a bunch and when I finally do make it home there is so much to do with going through mail, paying bills, you know, the everyday things that happen in life.
Me: I recently had a chance to meet William Shatner-
George interrupts me at this point.
George: Annnnnd…what did you think?
Me: I can already tell you that you are much cooler.
George laughs.
George: Well. That’s Bill.
More of the Takei “laugh.”
Me: Ok, so William Shatner versus Howard Stern. You’ve worked with both. You still work with Stern.
George: I love Howard. He is enormously successful. He’s made a fortune. Bill was brilliant. There was always an electric presence about him.
Me: What about Donald Trump? He “fired” you.
Another Takei chuckle.
George: Donald is a decent guy. I’m actually headed back to New York for the “Apprentice” finale and next week, he and I are having lunch to discuss marriage equality.
Me: Do you ever get tired of answering questions about Sulu?
George: Never. I love it when fans ask. They are the people that gave me a career and I feel so privileged to have this fan base. I will appear at fan events as long as they want me.
Me: Thanks so much for talking with me today, Mr. Takei. You are as great of a person as I imagined and it has been an honor.
He laughs again. Yes, in THAT voice.
George: Thank YOU Dave.