WORDS BY
Jacqui James
ON SATURDAY, JULY 8th, 2023 my friend and I trekked off to attend our first event like this. Needless to say how excited we were.
I had a mission…to meet Mr Tom Ellis from the FOX/Netflix series! So, my friend and I waited in his huge line for at least half an hour to meet and get his autograph. I chose the autograph option over the photo opportunity because then maybe (just maybe) I would get the chance to chat with him. Ignoring the price and hearing my Mum’s voice in my head, I decided to get the autograph option.
Being unable to see Tom when we were in line was a blessing thinking back now, so when we were the first in line, my heart started thumping. Tom greeted me with a big smile and I reciprocated. Then I asked:
“Hi, Tom! How are you? My name is Jacqui and I’ve been a huge fan of yours since Lucifer, then I got into Meranda and then Rush. I’m the owner and journalist of the site Gigs ‘n Interviews so I have had the privilege of interviewing artists since 2010. If it’s ok with you, could I ask you a question and if it’s cool with you, can my friend video it?”
Tom kindly gave permission and then I asked my question.
“Hi, Tom! How are you? My name is Jacqui and I’ve been a huge fan of yours since Lucifer, then I got into Meranda and then Rush. I’m the owner and journalist of the site Gigs ‘n Interviews so I have had the privilege of interviewing artists since 2010. If it’s ok with you, could I ask you a question and if it’s cool with you, can my friend video it?”
Tom was genuinely appreciative of my question as you can see in the video. He held my gaze while speaking to me and when we were saying our goodbyes, he stood up and grabbed my hand and said “It was so good to meet you Jacqui!” as he took one of my business cards.
My friend and my composures waved once we were away from Tom’s ears and sight. “Did that just happen?” I asked excitingly my friend who was in the same state of disbelief. For most of last week, my video has received a lot of views, likes and positive feedback. And the fact nobody has asked why I used a speaker to ask my question has been liberating.
I feel I have to apologise to DB Woodside. Returning home I watched the video calmly and realised WB walked behind Tom when we chatted… I didn’t even see him. So I’m very sorry, but thank you for giving a smile at what was happening.
English