Entertainment
Geek out at Phoenix’s Fan Fusion 2024! Get your tickets now.
Geek out at Fan Fusion 2024 in Phoenix! Celebrity guests, cosplay, and more. Get your tickets now for the ultimate pop culture convention.
Last Updated on May 29, 2024 by Daily News Staff
The 2024 Fan Fusion comic con and pop culture convention is happening at the Phoenix Convention Center downtown this Memorial Day weekend.
Exciting Upside?
Fan Fusion features celebrity guests, game tournaments, fan panels, cosplay contests, and fandom meetups. It’s a massive event that will host some of the biggest names in geek and pop culture, such as, Dick Van Dyke, Simu Liu, and Gina Torres.
The show started yesterday on Friday and will last until tomorrow, Sunday, May 26, 2024. Fan Fusion 2024, the annual comic con and pop culture extravaganza in Phoenix, is back for this Memorial Day weekend, offering a jam-packed lineup of special guests, captivating exhibits, and thrilling activities.
At Fan Fusion, you’ll be able to talk to your favorite stars, get their autographs, and even snap a selfie or two in the Lower Level Exhibit Halls at the Phoenix Convention Center.
To see the full list of Phoenix Fan Fusion guests and the schedule of appearances, visit phoenixfanfusion.com.
The Gastronomical Downside?
With the Phoenix Convention Center’s draconian rules prohibiting outside food and drinks, get ready to part with a small fortune if you get peckish. A bottle of water will set you back an eye-watering $6 after taxes, and a soda clocks in at an outrageous $7. Sure, there are various food options like candy, cookies, sandwiches, and salads, but be prepared to pay through the nose.
Craving nachos? Get ready to pay over $15 for a platter. At the 8-Bit Beer Garden outside, drinks can reach almost $20. In the PHX Kitchens area, a simple chicken teriyaki at PHX Wok costs $12, while chicken tenders and fries at Tenders Love and Chicken are $14, and a burrito bowl at Mexican Kitchen will set you back $12. An article in azcentral also highlights the high food prices.
Fan Fusion is the perfect place for admiring all the elaborate cosplay. On Friday morning, fans showed up in costumes that might make you question reality.
The Phoenix Convention Center opened for Fan Fusion at 10 a.m. There wasn’t a mad rush to get in from what I heard. When I arrived after 12:00 PM, it was easy to get in. As the day went on, more people showed up.
The doors will be open for Phoenix Fan Fusion 2024 during these days and times:
- Friday, May 24: 8:30 a.m.-11:30 p.m.
- Saturday, May 25: 8:30 a.m.-11:30 p.m.
- Sunday, May 26: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
You can buy Phoenix Fan Fusion tickets online @ https://www.phoenixfanfusion.com/buy
Phoenix Fan Fusion 2024 promises to be a thrilling and unforgettable experience for all attendees. Despite the high cost of food and drinks, the chance to meet beloved celebrities, participate in unique events, and especially witness some of the most fantastic cosplay around makes it all worthwhile. Whether you’re a pop culture fanatic, a dedicated gamer, or just looking for a fun way to spend Memorial Day weekend, Fan Fusion is a must-attend event. Don’t forget to bring your enthusiasm—and perhaps a bit of extra cash—to fully enjoy everything this incredible convention has to offer.
https://stmdailynews.com/category/entertainment
About Phoenix Fan Fusion
Phoenix Fan Fusion (formerly Phoenix Comicon and Phoenix Comic Fest) is an awesome speculative fiction entertainment and comic book convention held every year in sunny Phoenix, Arizona. It kicked off as the Phoenix Cactus Comicon back in June 2002. That first event was just a quick one-day, six-hour gathering in Ahwatukee, Arizona.
Now, Phoenix Fan Fusion is a huge three-day extravaganza (Friday-Sunday) in the summer at the Phoenix Convention Center in downtown Phoenix. The kick-off includes a Thursday night preview for pros, exhibitors, and special pre-registered guests.
The convention started out as a hub for comic books, sci-fi/fantasy, and film/TV, but it’s grown a lot since then. Now, you can find all sorts of pop culture goodies, including horror, anime, manga, animation, toys, collectible card games, video games, webcomics, and fantasy novels.
In 2016, they hit a record attendance of 106,096 people! The event reportedly brings in around $5 million for the city of Phoenix. Since 2013, the then-Phoenix Comicon started spreading out into nearby hotels like the Hyatt Regency, Marriott Renaissance, and Sheraton Phoenix Downtown, adding even more space for fans to geek out. (Wikipedia)
https://www.phoenixfanfusion.com
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actors & performers
T.K. Carter, The Thing and Punky Brewster Actor, Dies at 69
Actor T.K. Carter, known for The Thing and Punky Brewster, has died at age 69. A look at his career and lasting legacy in film and television.
T.K. Carter in Punky Brewster (1984) Image: IMDB
Veteran actor T.K. Carter, best known for his roles in The Thing and the popular 1980s television series Punky Brewster, has died at the age of 69.
Authorities confirmed Carter was found unresponsive at his home in Duarte, California. No foul play is suspected, and an official cause of death has not yet been released.
A Career Spanning Decades
Born Thomas Kent Carter, T.K. Carter built a career in film and television that spanned more than four decades. He became a cult favorite portraying Nauls in John Carpenter’s 1982 horror classic The Thing, a film that continues to influence the genre today.
Television audiences widely remember Carter for his role as Mike Fulton on Punky Brewster, where his comedic timing and grounded performances helped make the show a lasting favorite of the era.
Film and Television Legacy
In addition to his best-known roles, Carter appeared in films such as Runaway Train, Ski Patrol, and Space Jam. His television work included guest appearances on a wide range of series throughout the 1980s, 1990s, and beyond.
Known within the industry as a reliable and versatile performer, Carter often brought authenticity and warmth to supporting roles that left a lasting impression, even in brief appearances.
Remembering T.K. Carter
As news of his passing spreads, fans and colleagues alike are reflecting on T.K. Carter’s contributions to film and television. While he may not have always been the leading name on the marquee, his work helped shape stories that continue to be watched and appreciated by new generations.
T.K. Carter is remembered for his enduring performances, professional dedication, and the quiet but meaningful legacy he leaves behind.
Related Coverage
- Los Angeles Times: Actor T.K. Carter Dies at 69
- People Magazine: T.K. Carter, ‘The Thing’ and ‘Punky Brewster’ Actor, Dead at 69
- Entertainment Weekly: T.K. Carter, ‘Punky Brewster’ and ‘The Thing’ Actor, Dies
- ABC News: Veteran Actor T.K. Carter Dies at 69
Stay with STM Daily News for updates to this developing story and more independent coverage of entertainment, history, and culture. Visit www.stmdailynews.com for the latest.
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actors & performers
Pat Finn: Remembering the Familiar Face Who Made Us Laugh
Pat Finn, the familiar face from The Middle, Seinfeld, Friends, and Toyota commercials, has passed away at 60. We remember his career, legacy, and lasting impact.
Pat Finn: Remembering the Familiar Face Who Made Us Laugh
Many people may not have known his name right away, but they knew his face. Pat Finn was one of those rare actors who quietly became part of America’s shared television experience—popping up in beloved sitcoms, memorable commercials, and scene-stealing guest roles for more than three decades.
In December 2025, Finn passed away at the age of 60 after a battle with bladder cancer, leaving behind a body of work that continues to resonate with audiences who grew up watching network television’s golden era of sitcoms.
A Career Built on Consistency and Craft
Pat Finn wasn’t a headline-chasing star. Instead, he was the definition of a working actor—someone whose talent and reliability kept him in steady demand across generations of television.
He appeared in some of the most recognizable shows in TV history, including Seinfeld, Friends, Murphy Brown, 3rd Rock from the Sun, That ’70s Show, The King of Queens, Curb Your Enthusiasm, and The Goldbergs. To many fans, he was especially memorable as Bill Norwood, the occasionally awkward and often hilarious boss on ABC’s long-running sitcom The Middle.
These weren’t flashy roles—but they were essential ones. Finn had a gift for grounding comedy in reality, playing characters who felt like people you actually knew: coworkers, neighbors, or that guy you’d see at the store every week.
From Chicago Improv to National Screens
Born in Evanston, Illinois, Pat Finn came out of Chicago’s legendary improv scene, training and performing with The Second City and the iO Theater. That background gave him sharp comedic instincts and impeccable timing—skills that translated effortlessly to television.
He was also a contemporary and friend of Chris Farley, and like many performers from that era, Finn carried the Chicago improv tradition of generosity, collaboration, and humility throughout his career.
The Toyota Commercials—and Being “That Guy”
In later years, a new generation came to recognize Finn from Toyota commercials, particularly regional dealership ads. Once again, he became “that guy” everyone recognized but couldn’t quite place—a testament to just how deeply embedded he was in pop culture.
Commercial work is often overlooked, but Finn approached it with the same professionalism and charm as his television roles, making even short appearances feel authentic and memorable.
A Teacher, Mentor, and Family Man
Beyond acting, Pat Finn was also a teacher and mentor, sharing his experience with aspiring performers and encouraging young actors to respect the craft rather than chase fame.
He was married to his wife, Donna, for more than three decades, and together they raised three children. In tributes following his passing, family and colleagues alike emphasized not just his talent, but his kindness, humor, and generosity.
A Quiet Legacy That Lasts
Pat Finn’s passing is a reminder that television history isn’t shaped only by superstars. It’s built by dependable, talented performers who show up, deliver, and elevate every project they touch.
If you’ve ever laughed at a scene and later realized, “Hey, I’ve seen that guy before,” there’s a good chance it was Pat Finn.
His work lives on—in reruns, streaming libraries, commercials, and the memories of audiences who didn’t always know his name, but never forgot his presence.
Rest in peace, Pat Finn. And thank you for the laughs.
Related Coverage
- People.com — Pat Finn, ‘The Middle’ and ‘Friends’ Actor, Dies at 60
- TVLine — Pat Finn Dead: The Middle, Seinfeld, Friends Actor Remembered
- Entertainment Weekly — Pat Finn, Veteran TV Character Actor, Dead at 60
- Variety — Pat Finn, Second City Alum and TV Staple, Dies at 60
- Wikipedia — Pat Finn (Actor Biography & Filmography
Looking for an entertainment experience that transcends the ordinary? Look no further than STM Daily News Blog’s vibrant Entertainment section. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of indie films, streaming and podcasts, movie reviews, music, expos, venues, and theme and amusement parks. Discover hidden cinematic gems, binge-worthy series and addictive podcasts, gain insights into the latest releases with our movie reviews, explore the latest trends in music, dive into the vibrant atmosphere of expos, and embark on thrilling adventures in breathtaking venues and theme parks. Join us at STM Entertainment and let your entertainment journey begin! https://stmdailynews.com/category/entertainment/
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social media
The Viral Backlash: How a Chef, a TikTok Influencer, and One Moment Changed a San Francisco Restaurant
TikTok Influencer vs Chef: A viral TikTok confrontation between Chef Luke Sung and a food influencer led to backlash, a restaurant closure, and a major rebrand in San Francisco.
The Viral Backlash: How a Chef, a TikTok Influencer, and One Moment Changed a San Francisco Restaurant
In mid-2025, a San Francisco restaurant found itself at the center of a viral controversy—not because of its food, but because of an interaction between a well-known chef and a TikTok food influencer. The incident sparked a broader conversation about power, professionalism, and the growing influence of social media in the hospitality industry.What Happened at Kis Cafe
The incident involved Chef Luke Sung, a respected name in the Bay Area culinary scene, and a TikTok micro-influencer known online as @itskarlabb. The influencer had been invited to Kis Cafe for a planned promotional collaboration. According to the influencer, during her visit the chef questioned her follower count—around 15,000 at the time—and allegedly implied that her audience was not the “type of people” who would dine at his restaurant. She later described the exchange as humiliating and dismissive. After leaving the restaurant, she shared her experience in a TikTok video. The post quickly went viral, gaining millions of views and triggering a wave of online backlash.The Internet Reacts
Although the influencer initially did not name the restaurant or the chef, internet users quickly identified Kis Cafe. The restaurant’s review pages were flooded with criticism, and the incident became a flashpoint in online discussions about elitism, influencer culture, and accountability. Within days, Kis Cafe issued a public apology and announced that Luke Sung was no longer affiliated with the restaurant in any capacity.Chef Luke Sung Responds
Chef Sung later released a public apology, acknowledging that his behavior was condescending and inappropriate. He stated that there were no excuses for the way he treated the influencer and accepted responsibility for the incident. The apology, however, did little to slow the momentum of public reaction.The Restaurant Closes — and Reopens
Not long after the controversy, Kis Cafe announced it would close. In the months that followed, the space reopened under a new name, Bosque, with new leadership and no involvement from Sung. The rebrand was seen as a clear attempt to move forward and distance the business from the viral episode.The Influencer Effect
Meanwhile, the influencer at the center of the controversy saw her follower count surge dramatically, growing from a modest audience into hundreds of thousands of followers almost overnight. The incident highlighted the real-world impact that even “micro-influencers” can have—and how a single moment, captured and shared, can reshape careers and businesses.Why This Story Matters
This controversy underscored a major cultural shift: social media is no longer separate from real-world industries like dining and hospitality. Online platforms can amplify personal experiences into powerful narratives with lasting consequences. As of early 2026, the restaurant operates under a new identity, the chef has stepped away from the project entirely, and the influencer continues to grow her platform. The episode remains a cautionary tale about professionalism, respect, and the power of digital voices. Get The Knowledge. More stories like this are available at STM Daily News.Dive into “The Knowledge,” where curiosity meets clarity. This playlist, in collaboration with STMDailyNews.com, is designed for viewers who value historical accuracy and insightful learning. Our short videos, ranging from 30 seconds to a minute and a half, make complex subjects easy to grasp in no time. Covering everything from historical events to contemporary processes and entertainment, “The Knowledge” bridges the past with the present. In a world where information is abundant yet often misused, our series aims to guide you through the noise, preserving vital knowledge and truths that shape our lives today. Perfect for curious minds eager to discover the ‘why’ and ‘how’ of everything around us. Subscribe and join in as we explore the facts that matter. https://stmdailynews.com/the-knowledge/
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