Wrapping up my time at Days of the Dead Indianapolis, I took a moment to speak with Tony Moran at his busy booth. Best known for his role as the unmasked Michael Myers in John Carpenter‘s 1978 horror classic Halloween, Tony has made countless convention appearances over the years. Upon returning home from Indianapolis, I was shocked to learn about a viral video showcasing public comments made by Moran regarding the Halloween franchise.
Whether or not his comments were misconstrued jokes and poorly communicated sentiments, someone went to a great deal of trouble making this video compilation that has created a stir amongst fans everywhere. And believe me, it is not an easy watch. However, Tony has since publicly apologize as well as openly speaking with Scream Queen Danielle Harris’ social media about the whole ordeal.
Although I do not condone Tony’s behavior at previous conventions, I can only speak about my personal observations and interactions. Meeting him at DotD and an event in 2019, I have only seen the side of Tony who’s warm, welcoming and appreciative of his fans. With that said, Tony was kind enough to take a quick moment away from signing autographs and posing for pictures to grant me a quick interview. Read below to see what he had to say about quarantine and his involvement with Carpenter’s Halloween.
Scifi.Radio: Hi Tony! Thank you for speaking with me. We’re living some crazy times, to say the least. How did you spend last year’s quarantine?
Tony Moran: Great question! I actually picked up two different hobbies. I’ve passively played pool my whole life. But I’ve never really dove into the game. So, I watched hours and hours of videos about pool. Not just lessons, but tournaments as well. I think it’s a fascinating game! I also have never had an aquarium. So, I bought a ten gallon tank, which turned into a 40 gallon tank. And the 40 gallon tank turned into another 20 gallon tank. I can’t stand just sitting around only watching TV. I’m the type of person who has to be doing something.
Scifi.Radio: If ever there was a time to pick up new hobbies, that was definitely it! Obviously you’re best know for your part in John Carpenter’s 1978 Halloween. How did you get involved with the production?
Tony Moran: I was in an acting workshop and I hadn’t yet done any projects. It was about this time my agent called me up to tell me about a low-budget horror called Halloween. She told me I’d play a psycho and Jamie Lee Curtis was playing the lead. At the time, I didn’t know who Jamie was. Eventually, that turned into an interview with John Carpenter and the producers. And the rest is history!
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Scifi.Radio: What’s your favorite memory from set?
Tony Moran: Oh, strangling Jamie Lee Curtis (laughs).
Scifi.Radio: (laughs) That’s definitely a memorable scene! So, I have to ask. What is your favorite scary movie?
Tony Moran: I would say Psycho is my favorite. And tied for second would be both The Exorcist and The Shining. I’m a Catholic boy, so The Exorcist really gets under my skin (laughs). And it still scares me to this day!
Scifi.Radio: Those are great picks! And The Exorcist has held up over time! There’s no denying that one. Thank you, Tony, for taking the time out of your busy schedule to speak with me.
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