Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephan Watson.
Hi Stephan, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstories.
I grew up in Huntington Beach, CA. Never dreamed of being an actor or anything ambitious in that regard. Flying planes was my dream. Moved to Utah shortly after turning 20. Enjoyed the easier pace of life, as compared to California.
Started my creative outlet in 2016 with Cracked Brain Podcast. In the beginning, it was an interview podcast with local cosplayers and costume designers. After a year and a half, I started meeting the individuals that would become my team. When formed, we started assisting with nerdy and pop-culture-inspired events; showcasing cosplay at Cons; and presenting panels and experiences. We also started traveling to conventions around the county.
At a Con in Austing, TX (RTX) in 2018, I attended a voice acting panel. I was the very last audience question to be asked. As soon as I started talking, one of the panelists exclaimed, “Get that man a job!”. It was a hilarious moment. The question was answered, and the panel was ending. As I was getting up to leave, another panelist took the microphone and said, “Can the person that asked the last question please come to the stage.” I barely heard it but was instantly confused and scared. Then I started hearing a commotion to my left. As soon as I turned my head, I could see another panelist, Miles Luna, who was a director for a number of RoosterTeeth’s productions running in my direction. He handed me his card and said told me to reach out to him as soon as possible for an opportunity. I was shocked and overwhelmed. I don’t remember much from the rest of the day. But that was the day that I knew I wanted to be a voice actor. I’ve been working as an actor/voice actor ever since.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I wouldn’t say that I’ve had the most difficult time when considering so many others. However, the separation and divorce of my marriage took a heavy toll on me in 2020. And 2022 wasn’t exactly a cakewalk either. I was hit by a car in December of 2021 while walking to work. No broken bones, but I wasn’t able to work as an actor in any capacity for months. And as I was mostly healed, in April of 2022 I dealt with having Bells Palsy which left half of my face paralyzed. I was able to recover within a few months. All the while, doing what I could to act in some capacity.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I cosplay and am the Founder of a content group called Cracked Brain. We host podcasts, produce gaming content, run panels/experiences at Cons, and are working towards many other types of production.
I am most proud currently of being considered a professional actor and voice actor. I’ve been able to feature in a handful of commercials, movies, a few tv shows, and other productions. I’ve gotten to voice a character in a video game, a handful of animated shows on YouTube, audiobooks, and more.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up.
Scuba diving with my father.
Contact Info:
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThatBackflipGuy
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrackedBrain
