From surviving zombie apocalypses to DJ sets and directing heartfelt short films, Chandler Riggs has carved out an impressively diverse creative path.
Best known as Carl Grimes on AMC’s 'The Walking Dead' ('TWD'), Chandler grew up on-screen as the resilient son of Rick Grimes, earning accolades and a devoted global fanbase in the process. Since his time in the walker-filled world, he’s branched out into everything from indie films like 'Breakup Season' and 'Only', to voicing Superman in 'Justice League x RWBY', and even starring in the ABC dramedy 'A Million Little Things'. Most recently, he stepped behind the camera for 'The Unicorn That Never Lies'.
Now, he’s heading back to Australia for another round of fan-fuelled fun at Supanova Comic Con & Gaming – a premier pop culture celebration bringing together stars, artists, and fans of all things geek and genre. Whether you know him from the early days of 'The Walking Dead' or have followed his creative journey since, Chandler’s super keen to meet you.
Check out our chat with 'The Mandalorian' star Brendan Wayne, who will also appear at Supanova in Sydney and Perth.
We caught up with Chandler ahead of his Supanova appearances in Perth and Sydney to talk fandoms, growing up in the spotlight, and more.
What’s it like, at events like Supanova, meeting fans who’ve followed your journey since the early days of 'The Walking Dead'?
Truly such an honour. I still can't believe this is our 15th year since we started 'TWD', and that people still love the show so much that they keep wanting to come and meet the cast. We're so lucky that we all got to be a part of this incredible franchise!
Supanova is all about pop culture and passionate fandoms – what’s your favourite thing about being part of conventions like this?
Getting to meet the fans! It's really my favourite part. I love getting to talk to them about why they like the show, their favourite characters, episodes, etc.
When you’re at an event like Supanova, do you still get starstruck seeing other guests or is it all in a day's work now?
Oh, all the time! I'm a big DnD nerd, so I can't wait to meet the 'Critical Role' gang at Supanova this year. It's always so cool to meet people that I'm a fan of!
You've done acting, music, and more – how do you like switching between creative hats? Do they all scratch different itches?
Scratching different itches is a great way to describe it! I think it ends up coming down to me just not liking being bored, and filling up my schedule with far too many things to do in a day. But hey, there's worse jobs to have!
Do you have any stand-out fan moments from past conventions – the kind that stayed with you long after the event?
I have a stand-out moment at almost every convention, and I've done a lot of conventions. The most incredible thing is when people tell me about how my character has impacted their personal life, whether it helped them get through a hard time in their life, or inspired them to take a leap. It always reminds me why I do what I do!
Your role as Carl Grimes was such a big part of your life – how do you feel looking back on that experience now?
The absolute best experience I could've ever asked for growing up. It was the coolest thing in the world to get to go work on such an awesome show, then go to school and be a normal kid the next day. I really got the best of both worlds – absorbing an insane amount of valuable knowledge from the best of the best, while still getting to grow up in a normal household and play video games with my friends on the weekends.
With appearances in shows like 'Justice League' and 'A Million Little Things', you've had a pretty diverse run – what kind of roles or projects are exciting you these days?
Anything with a good cast/crew! As long as the story and role is good, I can get excited about any project. Typically the experience of making the project stands out far more than the experience of watching the end product, so the cast/crew being good to spend time with is the biggest factor for me.
Do you ever check out the con floor when you’re not signing or speaking – any favourite fandoms or games you like to explore?
Sometimes I do! I always like looking for cool dice sets to add to my never-ending collection, or various plushes/figures/art pieces for family and friends.
What does being invited to events like Supanova mean to you personally, especially being embraced by such a passionate fan community?
This is my third time back at Supanova, and it still blows my mind that they keep wanting to bring me back. I absolutely love the team and the people they bring onboard to assist with the convention, and can't wait to see some familiar faces!
Lastly, for fans coming to see you in Perth and Sydney – what can they expect from your Supanova appearances?
A warm welcome! Please come up, say hi, get a handshake or fist bump, and tell me all about your experience watching TWD! I can't wait to see everyone there!
Supanova Comic Con & Gaming is on at Sydney Showground Olympic Park 21-22 June, and Perth Convention & Exhibition Centre 28-29 June.
